German Dialects – A Comprehensive Guide

German dialects vary widely across Germany, Austria, Switzerland and beyond. In fact, according to linguistic experts, there are anywhere between 50 and 250 dialects in Germany alone.

Although they still don’t agree on precise numbers, that’s an incredible amount of diversity, but hardly surprising if we consider the cultural and geographical history of Germany and its neighboring countries.

Here at Voice Crafters, we know that if you’re planning to hire German-speaking voice-over artists for your projects, being aware of the diverse German dialects is an important factor to take seriously.

In fact, it can make all the difference in the outcome of your voice-over projects.

Likewise, this extends to reaching beyond the borders of Germany, should you require vocal recordings produced in Swiss German or Austrian German, as both have their own unique nuances and spoken variations.

To help you make informed choices when recruiting professional voice over talent, our guide is designed to expand your knowledge and understanding, so that you can hire with increased confidence and awareness of the German dialects.

How many dialect groups are there in Germany?

There are four main dialect groups in Germany. However, if we were to delve a little deeper into each individual region of Germany, as seen in the map below, we would also discover a huge variety of local accents and dialects.

So, let’s have a look at these four groups to explore where they are heard and what sets each of them apart.

What is the High German dialect?

Often known as ‘Standard German’ in linguistic circles, and the modern equivalent of Received Pronunciation in British English, the High German or ‘Hochdeutsch’ dialect is the universal standard for the written and spoken German language.

The reference to ‘High’ is based on the origins of the dialect in the southern highlands of Germany, therefore purely geographical, rather than any suggestion of superiority above other German dialects.

Historically, this form of the language emerged through the High German consonant shift, which is thought to have started from around the 6th century onwards, as dialect sounds and pronunciation evolved.

As the standard form of spoken German, ‘Hochdeutsch’ is the dialect you will mostly hear in the national media, plus business and education communications.

Experienced in voicing projects for a diverse and wide variety of clients, talented German voice artist Yvone R. understands that beyond the spoken word, the sound and tone of speech can make all the difference.

German voice actor Yvonne R.

I am lucky to have been born and raised in Northern Germany.

This means I automatically speak Standard German, which is usually spoken as a voice artist. Nevertheless, there are peculiarities depending on how much effort was invested in training in the language.

Right now, from my observation, there is a trend that is “whispered” among voice talents: Stand out from the mainstream as much as possible – sound different… smoky… casual… just not promotional.

In addition to my work as a voice artist, I am also a psychotherapist.

Because of this, I believe that when it comes to the spoken word, a significant part of the overall effect really depends on whether you can reach your listener.

Aside from the correct pronunciation of words, it’s about conveying an inner resonance within you, which you transmit to the listener.

From my point of view and my historical training in two professions, this is often more important than correctly spoken words in the formal sense.

Yvonne R. – German voice actor at Voice Crafters

What is Low German?

Dating back to medieval times, Low German can be regarded as the fusion of the Old Dutch and Northern German dialect groups.

Often known as ‘Niederdeutsch’ or ‘Plattdeutsch’ in the German language, both terms quite literally start with ‘Low’ (Nieder) and ‘Flat’ (Platt), denoting the origins of this dialect.

Again, the reference to ‘Low’ for this dialect northern lowlands or flatlands of Germany, so geographic, rather than suggesting this dialect is inferior to any of the others.

The ‘Plattdeutsch’ dialect also holds a profound historical importance, as this was the primary language of communication during the Hanseatic League era, along the northern German trade routes of the Middle Ages.

Where is the Middle German dialect found?

Nestled between the High German and Low German dialects, Middle German, or ‘Mitteldeutsch ’, is the dialect found in the central and western regions of Germany.

Geographically, the Middle German dialect can be heard in the geographic middle portion of Germany.

Middle German is commonly heard from the Rhineland regions to the west, Hesse and Thuringia in central Germany, through to parts of Saxony and the Elbe River region in the east.

Due to this geographic spread from west to east, Middle German dialects are also categorized as West Central German and East Central German, both featuring varied sounds of pronunciation and intonation.

Where is Upper German mostly spoken?

Upper German or ‘Oberdeutsch’ is mostly spoken in the southern half of Germany.

The ‘Upper’ terminology refers to the mountainous nature of the southern German regions, from Baden-Württemberg in the southwest to Bavaria in the southeast.

Even today, although Bavarian or ‘Bairisch’ is considered to be part of the Upper German dialect group by linguists, debates continue to rage about whether it should be considered an individual language in its own right.

Compared to Standard German, the Bavarian dialect features many differences in vocabulary, grammar, syntax, and pronunciation.

Is the Austrian Dialect similar to Standard German?

Although similar to Standard German, the Austrian dialect, or ‘Österreichisches Deutsch ’, does feature many differences in vocabulary and pronunciation, syntax, and grammar.

Dialects can also vary across Austria, with Bavarian being one of the stronger influences, although Slavic languages have also left their mark over time.

One of the most notable differences is that Austrian German can sound softer to the ear, featuring an almost melodic tone with rising and falling intonations.

Back in 1951, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture set out a written standard for Austrian German, making this the official language of the country, which is also reflected in day-to-day speech.

To provide more of a linguistic and cultural perspective, we asked experienced Austrian voiceover artist Pia N. to share her thoughts.

Austria: a linguistic tapestry as intricate and diverse as the patterns on a traditional Dirndl dress.

Here, “Austrian High German” (not too different from ‘Standard German’ in Germany when in written form) is the common thread, but it’s the dialects that add color and character.

