Help & FAQ
Everything you need to know to install, configure, and troubleshoot the current Windows beta.
Current beta
v0.13.10 - Windows beta build
Pro activation now unlocks unlimited private dictation immediately, with more reliable long dictations and overlay navigation.
System Requirements
Minimum
- OS: Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
- RAM: 4 GB
- Storage: 500 MB (+ model files)
- CPU: Any modern x64 processor
Recommended
- OS: Windows 11
- RAM: 8 GB+
- GPU: NVIDIA with CUDA (optional acceleration)
- CPU: 4+ cores for large models
The GPU is optional. NVIDIA cards (GTX 10-series or newer) can run the GPU engine automatically. AMD and Intel graphics run on the processor for now.
Quick Start
Download Starter & install
Download Starter for Windows - no account or invite is required. Run the installer, then follow the Windows SmartScreen steps if a warning appears: click "More info" → "Run anyway". This is expected for new software without an EV certificate.
Pick a model
On first launch, PrivateTranscribe recommends a Whisper model based on your hardware. Start with the recommended one - you can always switch later in Settings → Models.
Set your hotkey
In the current Windows beta, the default hotkey is Ctrl+Space. You can change it in Settings → General - standard shortcuts plus Windows-native keys such as Mouse4/Mouse5, modifier-only combos, and Danish/OEM keys like ½ are supported through the native listener.
Start dictating
Click into any text field, press your hotkey, speak, and your transcription auto-pastes. Local transcription runs on your machine by default.
Whisper Models
All models run 100% locally. Larger models are more accurate but need more RAM and processing time.
💡 Tip: If you have an NVIDIA GPU with CUDA, try large-v3-turbo first. PrivateTranscribe auto-detects your hardware and recommends the best option.
Key Features
Global Hotkey
Works in any app - browsers, IDEs, chat apps, documents. Press your hotkey to record, press again to transcribe and auto-paste. Tap-to-talk and push-to-talk are both supported.
Custom Dictionary
Add technical terms, names, and jargon that Whisper might not know. Your dictionary entries are used as hints during transcription.
99 Languages + Translation
Speak in your language and get text in your language. Or enable "Translate to English" to speak in any supported language and get English output.
Transcription History
Every transcription is saved locally with timestamps. Search, copy, or export your history. Track your usage streaks on the dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Troubleshooting
No window appears after launch
Check the system tray (click the ^ caret near the clock). PrivateTranscribe minimizes to tray by default.
No transcription output
Make sure your microphone is selected in Settings → General and that Windows microphone permissions are enabled (Settings → Privacy → Microphone).
Hotkey doesn't work in some apps
Some apps intercept global hotkeys. Try changing your hotkey in Settings → General to avoid conflicts. On Windows, recent beta builds also support native-only hotkeys such as Mouse4/Mouse5, modifier-only combinations, and Danish/OEM keys like ½.
Need more help?
Email support@privatetranscribe.com with your system info (Settings → Developer → Copy System Info) and we'll help you out.
Ready to start?
Download Starter for Windows5,000 words per day. No account required. Local by default, cloud optional.