PLAUD NotePin voice recorder review for 2025

We’re getting more and more AI-powered wearables by the day, but most of them sadly turn out to be flops. So, when I was introduced to the PLAUD NotePin voice recorder, I didn’t think much of it initially. It’s a tiny wearable device with built-in AI models (ChatGPT 4.0 or Claude 3.5) mainly intended for voice recording.

I thought it was just another fancy AI gadget with nothing to show except for the same old features my iPhone offers. But this time, I kept seeing praise everywhere I turned, so I finally decided to dig deeper.

As it turns out, the NotePin promises a lot for business meetings (even for multiple users), students, or everyday chores like creating grocery shopping lists. It serves various functions, from recording to transcriptions and translation, as well as a few others that I’ll break down.

PLAUD NotePin overview

Here's a short overview of PLAUD NotePin's key features and functionalities:

Rating	4.9 out of 5.0
Storage	64 GB
Battery life	Up to 20 hours of active recording, 40-hour standby period
Free transcriptions	Available with the free plan
Key features	Includes an optional accessory kit with three different wearable setups, the choice between ChatGPT 4.0 or Claude 3.5 AI connectivity, optimized for the Find My app, unlimited data storage
Pricing plans	Free plan (up to 300 monthly transcription minutes), Pro plan (up to 1200 monthly transcription minutes, $6.6/month), and Unlimited plan (unlimited minutes, $19.99/month)

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PLAUD NotePin pros and cons

After all the failures among AI wearables, I really wanted NotePin PLAUD to be different, and it truly performed in multiple aspects. Still, it has its fair share of flaws, and I’ll let you decide which weighs more by giving you an unbiased overview of benefits and drawbacks from my perspective and the user reviews I’ve stumbled upon.

What is PLAUD NotePin voice recorder, and how does it work?

PLAUD’s NotePin is a useful AI tool if you wish to switch from manual transcriptions or recordings to something much more convenient. It fits perfectly in the palm of your hand, and I applaud the brand for recognizing the needs of different user profiles by including some useful accessories.

Firstly, they have enabled users to pick their preferred way of wearing this gadget. You can wear it like a watch with the wristband included in the accessory box, pin it on your shirt, or use the lanyard to wear it around your neck.

Either way, you’ll have it ready for action whenever you need it. As an AI voice recorder, NotePin helps you record meetings, casual chats, or reminders. It immediately transcribes the drafts and uses app integration to allow you to search for target words or sentences.

Of course, that’s where the AI integration comes in handy, allowing you to choose between two models. You can opt for ChatGPT 4.0 or Claude 3.5, and from what I’ve seen on the site, it’s not a permanent choice. So, you can expect it to be compatible with new and improved AI models further down the line.

Now, this is where I reach an important question – is NotePin more useful than a phone recorder coupled with a transcription app? The answer is yes – it’s simply way more convenient to have it ready on all occasions and start recording in any situation with a single button press.

PLAUD NotePin features and specifications

To illustrate the practicality and convenience of the PLAUD NotePin voice recorder, I’ll go through some of its main features. Some are related to the specs, while others bump up its practicality and application potential, so here’s a detailed overview:

Wearable design

The lightweight and practical design makes NotePin a go-to tool for everyday use, especially given its wearable aspect. As mentioned, the brand lets you choose how you want to wear it, depending on what suits you best. If you already have a watch or don’t want to wear it around your wrist, you can simply clip it or use the lanyard accessory.

I also liked its simple yet convenient design. It’s the size of a car key (or better yet a lipstick tube due to the design similarity) and easily fits into your hand. I wouldn’t recommend carrying it around in your pocket, though. Its weight of just 25g also makes it a stealth tool that you won’t even notice wearing until you need to use it.

Easy recording

Although the tool has a few functionalities, you won’t need to carry the PLAUD NotePin manual around. It’s effortless to activate – just tap the button at the center, and you’ll notice a red light flick on, followed by a slight vibration.

You can just repeat the same steps to shut it down.

AI transcription

Another helpful feature of this tool is its AI compatibility. I’ve mentioned it multiple times, and I’ll say it again – the choice of two AI models is truly a refreshment. I’m used to wearables with specific AI models integrated, and this one thankfully doesn’t follow the same path.

AI integration helps you transcribe recordings in 59 languages, making it perfect for global use. Still, I have to point out the limited translation features as it still doesn’t offer you the option to convert the text from one language to another. You can only do that the old-fashioned way.

Long battery life

I was thoroughly amazed by the battery life of the PLAUD NotePin as it successfully tackles prolonged use. The user reviews confirm the brand’s statement that it lasts up to 20 hours on a single charge while continuously using the recording feature.

Naturally, it lasts even longer in standby mode, with battery life extended to 40 hours. So, you can use it even while traveling and without needing to charge it daily.

Secure cloud storage

Last but not least, I have to point out the unlimited cloud storage of this tool. It’s invaluable when you want to access old recordings that you perhaps missed before.

Thankfully, you can get unlimited storage with all plans, including the free option. So, you don’t need to break the bank and upgrade to save all your transcriptions.

How to use the PLAUD NotePin?

Before you get your hands on the Plaud AI NotePin, let me explain how to use it. It’s rather simple, and you just need to know a few key things to get the most out of it.

