ElevenLabs vs Whisper: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ElevenLabs and Whisper comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
ElevenLabs
AI voice generation
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need audio editing features specifically
- • AI voice synthesis platform with ultra-realistic text-to-speech and voice cloning capabilities.
- • Features 32 languages, 75ms latency Flash model, and emotional expression in v3.
Whisper
OpenAI's speech recognition model
Best for you if:
- • You need transcription features specifically
- • Speech recognition model
- • Multi-language transcription
| At a Glance |  ElevenLabs |  Whisper |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Audio Editing | Transcription |
Rating | 89/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | ElevenLabs | Whisper |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 89 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Audio EditingAPI Tools | TranscriptionAI Voice |
How ElevenLabs and Whisper Compare
ElevenLabs
AI voice generation
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Whisper
OpenAI's speech recognition model
Free tier available
ElevenLabs is a audio editing tool. Whisper is in transcription.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: ElevenLabs
Want the highest-rated option?
ElevenLabs scores 89/100. Whisper is unrated.
Go with: ElevenLabs
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ElevenLabs
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
ElevenLabs is a audio editing tool. Whisper is in transcription. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
ElevenLabs
- Higher score: 89/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Whisper
- Better fit for transcription
The Bottom Line
ElevenLabs (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ElevenLabs or Whisper better?
ElevenLabs scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are ElevenLabs and Whisper used for?
ElevenLabs: AI voice generation. Whisper: OpenAI's speech recognition model.
What does ElevenLabs cost vs Whisper?
ElevenLabs is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Whisper is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.