Picture yourself in a cozy home office with just a laptop and speedy internet. If you can type and have basic writing skills, you’re all set for work-at-home transcription.
The best part? Experience is often unnecessary—just a strong grasp of English and a decent typing speed. If you’re self-motivated and enjoy working independently, give transcription a try.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best online transcription jobs waiting for you to explore.
Table of Contents
What are Transcription Jobs?
Transcription jobs are a flexible option, often part-time and beginner-friendly, making them a popular choice for remote work. As a transcriptionist, you can work independently, converting spoken words into written text, which may include tasks like captioning or taking dictation.
Transcription work typically falls into three main categories:
- General Transcription: Involves transcribing content from various fields.
- Medical Transcription: Focuses on transcribing medical and healthcare-related content.
- Legal Transcription: Specializes in transcribing legal documents, court proceedings, or law-related materials.
You don’t need fancy equipment to start, but as you gain experience, consider using tools like a foot pedal to work more efficiently. Transcription software like Express Scribe can also help you increase your productivity.
When searching for online transcription jobs, it’s often best to look for specialized websites dedicated to transcription gigs instead of general job boards. These specialized platforms are more likely to offer transcription opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Now, let’s explore some of the best places to find online transcription jobs.
21 Best Online Transcription Jobs
1. TranscribeMe
TranscribeMe is a leading transcription service with a vast user base of over 2 million transcribers. If you’re new to transcription, this platform is an excellent starting point. They welcome beginners, and the requirements are straightforward – you need to be at least eighteen years old and a U.S. or Australian citizen or permanent resident.
What’s unique about TranscribeMe is that they offer short audio files, typically two to four minutes long, which are perfect for those looking to complete quick tasks during their downtime. General Transcribers earn $15 per audio hour, which translates to 25 cents per audio minute.
For those who excel, there’s an opportunity to join the Special Style team after passing a background check and additional exam. This elite team takes on larger and more challenging projects that pay $25 per audio hour, or 42 cents per audio minute.
With TranscribeMe, you can steadily build your transcription skills and earnings, making it an attractive option for both newcomers and experienced transcribers.
2. Rev
Rev is an excellent platform for those looking to start a transcription career. They serve a vast global clientele with more than 100,000 customers, and their team comprises over 60,000 freelance transcriptionists, or “Revvers.”
One of the great perks of Rev is the abundance of job opportunities available. You can choose from various tasks, including transcription, close-captioning, and subtitle translation. The best part? There’s no cap on how many jobs you can take, and the harder the task, the more it pays. Transcriptionists typically earn between 30 cents and $1.10 per audio minute, while captioners make between 54 cents and $1.10 per video minute.
The best part? No prior experience is necessary. However, you will need to complete a quiz and submit a trial transcription to demonstrate your English proficiency and understanding of Rev’s style guide.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Rev offers a wide range of opportunities for transcription enthusiasts.
3. Quicktate
Quicktate offers a transcription job where you get paid based on the number of words you transcribe, not how long it takes. For general transcription, you earn $0.025 per word, and for medical transcription, it’s $0.050 per word. Your monthly earnings depend on your speed and accuracy, though the exact average isn’t disclosed.
To join Quicktate, you need to be an experienced transcriptionist. You’ll take proficiency and skills tests, pay a $20 background check fee, and provide three professional references. If you do well on these tests, you might also get a chance to work with their sister site, iDictate, on more in-depth projects.
Keep in mind that some reviews mention low pay rates, so Quicktate is best suited for experienced transcribers looking for quick gigs in their spare time. If you’re looking for more substantial income, consider exploring options like Daily Transcription or GMR Transcription.
4. CrowdSurf
CrowdSurf specializes in creating video captions to enhance accessibility for audiences, including the deaf, hard-of-hearing, and second-language viewers. They break down videos into small tasks called Human Intelligence Tasks (HITs). These HITs are typically short video files, lasting between fifteen to thirty-five seconds, which CrowdSurf’s freelancers transcribe. The company then compiles these HITs to create full-length closed-captioned videos for their clients.
