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Tired of paying close attention during crucial meetings and still missing key points?
Studies on the forgetting curve indicate that, on average, people forget about 50% of new information within an hour after learning it. After a day, this increases to 70%, and by the end of a week, they typically retain only 10% of the original information!
But gone are the days of endless scribbling on napkins and sticky notes. Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or just trying to keep up with your daily meetings, there’s a meeting transcription service listed for you here.
What Is A Meeting Transcription Service?
A meeting transcription service ensures that the time-consuming task of converting the audio into text is done for you. The result? A detailed written record of your meeting that you and your team can refer back to at any time.
There are two main types of meeting transcription services: manual transcription and automated transcription.
If you prioritize accuracy and can afford a bit of time and cost, go for manual transcription. It’s ideal for legal meetings, medical discussions, or any situation where every word matters.
On the other hand, if you need a quick, cost-effective solution for general meetings where perfect accuracy isn’t critical, automated transcription is your go-to.
Manual Transcription
Manual transcription involves real people—skilled transcriptionists—listening to your meeting recordings and typing out the content themselves. The most significant advantage here is accuracy.
Human transcribers can understand nuances and accents and can decipher overlapping conversations better than machines. They can also format the text, recognizing different speakers and contexts.
However, manual transcription takes hours rather than minutes. It’s also more expensive than automated options (but keep in mind, you get what you pay for!)
Automated Transcription
Automated transcription is where technology steps in, and advanced speech recognition software converts speech into text. The pros? It’s fast and generally more affordable. You can get a transcript almost immediately after your meeting.
The downside is that it might not be as accurate—especially if the audio quality is poor. A.I. transcription also struggles if there are complex technical terms, heavy accents, or multiple speakers talking over each other.
Signs You Need Meeting Transcription Services
Recognizing the need for professional meeting transcription services can be a game-changer for your business or team. They offer a range of benefits, from saving time to enhancing team collaboration.
If you’re noticing any of the following signs, it might be time to consider integrating these services into your workflow.
You’re wasting time transcribing your own meetings.
If you find yourself or your team members spending hours transcribing meetings, it’s a clear sign you need a transcription service. This time could be better spent on more productive tasks.
No matter which one you prefer, both automated and manual services can significantly reduce this workload, freeing up valuable time.
Your team is missing critical points discussed in the meeting.
It’s not uncommon for team members to miss out on essential points during a meeting. A transcription service ensures that every detail is documented. So anyone can catch up on what they missed or clarify any misunderstandings.
Attendees struggle to keep up with the pace of the conversation.
Sometimes, nature calls at the most inconvenient times. So inevitably, someone will miss an important topic of discussion while they’re taking care of business. Whatever the reason, virtual meetings can move quickly, and it’s easy to miss critical information.
Transcription services can help capture every word, so you and your team don’t have to worry about keeping up in real time.
You need a consistent way to store and access meeting transcripts.
Organizing and accessing past meeting records can be a hassle. These services provide a written record and often come with storage solutions that make it easy to file, retrieve, and reference past meetings.
You or your team wish you could search through previous meeting recordings.
Could you benefit from being able to quickly search for specific topics or discussions from past meetings? Transcription services often offer searchable transcripts, making it easy to locate the information you need without listening to hours of recordings.
You need accurate records of meetings for future reference.
For legal, training, or quality assurance purposes, having detailed and accurate records of meetings is invaluable. These services ensure that you have a precise account of what was said, by whom, and when.
One or more meeting participants have difficulty hearing.
Accessibility is key for an inclusive work environment. Transcription services can aid those who have hearing difficulties or are not native speakers of the language used in the meeting, ensuring everyone has equal access to information.
Your team needs better collaboration tools to stay connected.
Keeping teams connected and collaborative can be challenging—especially in a remote work environment. These services can act as a tool to ensure everyone is on the same page, regardless of their physical location.
10 Most Popular Meeting Transcription Services
We scoured the market to bring you a list of incredibly user-friendly meeting transcription services that do the work for you.
