Dictaphones
A dictaphone is a small recorder built for capturing speech. Modern digital dictaphones save recordings as files rather than on tape, so you can play them back on the device or copy them to a computer in seconds. Each dictaphone in this collection is self-contained, with its own microphone, battery and storage, so it's ready to record the moment you need it.
Also Known As
Digital dictaphone, dictaphone recorder, digital voice recorder, pocket voice recorder and audio recorder. It's also often searched as dictophone, dictorphone or dictator phone.
Dictaphone or Phone App?
A phone can record, but a dedicated dictaphone is better when the recording matters:
- No calls, notifications or low-battery cut-offs interrupting a recording
- A microphone tuned for voices, often with noise reduction
- Its own battery and storage, so your phone stays free
- One button to start, so you don't miss the first words
What You Will Find in This Collection
Common Uses for Dictaphones
- Dictating notes, letters and reports to type up later
- Recording lectures and training sessions, with permission
- Keeping an accurate record of meetings and interviews
- Capturing ideas, reminders and to-do lists on the go
- Practising speeches, presentations and language skills
Features to Compare
- Storage and format: more storage means more hours. WAV gives the best quality; MP3 takes far less space. See our high capacity audio recorders.
- Battery: check the recording time, not just the standby time. See our rechargeable voice recorders.
- Noise reduction: helps in busy rooms and lecture halls. See all recorders with noise reduction.
- Transfer: USB models copy files straight to a computer. See our USB voice recorders.
- Controls: one-touch start, playback on the device and a clear recording light make a dictaphone easier to use.
How to Choose the Right Dictaphone
- For dictation and notes: a simple one-touch model you can grab and use straight away.
- For lectures and meetings: noise reduction and a battery that outlasts the session.
- For interviews: WAV recording for the clearest playback and transcription.
- For carrying every day: a mini or keyring dictaphone that lives in your pocket.
Getting Recordings Off and Typed Up
Connect the dictaphone to a computer by USB and copy the files like a memory stick. From there you can play them back, share them, or turn them into text with transcription software or a typing service. Short, clearly named recordings are much quicker to transcribe than one long file.
Responsible Use & Trust
Tell people when you're recording and ask permission for lectures, meetings and interviews. Recording your own notes or a conversation you're part of for personal use is generally lower risk, but sharing recordings or recording others can raise legal issues. Read our guide to recording conversations legally in the UK.
You May Also Need