To get started, you’ll need to create an account on Work Market, as CrowdSurf conducts their hiring and payments through this platform. Once you’ve applied, you’ll be required to complete a brief transcription assessment to ensure your transcription skills meet their standards.
One of the advantages of CrowdSurf is that you can withdraw your earnings on-demand through Work Market, with no restrictions on the number of withdrawals. However, it’s important to note that CrowdSurf maintains strict quality control standards. All your work will be graded and assigned a quality control score. To maintain access to the platform, it’s crucial to consistently deliver high-quality transcriptions.
CrowdSurf offers an excellent opportunity for those interested in transcription and accessibility-related work, even if you have no prior experience.
5. Tigerfish
Tigerfish is known for its impressive list of clients like Gap and Newsweek. While they may not be actively hiring right now, they’re a company to watch for future opportunities.
Tigerfish has evolved from a one-person operation handling cassettes to a prominent transcription service. They even offer a premium service called Tigerfish Air, guaranteeing clients a transcript of live or prerecorded events within two hours.
However, Tigerfish is best suited for experienced transcribers looking for new challenges. If you’re eager to take on exciting transcription projects, keep an eye out for openings with Tigerfish in the future.
6. SpeakWrite
SpeakWrite is looking for transcriptionists who can type at least 60 words per minute with 90% accuracy. They pay between $0.005 and $0.006 per word. On average, transcriptionists earn around $450 per month, with some top earners making $3,400 monthly.
To apply, you need at least one year of transcription experience and access to a transcription foot pedal. Payments are made biweekly through direct deposit or checks.
This job can be a great fit for those who have experience and are comfortable with a typing speed test. It offers a chance to earn a steady income from transcription work.
7. Scribie
Scribie offers a unique twist to transcription jobs. They provide an option to automate transcription tasks using AI, which comes at a lower cost but may have lower accuracy. However, there’s still a high demand for manual transcriptionists who can ensure 99% accuracy. The good news is that Scribie offers you the AI-generated transcription, which you can then edit, reducing your typing time.
To become a certified Scribie freelancer, you’ll need to complete a test file transcription. Don’t worry; it’s not too challenging.
8. Casting Words
If you’re looking to get started in transcription, CastingWords is a great option. They welcome newcomers without any prior experience required. You can sign up if you live in any of the 200+ countries where PayPal operates, but you do need to be at least eighteen years old.
CastingWords might ask you to take a test, although they don’t reveal why. However, it’s not too complicated, and you’ll need to read their style guide.
Now, let’s talk about pay. CastingWords doesn’t have a straightforward payment system. It depends on your transcriber level and your grade for each transcription, which they rate from 0 to 9.
Here’s how it works: For each task, there’s a base pay rate. If your work gets a grade of 4 or less, you won’t be paid. A grade of 5 gets you the base pay. Grades 6, 7, 8, or 9 earn you 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 times the base pay, respectively.
So, CastingWords is better suited for experienced transcribers who consistently achieve higher grades.
9. Ditto Transcripts
Ditto Transcripts, formerly known as Transcription Outsourcing, is a fantastic option for transcription work. The pay rate here ranges from $0.80 to $1.10 per minute, making it a potentially lucrative opportunity. The best part? You don’t need any prior experience to get started.
They welcome transcriptionists from the U.S., even those who are new to the field. What’s great is that as you gain experience, your pay rate can increase. In some cases, they’ve paid as much as $5 per minute for urgent court hearings. Medical transcriptionists can also find a place here, earning between $.07 and $.10 per line.
Payment is easy with PayPal, and the potential for earning more depends on factors like the type of work, turnaround time, and audio quality. So, if you’re looking to break into transcription or want a place where your skills are rewarded, Ditto Transcripts is a solid choice.
10. GMR Transcription
GMR Transcription could be an excellent choice if you’re an experienced transcriptionist who thrives under tight deadlines. However, there’s a catch – you must be based in the United States to be considered, so it’s not ideal for digital nomads.