Austrian voice talent Pia N.

They are as varied as the ski slopes, and just when you think you’ve got a handle on one, you tumble down into another. It’s like the Tower of Babel, only with better pastries and coffee, which Austria is known for 😁.

Our mountains aren’t just for postcard-perfect views; they’ve been busy sculpting dialects like nature’s own linguists.

Additionally, Austria has always been the crossroads of cultures, a place where languages mix and mingle like guests at a Viennese ball.

The result? A rich, cultural patois that’s as much a part of our heritage as Schnitzel and Sacher Cake.

When I first met my in-laws, it was less ‘meet and greet’ and more ‘guess and check.’ They hail from a mere 8 kilometers apart, yet their dialects are worlds apart – and both of them are different to mine.

In Austria, we slip into “Austrian High German” with the ease of a well-worn Loden coat.

It’s our go-to for formal affairs, phone calls, or when we need to emphasize a point – usually when the kids are testing the limits of our patience.

However, the influence of German TV shows is undeniable, introducing a subtle blend of German expressions into the Austrian vernacular.

To enhance my marketability as a professional voice talent, I diligently honed my skills in Standard German as spoken in Germany, a journey made possible by the dedicated guidance of expert coaches. Being able to cater to two markets is a big plus.

In the end, Austria might be seen as Germany’s little brother in the language family.

We’re the laid-back siblings with a softer edge and a relaxed charm. Our language is a mirror to our soul: easy-going, with a hint of playfulness and a fondness for lighthearted humor.

And just for the record, it’s Austria, not the land of kangaroos and koalas!

Pia R. – Austrian German Talent at Voice Crafters

What have been the main influences on the Swiss Dialect?

The Swiss dialect, or ‘Schweizerdeutsch,’ has been mainly influenced by French and Italian, which are also considered official languages of the Alpine country.

It therefore features the most diversity compared to Standard German.

So, the best way to describe the ‘Schweizerdeutsch’ language is as a collection of Alemannic dialects, native to the German-speaking parts of the country, featuring many differences in vocabulary and pronunciation.

Standard German is always used in writing, education, and formal speech in Switzerland, but the Swiss German dialect is typically spoken in normal, day-to-day communication and conversation.

What really makes the Swiss German dialect noticeably different is the unique sounds, with the rolled ‘R’ in pronunciation and the elongated vowels, among other audible variations compared to the German or Austrian dialects.

But for voiced recordings, there are also some specific nuances to consider, which Swiss German voice expert Roman H. is keen to explain in greater detail.

There are many Swiss German dialects, and like in all languages, every dialect represents certain stereotypes – true or not – but they induce, of course, certain feelings and associations.

For example, the dialect spoken in the region of Bern represents a rather slow and relaxed person, but with a very positive, cozy touch. Whereas dialects from the mountainous regions can sound very uncommon and difficult to understand to many Swiss German-speaking people from the flat country.

When it comes to localizations of voice over jobs for the Swiss market, there is often one huge misunderstanding: many clients think, “Well, we need our script spoken in Swiss German” – but in most cases, it should be read in Standard German with a subtle Swiss inflection.

Why is this so?

Roman H – Swiss voice actor

Swiss German is mostly only a spoken language in everyday life. So, an adaptation of a trustworthy corporate video in Swiss German would sound rather inappropriate.

Therefore, Standard German spoken by a native Swiss voice actor would be the solution. (Yes, it can have a detrimental effect if it were spoken by a German speaker!)

If it’s about short and emotional messages like in commercials, a Swiss-German version can be considered and is often used.

Then it’s the question of which dialect you need. Very often the “Bahnhofsbuffet Olten Dialekt” (“train station restaurant of Olten dialect”) is requested.

Olten is a small city halfway between Zürich and Bern with an important railway junction.

This dialect is known to be not really allocable and therefore well accepted by many regions in Switzerland.

On the other hand, if you have a product which is very connected to a certain region, you may want to pick a native voice over artist from there.

Roman H. – Swiss German Talent at Voice Crafters

Are there any overseas German Dialects?

There are several overseas German dialects found as far and wide as South America and Canada.

 One little-known fact in particular may blow your mind: According to the most recent statistical estimates published in 2022, there are upwards of 5 million ‘native’ German speakers in Brazil (!)

Most speak the Hunsrik dialect known as ‘Riograndenser Hunsrückisch’ in southern Brazilian states, which is also influenced by Portuguese and the local Indigenous languages.

In the United States, almost one million people speak German, as do roughly 650,000 in Canada, reflecting mass migration to both countries from Europe through different historical periods.

Likewise, the dialect variations can be just as broad and varied as back in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

How can you choose the right German voice actors?

Choosing the right German voice actors for your project involves ensuring that you select one with the right German accent or dialect. This depends on the specific nature of your project, especially if you need to localize for a specific target audience or characterization for a voice acting role.

Here at Voice Crafters, you can refine your search quickly and easily, simply by using the search feature at the top of this page.

If you type “German” in the search, this feature will immediately provide you with options for German-speaking voice over artists, including those who specialize in the Austrian and Swiss dialects.

The search results for each will present you with a selection of professional voiceover artists.

From there, you can review their profiles and experience, listen to samples, and invite them to audition and quote for your project; all with the utmost convenience.

Of course, getting just the right German accent or dialect will depend on the specific nature of your project, especially if you need to localize for a specific target audience or characterization for a voice acting role.

But we’re always here to help if you need further advice or assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions