OpenWhispr vs SuperWhisper

Mac users have great options. Let's compare the open source champion with the polished native app.

Try OpenWhispr FreeGitHubView on GitHub

🎯The Quick Take

SuperWhisper is a beautifully designed macOS app that brings AI-powered dictation to your Mac with a native feel. It's polished, feature-rich, and integrates seamlessly with macOS. With a generous free tier and Pro subscription starting at $8.49/month, you get a professional tool that "just works" out of the box.

OpenWhispr offers a different value proposition. It's completely free, open source, and works across all platforms - not just Mac. You get the same powerful Whisper AI models, but with the freedom to modify, extend, and truly own your tools. Plus, it's backed by a community that values privacy and transparency.

Choose SuperWhisper if: You want a polished Mac-native experience with zero setup.

Choose OpenWhispr if: You value open source, need cross-platform support, or want to customize.

📊Feature-by-Feature Comparison

FeatureOpenWhisprSuperWhisper
Privacy & Data Control
100% local option, bring your own API keys
Local processing, optional cloud features
Open Source
Fully open source on GitHub
Proprietary, closed source
Platform Support
macOS, Windows, Linux
macOS only
Pricing Model
Free forever, optional $8/mo pro
$29 one-time purchase
AI Model Options
Multiple Whisper models (tiny to large)
Multiple Whisper models available
System Integration
Works in any application
Deep macOS integration
Customization
Fully customizable, fork-friendly
Settings and preferences only
Voice Commands
Basic punctuation commands
Advanced commands and shortcuts

🔓Why OpenWhispr?

  • Open Source Freedom:

    Inspect the code, modify features, contribute improvements. No black boxes.

  • Cross-Platform:

    Works on Mac, Windows, and Linux. Take your workflow anywhere.

  • Forever Free:

    No purchase necessary. Pro version is optional and only $8/month.

  • Hackable:

    Add features, create plugins, integrate with your workflow however you want.

✨Why SuperWhisper?

  • Native macOS Feel:

    Designed specifically for Mac with beautiful UI and smooth animations.

  • Polish & Design:

    Every detail crafted for the best user experience. It's genuinely delightful to use.

  • Advanced Features:

    Voice commands, custom modes, app-specific settings out of the box.

  • Professional Support:

    Dedicated support team and regular updates from a focused development team.

💰The Real Cost Comparison

OpenWhispr

$0

Forever Free

  • ✓ All features included
  • ✓ Local processing
  • ✓ No limitations
  • ✓ Community support

$8/mo

Pro Edition

  • ✓ Pre-built binaries
  • ✓ Auto-updates
  • ✓ Priority support
  • ✓ Support development

SuperWhisper

Free

15 min recording

  • ✓ All pro features trial
  • ✓ Small AI models
  • ✓ Basic functionality

$8.49/mo

Pro Subscription

  • ✓ Unlimited use
  • ✓ Large AI models
  • ✓ All features
  • ✓ iOS + macOS

Money isn't everything: While SuperWhisper offers great value with its pricing tiers, OpenWhispr gives you something money can't buy - complete control and transparency.

⚡Feature Showdown

Features Both Have:

Multiple Whisper model options
Local processing for privacy
Hotkey activation
Works in any application
High accuracy transcription
Multiple language support

OpenWhispr Exclusives:

  • •Cross-platform (Mac, Windows, Linux)
  • •Open source and forkable
  • •Free forever option
  • •Community-driven development

SuperWhisper Exclusives:

  • •Native macOS UI/UX
  • •Advanced voice commands
  • •App-specific modes
  • •Menubar integration

💬What Users Are Saying

OpenWhispr Users Say:

"Finally, a dictation tool I can trust. Being open source means I know exactly what's happening with my data."

- Developer on GitHub

"Works perfectly on my Linux machine. SuperWhisper isn't even an option for me."

- Linux User

SuperWhisper Users Say:

"The polish is incredible. It feels like a native Apple app should feel."

- Mac Power User

"Voice commands are a game changer. Worth every penny of that $29."

- Content Creator

🚀Switching from SuperWhisper to OpenWhispr

Love SuperWhisper but curious about open source? Here's how to make the switch:

  1. 1
    Download OpenWhispr

    Get the free version from GitHub or grab the Pro edition for convenience.

  2. 2
    Match Your Settings

    Set your preferred Whisper model and hotkey to match your SuperWhisper setup.

  3. 3
    Enjoy the Freedom

    Keep using it on Mac, or take your workflow to Windows or Linux machines too.

Missing voice commands? The OpenWhispr community is actively working on advanced features. Join us on GitHub to help shape the future!

🏆The Bottom Line

Both OpenWhispr and SuperWhisper are excellent tools that respect your privacy and deliver powerful AI transcription. The choice comes down to your values and needs:

Team SuperWhisper

You're a Mac user who values polish, native integration, and having everything work perfectly out of the box. $29 for a tool you'll use daily is a bargain.

Team OpenWhispr

You believe in open source, want cross-platform support, or love the idea of customizing your tools. Free forever with the option to support development.

The best tool is the one that fits your workflow and philosophy. Both are winners in their own right.

🎯Ready to Join the Open Source Movement?

Experience the power of community-driven development. Get the same great features as SuperWhisper, plus the freedom to make it your own.

Get OpenWhispr FreeGitHubStar us on GitHub

No credit card required • Works offline • Open source forever