Windows voice typing (Win+H) not working? 7 fixes

31 October 2026

Short answer

If Win+H voice typing does nothing or stops listening, the cause is usually one of these: the wrong microphone is selected, apps are not allowed to use the microphone, online speech recognition is off, your language is not supported, or the text field does not accept typing. Work through the seven checks below. If you need dictation that works offline and gives finished text, F5Type is a free-to-try alternative (60 minutes a month).

Key facts

Shortcut: Win+H opens Windows Voice Typing
Most common cause: Microphone permission or wrong input device
Offline alternative: F5Type offline mode (Windows 10 and 11)

How do I fix Win+H voice typing?

1Click into a text field first — Win+H only works where you can type.
2Check the microphone: Settings → System → Sound → Input, pick the right device and speak to see the level move.
3Allow microphone access: Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone, turn on access for apps and desktop apps.
4Turn on online speech recognition: Settings → Privacy & security → Speech.
5Check the language: voice typing supports a set of languages; make sure your keyboard language is one of them.
6Sign out and back in, or restart the PC, if the voice typing box never appears.
7Update Windows: Settings → Windows Update.

Why does voice typing stop after a few seconds?

Windows Voice Typing stops when it hears silence. Press Win+H again, or use a dictation app that keeps listening until you press the key again.

What if it still does not work?

Try F5Type from the Microsoft Store: press F5 (Fn+F5 on most laptops) in any app, speak, press again, and clean text is typed at your cursor. It can work fully offline (Settings → Local Mode → Offline processing) and saves your audio first, so nothing is lost. See Best dictation app for Windows.

Frequently asked questions

Does Windows voice typing work offline?

It generally needs online speech recognition. F5Type has an optional offline mode on Windows.

Why does Win+H not work in some apps?

Some apps, especially ones run as administrator, block typing from other programs. F5Type copies the text in that case so you can press Ctrl+V.

Is F5Type free?

There is a free plan with 60 minutes a month. Pro is $14.99 a month or $107.99 a year on the web.