Voice Recognition Software: Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9?

Question

I'm interested in getting the $100 "Standard" version (nuance.com/naturallyspeaking) because I type so much and I'm trying to take care of my hands (it's just for home, not work). Can you still use keyboard and mouse for private emails and the like? Stuff you don't want people to hear? And how well does it surf the net, etc. Basically, is it worth the money?

I can type about 55 words a minute, with 91% accuracy (when I have to read what I'm copying - dictations are faster). But I'm not really looking for speed... I just use the computer so much, and I talk to my friends and family in emails, and now I've got tendonitis... But it's not that bad, so I don't know if I want to get it. Just kinda depends on how well it works.

I'd really like to hear any experience(s) people have had with Dragon NaturallySpeaking.

Answer 1

When you want it to start typing what you say just say "wake up" and say what you want to type. When you want to write e-mails say "sleep" and it goes to sleep so you can type whatever. You can still type when it is turned on because it makes mistakes. I dont think it was worth it though I can type faster and with better grammar than speaking but thats just me

Answer 2

I own version 8 and I like it a lot.
It is worth the money to me because I have nerve damage in my hands and I am able to type much faster with than without.
It is said that a person speaks at 160wpm and a fast typist can hit approx. 80-90wpm.
Yes, you can still use your keyboard and mouse w/out activating Dragon.
With Dragon, the more you use it, the better it becomes at recognizing your voice and working w/out mistakes.
I purchased my version through "KnowBrainer" which is an enhanced version of Dragon. It costs more, but is worth the extra money.
http://www.knowbrainer.com/
Here is the web site.

Answer 3

No, that only makes it easier for the dog to log on and play with my computer. She's good at mimicking my voice but her typing is TERRIBLE.