Otter.ai vs Descript: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Otter.ai and Descript 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:
Otter.ai
AI meeting notes and transcription
Best for you if:
- • You need transcription features specifically
- • AI meeting assistant and transcription
- • Real-time transcription for meetings
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need video editing features specifically
- • AI video and audio editing
- • Edit media like a document
| At a Glance |  Otter.ai |  Descript |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Transcription | Video Editing |
Rating | 84/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | Otter.ai | Descript |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | TranscriptionNote-Taking | Video EditingAudio Editing |
How Otter.ai and Descript Compare
Otter.ai
AI meeting notes and transcription
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Free tier available · 87/100 score
Otter.ai is a transcription tool. Descript is in video editing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Otter.ai
Want the highest-rated option?
Otter.ai: 84/100. Descript: 87/100.
Go with: Descript
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Descript
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?
Otter.ai is a transcription tool. Descript is in video editing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Descript scores higher: 87/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Descript
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Otter.ai
- Better fit for transcription
The Bottom Line
Descript (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Otter.ai or Descript better?
Descript scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Otter.ai and Descript used for?
Otter.ai: AI meeting notes and transcription. Descript: Edit audio and video like a doc.
What does Otter.ai cost vs Descript?
Otter.ai is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Descript is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.