How to Transcribe Audio Online
Complete step-by-step guide to transcribing audio and video files using AI. Learn best practices, format handling, multi-language support, and tips for getting the most accurate results.
This tutorial covers everything from file upload to downloading your transcript in multiple formats.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Prepare Your File
Make sure your audio/video is clear and in a supported format, up to 200MB.
Upload & Process
Drag and drop your file. The AI transcribes it with high accuracy, usually within a few minutes.
Download & Export
Get transcripts in TXT, PDF, SRT, VTT, or CSV format. Edit if needed.
How to Use the Record Button
Getting Started
- Find the Button: Navigate to the home page and locate the large recording button.
- Allow Access: When prompted, grant your browser permission to access your microphone. This is required for recording.
- Recording: Click the button to start recording. Click again to stop. A timer will show your progress in real-time.
- Preview & Submit: When you stop, your recording is submitted for transcription automatically.
Tips for Quality Recording
- Use a quiet space with minimal background noise
- Make sure your microphone isn't muted or blocked
- Stay on the page while recording — don't switch tabs
- Speak clearly and at a consistent volume
Troubleshooting
Check your browser permissions in Settings → Privacy & Security → Site Settings → Microphone.
Reload the page or try a different browser. Chrome and Firefox work best.
Recordings follow the same length limits as uploads: up to 30 minutes on Free and 120 minutes on Pro.
Tips for Best Results
1. Audio Quality
Use clear audio with minimal background noise. Higher quality audio produces more accurate transcripts.
2. Format Selection
All formats work well, but WAV and FLAC provide the best quality. MP3 and M4A are great for general use. View all formats →
3. Multi-Language Files
TranscribeAI automatically detects the language. For best results with multi-language content, separate files by language. Learn more →
4. File Size Limits
Uploads can be up to 200MB. For long recordings, a compressed format like MP3 or M4A keeps the file small.
5. Export Formats
Choose TXT for simple text, PDF for formatted documents, SRT/VTT for video subtitles, or CSV for data analysis.
Free and Pro Plans
Free Every Month
3 full transcriptions every month on the Free plan — no credit card needed.
Try Without an Account
Upload a file and see a preview right away. Sign up free with Google or email for the full transcript.
Unlimited on Pro
Pro is $4/month for unlimited transcriptions and files up to 120 minutes.
Audio Never Stored
Your audio is streamed to our transcription server and discarded — only the transcript is saved to your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limit on file size?
Uploads can be up to 200MB. Free accounts can transcribe files up to 30 minutes long, and Pro accounts up to 120 minutes.
Is it free?
Yes. The Free plan includes 3 full transcriptions every month (files up to 30 minutes) with a free account. Pro is $4/month for unlimited transcriptions and files up to 120 minutes. You can try a short preview without an account.
How many files can I transcribe?
3 per month on the Free plan, and unlimited on Pro ($4/month). Your free transcriptions reset at the start of every month.
Is my data secure?
Your audio is streamed straight to our transcription server over HTTPS and is never stored. The finished transcript is saved privately to your account, and no human reviews your files.