Service | Description | Pricing | Human or AI | Best For |
| SpeakWrite | High accuracy with experienced human transcriptionists. | Pay-as-you-go. There are no fixed costs | Human | Legal, law enforcement, high accuracy requirements. |
| Rev | Fast, AI-driven service with optional human review. | Starts at $0.25/min for AI; higher for human review. | Both | Quick transcriptions with optional accuracy review. |
| Sonix | Automated service known for speed and user-friendliness. | Subscription from ~$10/hr of transcription. | AI | Quick turnaround for large volumes of content. |
| Otter.ai | AI-driven live transcription and meeting notes. | Free version; paid plans from $8.33/month. | AI | Real-time transcription and collaboration. |
| Zoom | Integrated transcription in video conferencing platform. | Included in Zoom’s paid plans. | AI | Zoom users needing in-platform transcription. |
| Google Meet | Transcription integrated into the meeting platform using Google’s AI. | Included in Google Workspace packages. | AI | Teams using Google Workspace for seamless integration. |
| Fireflies.ai | Records, transcribes, and analyzes meetings with AI. | Free plan; paid plans from $10/month. | AI | Comprehensive recording, transcription, and analysis. |
| Happy Scribe | Offers both automatic and human transcription services. | Automatic from €0.20/min; higher for human. | Both | High-accuracy needs with optional human review. |
| Trint | AI-powered service focusing on speed and collaboration. | Subscriptions from ~$48/month. | AI | Journalists, researchers needing quick, collaborative tools. |
| Descript | Transcription integrated with audio/video editing tools. | Free version; paid plans from $12/month. | AI | Content creators needing integrated editing tools. |
#1 – SpeakWrite: Best Transcription Service For Accuracy
SpeakWrite stands out for its exceptionally accurate transcriptions, making it a top choice in professional settings where precision is key. This service employs experienced human transcriptionists, ensuring high-quality results.
Pricing is customized based on usage, with no contracts required. As a human-powered service, it’s particularly well-suited for legal, law enforcement, and other professional environments where the exactness of every word is crucial.
#2 – Rev: Best A.I. Transcriptions
Rev blends A.I. efficiency with the option for human review. Rev offers flexibility in pricing starting at $0.25 per minute for A.I. services, with higher rates for human-reviewed transcriptions.
This hybrid approach of A.I. and human transcription makes it ideal for scenarios where quick, automated transcriptions are needed. But if you’re paying for human transcription anyway, it’s best to stick with a transcription company that specializes in manual transcription.
#3 – Sonix: Best Automated Transcription For Content Creators
Sonix is an automated service known for its speed and user-friendly interface. With subscription plans starting from around $10 per hour of transcription, it’s a cost-effective solution for businesses handling large volumes of audio or video content.
As an AI-driven service, Sonix is best for quick turnarounds and is particularly useful in non-business settings (think content creators, for instance).
#4 – Otter.ai: Best Real-Time Service for Education
Otter.ai is renowned for its AI-driven live transcription and meeting note capabilities, making it a favorite in educational and professional settings. It offers a free version, with paid plans beginning at $8.33 per month, making it accessible for various users.
Otter.ai is particularly effective for real-time transcription and collaborative work, especially when it comes to virtual education.
#5 – Zoom: Best Informal Audio Transcription Service
Zoom’s transcription service is integrated into its popular video conferencing platform. It leverages A.I. technology to provide convenient access to meeting transcriptions.
This service is included with Zoom’s paid plans and is ideal for Zoom users who need an easy and informal way to transcribe their meetings.
#6 – Google Meet: Best Integrated Transcription
Google Meet transcription is part of its comprehensive meeting platform. Like Zoom, Google Meet utilizes Google’s A.I. technology and Google Drive features.
Since it’s included in Google Workspace packages, it’s a seamless solution for teams already embedded in the Google Drive ecosystem, looking for an integrated service.
#7 – Fireflies.ai: Best A.I. Summary Transcription
Fireflies.ai is an AI-driven tool that records and transcribes meetings and helps analyze the content. With a free plan and paid plans starting at $10 per month, it’s a comprehensive solution for teams seeking a tool to record, transcribe, and analyze meetings in one go.
