Koe vs OpenWhispr
Cross-platform breadth or a focused Mac utility
macOS, Windows, and Linux · Free; Pro is $80/year ($6.67/month billed annually)
Facts last checked 2026-07-13. Prices can change; confirm them on the linked official sources.
OpenWhispr and Koe both offer local models, bring-your-own-key processing, a dictionary, and cloud options. OpenWhispr extends across desktop platforms and meetings. Koe focuses on a native Mac dictation loop and reusable Voice Actions.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Koe | OpenWhispr |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time dictation | Yes | Yes |
| Local Whisper and Parakeet | Yes | Yes |
| Bring your own provider key | Yes | Yes |
| Hosted cloud allowance | Included with Pro | 2,000 words/week on Free |
| Custom dictionary | Yes | Yes |
| Meeting and system audio recording | No | Yes |
| Cross-platform desktop apps | macOS | macOS, Windows, Linux |
| Automation | Shell hooks and HTTP webhooks | API, MCP, and CLI by plan |
Why choose Koe
- Focused native Mac experience
- Explicit local, direct-provider, and managed processing paths
- Stackable transformations
- Shell hooks and HTTP webhooks built around dictation
Why choose OpenWhispr
- Available on macOS, Windows, and Linux
- Meeting recording and system audio workflows
- Free hosted-cloud allowance alongside local and BYOK usage
- Public API, MCP, CLI, notes, and agent features across its plans
Which one fits your workflow?
Choose OpenWhispr for cross-platform use, meetings, or its broader workspace. Choose Koe for a focused Mac dictation flow, explicit processing choices, and stackable Voice Actions.
Official sources
Try Koe free
Local models are available without an account. Pro is optional.