System Requirements
StarWhisper is designed to run efficiently on modern Windows computers. The requirements below outline what's needed for basic operation and optimal performance.
Minimum Requirements
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 (version 1903) or later |
| Processor | Any modern x64 processor (Intel 6th gen / AMD Ryzen 1st gen or newer) |
| Memory (RAM) | 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended |
| Storage | 2 GB free space for installation |
| Microphone | Built-in or external microphone |
| Internet | Required for cloud transcription (optional for local) |
Recommended Specifications
For the best experience with all features enabled:
| Component | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Processor | Intel i5/i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 5/7/9 (8+ cores) |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 GB for Medium/Large models |
| Storage | 10 GB free (SSD recommended) |
| Microphone | USB condenser microphone for best accuracy |
| GPU | NVIDIA GPU with CUDA (see GPU Acceleration) |
Storage Requirements by Model
| Model | Download Size | RAM During Use | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiny | 75 MB | ~200 MB | Quick notes, low-power devices |
| Base | 142 MB | ~400 MB | General dictation |
| Small (default) | 466 MB | ~600 MB | Recommended for most users |
| Medium PRO | 1.5 GB | ~1 GB | Professional use |
| Large PRO | 2.9 GB | ~1.5 GB | Maximum accuracy |
GPU Requirements
For GPU-accelerated transcription (10x faster):
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 900 series or newer |
| VRAM | 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended) |
| CUDA | CUDA 11.0 or later |
| Drivers | NVIDIA driver 460.89 or newer |
GPU Detection
StarWhisper automatically detects compatible NVIDIA GPUs and prompts you to download the GPU Pack when needed. GPU acceleration is optional and can be disabled in settings.
Network Requirements
| Feature | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Cloud Transcription | Internet connection (1+ Mbps upload speed) |
| Local Transcription | No internet required after model download |
| Updates | Internet connection for checking updates |
| Authentication | Internet required for account sign-in |
Corporate Network Considerations
If using StarWhisper on a corporate network:
- Ensure outbound HTTPS (port 443) access to
api.openai.com - If using a proxy, configure proxy settings in Windows
- For offline use, switch to local transcription mode
- Check with IT that microphone access is not blocked by policy
Virtual Machine Support
StarWhisper can run in virtual machines with these considerations:
- Requires audio pass-through enabled
- VMware Workstation/Player and VirtualBox supported
- GPU acceleration not available in VMs
- Performance may be reduced in virtualized environments
Windows 7 or Earlier
StarWhisper requires Windows 10 version 1903 or later. Older Windows versions are not supported due to modern browser technology requirements.
Checking Your System
To verify your system meets the requirements:
- Open Settings → System → About
- Check "Windows specifications" for your Windows version
- Check "Installed RAM" for memory amount
- Open Device Manager to verify microphone is recognized
- For GPU: Open NVIDIA Control Panel or run
nvidia-smi