OpenAI
OpenAI Whisper
An open-source speech recognition model that can be run locally or accessed via an API.
Our editorial assessment as of Jun 4, 2026, based on the public sources listed below.
Rank in Transcription
#6
Tier
A
Score
76.0
Underlying model
—
Strengths
- Can be run locally for free, ensuring data privacy
- Achieves high accuracy, up to 98.7% with the large model
- Available as a managed API for developers
Considerations
- Requires technical knowledge to set up and run the open-source version
- The self-hosted model lacks a user interface and advanced features
- API usage is not free
Price
Free (self-hosted) or $0.006/min (API)
Score breakdown
Performance
88.0
Reputation
78.0
Price
100.0
Recency
76.0
Verification status
Each field carries its own re-verification date. Amber means older than 90 days — treat those figures as stale until re-checked.
Sources
- 12 best transcription software: AI tools tested & compared in 2026 | GuideflowAccessed: 2026-06-03
- Sonix 8 Best AI Transcription Software Tools 2026Accessed: 2026-06-03
- The 3 Best Transcription Services of 2026 | Reviews by WirecutterAccessed: 2026-05-26
- Wirecutter ReviewsAccessed: 2026-05-13
- Best AI Transcription Tools for Research in 2026 | CleverXAccessed: 2026-05-13
- Sonix Review of Transcription ToolsAccessed: 2026-04-30
- Guideflow BlogAccessed: 2026-04-30
- BrassTranscripts ReviewAccessed: 2026-04-24