AI vs Human Transcription: The Ultimate Comparison

Rakesh Patel
Rakesh Patel
February, 13 2024
AI Transcription vs Human Transcription

The process of turning speech into written text is called transcription. The market for transcription services in the United States was estimated to be worth USD 19.8 billion in 2019 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2020 to 2027.

Since earlier days, transcription has played a significant role in communication, from court transcripts to closed captions.

AI transcription is a brand-new type of transcription that has emerged in recent years as a result of breakthroughs in artificial intelligence. However, several businesses continue to rely on human transcription as a reliable process.

So, in this blog post, we will study the field of transcription and compare AI transcription vs human transcription.

AI Transcription

Understanding AI Transcription

Artificial intelligence is used during AI transcription to translate spoken words into written text. To transcribe speech, machine learning models and AI algorithms are used. These models can accurately translate speech since they have been trained on a lot of audio data.

How AI Transcription Works

AI transcription works by segmenting the audio or video information into smaller chunks and then, using AI algorithms and machine learning models, transcribing each fragment.

The audio content’s linguistic qualities and speech patterns are analyzed by AI algorithms, which then use the results of their study to produce a written transcript.

Advantages of AI Transcription

  • Speed and Efficiency

    The efficiency and speed of AI transcription are two of its greatest benefits. AI transcription software is suitable for transcribing big amounts of content since it can transcribe audio and video content far more quickly than human transcriptionists. This may help people and companies save a lot of time and money.

  • Cost-effectiveness

    The affordability of AI transcription is another perk. AI transcription software is a cost-effective alternative to human transcriptionists for organizations and individuals that need to transcribe audio and video content on a tight budget.

  • Accuracy

    Even in noisy circumstances, AI transcription can be incredibly accurate. AI transcription software can accurately and multilingually transcribe speech thanks to its sophisticated algorithms and machine learning models.

  • Scalability

    Due to its tremendous scalability, AI transcription can efficiently transcribe audio and video files of any length and complexity. This makes it perfect for both organizations and individuals that frequently need to transcribe large amounts of content.

If you want to know the pros and cons of AI Transcription then you can refer to our blog “Pros and Cons of AI Transcription“.

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Challenges With AI Transcription

  • Background Noise

    Background noise is one of the main problems with AI transcription. The AI transcription software could find it difficult to correctly transcribe the speech if there is a lot of background noise in the audio or video footage.

  • Accented Speech

    Accented speech is another issue with AI transcription. The AI transcription program could have trouble properly transcribing the speech if the speaker has a strong accent.

  • Technical Issues

    The use of AI for transcription might be potentially problematic due to technical issues. The transcript might not be produced accurately if the AI transcription program malfunctions. In such circumstances, it could be necessary to restart the AI transcription program, which can be tedious and upsetting for the user.

Human Transcription

Understanding Human Transcription

The process of turning spoken word into written text by a human transcriptionist is known as “human transcription.” The speech is first converted into written text by human transcriptionists after they have listened to the audio or video content, either manually or with the aid of transcription software.

How Human Transcription Works

A human transcriptionist listens to the audio or video information and converts the voice into written text to do human transcription. Although the transcriptionist can aid in the process with transcription tools, they still need to listen to the audio or video content and physically transcribe the speech.

Advantages of Human Transcription

  • Personal Touch

    The personal touch is one of the main benefits of human transcription. Human transcriptionists may personalize the transcript by adding their own personal touches, which makes it more interesting and readable for the reader. For transcripts that will be published or used for public speaking, this is very crucial.

  • Contextual Knowledge

    Contextual awareness is an additional benefit of human transcription. The speech’s context may be understood by human transcriptionists, who can then transcribe the speech accurately and meaningfully. For transcripts that will be utilized for legal or medical purposes, this is especially crucial.

  • Cultural Awareness

    When transcribing speech, human transcriptionists can also offer cultural awareness. They are able to comprehend the speech’s cultural context and accurately translate it, producing a more culturally acceptable transcript. For transcripts that will be utilized for foreign purposes, this is especially crucial.

  • Quality Assurance

    Finally, human transcriptionists can check the transcript’s quality. To make sure the transcript is correct, legible, and error-free, they can proofread and edit it. For transcripts that will be utilized for official or legal purposes, this is especially crucial.

Limitations of Human Transcription

  • Time-Consuming

    The biggest drawback of human transcription is that it might take a long time. Transcribing voice into written text can take hours or even days, depending on how long the audio or video content is. Businesses and people that want transcripts fast may find this to be a serious difficulty.

