A Windows-first Typeless alternative with Smart and Local recognition
Typeless is a cloud dictation app with zero data retention and cross-device sync. Holdkey is Windows-first and lets you choose managed Smart recognition or Local processing with an automatic fallback.
Last checked September 2026. Facts about other products come from their public pages and reviews; tell us if something changed.
| Holdkey | Typeless | |
|---|---|---|
| Runs | Smart managed recognition or Local on-device recognition; Local is the automatic fallback | Cloud processing with zero-retention policy; encrypted cloud sync of history |
| Privacy | Local audio stays on the PC; Smart sends held audio for transcription and does not intentionally retain it | Audio not stored; data not used for training; ISO 27001, GDPR, HIPAA |
| Platforms | Windows only | Mac, Windows, iOS, Android |
| Where it works | Any text field, including Windows Terminal, Claude Code, Cursor, browsers, Slack | All apps |
| Latency | Local usually under half a second; Smart uses the network | Network round trip; "real time" claimed |
| Free plan | Raw unlimited, Clean 2,000 words a week | Free download; limits on the pricing page |
| Price | Local free; Founder Pro $10/mo | See typeless.com/pricing |
When Typeless is the better choice
You want one dictionary and history across your phone and laptop, you dictate on iOS or Android, or your company needs the compliance paperwork.
When Holdkey is the better choice
You are on Windows, want a deliberate Local option for private work, or want a local result ready if the cloud is unavailable.
Try Holdkey
Local is free with no account. Hold a key, talk, release. Upgrade to Smart when accuracy matters most.
Get Holdkey for Windows