The 8 best alternatives to Audible for audiobook lovers

We've put together a helpful list of eight alternatives to Audible. Download or use these platforms to gain access to your favorite audiobooks.

Audible books are among some of the most popular because they are easy to download and can be accessed for listening virtually anywhere. However, these can get pricey, which is why you might be looking for Audible alternatives. Fortunately, there are many services on the market today that are quick and easy to download.

We've put together a helpful list of eight alternatives to Audible that you can download or use to gain access to your favorite audiobooks. Some have free trials, and others give you customization options making it easier to read eStories, short stories, or new books at the push of a button.

Consider adding these resources to your bookmarks for easy access the next time you need a great listen. But first, let’s talk about the rise of Audible and why you may find yourself needing some alternatives.

The rise of Audible

When it comes to audiobook platforms, Audible has become a household name. Established in 1995, Audible has steadily grown into the largest producer and provider of audiobooks globally. Its vast library boasts over 500,000 titles, covering a wide range of genres and topics.

But as with any dominant player, the rise of Audible has paved the way for various Audible competitors to emerge, offering unique features and benefits.

The success of Audible can be attributed to its continuous innovation and dedication to providing a high-quality listening experience. Over the years, Audible has invested in cutting-edge technology and partnered with renowned publishers and authors to offer an extensive collection of audiobooks.

However, with the influx of new Audible books and the platform's popularity, there's been a surge in apps like Audible, aiming to cater to different listener preferences.

Furthermore, Audible's commitment to user satisfaction has played a significant role in its rise to dominance. The platform allows users to seamlessly navigate its vast catalog, making it easy to discover new titles and explore different genres. With just a few clicks, listeners can find their next favorite audiobook.

The need for alternatives to Audible

Audible has revolutionized the way people consume literature. However, there are certain drawbacks to using Audible that have led to a growing demand for alternatives. In this section, we will explore some of the reasons why listeners are seeking other options, including platforms like Libby audio books and other cheap audiobook apps.

High subscription costs

One of the main concerns for many Audible users is the high cost of subscription plans. While Audible offers flexible pricing options, some listeners may find the costs to be prohibitive.

Depending on the plan and country, Audible memberships can range from $14.95 to $22.95 per month. For avid listeners who go through multiple audiobooks each month, these costs can quickly add up and become a burden on their budget.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to Audible that offer more affordable subscription plans. These platforms, including cheap audiobook apps, understand the importance of making audiobooks accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

By providing lower subscription costs, they allow listeners to enjoy their favorite books without breaking the bank.

Limited selection of titles

Another drawback of Audible is the limited selection of titles available. While Audible boasts an extensive library, certain titles — particularly those from independent authors or niche categories — may be unavailable.

This limitation can be frustrating for listeners who prefer a diverse selection and don't want to miss out on hidden gems.

Fortunately, alternative audiobook platforms, including Libby audio books and others, have recognized this issue and have taken steps to address it. These platforms prioritize offering a wide range of titles, including those from independent authors and niche categories.

By doing so, they ensure that listeners have access to a diverse selection of audiobooks, allowing them to explore new genres and discover unique stories.

Moreover, these alternative platforms often collaborate with independent authors and publishers, giving them a platform to showcase their work. This not only benefits the authors but also provides listeners with a chance to discover talented writers who may not have gained mainstream recognition.

Top alternatives to Audible

1. Speechify

Whether you have an email file, PDF, or digital document of another kind, Speechify makes it easy to read the content at a speed that is right for you and in a voice that appeals to you. You can try Speechify for free to see if it's the right fit for you.

2. Libro.fm

Libro.fm is one of the best Audible alternatives because it allows you to download audiobooks while supporting bookstores in your community. You have two options to get access to the audiobook service. First, you can sign up for the monthly subscription service. Second, you could opt to download new books without the monthly subscription fee and pay a one-time fee instead. 