  • Possibility of Human Error

    The possibility of human error is another drawback of human transcription. The transcription may contain errors since human transcriptionists are fallible when converting spoken words into written form. For transcripts that will be utilized for legal or medical proceedings, where accuracy is crucial, this can be a serious problem.

  • Dependence on Transcriptionists’ Skill

    The ability of the transcriptionist is another factor in human transcription. It can be challenging to ensure uniform quality among transcripts since individual transcriptionists may have varying degrees of experience, accuracy, and speed. Businesses and people that want transcripts of constant quality may find this to be a considerable difficulty.

However, with the rise of AI transcription technology, there is growing concern about its impact on the job market. Our blog post on “How AI Transcription will impact the job market” explores this topic in-depth and provides insights into the potential implications for human transcriptionists.

If you’re interested in learning more about the ongoing debate between AI and human transcription, be sure to check out our blog post on “how AI transcription will impact the job market“.

Comparison Between AI Transcription and Human Transcription

CriteriaAI TranscriptionHuman Transcription
Speed and EfficiencyFaster and more efficientSlower and less efficient
CostMore cost-effectiveMore expensive
AccuracyHigh accuracyCan vary depending on the transcriptionist
Contextual UnderstandingLimited understandingStrong understanding
Personal TouchImpartial and objectiveAdds a personal touch

Speed and Efficiency

Speed and efficiency are two significant factors that set AI transcription apart from human transcription.

AI transcription is perfect for organizations and people that want transcripts rapidly since it is substantially faster and more effective than human transcription. Unlike human transcriptionists, who may need hours or days to do the same operation, AI transcription systems may convert audio or video information into written text in a matter of minutes.

Cost

Another distinction between AI and human transcription is cost. Since there is no longer a need for a human transcriptionist and the accompanying labor expenses, AI transcription is typically more economical than human transcription. For companies and people operating on a limited budget, this might be a big advantage.

Accuracy

Another important distinction between AI and human transcription is accuracy. AI transcription systems are designed to be extremely accurate, with sophisticated algorithms and machine learning capabilities that help to remove errors and enhance the transcript’s overall quality.

Although human transcriptionists are capable of producing transcripts that are quite exact, they are also prone to error, which can reduce the transcript’s accuracy.

Contextual Understanding

Another area where AI transcription and human transcription differ is contextual understanding. AI transcription solutions only use algorithms and data sets to convert spoken language into written text, but human transcriptionists may contribute a deeper understanding of context and contextually sensitive language.

Even while AI transcription is becoming better, it still has issues with sensitivity to cultural differences and understanding context.

Personal Touch

The personal touch is the final distinction between AI transcription and human transcription. By incorporating their own personalities and styles into the written text, human transcriptionists may give the transcription process a personal touch. This is particularly crucial for transcripts that will be utilized creatively or artistically, since the transcriptionist’s unique touch may enhance the finished output.

AI transcription tools, on the other hand, are created to be neutral and objective, offering a transcription service that is incredibly accurate and effective.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which one is better – AI transcription or human transcription?

The unique requirements of the work at hand determine the answer to this question.

AI transcription is a fantastic option for activities that need to be completed quickly and accurately.

Human transcription is the superior choice for activities that call for a personal touch, contextual awareness, and cultural sensitivity.

How much does AI transcription cost in comparison to human transcription?

In general, AI transcription is more economical than human transcription, especially for information with a high volume.

However, the cost of human transcription might differ based on the transcriber’s degree of expertise and experience.

When compared to human transcription, is AI transcription more accurate?

For straightforward audio or video data, AI transcription has the potential to be more accurate than human transcription.

However, as humans are better at understanding context and cultural quirks, their transcriptions may occasionally be more accurate.

Can AI transcription handle background noise and accented speech?

Because these characteristics might affect the transcription’s accuracy, background noise and accented speech can be challenging for AI transcription.

Given their ability to properly transcribe the information using their knowledge of context and cultural subtleties, human transcribers are better suited to manage these difficulties.

Does AI transcription provide a personal touch?

Since AI transcription is a technological solution, it does not offer a personal touch. Contrarily, since a human transcriber is engaged in the process, human transcription adds a personal touch.

AI vs Human Transcription: Making the Right Choice

In conclusion, the decision between AI transcription and human transcription will depend on your unique requirements. Both have their advantages and limitations.

AI transcription can be the right approach if you require a quick, accurate, and affordable transcription service. On the other hand, human transcription could be a better option if you want a personal touch and a deeper comprehension of context.

We at spaceo.ai know how crucial it is to choose the best transcription service for your needs. Our team of skilled developers can assist you in creating a customized AI transcription solution or a platform specifically for human transcription.

To find out more about how we can assist you in selecting the ideal transcription solution for your business, get in touch with us right now.