In short
Download Zack Typing, install it and follow the introduction: you try a first dictation with Ctrl+Space, check your microphone and sign in with Google or an email link. After that, Zack Typing starts with Windows and waits in the notification area until you press the shortcut.
- System
- Windows 10 and Windows 11
- Sign-in
- Google or a link by email, no password
- Shortcuts
- Ctrl+Space to dictate, Alt+5 to show the window
- Startup
- Starts with Windows, runs in the notification area
Install and set up
- Run the installer you downloaded with the button above. If Windows SmartScreen shows a warning, click “More info”, then “Run anyway”.
- The introduction asks you to try it: press Ctrl+Space or the microphone button, say a few words, then press again to stop.
- If nothing is recognized, click “Switch microphone” and pick the microphone you speak into.
- Click “Continue to sign in”, then “Sign in with Google”, or enter your email and click “Send link”.
- After the short tour, place your cursor in any app and press Ctrl+Space to dictate.
Which settings matter at the start?
| Setting | Where | Default |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone | “Recording” → “Microphone” | “System default” |
| Dictation shortcut | “Shortcuts” → “Record shortcut” | Ctrl+Space |
| Press or hold | “Shortcuts” → “Recording mode” | “Toggle”; “Push-to-talk” records while you hold |
| Open the window | “Shortcuts” → “Show window” | Alt+5 |
| Music and videos while you dictate | “General” → “Audio while recording” | “Pause” |
| Recording sounds | “General” → “Audio signals” | On, style “Clean” |
To change a shortcut, click it and press the new key combination. If another program already uses it, Zack Typing shows “This key combination is already in use by another program.” More in starting and stopping dictation.
How does Zack Typing run in the background?
Zack Typing starts with Windows without opening a window. Its icon sits in the notification area: click it to open the window, or right-click it for “Open”, “Settings” and “Quit”.
Pressing Esc or closing the window hides it, and the shortcut keeps working. Choose “Quit” to stop the app completely. “Start with Windows”, “Keep running in tray” and “Always on top” are under “Advanced” → “System and startup”.
Where do you change appearance, sounds and updates?
- “Appearance”: “Theme” (System, Light, Dark), “Accent color”, “Interface scale” from 90 to 125 percent and “Language” (English or German).
- Sounds: “General” → “Audio signals” with “Play sounds”, “Volume” and “Sound style” (Clean, Water or Beep).
- Updates: Zack Typing checks once a day and offers “Update now” when a new version is ready, then restarts by itself. “Check for updates” under “Advanced” → “Maintenance” checks right away.
- Introduction: “Show again” next to “Introduction” under “Advanced” → “Help & legal” replays it.
Related questions
Can I use Zack Typing without signing in?
Yes. “Sign in later” skips it. Cloud dictation then needs your own API key; the free credits and the Small offline model need an account.
Zack Typing does not hear me. What can I check?
Check that the microphone is not muted and pick the right one under “Recording” → “Microphone”. In the Windows privacy settings, make sure desktop apps may use the microphone.
How do I uninstall Zack Typing?
Open Windows Settings, go to Apps, find Zack Typing and choose Uninstall. Uninstalling does not cancel a subscription.
Does Zack Typing get in the way of Zack KI?
No. Zack Typing uses Ctrl+Space and Alt+5 and leaves Alt+1 to Alt+4 free for Zack KI. Both apps can use one account and one credit balance.