Comparing PlayAI Dialog Text-to-Speech versus ElevenLabs

The Text-to-Speech (TTS) landscape is heating up with PlayAI's recent announcement of Dialog 1.0, their latest entry into the AI voice generation market. While their claims of breakthrough performance have garnered attention, a closer look reveals why ElevenLabs continues to lead the industry in what matters most: real-world performance, versatility, and enterprise-ready features.

This article takes a closer look at how PlayAI Dialog's newest Text-to-Speech model compares versus ElevenLabs.

What is PlayAI Dialog 1.0?

PlayAI's Dialog 1.0 is the company's latest entry in the Text-to-Speech technology. Released in February 2025, it promises to deliver more natural, expressive speech synthesis across multiple languages. The model launches with eight fully supported languages, including Chinese, French, German, and Hindi. Another 23 languages are available in experimental mode.

The model aims to address the growing demand for low-latency voice AI applications, reporting a Time-to-First-Audio (TTFA) of 303ms. However, ElevenLabs TTFA in the U.S. is as low as 150ms. Specifically, our latest model, Flash generates speech in 75ms + application & network latency.  Flash v2 is English only and Flash v2.5 supports 32 languages. They both cost 1 credit for every 2 characters

PlayAI Dialog 1.0 versus ElevenLabs Text-to-Speech

Real-world applications demand reliability, versatility, and proven performance. Let's examine how Dialog 1.0 stacks up against ElevenLabs' comprehensive TTS solution across key factors that matter to developers and content creators.

Voice library and customization

PlayAI enters the market with a basic voice selection that covers standard use cases. However, ElevenLabs delivers an industry-leading library of over 5,000 voices, offering unprecedented variety in accents, ages, and speaking styles.

Creators need as many tools (in this case, voices) at their disposal. Whether you're producing audiobooks that require multiple character voices, creating region-specific content, or developing accessibility solutions, ElevenLabs' vast voice library provides the flexibility and range that professional projects demand.

Language support and quality

Both platforms aim to serve a global audience. However, their approaches differ significantly. PlayAI Dialog 1.0 advertises support for 30+ languages, but the fine print reveals that 23 of these are still in experimental status. In contrast, ElevenLabs offers full support for 70+ languages, each thoroughly trained to maintain natural prosody and authentic pronunciation.

Creators need reliable, production-ready quality across every supported language. PlayAI is still fine-tuning their experimental languages. ElevenLabs, on the other hand, delivers consistent, professional-grade output regardless of the language chosen.

Industry adoption and track record

While PlayAI highlights successful implementations in radio automation and AI DJs, ElevenLabs has established itself across a broader spectrum of professional applications. From major film studios to gaming companies and global publishers, ElevenLabs' technology has been battle-tested in demanding professional environments.

It has proven reliability in high-stakes situations. where quality and consistency are non-negotiable. The platform's track record in professional content creation and enterprise applications demonstrates its capability to meet the exacting standards of industry leaders.

Performance beyond benchmarks

PlayAI's announcement emphasizes their 3:1 preference ratio in human testing, a noteworthy but narrow metric. These tests, conducted with specific parameters and limited samples, don't tell the complete story.

ElevenLabs has built its reputation on consistent, high-quality performance across diverse real-world applications. While controlled tests serve a purpose, they often fail to capture the complexity of actual use cases—from multi-speaker audiobooks to dynamic game dialogue, or accessibility tools that need to handle varied content.

ElevenLabs' proven track record in these real-world scenarios offers a more meaningful measure of performance than laboratory benchmarks.

Real-time processing and latency

Both platforms recognize the importance of speed in modern applications, but with different approaches. PlayAI Dialog reports a Time-to-First-Audio (TTFA) of 303ms, a solid technical specification that suggests promise for real-time applications.

However, ElevenLabs has already established itself in the field. Its technology actively powers numerous real-time applications. Beyond raw speed metrics, ElevenLabs' platform demonstrates consistent performance under real-world conditions: handling variable network conditions, maintaining quality during peak loads, and delivering reliable performance for interactive applications like gaming and virtual assistants.

This real-world validation, backed by actual implementation in latency-sensitive applications, provides a more complete picture of capability than basic TTFA measurements alone.

How to use ElevenLabs' Text-to-Speech AI

Ready to explore professional-grade Text-to-Speech technology? Here's your quick guide to creating lifelike AI voices with ElevenLabs.

• Create your account: Begin with either a free trial or select a premium plan that fits your needs
• Browse voice options: Explore thousands of pre-made AI voices, or design a unique voice that matches your vision
• Add your content: Simply copy and paste your script, or type directly into the interface
• Fine-tune performance: Control every aspect of the voice output - from emotional tone to speaking pace and clarity
• Preview and generate: Create your audio with just one click, producing broadcast-ready sound
• Export and share: Download your audio in multiple formats, ready for immediate use in your media projects

Ready to get started? Try Eleven v3, our most expressive text-to-speech model yet.

Final thoughts

While PlayAI's Dialog 1.0 makes some impressive claims about performance metrics, the reality of Text-to-Speech technology extends far beyond benchmark numbers. With over 5,000 voices, full support for 70+ languages, and robust security features, ElevenLabs offers a more comprehensive and production-ready solution for professional users.

What truly sets ElevenLabs apart is its proven track record across diverse real-world applications—from film studios to gaming companies and global enterprises. This practical validation, combined with advanced customization options and consistent performance, makes it the clear choice for serious content creators and businesses.

Ready to experience the difference? Sign up for ElevenLabs today and discover why it's the preferred choice for professional voice AI.

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