PDF Reader

Want to convert PDFs to audio files? This PDF to Voice Reader guide will tell you everything you need to know.

PDF readers have become essential tools for navigating the vast seas of online documents, from academic papers to legal contracts. This seemingly simple software category encompasses a wide array of applications tailored to different needs, offering functionalities beyond mere viewing—such as editing, annotating, and even securing PDF documents. Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone looking to organize your digital library, understanding the features and capabilities of various PDF readers can dramatically enhance your efficiency and interaction with digital texts.

What is text to speech?

Text to speech software is a kind of assistive technology that can read digital and printed text out loud. For this reason, TTS tools are sometimes also called "read-aloud" technology. With a few clicks, TTS solutions process text on computers or mobile devices and convert it into high-quality audio formats. Think of it as podcasting, only you decide what content to turn into a podcast. While TTS apps are invaluable for special education and people who have overcome learning disabilities, they're also great for editing, writing, proofreading, and speed reading. TTS technology can recognize multiple text files, including PDFs, web pages, Google Drive docs, Microsoft Word files, research papers, news articles, and much more. Although modern mobile devices have inbuilt TTS functionalities, more robust programs offer advanced features. For example, users can switch between different languages, translate text, take notes, and adjust their reading speed. There are a variety of benefits that come along with using a PDF to voice reader as well.

The Benefits of Using a PDF to Voice Reader

PDF to voice readers are particularly beneficial for individuals with visual impairments or those who prefer auditory learning. Here's a look at just some of their benefits:

• Enhanced Accessibility: A PDF to voice reader makes content more accessible for individuals with visual impairments or reading disabilities.
• Multitasking Capability: It allows users to listen to content while they engage in other activities, increasing productivity.
• Improved Comprehension: This tool aids auditory learners and those with reading difficulties in understanding and retaining information more effectively.
• Convenience: The reader enables the consumption of documents on the go, turning any setting into a potential learning environment.
• Language Learning: It assists in learning new languages by allowing users to hear the correct pronunciation of words.
• Reduction of Eye Strain: Using a PDF to voice reader reduces eye fatigue associated with prolonged screen time by offering an auditory alternative to reading.

Using Adobe Reader to Convert PDFs to Voice

The Adobe Acrobat Reader helps millions of users view and edit PDF files. This program allows you to edit, sign, organize, and share PDF documents. Best of all, you don't have to install Acrobat Professional or Standard to use this service. Although many rely on the tool to optimize and secure PDFs, they aren't always aware of its TTS capabilities. If the font size is too small, there is no need to squint and strain your eyes. Adobe Acrobat Reader can read aloud the content and you can select the preferred reading pace and narration voice. The following steps will help you activate the read-out-loud option in Adobe Acrobat Reader:

1. Launch the program and scroll to the appropriate page.
2. Select "View" from the upper-left menu and tap "Read Out Loud."

Press "Read to End of Document" to listen to the whole file. If you click "Read This Page Only," the app will read the selected page. Adobe Reader is available as a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. You can also install the desktop app on your Mac or Windows computer.

Other Ways to Read PDF Files Aloud

Although practical, Adobe Reader is a one-stop shop for PDF files, not other formats. Fortunately, many powerful and easy-to-use text to speech readers support different file types and work on all major operating systems. These tools can process PDF files thanks to OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology. Inbuilt OCR software allows TTS programs to recognize images, extract text, and produce audio output. Let's look at several TTS alternatives to Adobe Acrobat that may meet your reading needs better.

Speechify

Speechify has quickly become a TTS leader due to its helpful features and simple interface. It boasts an impressive library of natural-sounding voices and is highly customizable. Users can choose from numerous male and female voices, adjust the pitch and reading speed, and listen to text in over 30 languages. You can install the Chrome extension and turn your browser into your personal reader. Alternatively, you could download the smartphone app and turn any printed or digital text into speech.

NaturalReader

NaturalReader is a TTS solution that caters to foreign language learners, students, dyslexic learners, and working professionals. It has a solid selection of AI-generated content users can access to listen to PDFs, Microsoft Word files, EPUBs, web pages, HTML, RTFs, and more. The software is also great for content creators and educators who can create voiceovers for videos and eLearning resources. You can use the service on your smartphone or visit the web-based version.

Voice Dream Reader

One of the most well-known text to speech apps, the Voice Dream Reader, is relatively affordable and works well with iPads and iPhones. Users can access over 70 AI-powered voices and consume content in over 20 languages. Those unsure whether the app is a good fit can try the free version called the Voice Dream Reader Lite. This app reads the initial 300 characters of a document or book and provides a sneak peek of the app's full potential. You can find it in the Apple App Store.

Voice Aloud Reader

This free Android app is available in the Google Play Store and is an excellent choice for those looking for a beginner-friendly TTS program. The onboarding process is straightforward, and users appreciate the "Night mode" and "Sleep time" features. The developers are yet to release an iOS version.

Try Speechify for Converting PDF Files to Speech

With Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can only listen to PDF files. But with a TTS app like Speechify, reading any file can become a podcast-like experience. Whether you're trying to overcome a learning disability or boost your productivity, Speechify has your back. With its unmatched language selection and customization options, reading e-Books, web pages, and PDF documents becomes hassle-free. Try it for free today to see if the program is right for you.

FAQ

Which is the best PDF Voice Reader?

Abode Acrobat Reader is a reliable PDF tool. Unfortunately, it only reads PDFs. Users who want to listen to other formats should look into TTS tools like Speechify, NaturalReader, or Read Aloud.

How does a PDF to Voice reader differ from a standard text-to-speech tool?

While both tools convert text into speech, a PDF to Voice reader is specifically designed to handle the unique formatting and structure of PDF documents. This ensures that content is read in the correct order and that non-text elements (like images or charts) are appropriately skipped or described.

Can I use a PDF to Voice reader on any PDF document?

Most PDF to Voice readers can handle standard text-based PDFs with ease. However, for PDFs that contain mainly images or scanned pages, the software might require an additional OCR (Optical Character Recognition) feature to recognize and convert the text within the images into speech.