Speaking Notepad 5.2

When working with a lot of text and time is something you can not afford to lose, simple tools like the Windows Notepad are the ideal editors. While using them, your text will not be modified automatically, according to an auto-correct function. You can type without being hindered and make any modifications yourself. Speaking Notepad works on the same principle, but it also offers a text to speech feature which can be very useful.

The package is about 4.60 Mb large and the installation process is fast. There is no need to make any calibrations or install additional tools. All settings will be done automatically while the program is installing. It is compatible with any Windows operating system, from Win 98 to Win 7.

The software is more complex than the standard Notepad, but not by much. A series of options are available on a toolbar and you can use them to change the font type, size, color and more. You can also find options for searching, bookmarking and more.

Speech related features can be activated with the larger button on the toolbar. You can have the program read the entire text "out loud" or just a selection, or read the clipboard. The Microsoft Anna narrator or other may be selected from a drop menu on the toolbar and you can adjust its speed and pitch with two sliders in the same area.

It is also possible to enable the program to read as you type, but you should set a higher speech speed because the narrator may not be able to keep up with your typing speed. The text you type or insert can be converted to an audio file. Like other functions, this one can also be accessed by clicking a toolbar button. A new window will appear, where you can select the output format (MP3, WMA or WAV), the save path and what text to record. The program can convert the entire text, a selection or the contents of the clipboard.

Pros:
Just like the Windows Notepad, Speaking Notepad will let you type your text without any interruptions. It uses SAPI4 and SAPI5 compatible narrators which will help for better quality results.

Cons:
It can get a bit difficult if you let the program speak while you type. It might not keep up with your typing speed and the program may lag.

Any text document can be converted to an audio file with Speaking Notepad. Due to its comfortable use, you can use it as your default text editor.

Speaking Notepad has been reviewed by Frederick Barton on 04 Apr 2012. Based on the user interface, features and complexity, Findmysoft has rated Speaking Notepad 5 out of 5 stars, naming it Essential