Express Scribe vs Parlatype
Express Scribe
nch.com.auParlatype
parlatype.xyzSide by side
| Figure | Express Scribe | Parlatype |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | — |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 8 | 1 |
| Spec score · Transcription Software | 9.2 (#1) | 7.6 (#35) |
| Spec score · AI transcription tools | 9.3 (#3) | 7.3 (#38) |
| Controls | Playback can be controlled with keyboard hotkeys or supported professional USB foot pedals. | The multimedia keyboard Play button can control Parlatype without focus, and foot pedals can be assigned to that button. |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Purpose | Express Scribe is a professional audio player designed to help transcribe audio recordings. | Parlatype is a minimal audio player for manual speech transcription, designed for the GNOME desktop environment. |
| Speech recognition | It can use Microsoft speech engines or Dragon NaturallySpeaking to create draft text in the Notes box. | Automatic speech recognition is hidden by default, requires language model data, may be omitted by distributions, and the maker says its results are not overwhelming. |
| Timestamp support | Yes | Parlatype can produce timestamps for insertion into a transcription and jump to a timestamped position. |
Plans
Express Scribe
- FreeFree
- Professional QuarterlyPrice not published
- Basic AnnualPrice not published
- Professional AnnualPrice not published
- Express Scribe FreeFree
- Express Scribe Professional Quarterly Plan$26.49 a month
- Express Scribe Basic Annual Plan$79.99 a year
- Express Scribe Professional Annual Plan$99 a year
In their own words
Express Scribe
Express Scribe is an audio player designed to support transcription on Linux, macOS and Windows. Its free edition can be used without a time limit and handles common audio formats; timestamps are supported. Playback can vary speed without changing pitch, control multiple channels and play video. Users can operate playback through keyboard hotkeys or supported professional USB foot pedals, and the software works with Microsoft Word and other major word processors. It can receive dictations from FTP, email or a local network, then send completed transcriptions to clients. Speech recognition software can convert audio to text, including SAPI-compliant tools. Express Scribe can also receive encrypted dictation files from Express Dictate or Pocket Dictate. Proprietary recorder formats require the professional version, and the listed professional features include video playback. Paid plans include Professional Quarterly at $26.49 a month, billed quarterly; Basic Annual at $79.99 a year; and Professional Annual at $99 a year. The maker provides tutorials, format and file help, controller guidance, FAQs and technical support contact details.