Quick picks

PickBest forKey feature
Infinity USB Foot Pedal (IN-USB-3)Best for pro transcriptionThree pedals, anti-slip backing, 2.3 lb
iKKEGOL Upgraded USB Triple Foot Pedal Optical Switch 10725CBest programmableProgrammable keys, listed for Windows, Mac, Linux and Android after setup
Philips ACC2320 Foot ControlBest for Philips dictationSpeechExec support, magnetic switches

Top recommendations

Best for: Best for pro transcription

Infinity USB Foot Pedal (IN-USB-3)

AltoEdge, an official seller, lists three pedals usually set to rewind, play/stop and fast-forward, anti-slip backing and a 2.3 lb weight. Its page says it will not work with the free version of Express Scribe, and lists Windows and Mac OS X 10.4 to 10.11 support only, so check your OS first.

  • Three-pedal layout
  • Anti-slip backing
  • Check your software and OS version
  • Not for free Express Scribe
  • Mac support listed only through OS X 10.11
Check price on Amazon

Best for: Best programmable

iKKEGOL Upgraded USB Triple Foot Pedal Optical Switch 10725C

iKKEGOL lists optical switches described as quiet, a patterned non-slip pedal and weight of 14.8 oz. You set it up in its Windows software, after which iKKEGOL lists it as working on Mac, Linux, Android and other systems. The software has a virtual keyboard for assigning keys; confirm your needed shortcut is supported.

  • Assign supported keys
  • Quiet optical switches
  • Works across systems after setup
  • Setup needs a Windows PC
  • Light enough to slide on some floors
Check price on Amazon

Best for: Best for Philips dictation

Philips ACC2320 Foot Control

Philips lists three pedals, magnetic contact switches built to last, an anti-slip pad and USB for digital systems. Pedal functions are configured in Philips SpeechControl or SpeechExec (Windows only), and it needs SpeechExec Transcribe 5.0 or higher. Check compatibility with other software first.

  • Durable magnetic switches
  • Anti-slip pad
  • Configurable in Philips software
  • Configuration is Windows only
  • Best suited to Philips software
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How to choose

  • Software fit: confirm the exact program and version you use supports the pedal, and test on your operating system version.
  • OS support: check Windows, Mac and Linux notes. Some setup tools are Windows-only.
  • Programmable or fixed: transcription pedals depend on supported programs; shortcut pedals need their own software and only cover the keys it offers.
  • Weight and grip: heavier pedals stay put; light ones may need a mat.
  • Cable and desk tidiness: see /blog/best-desk-cable-management-kits.

Put a small non-slip mat under a lightweight pedal so it does not creep away mid-session.

More buying guides

FAQ

What is a transcription foot pedal?

A USB pedal that controls play, rewind and fast-forward so you can type with both hands.

Can I program a foot pedal for any shortcut?

Programmable models like the iKKEGOL assign keys through their own software, within the options it offers. Fixed transcription pedals depend on the program.

Do foot pedals work on Mac?

Some do. The Infinity page lists Mac OS X 10.4 to 10.11 only, and iKKEGOL works on Mac after Windows setup.

Do I need Express Scribe?

Not for programmable pedals. The Infinity page says it does not work with the free version.