> For AI agents: the complete documentation index is at [llms.txt](https://saydart.com/llms.txt). A concatenated dump of public pages is at [llms-full.txt](https://saydart.com/llms-full.txt). Markdown versions of pages are available at the same path with a `.md` extension (for example `https://saydart.com/workflows/excel.md`).

Source: https://saydart.com/workflows/chrome/

# Voice to text in Chrome tabs from your desktop

People searching for a voice to text or speech to text Chrome extension often just need to talk into a browser tab. SayDart is a desktop app (not an extension) that types into Chrome, Edge and your other apps with one shortcut.

Reviewed October 27, 2026

## Why Chrome extension searches are so common

Chrome does not ship a "dictate anywhere" control of its own. If you want voice to text in a Gmail reply, a ChatGPT prompt or a form field, people often look for a Chrome extension. That works for some, but extensions only run inside the browser and usually ask for broad website permissions.

## Option 1: Google Docs voice typing (free, Docs only)

Open a document, choose Tools → Voice typing, click the microphone and speak. Google documents this for recent Chrome, Edge and Safari, but only inside Google Docs (and Slides speaker notes).

It is a strong free option when you live in Docs. It does not cover Gmail compose, ChatGPT, Notion in the browser or other tabs.

## Option 2: A Chrome extension

Many speech to text Chrome extensions add a microphone button to web pages. Before you install one, check:

- Permissions. Does it ask to "read and change all your data on all websites"? Decide if that is acceptable.
- Where audio goes. Read its privacy policy: which speech service processes your voice?
- Which sites it supports. Some only work in certain text fields.
- Price and limits. Free tiers vary.

Extensions only work inside the browser. If you also write in desktop apps such as Word or Slack, you will need something else there.

## Option 3: A desktop dictation app (Chrome tabs + everything else)

A desktop app types wherever your cursor is — a Chrome tab, Edge, Word, Slack — with the same shortcut. No extension install and no "read all websites" permission prompt.

SayDart is one of these. It is not a Chrome extension. Press Right Alt on Windows or Right Option on Mac, talk, then press it again.

- Types into Chrome and Edge tabs at your cursor
- No extension and no website permissions to grant
- Filler words removed, punctuation added
- Dictionary for names and terms you use often
- Recognition runs in the cloud; recordings and history stay on your computer
- Free to start with a modest weekly limit; Pro for unlimited use

## Built-in Windows option: Win+H

On Windows, press Windows key + H for Microsoft's built-in voice typing in any text field, including Chrome. It is free and fine for short bursts. A desktop dictation app adds cleanup, Dictionary and the same shortcut across browsers and desktop apps.

## Which should you use?

| You want to… | Use |
| --- | --- |
| Dictate a long doc in Google Docs | Docs voice typing |
| Add a mic button only inside Chrome | An extension you have vetted |
| Talk in Gmail, ChatGPT, Slack web and desktop apps | A desktop dictation app |
| Quick free bursts on Windows | Win+H |

## Use SayDart in Chrome

1. Download SayDart, install and sign in.
2. Click into any text field in Chrome — for example Gmail or ChatGPT.
3. Press your shortcut, speak, press it again. Review before you send.

## Pricing

SayDart is free to start. Pro is unlimited for $12/month, billed yearly ($144), or $15 month to month. Prices exclude tax.

## Talk in the tab you already have open

Install SayDart, click a Chrome text field and dictate your next reply. No extension required.

## Related

- [Google Docs voice to text](https://saydart.com/workflows/google-docs/)
- [Voice typing for Gmail](https://saydart.com/workflows/gmail/)
- [Dictation for ChatGPT](https://saydart.com/workflows/chatgpt/)
- [Voice typing privacy](https://saydart.com/guides/voice-typing-privacy/)
- [SayDart pricing](https://saydart.com/pricing/)
- [Download SayDart](https://saydart.com/download/)
- [Discord dictation](https://saydart.com/workflows/slack/)

## FAQ

### Is SayDart a Chrome extension?

No. SayDart is a desktop app for Windows and Mac (beta). It types into Chrome tabs and other apps at your cursor. It does not install as a Chrome extension.

### Does Chrome have built-in voice typing?

Not system-wide. Google Docs has voice typing inside Docs (Tools → Voice typing). On Windows, Win+H works in Chrome text fields. For other tabs without an extension, use a desktop dictation app.

### Does it work in Edge or Firefox?

SayDart types at the cursor in almost any app, including other browsers. It is not limited to Chrome.

### Is voice to text in Chrome free with SayDart?

SayDart is free to start. Pro is unlimited for $12/month, billed yearly ($144), or $15 month to month. Prices exclude tax.