Willow for Developers vs AssemblyAI: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Willow for Developers and AssemblyAI 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:
Willow for Developers
The most intelligent AI voice typing tool for Mac, Windows, and iPhone.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • AI-powered speech-to-text dictation for Mac, Windows, and iOS.
- • Boosts productivity by converting speech to text instantly and accurately.
AssemblyAI
Speech-to-text API with high accuracy transcription
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • AssemblyAI provides AI models for speech-to-text, speaker detection, and audio intelligence
- • It transcribes audio with high accuracy and extracts insights like sentiment and topics
| At a Glance |  Willow for Developers |  AssemblyAI |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Transcription | Transcription |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Willow for Developers | AssemblyAI |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 117 | 0 |
| Categories | TranscriptionAI Voice | TranscriptionAPI Tools |
How Willow for Developers and AssemblyAI Compare
Willow for Developers
The most intelligent AI voice typing tool for Mac, Windows, and iPhone.
Free tier available
AssemblyAI
Speech-to-text API with high accuracy transcription
Paid · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Willow for Developers has a free tier. AssemblyAI is paid only.
Go with: Willow for Developers
Want the highest-rated option?
AssemblyAI scores 86/100. Willow for Developers is unrated.
Go with: AssemblyAI
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: AssemblyAI
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Willow for Developers is freemium. AssemblyAI is paid. Willow for Developers lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are transcription tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
AssemblyAI
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Willow for Developers
- Has a free tier
- More community upvotes (117)
The Bottom Line
AssemblyAI (86/100) is our pick. Willow for Developers has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Willow for Developers or AssemblyAI better?
AssemblyAI scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Willow for Developers is freemium and AssemblyAI is paid.
What are Willow for Developers and AssemblyAI used for?
Willow for Developers: The most intelligent AI voice typing tool for Mac, Windows, and iPhone.. AssemblyAI: Speech-to-text API with high accuracy transcription.
What does Willow for Developers cost vs AssemblyAI?
Willow for Developers is freemium (free tier + paid plans). AssemblyAI is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.