Speech to Text tools

Dragon NaturallySpeaking (Dragon Professional Individual)

  • Platform: Windows, Mac

  • Cost: Paid (but often discounted for students)

  • Why it’s useful: Extremely accurate voice recognition, even with non-standard accents. You can control the whole computer by voice, making it powerful for learners with physical or motor difficulties. Often used in schools for students with EHCPs.

  • Note: It takes some training and patience, but becomes more accurate over time.

Microsoft Dictate (built into Windows & Office 365)

  • Platform: Windows, Word, Outlook, OneNote

  • Cost: Free with Microsoft 365 subscription or Windows

  • Why it’s useful: Easy to use, built into Microsoft apps many schools already use. Good accuracy and minimal setup required.

  • Access: Click the “Dictate” button in Word, Outlook, or OneNote.

Google Docs Voice Typing

  • Platform: Chrome browser (Google Docs)

  • Cost: Free

  • Why it’s useful: Accessible and easy to use with a Google account. Particularly good for Chromebook users.

  • How to use: Open Google Docs > Tools > Voice typing.

Close-up of a vintage-style silver microphone with a dark grille, mounted on a stand, against a purple gradient background.

Cross-Platform / Built-In Dictation

Apple Dictation / Siri Dictation

  • Platform: iOS, iPadOS, macOS

  • Cost: Free (built-in)

  • Why it’s useful: Simple and accessible for Apple device users. Works well with Notes, Pages, Mail, etc.

  • Tip: For best accuracy, enable Enhanced Dictation (macOS) or use the keyboard mic (iPad/iPhone).

Chromebook / Chrome OS Dictation

  • Platform: Chromebook

  • Cost: Free

  • Why it’s useful: Built-in accessibility tool—turn it on in Settings > Accessibility > Enable dictation.

  • Ideal for: Learners using Chromebooks in school settings.

Apps with Extra SEN Features

Ghotit Real Writer & Reader

  • Platform: Windows, Mac, iPad

  • Cost: Paid

  • Why it’s useful: Created specifically for people with dyslexia and dysgraphia. Includes advanced grammar, phonetic spell checking, and contextual predictions, plus speech-to-text support.

Voice Dream Writer

  • Platform: iOS

  • Cost: Paid

  • Why it’s useful: Designed with dyslexic learners in mind. Integrates dictation with proofreading tools, text-to-speech, and word prediction.