#8 – Happy Scribe: Best For Short Transcription
Happy Scribe provides both automatic and human services, focusing on delivering high accuracy. Automatic transcription starts at $10 per month for 120 minutes. This service is best for users who need quick transcription for short content.
#9 – Trint: Best Transcription For Journalists
Trint is an AI-powered service that emphasizes speed and collaborative features.
With subscription plans beginning at around $48 per month, Trint is particularly favored by journalists, researchers, and professionals who need quick transcription tools that facilitate collaboration.
#10 – Descript: Best Integrated Video Editing & Transcription
Descript offers transcription as part of a broader suite of audio and video editing tools. With a free version and paid plans starting at $12 per month, it’s an ideal choice for content creators and professionals who require transcription services integrated with robust editing capabilities.
How To Choose The Best Meeting Transcription Service
Choosing the best meeting transcription service for your needs involves considering several key factors. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
How accurate do you need your transcription to be?
The primary purpose of transcription is to capture every word accurately. Inaccurate transcriptions can lead to misunderstandings or missing crucial information.
Services that offer high accuracy rates, especially those with human transcriptionists for complex audio with technical jargon, heavy accents, or background noise.
How quickly do you need the transcription?
Timely access to transcripts can be crucial, especially in fast-paced business environments.
Services that offer quick turnaround times. Automated services are typically faster, but check if they meet your accuracy needs (spoiler: they probably don’t! You’ll spend tons of time editing).
What does your budget look like?
Budget constraints are always a consideration. The cost can vary significantly between services. Some offer no-contract options, while others require a subscription. Consider whether a costly subscription or a more affordable pay-per-use model works best for your frequency of use.
How important are security and confidentiality?
Meetings can contain sensitive information that needs to be protected. Look for transcription services with solid security measures, including data encryption and confidentiality agreements.
What if you need customer support?
Good customer support can be vital, especially when dealing with technical issues or specific transcription needs. Look for services with positive reviews regarding their customer support, availability, and responsiveness.
Keep in mind that not all meeting services offer customer support where you can actually call and get a hold of a real person!
Did you check out user reviews and testimonials?
First-hand user experiences can provide valuable insights into the reliability and effectiveness of a service. Check online reviews, testimonials, and case studies.
Look for feedback on aspects like ease of use, customer service, and overall satisfaction. Real users will give you the best picture of what it’s like to use the service.
Are you interested in a trial run?
A trial allows you to test the service without commitment, ensuring it meets your needs. Check out services that offer free trials for transcription. That way, you can check out the key features for yourself and decide if it’s the kind of service you can see yourself using long term.
Do you need any special key features for your work flow?
Additional key features like speaker identification, timestamping, and the chance to add media can add significant value. So be sure to check out services that offer the specific features you need.
How To Get Started With Speakwrite's Meeting Transcription
Getting started with SpeakWrite’s meeting transcription service is EASY! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you begin:
Step 1: Sign up for an account.
- Create an account. Head over to the registration sign-up page. You’ll provide some basic information such as your name, email address, and creating a password.
- Verify your email. After registration, check your email for a verification link from SpeakWrite and click on it to activate your account.
Step 2: Start uploading audio files or video files for transcription.
- Prepare your audio or video file. Ensure your meeting audio is recorded and saved in a compatible format.
- Log in to your account. Access your SpeakWrite account.
- Upload your audio. Navigate to the section where you can upload your audio files. Follow the prompts to select and upload your meeting recording from your device.
Step 3: Specify your transcription requirements.
- Provide transcription details. Provide any specific instructions or requirements for your transcription, such as timestamps, speaker identification, or any particular formatting needs.
- Select your turnaround time. Choose your preferred turnaround time if options are available. SpeakWrite offers a standard turnaround time, but there might be options for expedited service.
Step 4: Review and confirm your transcription audio files are perfect.
- Review your transcription order. Check all the details of your transcription request, including the audio file, transcription instructions, and selected service.
- Confirm and submit your order. Once everything looks correct, confirm and submit your transcription request.
Step 5: Receive your transcription after completion.
- Check your email. You will receive a notification (usually via email) once your transcription is complete.
- Access your transcript. Log back into your SpeakWrite account to access and download your transcript.