GMR doesn’t disclose its pay rate upfront. Instead, they determine it after you’re hired. On average, freelancers earn between $1,000 to $3,000 per month, depending on the project’s complexity and your skill level. They pay more for harder assignments and tasks with fast turnaround times.
Be prepared for a challenging skill assessment exam during the application process. While beginners can apply, GMR reports that most successful test-takers already have some transcription experience under their belts.
11. 3Play Media
3Play Media offers a flexible transcription opportunity. They hire both English and Spanish-speaking freelance transcribers. The pay varies depending on the complexity and length of the content, but, on average, transcriptionists here earn between $10 and $30 per hour.
One unique feature is that they cater to major entertainment, corporate, and educational content producers, giving you a diverse range of assignments to choose from.
For U.S.-based applicants, a background screening is mandatory before starting work. Payments are made weekly through direct deposit or checks, ensuring you get compensated regularly for your efforts. If you’re looking for transcription work that allows you to choose your assignments and pays well, 3Play Media is definitely worth considering.
12. eScribers
eScribers stands out as one of the larger legal transcription companies in the United States. To join their team, you need to be legally “eligible” to work in the U.S., so even if you’re living abroad, you can still freelance. While they typically seek experienced legal transcribers, they also welcome those looking to transition into legal transcription.
While the exact payment details aren’t publicly disclosed, they pay on a weekly basis. This opportunity offers a glimpse into a possible future for those who are just starting their transcription journey. If you’re interested in legal transcription and meet their eligibility criteria, eScribers could be your gateway to this specialized field.
13. Pioneer Transcription Services
Pioneer Transcription Services offers transcription opportunities without specifying pay ranges or average earnings. They welcome applicants with no prior experience. To become a transcriptionist with them, you’ll begin by filling out an application and then passing a transcription test. Once you pass the test, you can start subcontracting for transcription jobs.
Most of these jobs revolve around transcribing one-on-one interviews. They even have a separate section for hiring legal transcriptionists. Notably, they are actively seeking Spanish to English transcriptionists, which is a valuable opportunity for bilingual individuals.
14. Babbletype
Babbletype offers online transcription work with a focus on market research reports. While they don’t disclose specific pay ranges or average earnings, they are known for their high standards in selecting new talent.
To join their team, you’ll need to follow a multi-step process. First, you’ll watch a 30-minute video to get acquainted with their expectations. Afterward, you’ll complete an interview to demonstrate your skills and fit for the role. Finally, you’ll undergo an extended period of paid testing.
Interestingly, your typing speed isn’t the top priority here; what matters most is your ability to accurately summarize content. This makes it accessible to those who might not be the fastest typists but excel in precision and reliability.
15. GoTranscript
If you’re looking for an online transcription job with no prior experience required, GoTranscript is a great option. They offer freelancers the chance to earn up to $0.60 per audio minute, and you can make an average of $150 per month. Payments are made weekly through PayPal or Payoneer.
What sets GoTranscript apart is their transparency. You get to choose which transcription assignments you want to work on, and you can even listen to the audio file before committing to a job. This means you can decide if a task is worth your time before starting.
Plus, GoTranscript grades your work, and if you consistently perform well, you can earn more per audio minute and even get promoted to a higher-paying editor position. They also occasionally have jobs in languages other than English, making it an inclusive option for global freelancers.
16. Way With Words
Way With Words values highly proficient English speakers who can understand different accents. Prior transcription experience is not required, as they provide training.
Depending on deadlines, pay rates can range from $.45 to $1.73 per audio minute. Moreover, your earnings are expected to increase as you gain more transcription experience and improve your typing speed. While they don’t specify a particular typing speed, they do emphasize the importance of accuracy.
This makes it an excellent option for individuals looking to enter the transcription field, especially if they have a knack for understanding various English accents.
17. Speechpad
Speechpad is a transcription platform designed to help you succeed as a transcriber. They go the extra mile with 24/7 global support to assist you whenever you need it. Once your application is accepted, you’ll only need a computer and a speedy internet connection to start working. What’s even better is that Speechpad equips transcribers with all the necessary software to maximize efficiency.
