These are three different Mac workflows. Choose between built-in text entry, hands-free Mac control, and a focused dictation app with local transcription after setup.
The short answer.
Use Apple Dictation when the built-in text-entry workflow meets your needs. Use Voice Control when you want to navigate and operate the Mac by voice as well as dictate. Use Dictaty when you want a small, separate dictation tool with local History and a recovery path.
Apple states that Dictation has no overall length limit and stops automatically only after 30 seconds without detected speech. Whether general Dictation is processed on the device or needs internet depends on the Mac and setup; the current note in Keyboard settings is authoritative.
Apple Dictation
Best for
Built-in speech-to-text in a document or text field.
How it starts
Microphone key, a chosen Dictation shortcut, or Edit > Start Dictation.
Processing boundary
Depends on the Mac, language, and field. Keyboard settings state whether internet is required or general Dictation is processed on the device.
Text delivery
Text is entered at the active insertion point.
Length
No overall dictation timeout. It stops after 30 seconds without detected speech.
Price
Included with macOS.
Voice Control
Best for
Navigate the Mac, operate apps, dictate, and edit text by voice.
How it starts
Turn on Voice Control, then speak commands or use Dictation mode.
Processing boundary
Apple documents a one-time download when Voice Control is first enabled.
Text delivery
Dictation, spelling, and command modes work inside text areas.
Scope
Voice Control replaces standard macOS Dictation while it is enabled.
Price
Included with macOS.
Dictaty
Best for
Discrete live dictation into the Mac app you are already using.
How it starts
Choose a toggle shortcut, a hold-to-talk shortcut, or start from Dictaty.
Processing boundary
After license activation and the one-time local model download, recording and transcription run locally on the Mac.
Text delivery
Finished text is inserted into most editable fields, copied, or kept in local History. Secure fields are excluded from insertion and clipboard delivery.
Recovery
A failed transcription keeps its recording in local History for another attempt. History expires after seven days.
Price
€29 once for one person and one Mac. VAT included. No subscription.
Sources and limits.
Apple behavior varies by macOS version, language, Mac, and field. Check the current Apple documentation and the processing note on your own Mac before deciding. Reviewed August 25, 2026.