7 Best Open Source Willow Alternatives
A curated collection of the 7 best open source and self-hosted alternatives to Willow in 2026.
Looking for a free, privacy-friendly, or self-hosted replacement for Willow in 2026? The top open-source alternative is VoiceInk — Fast, private voice-to-text dictation for macOS.
Other highly rated open-source Willow alternatives include Handy, FluidVoice and OpenWispr.
Fast, private voice-to-text dictation for macOS
VoiceInk is a fast, private voice-to-text dictation app for macOS that uses local AI models to instantly transcribe your speech with near-perfect accuracy. Unlike cloud-based alternatives, VoiceInk runs entirely on your device, ensuring complete privacy and no ongoing subscription fees. - Local AI Processing: Uses local AI models for transcription, ensuring your data never leaves your device. - Cross-App Compatibility: Works seamlessly across all macOS applications, from email clients to code editors. - One-Time Purchase: Available with a single upfront payment, no subscriptions required. - High Accuracy: Delivers near-perfect transcription quality with minimal errors. - Privacy-First: All voice data and transcripts are processed locally, keeping your information secure. - Lightning Fast: Instant transcription with minimal latency for a smooth dictation experience. - iOS Support: Available on both macOS and iOS for consistent voice-to-text across devices. VoiceInk is a proprietary desktop application designed for macOS and iOS. While the core transcription engine relies on local AI models, the software itself is not open-source. It is available for purchase with a one-time fee and does not require cloud services or subscriptions.
Cross-platform desktop app that transcribes your voice into any text field using a keyboard shortcut, with all processing done locally on your machine.
Cross-platform desktop app that transcribes your voice into any text field using a keyboard shortcut, with all processing done locally on your machine.
Free open-source voice-to-text for macOS
FluidVoice is a free, open-source voice-to-text tool for macOS that transforms natural speech into ready-to-use text with on-device AI. Unlike cloud-based dictation apps, FluidVoice processes everything locally, ensuring your voice never leaves your device. - On-device processing: Local speech models convert audio to text without sending data to servers - Fluid-1 AI: Custom-trained model that refines raw transcripts into polished, context-aware text - System-wide input: Works in any app with a single hotkey - 40+ languages: Supports multilingual dictation with models like Nemotron, Whisper, and Apple Speech - Adaptive tone: Custom prompts for different apps (Slack casual, Mail formal, GitHub structured) - Real-time speed: ~3.7x faster than typing with <100ms latency - Offline functionality: Works without Wi-Fi or internet connection - Apple Silicon optimized: CoreML and Metal for low-latency, battery-efficient performance - Multiple modes: Write Mode, Command Mode, and Direct Dictation - AI post-processing: Choose between local Fluid Intelligence, OpenAI, Groq, or custom providers FluidVoice is a native macOS application that runs entirely on-device. The open-source project includes: - Local speech models (Nemotron Speech 3.5, Parakeet Flash, Apple Speech) - CoreML and Metal acceleration for Apple Silicon - Custom Fluid-1 model for post-processing - Brew installation for easy setup (brew install --cask fluidvoice) No self-hosting is required as the application is designed to run locally on your Mac. The source code is available on GitHub under GPLv3 license.
Open-source voice-to-text assistant for private dictation
OpenWhispr is an open-source voice-to-text assistant designed for private dictation, transcription, and meeting notes. Whether you need to dictate documents, transcribe audio files, or generate AI-powered meeting summaries, OpenWhispr delivers fast and accurate results while prioritizing your privacy. - Local & Cloud Speech-to-Text: Transcribe voice directly on your device or use cloud APIs (OpenAI, NVIDIA) for enhanced accuracy - AI Meeting Notes: Generate private, bot-free meeting transcripts with action items and summaries - Cross-Platform Support: Available on macOS, Windows, Linux, and iOS - 100+ Languages: Supports a wide range of languages for global accessibility - Offline Mode: Dictate and transcribe without an internet connection - Custom Dictionary: Add domain-specific terms for medical, legal, or technical use cases - AI Chat Integration: Interact with your transcribed content using natural language queries - Privacy-First Design: Your voice data never leaves your device by default; cloud processing is optional and opt-in OpenWhispr is fully open-source (MIT license) and can be self-hosted. It supports local speech-to-text models (Whisper variants) or integration with external APIs. The software is compliant with HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II, and ISO 27001 standards, making it suitable for enterprise environments.
