Help & FAQ
Everything you need to know to install, configure, and troubleshoot the current Windows beta.
Current beta
v0.13.0 - Windows beta build
The latest beta adds a manual tester approval flow with Discord buttons, name and use-case fields on signup, automatic license key delivery by email, and overhauled email templates.
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, faster)
- CPU: 4+ cores for large models
The GPU is optional. NVIDIA cards (GTX 10-series or newer) speed transcription up automatically. AMD and Intel graphics run on the processor for now.
Quick Start
Get early access & install
Join Early Access on the homepage to get the Windows installer. Once you receive your invite, run the installer - Windows SmartScreen may show a warning. 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, even large models run fast. 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?
Get Early Access