sayhushHandy is a strong option to investigate if free, open-source local dictation is your priority. Sayhush offers online dictation with an account, a floating pause/resume dock and prepaid usage. We make Sayhush, and do not claim it is more accurate or more private than Handy.
Start with Handy’s stated model
Handy describes itself as a free, open-source dictation tool using local recognition. Its privacy documentation says ordinary transcription runs on the device without an account and does not send audio to the maintainer. Network activity can still occur for model downloads, updates or optional services. Evaluate the configuration you use rather than interpreting “local” as a promise of no network activity of any kind.
On a small screen, scroll the table sideways to see all columns.
| Decision | Handy | Sayhush |
|---|---|---|
| Core recognition | Local models | Cloud; internet required |
| Account for ordinary transcription | No account, per privacy documentation | Sayhush sign-in |
| Cost model | Free and open source | Monthly free allowance plus prepaid packs |
| What to test | Chosen model, hardware and controls | Network, dock and insertion workflow |
Include model setup in your trial
Handy documents multiple local models, so the model and available hardware are part of the evaluation. Download the intended model and test representative speech before judging the tool. Sayhush uses cloud recognition instead and requires internet access. Neither approach removes the need to review the transcript, and this page does not contain speed or accuracy measurements for either.
Compare interruption controls
Handy documents a hold-to-talk default with a configurable toggle mode. Sayhush defaults to tapping to start and tapping again to stop, with an optional hold mode. Its dock adds Pause/Resume and Stop during a session. Test an interruption while drafting a paragraph and decide which interaction is comfortable. Shortcut style alone does not establish a recognition-quality difference.
Be honest about the price alternative
A free tool that meets your needs may be the best budget choice. Sayhush’s 30 free minutes each month and paid packs are a different model, not a claim to beat a zero-price alternative. Its packs are $5 for 300 minutes and $12 for 1,000 minutes, with no paid-minute expiry. Pay only if the shipped workflow adds value for you.
Review storage as well as processing
Handy’s privacy documentation also describes local recordings, transcripts, settings and logs. Local processing and local retention are separate questions. Sayhush offers optional local text history, while recognition itself is cloud-based. Check what is retained, how to delete it and whether exported files are protected. Do not compare privacy using only a single marketing word.
Choose with a practical decision test
If you need offline recognition or want to inspect open-source code, begin by evaluating Handy. If you prefer Sayhush’s supported online workflow, trial it with the same task and compare editing effort and controls. Sayhush currently requires Apple Silicon and macOS 14 or later. Confirm system requirements for the exact Handy release you download rather than assuming identical platform support.