How much does transcription cost, and what do you actually get?

Thinking about transcribing audio or video? This article explains what transcription costs, what is included, and what to consider when hiring a professional.

You have a recording you want transcribed — maybe an interview, meeting, podcast, or video. But how much does that actually cost? And will you get a raw word-for-word output, or something more useful?

Good transcription takes more care than it might seem. This article explains what the process involves, the different types of transcription, what it costs, and why it is worth doing it well.

What do other transcribers charge, and what do you get?

Rates for transcription services vary widely. You will find providers charging as little as €0.75 per audio minute — often using speech recognition software with minimal review. At the higher end, you may see prices of €3.00 or more per minute, especially for complex content or fast delivery.

But price does not always reflect quality. Some services promise “verbatim” but deliver transcripts stripped of detail or riddled with errors. Others charge extra for basic things like speaker labels, timestamps, or editing for readability.

When I transcribe something, you get careful listening, thoughtful structure, and clean language, done by a real person. No software, no hidden fees, and no cutting corners.

What transcription actually involves

Professional transcription is more than just typing out what was said. I listen closely, think along with the content, and deliver a text that is:

• Accurate and complete, even with accents, interruptions, or overlapping speech
• Clearly structured, with speaker labels or timestamps if needed
• Tailored to the purpose — verbatim, edited, or summarised
• Grammatically correct, with proper punctuation and spelling
• Readable, without losing the speaker’s original meaning or tone

You can choose from three types of transcription, depending on your purpose:

• Summary transcription
  A fast, unedited version of the conversation. Ideal when you only need the gist.
• Verbatim transcription (edited)
  The entire recording is transcribed in clean, readable language. Disfluencies and fillers are removed, but the content remains intact.
• Literal transcription (true verbatim)
  Every pause, repetition, slip of the tongue, or filler is transcribed exactly. Ideal for legal or linguistic analysis.

Not sure which format you need? I will help you choose the one that fits your goals.

My transcription rates

Rates are based on the type and complexity of the assignment. You pay per audio minute, so you know what to expect upfront.

These rates include proofreading and delivery as a Word document. One revision round is included.

Possible surcharges

Sometimes extra work or specific challenges apply. In those cases, the following surcharges apply:

• Rush delivery (all services): +30 percent
• Poor audio quality: +€ 0.50 per audio minute
• More than two speakers: +€ 0.25 per additional speaker per minute

These are always discussed with you in advance. You will never be surprised by hidden charges.

What you get in return

• A clean, professional transcript in your preferred format
• Correct spelling and clear structure
• Delivery in Word or another format upon request
• One revision included
• Confidential and careful handling of your material

I do not use automated transcription tools. Everything is done by me, with focus and precision.

When transcription is useful

Transcription is especially valuable for:

• Interviews or podcasts you want to publish or analyse
• Research, focus groups, or panel discussions
• Meetings or internal communication that needs to be archived
• Video or audio content that needs subtitles or repurposing

You will receive a usable, readable version, not just a rough output.

Need your audio in text? I can take care of it

Send me your recording or a sample, and tell me what it is for. I will give you a clear, upfront estimate of the cost and turnaround time. No guesswork. Just clarity.

This article was written by Janneke Susanne Mol, copywriter, translator, and transcriber at Janneke Mol Language Solutions. With a background in journalism and English language and literature, I help businesses communicate clearly, confidently, and in their own voice — in both Dutch and English.

Got questions about language, copy, or translation? Feel free to get in touch. No pressure, just thoughtful answers.