1. Download the PLAUD app

The first thing you should do as soon as you get the PLAUD NotePin AI recorder is download the app. It’s available on your device’s native app store, so you can go ahead and visit the Android Google Play Store or the App Store on iOS.

As soon as you set it up, you’ll get access to your NotePin’s storage, where you can manage recordings and turn them into transcriptions. There are a few other useful tools, such as generating an AI-powered summary of the transcriptions with headings and key points. Or you can create visual mind maps and combine them with custom templates if you’re on one of the paid plans.

2. Create or log in to your PLAUD account

To use the customizable features and get the most out of your app and subscription, you should create a PLAUD account. You just need to visit the site and hit the Continue with Google or Continue with Apple button, depending on your device.

From there, enter your email and set up a password for the new account. You’ll then receive a 6-digit code from PLAUD, so just type it in for verification. If you’ve had the PLAUD Note account (NotePin’s predecessor), you can also sign up with that same account and use your NotePin.

3. Charge the NotePin

If you’re wondering how to charge the PLAUD NotePin, you just need to use the charging dock included in the package. You’ll see a magnetic pin on the backside of your device. Detach it and connect it to the charging dock. You’ll then need to use a type-C cable to charge it.

If you see a purple light glowing, your device is charging. If the light glows green, it means it’s fully charged.

4. Bind the device to the app

Now that you know how to set up your NotePin, it’s time to explain how it works with the app. If you’ve followed previous instructions for downloading the app and signing up with a PLAUD account, you can build upon that and simply open the app as the first step. From there, navigate to the Connect option in the upper-right corner and tap on it.

You can then use the Select PLAUD device option. Click on Connect Now and proceed by checking the connection status within the app. Keeping the device close to your phone is best. Alternatively, you can use Bluetooth to bind the device:

• Open the app again and hit the Connect button.
• Hold the recording button for 1 second until the white light flashes.
• Select PLAUD NotePin in the app to connect.

5. Customize settings

Now that you’re all set, all that’s left is for me to show you how to set up NotePin and make it yours. You can customize a number of functions, and I’d start by adjusting the Microphone Gain.

It’s an option that lets you get from 0 to 30 dB of recording volume by scrolling to the My PLAUD device section of the app and enabling the Microphone Gain option. You’ll find it within the Advanced recording settings tab.

You can also manage your files by creating AI summaries of your recordings. Or, you can create custom mind maps and further customize them by creating notes or summary key points.

6. Start recording

Now, you’ll be ready to start recording. Simply press the button at the center of the device to start and press it again to stop once you're done. What I liked about this tool the most was its convenience in recording. If you ever need to take notes quickly, just tap to record and tap again to stop. Here’s how it works in steps:

• Hold the button for at least 1 second.
• Stop when you feel the vibration and the red light turns on.
• To wrap up your recording, hold the button for 1 second again until the red light switches off. You’ll also feel two vibrations when stopping.

There’s no need to bother taking out your phone, searching for the app, and all the stuff that comes with it.

PLAUD NotePin user experience and reviews

I was skeptical about this device, mainly due to some shortcomings of the PLAUD Note that came before it. However, this one is a clear winner of the PLAUD Note vs PLAUD NotePin contest, and I’ve found nothing but positive user reviews to support that claim.

I was delighted by the simple setup process that lets you use the tool within minutes. Its battery life is also a massive upgrade compared to other similar tools. Its recording capacity is lower than the 30-hour recording time of the Note, but then again, this one is more portable.

You won’t even notice carrying it around, and the wristband addition is an excellent choice for everyday use. However, you can also just clip it to your shirt or suit during meetings or wear it as a lanyard. Either way, its lightweight design will make you forget you have it on you until the time comes to use it.

Naturally, not everything is perfect, and that’s where I have to point out its pricey subscription plans. If you’re a regular user, you won’t do much with the 300 minutes included in the free plan, so you’ll need to upgrade. Plus, it doesn’t offer direct translation and lacks the feature of adding notes to existing transcripts.

Other than that, it’s a great tool, especially for classrooms and business meetings. But I also see the potential in casual use for podcasts and running daily chores. If you're looking for the best AI voice recorder, this one definitely ranks high among the options.

Our methodology

Before I wrap up, I should point out that my ratings are based purely on PLAUD NotePin reviews by other users. I didn’t test it physically, but I’ve compiled hours of material, including video tests and ratings on trustworthy platforms like Trustpilot and forum threads on Reddit.

I also compared my findings with professional reviews and impressions conducted by other industry experts. With all that in mind, I am confident in giving you an objective overview.

When facing similar AI wearables, I usually get a sense of the tool’s value from user reviews. Surprisingly, I didn’t find many negative ratings like with most AI-powered tools. So, that gives me high hopes that this one is different and brings excellent value paired with PLAUD NotePin Amazon deals and discount codes.

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Our final verdict on PLAUD NotePin

Ultimately, I hope this guide has helped you understand what is PLAUD NotePin and what you can use it for. If you’re still wondering about its value, perhaps a short overview will freshen up your memory. The important thing is that it is an excellent tool for various purposes and types of users.

If you’re a student working on group projects or simply searching for a more convenient way of documenting your classes, it checks all those boxes. On the other hand, it’s also perfect for business meetings and can even be worn inside your suit unnoticed due to its design.

Even casuals can use it to remember daily chores and add items to shopping lists, so it’s a complete package. The only downside is a rather steep price tag and the need for a paid plan for more recording minutes.

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