Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Aqua Voice · 🛠️ dev tools
Aqua Voice vs FluidVoice
Free, open-source macOS dictation app that transcribes speech locally, polishes output with an on-device AI model, and adapts tone to whichever app you're typing into. Here is how FluidVoice ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Aqua Voice ($25/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
FluidVoice is a verified GPL-3.0-licensed open-source replacement for Aqua Voice. Switching from Aqua Voice ($25/mo) saves $300/yr per solo seat, or $1,500/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Local.
The catch: FluidVoice is macOS-only and newer, with fewer proven ready-made dictation modes and less cross-device polish than Superwhisper.
FluidVoice
$0.00/mo · GPL-3.0
Aqua Voice vs FluidVoice Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | Aqua Voice (Paid) | FluidVoice (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $25 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $300 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $300) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $1,500 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $1,500) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $3,000 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $3,000) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source GPL-3.0 |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Local (on your machine) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | desktopone-click install |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 12.9k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Aqua Voice to FluidVoice
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
FluidVoice is macOS-only and newer, with fewer proven ready-made dictation modes and less cross-device polish than Superwhisper.
How to deploy FluidVoice
Signed macOS download or Homebrew cask
What it takes to run
It requires macOS 15, microphone and Accessibility permissions, and a model download; Intel Macs are limited to the Whisper path.
Where your data lives
Transcripts, optional history, recordings, dictionaries, and settings stay on the Mac; API keys use Keychain, and optional cloud cleanup sends text to the selected provider. Exports can be created locally.
Why fork FluidVoice instead of vibe-coding a Aqua Voice clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Aqua Voice or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 7 battle-tested open-source alternatives like VoiceInk.
Aqua Voice vs FluidVoice FAQ
Is FluidVoice a good free alternative to Aqua Voice?+
Yes. FluidVoice is a verified open-source (GPL-3.0) replacement for Aqua Voice. Free, open-source macOS dictation app that transcribes speech locally, polishes output with an on-device AI model, and adapts tone to whichever app you're typing into.
What is the catch when switching from Aqua Voice to FluidVoice?+
FluidVoice is macOS-only and newer, with fewer proven ready-made dictation modes and less cross-device polish than Superwhisper.
How much do you save switching from Aqua Voice to FluidVoice?+
Aqua Voice costs $25/mo ($300/yr) per seat, whereas FluidVoice is $0/mo. Switching saves $300/yr for a solo user, $1,500/yr for a 5-person team, and $3,000/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host FluidVoice instead of Aqua Voice?+
Install: Signed macOS download or Homebrew cask. Setup: It requires macOS 15, microphone and Accessibility permissions, and a model download; Intel Macs are limited to the Whisper path.
