WhisperLive

What it does

Transcribes speech as it happens rather than after the fact, and also handles pre-recorded files. It supports word-level timestamps, custom vocabulary for names and jargon, and speaker diarization. The design splits into a server and a client, which you start separately - so setup is developer-oriented and needs Python or Docker. If you only want to transcribe a finished recording, a simpler tool will suit you better.

Summary based on the project's own description. The Japanese page has a fuller beginner guide: setup difficulty, what to prepare, and a step-by-step start.

Screenshots & visuals

Before you start

• Setup difficultySome setup needed
• Command lineRequired
• API keyRequired
• Sends data onlineYes

Judged automatically from the project's own metadata. Always confirm on the official page.

WhisperLive FAQ

Is WhisperLive free?

WhisperLive itself is free, but it needs an API key for an external AI service. That service charges separately, though some have a free tier.

Do I need to install anything or write code to use WhisperLive?

It needs the command line. If you are not comfortable typing commands, expect to get stuck during setup.

Does WhisperLive work on a phone?

No. It needs a computer.

Can I use WhisperLive commercially?

The licence is MIT, which permits commercial use. Conditions such as keeping the copyright notice still apply, so read the licence text before shipping it inside something.

How it compares

The conditions that decide whether you can actually use it, side by side.

"Sends data out" means your input is uploaded to someone's server. Pick "No" when the material cannot leave your organisation.

Other meetings & transcription tools