Digital meeting notetakers like Read AI, Fireflies.ai, Fathom, and Granola have revolutionized the way we take notes during online meetings. These tools are incredibly useful for transcribing meetings, providing summaries, and highlighting action items. However, when it comes to in-person meetings or for those who prefer more versatile options, physical recording devices are still a popular choice.
Physical AI notetakers come in various forms, from wearable pins or pendants with dedicated microphones to credit card-sized devices with mobile apps that use AI to transcribe and extract insights from meetings. Some of these devices even offer live translation capabilities, making them a valuable tool for international meetings.
Here is a list of some popular physical AI notetakers and transcription tools:
1. Plaud Note/Plaud Note Pro: These credit card-sized notetakers have been on the market since 2023, with the newer AI-powered Pro version featuring a small screen, four microphones, and the ability to switch between in-person and call recording. The Plaud Note costs $159, while the Note Pro is priced at $179 and comes with 300 free transcription minutes per month.
2. Mobvoi TicNote: Mobvoi’s rectangular notetaker is priced at $159 and offers 600 free transcription minutes. The device claims to provide real-time transcription and translation support for over 120 languages. With three microphones, the TicNote can record up to 25 hours of continuous audio.
3. Comulytic Note Pro: A newer entrant in the market, Comulytic’s Note Pro is priced at $159 and does not require any additional subscription for basic transcription. The device can record up to 45 hours of audio continuously on a single charge and offers more than 100 days of standby time. The company also has an advanced plan for $15 per month or $119 per year that includes additional features like instant AI summaries and an action item list.
4. Plaud NotePin/Plaud NotePin S: These smaller versions of the Plaud Note devices are designed to be more pocketable and versatile. The NotePin and NotePin S have two microphones and can record around 20 hours of audio on a single charge. The NotePin S includes a physical button for easy recording and highlighting.
5. Omi pendant: A more affordable option at $89, the Omi pendant needs to be connected to your phone and does not have onboard memory. With two microphones, the device can run for 10 to 14 hours on a single charge and offers open-source hardware and software for user customization.
6. Viaim RecDot: Viaim’s earbuds allow for transcription during calls and have additional recording capabilities in the earbuds’ case. Priced at $200, the buds claim to transcribe audio in up to 78 languages in real-time and highlight key points in transcriptions.
7. Anker Soundcore Work: Anker’s coin-sized AI notetaker is priced at $159 and can record for eight hours without breaks, or up to 32 hours when attached to its case. The device has a five-meter recording range and offers 300 free transcription minutes per month.
These physical AI notetakers and transcription tools provide a convenient and efficient way to record and transcribe meetings, making them a valuable asset for professionals looking to stay organized and productive during meetings.

