What's an alternative to Otter or Fireflies that records without a bot?
Short answer
Choose a notetaker that can record from your own computer. Acta's desktop app for Windows and Mac and its Chrome extension record Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams without a bot joining the call, and Acta still writes the transcript with speaker names, summary, decisions and action items. When you can't attend, its notetaker can join from your calendar instead.
How to do it with Acta
- 1
Install the desktop app or Chrome extension
The desktop app records the Zoom and Teams apps; the extension records meetings in Chrome.
- 2
Join your meeting
Nobody new appears in the participant list.
- 3
Get the notes
Transcript, summary, decisions, action items and a follow-up email draft after the call.
- 4
Compare in detail
See the side-by-side comparisons with Otter and Fireflies, with sources.
What you get
- Bot-free and notetaker recording in one product
- 40 report templates for sales, hiring, product and more
- Decision log and risk register across meetings
- Works with ChatGPT and Claude through an MCP connector
Good to know
Can I move from another notetaker easily?
Yes. Sign up, connect your calendar or install the desktop app, and Acta records your next meeting. MP3 or M4A recordings you already have can be uploaded too.
Is Acta free to try?
Yes. Acta is free for 15 days, with unlimited recordings and transcriptions.