Step 6: Review and Feedback
- Review the transcript. After receiving your transcript, review it to ensure it meets your expectations.
- Provide feedback. If there are any issues or if you are satisfied with the service, consider providing feedback. This can usually be done through your SpeakWrite account or via a feedback form.
Meeting Transcription Service FAQs
How much does a meeting transcription cost?
The cost of meeting transcription services can vary widely based on several factors, including the length of the recording, the quality of the audio, the turnaround time, and whether the transcription is done by humans or A.I.
Generally, A.I. services are more affordable, often charging per minute of audio, with prices ranging from $0.10 to $1.00 per minute.
Human transcription services tend to be more expensive, potentially costing anywhere from $1.00 to $3.00 per minute or more, depending on the complexity and urgency of the task.
Is it possible to transcribe a meeting without taking notes?
Yes, there are several ways to transcribe a meeting without taking notes:
- Automated Transcription Services – These use A.I. and speech recognition technology to transcribe meetings. Examples include Otter.ai, Rev’s automated service, and Google Meet’s transcription feature.
- Manual Transcription Services – These involve human transcriptionists who listen to your recordings and manually transcribe them. Services like SpeakWrite’s human transcription service offer this.
- Integrated Meeting Platforms – Some video conferencing tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have built-in transcription features.
- Transcription Software – There are also software options that you can use to transcribe meetings yourself, though this is more time-consuming.
How much should you pay for transcription service?
The payment for services depends on the type of service (A.I. vs. human), the quality of the audio, the length of the recording, and any additional features like expedited delivery or specialized formatting.
A.I. services are generally cheaper, costing from $0.10 to $1.00 per minute, while human services can range from $1.00 to $3.00 per minute or more. Some services offer subscription models or bulk pricing for frequent users, which can be more cost-effective.
Is there an app that transcribes meetings?
Yes, there are several best audio to text transcription apps available that can transcribe meetings:
- SpeakWrite app – Easy to download, easy to use. Just download and start uploading!
- ai – Known for its real-time transcription capabilities and integration with video conferencing tools.
- Rev Voice Recorder – Offers an app for recording and directly ordering transcriptions.
- TranscribeMe – Provides an app for recording audio that can be sent for transcription.
- Google Recorder – Available on Pixel phones, it transcribes in real-time and is useful for in-person meetings.
- ai – An AI-powered app that can join web-conferencing calls to record and transcribe meetings.
Can meeting transcription services handle multiple speakers and accents?
Many meeting transcription services are equipped to handle multiple speakers. Human services employ skilled transcribers who are adept at understanding diverse accents and distinguishing between speakers.
How secure are meeting transcription services?
Transcription services often employ encryption for data transmission and storage, and some services comply with standards like HIPAA for sensitive information. Human services may also require their transcribers to sign non-disclosure agreements.
Can I edit the transcript after it’s completed?
Most transcription platforms typically provide an online editor where you can review and make changes to the transcript. You can request revisions or edit the final document for human services.
Are there transcription services that integrate with video conferencing platforms?
Several services offer integration with popular video conferencing platforms. For instance, Otter.ai integrates with Zoom and Microsoft Teams, allowing automatic transcription of meetings held on these platforms.
Similarly, services like Fireflies.ai can join web-conferencing calls to record and transcribe meetings. These integrations streamline the transcription process, making it more convenient for users who frequently conduct online meetings.
What is the typical turnaround time for meeting transcriptions?
The turnaround time for meeting transcriptions depends on the service provider and the chosen service level.
AI-based services can often provide transcriptions in a matter of minutes to a few hours, depending on the length of the meeting. Human services typically take about 3 hours.
Get Started With a Meeting Transcription Service Today
Every critical discussion, every decision, and every innovative idea in your meetings can be accurately captured and archived. This ensures valuable insights are never lost and empowers your team to focus on the discussion.
Now is the time to align your meeting processes with the demands of modern business. Opt for a meeting transcription service that matches your specific needs and watch as it transforms the dynamics of your team’s collaboration and productivity.
Place an order with SpeakWrite today and lead your team into the future of business.
