Hotkey
Default hotkey per platform
Cmd + Option on macOS, Win + Alt on Windows and Linux. Two-key combos chosen to never clash with system shortcuts.
The defaults
Cmd+OptionmacOS
Win+AltWindows and Linux
Both combos use two modifier keys with no letter or number. That avoids every common system shortcut and most app shortcuts. Holding both starts recording, releasing both stops it.
Why two modifiers
Single-modifier hotkeys (just Cmd, just Alt) would fire every time you do anything else. Combos with letters (Cmd + Shift + V) clash with paste and similar apps. Two pure modifier keys give a reliable, never-confused trigger.
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In this category
Hotkey
Change your hotkey
Settings → Shortcut. Press the new combo. Dimmy validates it against system shortcuts and saves.
Hotkey
Toggle vs hold-to-record
Hold-to-record: hold the hotkey while talking. Toggle: press once to start, again to stop. Both work, pick what feels right.
Hotkey
Dictionary and Command Mode shortcuts
Two optional shortcuts beside the dictation hotkey: add selected text to your dictionary (Ctrl + Shift + D) and run a one-shot AI command.
Hotkey
Switch style or tone with the scroll wheel
Scroll on the pill to cycle AI styles. Ctrl + scroll to cycle tones. No need to open Settings.
Last updated: 2026-05-22