Here, you’re in control. You can choose the types of transcription jobs that interest you. The pay rates are competitive, ranging from $0.25 to $2.50 per minute of transcription, allowing you to earn based on your skills and preferences.
Whether you’re an experienced transcriber or just starting out, Speechpad provides a supportive platform to help you thrive in the transcription field.
18. Daily Transcription
Daily Transcription is a great choice if you have experience as a transcriber or if you’re a fast typist. They pay between $0.75 and $0.85 per audio minute, which is higher than many other transcription services.
To qualify, you need to be over 18 and reside in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, or South Africa. You should also be a “native” speaker of American English. After the initial application, you’ll need to pass skills and transcription tests, and you’ll need transcription software.
Daily Transcription offers video training and unlimited practice jobs. They also provide constructive feedback on your work, helping you improve your skills. While they don’t disclose average earnings, their top transcriptionists can earn between $250 and $950 per week. Just keep in mind that job availability may vary from week to week.
19. Transcript Divas
Transcript Divas has high standards for its transcriptionists. While they have a selective application process and don’t accept California residents, if you make the cut, you could earn an impressive $1.15 per minute of audio transcribed. Many transcriptionists stay with Transcript Divas for years, which speaks to the quality of this opportunity.
If you’re confident in your transcription skills and think you have what it takes to be a “diva” transcriptionist, you can apply. Be prepared for a special diva test and a phone interview to showcase your abilities.
20. Averbach Transcription
Averbach Transcription is a great option if you’re not experienced in transcription but are up for the challenge. They’re specifically looking for transcriptionists who can handle heavy accents, and no prior transcription experience is required. Communication with Averbach Transcription is primarily done through email, so you’ll need to be comfortable working independently and being your own editor. Proficiency with transcription software like Express Scribe is a bonus.
Expect to take a skills test, a standard requirement in the transcription industry. They offer $1.00 per audio hour for regular transcription jobs and $1.50 for expedited ones, which translates to an estimated $20 to $30 per hour of work. Averbach Transcription is an accessible entry point into the world of transcription.
21. Cambridge Transcriptions
Cambridge Transcriptions is a unique player in the transcription world. What sets them apart is their use of “e-recorders” for on-site recording, ensuring top-notch transcription quality.
Founded in the academic hub of Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1989, they hire transcriptionists who can work either on-site or remotely. Many of their past employees have been local university students, which speaks to the level of intelligence they expect in their team.
If you’re interested in joining Cambridge Transcriptions, start by emailing them your cover letter, resume, and some sample transcripts. It’s an opportunity to be part of a transcription company with a long history and a commitment to excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there transcription jobs for beginners?
Yes, there are beginner-friendly transcription jobs, while others require experience and software skills. Job listings usually specify requirements, so read them carefully before applying. Be prepared to take transcription tests during the application process.
2. Do transcription jobs pay well?
Transcription work won’t make you rich, but your earnings depend on how much you work and your commitment. Some do it as a side gig for extra cash during breaks or evenings, while others make it a full-time job. Set realistic goals based on what you want to achieve with transcription.
3. What is a transcription foot pedal?
Transcribing audio can be tricky when you constantly need to pause or rewind clips, taking your hands off the keyboard. A transcription foot pedal lets you control playback by stepping on a pedal, often working with software like Express Scribe. You can find various foot pedals on Amazon.
4. What jobs are similar to transcription?
If you’re open to side gigs, consider roles like content writing, social media management, or opportunities like driving, pet sitting, babysitting, or virtual assisting for extra income. There are plenty of options to explore.
Anthony Smith is an internet entrepreneur. He created the Side Hustle Ideas Database to help people find side hustles for making extra money, with the potential of turning into a full-time income.
After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a business degree, he gained business experience at a consulting firm. At the same time, he tried various side hustles including freelance writing, blogging, and eCommerce. He managed to turn his side hustles into a full-time business, earning over $3 million. Now, he enjoys financial freedom and travels around the world as a digital nomad.