# 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

[Download for free](/content/download/index.html)

## 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

[Get Started on Desktop](/content/download/index.html)

## 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

[Get Started on Desktop](/content/download/index.html)

## 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.

[Book a call](/content/founders/?source=team-plan/index.html)