Windows includes built-in voice tools, while third-party apps add different cleanup and workflow options. This guide compares Windows voice typing and Voice access with AiType so you can test the best fit for your own apps.
Option 1: Windows built-in dictation (free)
Windows 11: Voice Access
Voice access on supported Windows 11 versions adds voice navigation and dictation controls. Windows voice typing is a separate built-in tool for entering speech into supported text fields.
Go to Settings → Accessibility → Speech
On supported Windows 11 versions, turn on Voice access and grant microphone permission when prompted.
Choose Voice access or voice typing
For voice typing, focus a supported text field and press Windows+H. For Voice access, use its on-screen controls and command guide.
Start in a supported text field
Try a short sample in the specific app and field you plan to use, then review the transcript.
Use commands to edit
Say "delete that," "go to end of line," "bold that" — Voice Access supports rich editing commands.
Review step: Built-in transcripts can still need corrections to names, punctuation, and phrasing before you send them.
Windows 10: Windows Speech Recognition
Windows 10 users can review Speech settings and Windows Speech Recognition in Control Panel. Availability and setup depend on the Windows version, language, and organization policy.
Option 2: AiType for Windows with AI cleanup
AiType is a lightweight Windows app that adds a hold-to-speak shortcut for supported apps and text fields. Hold your configured key (default: Right Alt), speak, release, and review the cleaned draft AiType returns to the focused field. Processing typically completes in about 250 ms, but timing varies by device, connection, language, and text length.
Download AiType for Windows
Go to aitype.work and download the Windows installer. Runs on Windows 10 and 11.
Install and launch
Run the .exe installer. AiType appears in the system tray. Sign in with your email.
Configure your shortcut
Right-click the tray icon → Settings. Choose your hold key (Right Alt, Right Ctrl, or custom).
Hold the key, speak, release
Focus a supported text field in an app such as Outlook, Word, Teams, or Notepad. Hold your key, speak, release, then review the returned draft.
Comparison: Windows built-in voice tools vs AiType
| Feature | Windows built-in tools | AiType |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (built-in) | Free trial, then $4.99/mo |
| AI cleanup | Built-in transcription and commands vary by tool | Cleanup pass; review the returned draft |
| Offline use | Varies by tool, version, and language files | Internet connection required |
| Response | Continuous dictation or commands | Typically about 250 ms; timing varies |
| Also on Mac/iOS/Android | ✗ | ✓ |
Tips for better dictation on Windows
- Test your microphone. A headset or dedicated microphone may help in a noisy room; compare a short sample before buying new hardware.
- Start at a natural pace. Test the same sentence a few times and adjust your pace only if your results improve.
- Dictate full sentences. Don't pause mid-thought waiting for results. Speak your complete thought, then pause to trigger transcription.
- State punctuation when needed. With Voice Access, say "comma," "period," "new paragraph." AiType's AI cleanup handles punctuation automatically.
Which should you use?
Use the built-in Windows tools if they meet your navigation and transcription needs. Use AiType if you want a cross-platform cleanup pass, then review the returned draft. The 14-day no-card desktop trial lets you compare both workflows in your own apps before choosing a paid plan.
Also read: How to dictate on Mac · How to dictate on Android · Fastest dictation app 2026
Download AiType for Windows
14-day free trial. Works on Windows 10 and 11.