Transcript or Live Translation? Choose the Right Mode and Save Points
By｜Avoce·July 15, 2026
An hour of live translation uses four times as many points as an hour of transcription. Choosing the mode around the actual need can significantly reduce cost.
What is the difference?
Live translation turns speech into text and another language. Transcript-only mode creates same-language text. One point covers 1 minute of translation or 4 minutes of transcription.
When should you use transcript-only mode?
- Meeting notes, classes, interviews, and podcasts when you understand the spoken language.
- Any situation where you need a record but not an immediate translation.
When should you use live translation?
- Multilingual talks, meetings, and tours.
- Foreign videos or streams you need to understand as they play.
- Any moment when another language must be understood immediately.
Cost comparison
| Mode | 1 point | One hour | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live translation | 1 minute | About 60 points | Cross-language events and media |
| Transcript only | 4 minutes | About 15 points | Same-language records |
Combine modes efficiently
Transcribe an entire interview and translate only selected passages later, or use transcription for the native-language portions of a meeting and start a translation session for a guest speaker.
Both modes export
Either mode can export text, Markdown, or timestamped SRT for notes and video editing.
Use the 20-minute trial to test both modes with your own audio.