Looking for a text to speech API that can provide high-quality, natural-sounding voices? Then you'll want to check out our list of the best text to speech APIs.

Best text to speech APIs

In the age of technology, the need for human-computer interaction has never been greater. Artificial intelligence (AI) has played an integral role in this area, creating more efficient, user-friendly systems. A notable technology in this sphere is the text-to-speech (TTS) API. Here, we’re covering the best text-to-speech APIs, why you should use them, and which one is the best TTS API of them all.

What is a TTS API?

A text-to-speech (TTS) API is a cloud-based application programming interface that employs artificial intelligence and deep learning to convert written text into natural-sounding speech. This speech synthesis process often results in a high-quality audio file, which can be in a common format like MP3 or WAV. The output can be customized to a specific speaking style, offering lifelike, natural-sounding voices in different languages.

Who should use a TTS API?

TTS APIs are beneficial for a broad range of individuals and TTS APIs are beneficial for a broad range of individuals and businesses. Developers can integrate TTS functionality into apps, enhancing user experience. It is particularly useful for visually impaired individuals or those with reading disabilities, who can leverage this technology to synthesize written content into audio. TTS APIs are also advantageous for enterprises that aim to create a unique voice for their brand or produce natural-sounding voiceovers for video editing.

Use cases for text to speech APIs

Text-to-speech APIs have wide-ranging use cases, and they can convert text from docs, web pages, and even eBooks into audio in real time. For instance, TTS APIs are commonly used in e-learning platforms to generate engaging educational content. They also play a pivotal role in generating AI voices for audiobooks, podcasts, and voice assistants.

Furthermore, TTS APIs can provide accessibility solutions, such as reading web content for people with impairments. They can even be used to synthesize voice prompts for automated systems or create voiceovers for promotional videos. The speech recognition feature of TTS APIs can also be used to convert spoken language into written text, useful in transcription services.

The best text to speech APIs on the market

TTS APIs play a crucial role in enhancing user experience, offering customizability, accessibility, and enterprise automation. From providing a unique voice to your brand to catering to individuals with impairments, TTS technology has a wide array of applications.

While the pricing of these APIs varies, there are often affordable options suitable for individuals, small businesses, and large enterprises. By choosing the right TTS API, you can create a more engaging, inclusive, and interactive environment for your users, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of audio interaction.

The market is replete with a plethora of TTS API providers that use machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms to create human-like voices. Here are some of the best text-to-speech APIs:

Speechify

Speechify has a machine learning-based text-to-speech (TTS) API. It allows developers to convert text into speech in a natural-sounding voice. The Speechify API is a REST API that can be accessed using any programming language that supports making HTTP requests, such as Java. The API accepts text in plain English or SSML (Speech Synthesis Markup Language) and returns an MP3 file of the generated speech. Speechify is recognized for its natural-sounding speech and ease of use. It offers real-time reading speed adjustments and supports multiple languages including English, Spanish, and German.

Amazon Polly

Amazon Polly uses advanced deep learning technologies to synthesize lifelike speech. It also supports SSML (Speech Synthesis Markup Language) to adjust the speech's rhythm and intonation.

Google Cloud Text to Speech

This service utilizes Google's powerful AI and machine learning capabilities to provide highly realistic voices. It supports numerous languages and dialects, making it suitable for global enterprises.

Microsoft Azure

Microsoft Azure's TTS service offers extensive custom voice options, and it also supports a wide range of languages. Its high-quality voice generator and SSML support make it a versatile choice.

IBM Watson Text to Speech

Known for its high-quality, natural-sounding voices, IBM Watson provides a unique API that can be used in several programming languages, including Python.

Murf

Murf is popular for its high-quality voiceovers and its ability to customize speech to a remarkable extent. It offers a unique voice model that delivers a lifelike user experience.

Voice Dream Reader

Known for its readability, Voice Dream Reader offers adjustable reading speed and text highlighting. It's favored by those with reading disabilities and language learners.

Balabolka

Balabolka is a versatile TTS API that supports multiple file formats and speech parameters. Its offline working capability and compatibility with a wide range of text types make it stand out.

Play.ht

Play.ht is used by content creators to create lifelike voiceovers for videos and podcasts. Its integration with platforms like Medium and WordPress and its extensive voice library in different languages are its strengths.

ReadSpeaker

ReadSpeaker is an enterprise-grade TTS API that delivers text content in a spoken format. Its broad language support and extensive customization options enable brands to create an engaging audio experience.

Speechify: The best TTS API

Speechify is a powerful text-to-speech app written in Python using artificial intelligence, that can help you convert any written text into natural-sounding speech. Whether you’re trying to listen to a book, an article, or even just a long email, Speechify can help you out. Just copy and paste the text you want to convert into the app and hit the “speechify” button.

In seconds, you’ll be listening to your text being read aloud by one of Speechify’s high-quality voices. You can even adjust the speaking speed to suit your needs. So if you’re looking for an easy way to convert text to speech, Speechify is the perfect solution.

The Speechify text-to-speech reader is a great tool for people who want to improve their reading skills if they have disabilities. The TTS reader reads text out loud, so you can hear how the words are pronounced and get a sense of the rhythm and intonation of the natural language. The Speechify TTS reader can also help you to understand the meaning of words in context, as you can listen to the text while you read it. This can help facilitate deep learning.

• Reliable and scalable: Speechify is a highly reliable and scalable platform that can handle large volumes of audio files without any issues.
• Affordable: Speechify offers competitive rates, making it an affordable option for businesses of all sizes.
• Easy to use: The Speechify TTS API is easy to use, making it simple for developers to integrate speech recognition into their applications.
• Numerous benefits: The Speechify platform provides a number of benefits, including accurate transcription, fast processing times, and more.
• Integration is quick and easy with our JavaScript and iOS SDKs.

Speechify is constantly improving its machine learning models, which means that the quality of the generated speech will only get better over time. Developers can sign up for a free trial of the Speechify API to test it out.