Open-source AI dictation for 4x faster typing
Amical is an open-source AI-powered dictation tool that transforms your voice into polished text 4x faster than traditional typing. Designed for developers, professionals, and creatives, it integrates seamlessly with apps like Gmail, Slack, Notion, and Cursor, automatically formatting text to match the context of each platform. - AI-Powered Dictation: Converts speech to text with advanced AI models for unparalleled accuracy and context-awareness. - Local & Cloud Models: Choose between powerful cloud-based AI models or run everything locally for maximum privacy and control. - Custom Vocabulary: Teach Amical your industry-specific terms, jargon, and proper nouns for personalized transcription. - Smart Context Formatting: Automatically formats text for different apps (e.g., professional emails in Gmail, casual posts in Instagram). - Custom Shortcuts: Create voice commands and shortcuts to streamline workflows with hands-free operation. - Multi-Language Support: Transcribe and dictate in 100+ languages with native-level accuracy. - Cross-Platform: Available on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. - Privacy-First: Open-source and designed for privacy, with local processing options. Amical is open-source and can be self-hosted for complete control over your data. The project is built with modern web technologies and supports integration with popular AI providers like OpenAI, Ollama, and OpenRouter. For self-hosting, refer to the official documentation.
Free, open-source macOS voice assistant that transcribes speech, applies AI transformations, and controls apps hands-free. No subscription, no training required.
Free, open-source macOS voice assistant that transcribes speech, applies AI transformations, and controls apps hands-free. No subscription, no training required.
Offline voice dictation for Mac & Windows
Voicetypr is a powerful voice dictation tool designed to transform your spoken words into clean text instantly across any application on macOS and Windows. Whether you're drafting emails, coding, or taking notes, Voicetypr eliminates the need for manual typing, helping you work faster and more efficiently. - Offline Dictation by Default: Uses local AI models (Whisper, Parakeet) for privacy and speed, with no internet required. - Global Hotkey Support: Set a custom hotkey to dictate text directly into any app, no per-app setup needed. - Multi-Language Support: Automatically detects and transcribes 99+ languages with high accuracy. - Agent CLI & API: Integrate with AI agents (OpenClaw, Hermes, nanoclaw) or scripts for automated transcription. - Customizable Models: Choose between local models for speed or cloud engines (Soniox, OpenAI, Anthropic, Groq, Deepgram) for enhanced accuracy. - Push-to-Talk & Hands-Free Mode: Capture speech with a button press or lock the app for continuous dictation. - Custom Vocabulary & Translation: Add industry-specific terms and translate transcripts on the fly. - Formatting & Rules: Apply 6 formatting modes and per-app rules to tailor output to your workflow. - Searchable History: Keep track of all your dictations with easy search and retrieval. - Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works seamlessly on both Mac and Windows. Voicetypr is a desktop application available for macOS and Windows. It leverages local AI models for offline operation but also supports cloud-based transcription engines for improved accuracy. The tool is designed for privacy-conscious users, ensuring your audio data never leaves your device unless explicitly opted into cloud services. No self-hosting is required as it operates as a standalone application.
About Willow
Willow Voice is a fast, accurate voice dictation tool that transforms spoken words into perfectly formatted text across any application or device. Designed for professionals who want to write faster and think less about typing, Willow eliminates the friction of traditional dictation with real-time formatting, style-matching, and an auto-learning dictionary.
Key Features of Willow
- Instant Dictation: Speak naturally and see text appear in as little as 200ms across any app (Slack, Gmail, Notion, Cursor, etc.)
- Smart Formatting: Automatically removes filler words, fixes punctuation, and formats text based on context
- Style Matching: Learns your writing style over time and adapts to your tone across emails, documents, and technical tools
- Auto-Learning Dictionary: Remembers names, product terms, and abbreviations for consistent accuracy
- 100+ Languages: Dictate in over 100 languages with seamless switching between them
- Shortcuts: Save frequently used phrases and insert them instantly with simple commands
- Whisper Mode: Handles background noise, whispering, and fast speakers without slowing down
- Privacy & Security: SOC 2 Type II certified, HIPAA compliant, zero data retention, and end-to-end encryption
- Offline Mode: Dictate without an internet connection using on-device processing
Tech / Self-Hosting
Willow Voice is a proprietary desktop and mobile application available for Mac, Windows, and iOS. The software runs locally on your device with optional cloud sync for settings and dictionaries. No self-hosting option is available as it is a closed-source, end-user application.