How to use dictation on any device
Every current computer and phone has dictation built in, for free. Here's how to start it on each one, plus the free tool on this site for any browser.
Quick reference
| Where | How to start dictating |
|---|---|
| Mac | Turn on Dictation in System Settings → Keyboard, then press the Microphone key, your Dictation shortcut, or Edit → Start Dictation |
| Windows 11 | Put the cursor in a text box and press Windows + H |
| iPhone and iPad | Tap the microphone on the keyboard (turn on Enable Dictation in Settings → General → Keyboard first) |
| Android | Tap the microphone at the top of Gboard |
| Chromebook | Turn on Dictation in Accessibility settings, then press Search + D |
| Google Docs | Tools → Voice typing, or Ctrl + Shift + S (⌘ + Shift + S on Mac) |
| Microsoft Word | Home → Dictate (needs a Microsoft 365 subscription) |
| Any browser | The free online dictation tool on this site |
Step-by-step guides
- MacTurn on Dictation in System Settings → Keyboard, then press the Microphone key or your Dictation shortcut and speak. Settings, languages and limits explained.
- WindowsPress Windows + H in any text box to start voice typing in Windows 11. How to turn on automatic punctuation and when to use Voice Access instead.
- iPhone & iPadTap the microphone on the keyboard to dictate on iPhone and iPad. How to turn dictation on, edit by voice, add emoji, and turn auto-punctuation on or off.
- AndroidTap the microphone at the top of Gboard and speak to dictate on Android. Plus Pixel's advanced voice typing, voice editing commands and settings.
- ChromebookTurn on Dictation in ChromeOS Accessibility settings, then press Search + D (or Launcher + D) to talk instead of type. Commands and tips included.
- Google DocsClick Tools → Voice typing in Google Docs, or press Ctrl + Shift + S, then click the mic and speak. Works in Chrome, Edge and Safari. Commands and tips.
- WordClick Home → Dictate in Word to talk instead of type. Dictate needs a Microsoft 365 subscription and an internet connection. Settings, shortcuts and commands.
- GmailGmail has no dictation button of its own, but you can dictate emails using your phone's keyboard mic, Windows + H, Mac Dictation or Chrome's talk to type.
Free or paid?
The built-in options are free and good enough for messages, notes and short emails. People who dictate for hours a day often pay for an app that works the same way in every program, cleans up filler words automatically and learns their vocabulary. See the best dictation software for when that's worth it.