Contextual dictation
DeepType
vs Aqua Voice
Aqua Voice is built around contextual dictation on Mac and Windows. DeepType is a Mac workflow with a local speech path it can document.
Reviewed October 8, 2026 · By the DeepType team
Side by side
| What matters | DeepType | Aqua Voice |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | macOS 14 or later; Apple Silicon recommended | Mac and Windows |
| Speech processing | On your Mac, with no cloud transcription fallback | Cloud dictation is offered; check the selected mode |
| Offline use | After explicitly installing a compatible local model | Official FAQ says availability varies by platform, version and mode |
| Account | No account or API key required in the app | Starter allowance and paid plans |
| Price model | Free; no dictation subscription | Starter word allowance; paid plans |
| Text cleanup | Local cleanup levels, per app styles, vocabulary and learned corrections | Contextual dictation and custom vocabulary |
Swipe the table to see both apps.
Pick DeepType if
You want your voice to stay on your Mac.
You need local transcription as a fixed rule, without a service connection or a cloud account to set up.
Pick Aqua Voice if
Its workflow fits you better.
You want contextual dictation on Mac and Windows, and you will check the processing and plan details for your setup.
Sources and scope
Based on the official pages below, reviewed October 8, 2026. DeepType publishes this comparison, so it is not an independent benchmark. We have not measured relative accuracy or speed. Check each provider for current plans and availability.