OpenAI Whisper vs Local Whisper: Which is Right for You?
SpeakEasy supports both OpenAI Whisper API and local Whisper processing. This guide helps you choose the right option for your needs.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | OpenAI Whisper | Local Whisper | |---------|---|---| | Speed | 2-3 seconds | 5-10 seconds | | Accuracy | 95%+ | 90%+ | | Privacy | Cloud-based | Local only | | Cost | $0.02 per minute | Free (after setup) | | Internet Required | Yes | No | | Setup | Easy | Moderate | | Tier | Pro & Ultimate | Ultimate only |
OpenAI Whisper API
Pros
✅ Fastest: 2-3 seconds per transcription ✅ Most Accurate: 95%+ accuracy across languages ✅ Easy Setup: Just add your API key ✅ No Local Resources: Doesn't use your CPU/GPU ✅ Multilingual: Supports 99+ languages ✅ Continuously Improved: OpenAI updates the model
Cons
❌ Requires Internet: Must be connected to use ❌ Cloud Privacy: Audio sent to OpenAI servers ❌ Per-Minute Cost: $0.02 per minute (~$1.20/hour) ❌ Dependent on OpenAI: Service outages affect you ❌ API Rate Limits: Limited requests per minute
Local Whisper Processing
Pros
✅ Complete Privacy: No data leaves your computer ✅ No Internet Required: Works offline ✅ No Recurring Costs: Free after initial setup ✅ Full Control: Your data, your rules ✅ No Rate Limits: Transcribe as much as you want ✅ GDPR Compliant: No cloud data processing
Cons
❌ Slower: 5-10 seconds per transcription ❌ Less Accurate: 90%+ accuracy (vs 95%+) ❌ Resource Intensive: Uses CPU/GPU ❌ Setup Required: Need to install and configure ❌ Limited Languages: Fewer language options ❌ Manual Updates: You update the model
Decision Matrix
Choose OpenAI Whisper if:
- ✅ Speed is critical (< 3 seconds)
- ✅ You need 95%+ accuracy
- ✅ You have fast internet
- ✅ You're comfortable with cloud processing
- ✅ You want the easiest setup
Choose Local Whisper if:
- ✅ Privacy is paramount
- ✅ You work offline frequently
- ✅ You need unlimited transcriptions
- ✅ You have sensitive data
- ✅ You want to avoid recurring costs
Conclusion
Choose OpenAI Whisper if you value speed and accuracy above all else.
Choose Local Whisper if you value privacy and want to avoid recurring costs.
Learn more about all our features and pricing tiers to find the perfect fit for your workflow.
Ready to choose? Download SpeakEasy and try both options with the free tier! Check out our Windsurf voice commands guide for more tips.