1. Home
  2. Learning
  3. Text-to-Speech in Higher Ed: Benefits, Costs, and Leading Software
Learning

Text-to-Speech in Higher Ed: Benefits, Costs, and Leading Software

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman

CEO/Founder of Speechify

#1 Text to Speech Reader.
Let Speechify Read To You.

2025 Apple Design Award
50M+ Users
Listen to this article with Speechify!
speechify logo

What is the difference between text to speech and voice to text?

While they may seem similar, text-to-speech (TTS) and voice to text are opposite technologies. Text-to-speech tools convert digital text into spoken words using a computer-generated voice, providing an audio version of the content. In contrast, voice to text (or transcription) translates spoken language into written text.

Benefits of Text to Speech in Higher Education

  1. Assistive Technology for Learners with Disabilities: For students with learning disabilities, like dyslexia or ADHD, TTS software can bridge the gap between their abilities and the demands of reading materials. It aids in reading comprehension and decoding, especially useful in higher education where dense and extensive materials are common.
  2. Support for Language Learners: English language learners benefit significantly from hearing the text read aloud, enhancing their literacy skills and understanding of the material.
  3. Universal Design: TTS embodies the principles of universal design in education, making learning materials accessible to all, including those with visual impairments or special education needs.

Disadvantages of Text to Speech in Higher Ed

  1. Over-reliance: Some learners might become too dependent on TTS tools and may not engage in developing essential reading skills.
  2. Quality: Not all TTS software offers high-quality, natural-sounding voices. A robotic voice can be distracting.
  3. Lack of Human Touch: While advancements like AI voice have come close, TTS software cannot fully replicate the nuances and emotional tones of a human voice.

Average Cost Insights

The average cost of TTS services in higher education varies based on institutional subscriptions or individual licenses. Standalone TTS software, for personal use, can range from free versions with basic features to premium versions costing upwards of $100 or more.

Top Institution for TTS Study

For those interested in studying the intricacies of text-to-speech technology and instructional design, consider enrolling in leading tech institutions that offer courses in education technology or eLearning design.

Top 8 Text-to-Speech Software or Apps for Higher Ed

  1. Speechify Text to Speech: Speechify is a text-to-speech software designed to convert written text into spoken words, primarily assisting individuals in reading and comprehending content. For those in higher education, Speechify can be a vital tool in various contexts.
  2. ReadSpeaker: Popular in higher education, ReadSpeaker offers natural voices that enhance eLearning experiences.
  3. Read&Write: A comprehensive tool, it's excellent for those with dyslexia, providing features beyond just TTS.
  4. Natural Reader: As its name suggests, it offers one of the most natural-sounding voices.
  5. Microsoft Word's Read Aloud: Integrated within Microsoft Word, it allows users to have documents read to them.
  6. Apple's Speak Screen: For Apple users, this built-in feature turns content onscreen into spoken words.
  7. Chrome Vox: A screen reader for Chrome, suitable for web pages and online reading materials.
  8. Speech Reader: This offers a simple, user-friendly interface for converting text to audio.
  9. AI Voice: Leveraging advanced AI, it offers a human-like voice for reading digital text.

Enjoy the most advanced AI voices, unlimited files, and 24/7 support

Try For Free
tts banner for blog

Share This Article

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman

CEO/Founder of Speechify

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.

speechify logo

About Speechify

#1 Text to Speech Reader

Speechify is the world’s leading text to speech platform, trusted by over 50 million users and backed by more than 500,000 five-star reviews across its text to speech iOS, Android, Chrome Extension, web app, and Mac desktop apps. In 2025, Apple awarded Speechify the prestigious Apple Design Award at WWDC, calling it “a critical resource that helps people live their lives.” Speechify offers 1,000+ natural-sounding voices in 60+ languages and is used in nearly 200 countries. Celebrity voices include Snoop Dogg, Mr. Beast, and Gwyneth Paltrow. For creators and businesses, Speechify Studio provides advanced tools, including AI Voice Generator, AI Voice Cloning, AI Dubbing, and its AI Voice Changer. Speechify also powers leading products with its high-quality, cost-effective text to speech API. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Forbes, TechCrunch, and other major news outlets, Speechify is the largest text to speech provider in the world. Visit speechify.com/news, speechify.com/blog, and speechify.com/press to learn more.