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MacWhisper vs whisper.cpp: catalog facts
MacWhisperwhisper.cpp
Freemium

Sold through Gumroad; check the store page for the current free and paid options.

Free

Free and open source.

macOS Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line
  • Transcription runs locally on the Mac
  • Choice of Whisper, Qwen and Parakeet models
  • Transcribes speech fully offline
  • No Python dependency
  • macOS only
  • Closed source
  • Mainly a command-line tool with no bundled graphical interface
  • Models must be downloaded separately
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Closed source Open source
License not stated License: MIT
Not stated if an account is needed No account needed
Works offline Works offline

Checked September 24, 2026

Checked September 23, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.