It's just $14.99 to get one audiobook credit along with 30% off additional books, or you can buy a book and listen on your own time with no monthly subscription required. 

3. Scribd

Audiobook listeners might love Scribd, which is one of the best audiobook apps available on the market. It has all the most popular audiobooks, making it easy to read your favorite audiobooks on your Apple iOS or Android device. Of course, you can also log in with your desktop or laptop computer. No matter your preferred reading device, accessing great audio is a breeze thanks to this platform’s user-friendly functionality.

Scribd offers a monthly subscription of $11.99 per month. Subscribers get unlimited access to the latest bestsellers and all other books on the digital ecosystem.

4. Chirp

A list of Audible alternatives wouldn't be complete without talking about Chirp, one of the audiobook platforms that does not require a subscription fee. It‘s free to sign up to download Chirp audiobooks, but you do need to pay for each book you download or stream from the platform. 

Chirp is unique in that it offers up to 95% off the cost of popular audiobooks. It will send you emails with personalized recommendations that you can pay for and download for listening anywhere. This makes your favorite books available for listening whether you're on a computer, a laptop, a phone or a Kindle.

5. Your local library

Did you know that your local library might allow you to download free audiobooks with your library card? At the library, ask about any available podcasts, audiobooks in the public domain (to avoid restrictions resulting from digital rights management, or DRM), and other books that the library might have on a custom playlist.

Every library is different, but many carry non-fiction, science fiction, new releases, popular titles, and more (with unlimited access). What’s more, you might be able to download these books to your iPad, iPhone, or other devices so you can start listening right away. You might even find great free alternative content such as Kobo books or Nook audiobooks, if those platforms are part of your home library.

6. Physical audiobook CDs

Among the most easily accessed Audible alternatives are physical CDs. Audiobook CDs can be purchased on Amazon, for example, making it easy to get physical CDs of the books you want to listen to. Some CD players even have a sleep timer, enabling you to schedule when your favorite new book should start playing next.

7. LibriVox and the Audiobooks app

Another good Audible alternative is LibriVox. With LibriVox and its free catalog, you can download free audiobooks read by volunteers from around the world. Seek out and place these books on your iPod, computer, or mobile device. You can even burn them to physical CDs. LibriVox also has its own Audiobooks app that you can use, making this a high-tech yet free Audible alternative.

8. Spotify and podcasts

If you want to listen to Spotify to hear some of the latest podcasts or audiobooks read to you, consider using its 30-day free trial. You'll be able to listen to limited-time podcasts and more. Pay only $9.99 a month after the free trial. If you like music, you can also listen to all your favorite songs there, too.

Discover Speechify: A game-changer in audiobook listening

Have you ever wished you could turn any text into an audiobook? Enter Speechify. This innovative platform allows you to transform emails, PDFs, and other digital documents into listenable content. Whether you're on the go or just want a break from screen time, Speechify ensures you never miss out on any reading material. With customizable voice and speed options, it's tailored to suit your listening preferences. Ready to elevate your audiobook experience? Give Speechify a try today!

FAQs

What is a good alternative to Audible?

There are many good alternative programs other than Audible on the market today. Here is a list of 10 of the best alternatives.

1. Scribd
2. Speechify
3. Chirp
4. LibriVox
5. Libby and OverDrive
6. Hoopla
7. Audiobooks.com
8. Downpour
9. Apple Books
10. Google Play Books

Is there something like Audible that is free?

There are a few sites and programs like Audible that are totally free. For example, you can listen to books for free with LibriVox, allowing you to listen to stories such as the Sherlock Holmes series or other public domain books. You can also try Storynory, Project Gutenberg, Hoopla, or OverDrive. 

Is Audible still free with Prime?

A full version of Audible is not free with Amazon Prime. You do get to choose from around 50 books for free, though, which can help you get started on your audiobook collection.

Is Libby better than Audible?

