Mac Dictation Not Working? Here's How to Fix It (2026)

Is your Mac dictation not working? Don't worry - this is a common issue with several easy fixes. Follow this troubleshooting guide to get your speech-to-text working again.

Table of Contents

  1. Quick Fixes
  2. Check Your Settings
  3. Microphone Issues
  4. Internet Connection
  5. Alternative Solutions

Quick Fixes

1 Restart Dictation

Go to System Settings > Keyboard > Dictation. Turn it off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. This resets the dictation service.

This section covers important information about quick fixes. Voice Anywhere makes this process simple and efficient for all Mac users.

Check Your Settings

2 Check Microphone Permissions

Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Ensure the apps you're using have microphone permission enabled.

This section covers important information about check your settings. Voice Anywhere makes this process simple and efficient for all Mac users.

Microphone Issues

3 Test Your Microphone

Open Voice Memos or QuickTime and record a short clip. If you can hear yourself, your microphone is working.

This section covers important information about microphone issues. Voice Anywhere makes this process simple and efficient for all Mac users.

Internet Connection

4 Check Internet Connection

If using cloud processing, ensure you have a stable internet connection. Try switching to on-device processing if available.

This section covers important information about internet connection. Voice Anywhere makes this process simple and efficient for all Mac users.

Alternative Solutions

5 Try Voice Anywhere

If built-in dictation continues to fail, try Voice Anywhere as an alternative. It uses different speech engines and often works when built-in dictation doesn't.

This section covers important information about alternative solutions. Voice Anywhere makes this process simple and efficient for all Mac users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did dictation stop working after macOS update?
macOS updates sometimes reset dictation settings or require new permissions. Re-enable dictation and check microphone permissions.
Why is my Mac dictation so slow?
Slow dictation is usually due to poor internet connection when using cloud processing. Try enabling on-device processing or improving your connection.
Can I use dictation without internet?
Yes, enable on-device processing in System Settings > Keyboard > Dictation. Note that fewer languages are supported offline.

Try Voice Anywhere Today

The fastest way to dictate on your Mac. Download free and start speaking.

Download for Mac - Free