Scribd is a widely used audiobook service. Like Kindle Unlimited, it gives you access to New York Times bestsellers and many other titles.
This subscription service launched in 2007, but is the platform still worth it today? Let’s find out by exploring the key features of the popular book platform.
Scribd service and pricing reviewed
If you’re an avid reader looking for a platform with some of the best books available, Scribd might be one of your options. Here’s an in-depth overview of what Scribd membership provides.
Essential functions and features
There are several standout features of Scribd. It takes a unique approach to your monthly subscription, which is why many people call it Netflix for books.
When it comes to compatibility, the developers of Scribd.com have done a good job of making the platform available on most devices. You can use it on your iPad, iPhone, and many other gadgets.
Once you register with the service, you can immediately browse your favorite audiobooks, sheet music, and magazines. Press the Save button whenever you find an interesting title, and the app will add it to your library.
Another reason Scribd is popular is that it supports different types of uploads. Although it doesn’t have the same publishing capabilities as Kobo or Amazon, you can upload several documents and share them with your audience.
For example, you might have written a comprehensive book report on a popular title or a list of recommended readings. Either way, you shouldn’t have trouble adding it to your account.
Just keep in mind that the Scribd app limits the files you can upload. More specifically, your files can’t be larger than 100MB. It’s also worth noting that your uploads enlarge when uploaded to Scribd, which is why you should stick to files no larger than 75-80MB.
As for the supported formats, you can upload PDF and EPUB files to your library. The app doesn’t allow MOBI files.
The sleep timer is also a convenient feature. This function lets you set a timer to tell your device to stop reading the book. As a result, you don’t need to worry about falling asleep while listening to your title and waking up to find it has reached the end.
Lastly, subscribing to Scribd unlocks a few other services. Blinkist is one of them.
Blinkist is a great option for extracting valuable content from a title without reading all of it. Whether you come across a compelling non-fiction book or memoir, it offers key insights in the form of a short text or audio.
Farfaria, Pocket, AUDM, and MUBI also come with a Scribd subscription.
What can you find in Scribd’s library?
Whether you use Scribd on iOS or Android smartphones, you unlock access to a well-designed digital library. It features books from many genres:
Besides audiobooks, there are many e-books too. All of which amounts to a vast collection you can access online from different gadgets.
There’s another way to enjoy your favorite titles when you sign up for Scribd for a monthly fee. You’ll then have the option to download the books for offline listening. This feature comes in handy if you live in an area with a poor internet connection, which can hinder your streaming listening.
By downloading the titles from the digital library, you ensure you don’t gloss over key sections due to internet problems. The app lets you save content on up to four devices at a time.
How much does Scribd cost?
Scribd wants to attract as many subscribers as possible with their free trial. It’s a 30-day period that lets you test the basic features of the platforms, terms, conditions, and additional services. Keep in mind that you can’t start a free trial without providing credit card information.
Once your free trial ends, you’ll need to pay a price to listen to new releases and other audiobooks. The subscription fee currently stands at $8.99 per month.
Scribd also offers student discounts. If you’re a university student, you might be eligible for a more affordable $4.99 monthly plan. Subscribing to this plan also gives you access to New York Times Digital edition.
Like most other audiobook providers, Scribd has recurring subscriptions. That said, you can opt out of your plan whenever you want.
Bottom line: Is Scribd worth the price?
In general, Scribd is a well-designed audiobook platform. It has an immense library, which included sheet music, you can check out on practically any device and several additional services to elevate your experience. It’s also relatively affordable.
However, you should also understand the downsides of this software before you subscribe.
Namely, the unlimited books feature doesn’t always work as promised. This is because Scribd utilizes throttling during the checkout process. In other words, you might not be able to grab high-demand books if there are too few available.
Another potential issue is that you may have a hard time highlighting your content. iPhone users especially struggle to highlight books, which can be a problem for students in particular.
Lastly, although you can unsubscribe whenever you want, the process can be buggy. Users sometimes don’t receive confirmation emails, resulting in extra billing.
Try Speechify – A superior way to get audiobooks
If you need a top-shelf alternative to Scribd, Speechify Audiobooks is your best choice. This audiobook platform is home to more than 100,000 titles, including fascinating entries like Fairy Tale, The Winners, Atonement, Extreme Ownership, Ugly Love, and Grace.
Setting up your account is a breeze. You can use your Google credentials to get started in no time and begin your free trial. Once you enter the library, use the convenient search option to browse the collection with ease.
There’s no going wrong with Speechify Audiobooks. Each title has extraordinary podcast-like narration to boost your listening experience. Try the platform today!
FAQ
How is Scribd so cheap?
Scribd has a cheap subscription plan that is competitively priced compared to Audible and other audiobook giants.
Is it easy to cancel Scribd?
You may have some cancelation problems with your Scribd audiobook subscription, such as not receiving your confirmation email.
Can I keep the downloaded books from Scribd after the end of the subscription?
No. You’ll no longer have access to your downloaded books.
Which is better Scribd or Audible?
Audible works better for most people due to a larger library and the fact that it lets you keep your books forever.
What is the downside of Scribd?
Scribd often practices throttling, which can restrict the unlimited access feature.
Can I download Scribd books onto my Kindle?
No. Scribd is incompatible with Kindle and other e-readers.