Libby and Audible are comparable. Audible has lots of new releases and popular books, but Libby is better for people who don't want to own books (and prefer only to listen to them).

Is there a service like Audible for eBooks?

Another option like Audible is Scribd, which is one of the better eBook subscription services on the market. Libby is another option that works similarly and might help you do what you're hoping to do with your eBook library.

What are the best audiobooks?

There are plenty of amazing audiobooks on the market today. Your definition of the best audiobooks might vary from another person‘s. Let your listening tastes be your guide, and consider checking out one or more of the top-rated audiobooks of all time. This list of hit audiobooks includes listener favorites such as:

1. "Dune" by Frank Herbert
2. "Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens
3. "Circe" by Madeline Miller
4. "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley
5. "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer
6. "Untamed" by Glennon Doyle
7. "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
8. "White Fragility" by Robin DiAngelo
9. "How to Be an Antiracist" by Ibram X. Kendi
10. "A Promised Land" by Barack Obama 

What are some of the disadvantages of Audible?

The first disadvantage of Audible is the cost. You get a 30-day free trial with Audible, but then you have to start paying. Each month, you get only three titles along with one audiobook and two Audible Originals. 

The monthly fee varies, but Gold memberships start at $14.95 a month. Platinum plans are $22.95 monthly or $229.50 annually. There is a lower-cost subscription for $12.95 a month for the Audible Escape Subscription. It is reduced to $7.95 a month for Audible Members or Kindle Unlimited Members. 

If you read more than a single credit's worth of books a month, then the Gold option won't work for you, because you'll end up spending more on the cost of additional books. If you want to listen to two or more audiobooks, then you will need the costlier Platinum plan. 

The Audible Escape subscription is cheaper, but it's also only for romance fans. So, all in all, the cost of Audible, as well as the limitations on how many titles you get per subscription, could be a big issue if you're a frequent listener. 

What are the benefits of Audible?

Audible has a few benefits that help it stand out from some other services. For example, you can start off with a 30-day free trial and then pay as little as $9.95 a month if you have Prime. With Audible, you can hit a single button to stream titles from the app, or you can download and save titles to your library. Doing that lets you listen to those titles at any time. 

Audible also has podcasts, so it's easy to stay up to date on the latest from your favorite creators. 

What is the best service for eBooks?

The best service will vary based on the attributes you are seeking in a platform. For example, Speechify helps you read or listen to any book, even those you already have on your devices. Libby by OverDrive helps you get free books from your local library, making it quick and easy to find the literature you're wanting to hear.

Why is Audible free?

Audible is only free during the 30-day free trial. After that, you will need to pay for a subscription starting at $7.95 per month.

What does Audible have that Libby doesn't have?

Audible has all the latest bestsellers and new releases. Libby might have those current titles, but it depends on the library you're using and the titles they have available for release. Not all libraries have Libby yet, which could make it difficult to use in your location.

What are some free Audible alternatives?

There are some free alternatives to Audible. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Librivox: Librivox offers a vast collection of free audiobooks, mainly consisting of public domain works. Volunteers narrate these audiobooks, making them accessible to the public for free.
2. Project Gutenberg: Project Gutenberg provides a large selection of free eBooks, and some of these texts have accompanying audiobooks that are available for free as well.
3. Loyal Books (formerly LibriVox Audio Books): Loyal Books also offers a collection of free audiobooks, many of which are classics and in the public domain.
4. Open Culture: Open Culture provides a list of free audiobooks available from various sources, including websites and online platforms.
5. OverDrive: OverDrive is a service offered by many public libraries, allowing you to borrow digital audiobooks for free with a library card.
6. Hoopla: Hoopla is another library service that allows you to borrow audiobooks, as well as other media like movies, music, and eBooks.

When using free audiobook services, you may find that their selection might not include the latest bestsellers or popular contemporary titles found on platforms like Audible. You may also encounter occasional ads or limitations on the number of books you can access simultaneously.