Pricing
Download the app, then upgrade in desktop when you need cloud features.
Free
Fully functional with your own API keys. Perfect for individuals who want complete control.
$0 per month
- On-device Transcription
- Save Audio Recordings
- Audio Player
- Bring Your Own Key
- Export to Various Formats
- Custom Default Folder
Move your default folder location to anywhere you prefer. - Chat
- Contacts View
- Calendar View
- Templates
- Transcript Editor
- Shortcuts
- Cloud Services (STT & LLM)
- Speaker Identification
Lite
Unlimited cloud transcription and AI models without the complexity. No API keys needed — just sign in and go.
$8/month
- Everything in Free
- Cloud Services (STT & LLM)
- Speaker Identification
- Change Playback Rates
- Integrations
- Advanced Templates
- Folders View
- Cloud Sync
- Shareable Links
Pro
Most Popular
Everything in Lite, plus advanced sharing and team features out of the box.
$25/month or $250/year
- Everything in Lite
- Change Playback Rates
- Integrations Google Calendar is available now. Additional integrations are in progress.
- Advanced Templates
- Folders View
- Connect to OpenClaw
- Select which notes to sync
- Cloud Sync
- Shareable Links DocSend-like: view tracking, expiration, revocation
Frequently Asked Questions
What does on-device transcription mean?
The Free plan includes on-device transcription. Lite and Pro can also use Char-hosted cloud transcription when you want managed services instead.
What is local-first data architecture?
Your data is filesystem-based by default: notes and transcripts are saved on your device first, and you stay in control of where files live.
What is BYOK (Bring Your Own Key)?
BYOK allows you to connect your own LLM provider (like OpenAI, Anthropic, or self-hosted models) for AI features while maintaining full control over your data.
What value does an account unlock?
A paid plan unlocks Char's cloud layer. Lite gives you hosted transcription, speaker identification, and language models, while Pro adds custom instructions, integrations, sync across devices, and shareable links.
What's included in shareable links?
Pro users get DocSend-like controls: track who views your notes, set expiration dates, and revoke access anytime.
What are templates?
Templates are our opinionated way to structure summaries. You can pick from a variety of templates we provide and create your own version as needed.
What are custom instructions?
Custom instructions let you override Char's default system prompt by configuring template variables and the overall instructions given to the AI.
What are shortcuts?
Shortcuts are saved prompts you use repeatedly, like "Write a follow-up to blog blah" or "Create a one-pager of the important stuff that's been discussed." They're available in chat via the / command.
Do you offer student discounts?
Yes, we provide student discounts. Contact us and we'll help you get set up with student pricing.
Need a team plan?
Book a call to discuss custom team pricing and enterprise solutions.