PDF speech converter
PDFs are among the most widely used types of file formats on the web. They're right behind XHTML and HTML and are more popular than PNG, GIF, and JPEG files. This format preserves a document’s layout and content across all operating systems and devices. Moreover, PDF files are SEO-friendly and can reach a broader audience. However, they're not always ideal for people with learning disabilities and visual impairments. Individuals struggling with ADHD or dyslexia could have difficulty reading PDF documents. Given how prevalent PDF files have become, people may be left struggling at school or on the job. Fortunately, technological advancements have made many file formats, including PDFs and RTFs, more accessible. With a speech computer, people don't have to struggle to read a PDF. Instead, they can relax, let the PDF speech converter do the legwork, and read the text aloud.
What is a PDF?
PDF (Portable Document Format) files have been around for a while. Whenever you download a document from the web you want to print, it's likely a PDF. People appreciate this format because it's globally recognized. When creating a form in Microsoft Word, you spend time and effort tweaking the content and formatting. However, unless the people who receive the form use Word, too, they won't be able to view and open it. Also, depending on the version of Word they've installed, their program could alter the original content and formatting. But this is a non-issue with PDF files. This file type guarantees structural integrity, meaning the content remains the same on all devices. Additionally, you can open PDFs even if you don't have a PDF reader. Most web browsers will generate a new window, allowing users to view and read PDFs. Note that editing is typically disabled on PDF files. However, documents like contracts and agreements may contain form fields. Businesses use them because they're more convenient than Word documents. While you can't alter the entire file, you can enter the necessary information in the form fields.
Using Adobe Reader to read PDF files
If your computer runs on Windows 7 or older, you may need to install a PDF viewer like Adobe Reader to access PDF files. Not all users know this software has additional helpful features, including read-aloud options. The read-aloud or text to speech (TTS) functionality is invaluable for people with reading difficulties and those who want to become more productive. Adobe Reader offers a customizable experience. Users can change their reading voice and speed to match their preferences. Follow the below tutorial to activate the program's TTS feature and have Adobe Reader read PDF text:
- Launch the program and find the page the app should read out loud.
- Press "View" in the upper-left menu and select "Read Out Loud."
If you click "Read to End of Document," the PDF reader will read the entire file aloud. To listen to a single page, press "Read This Page Only."
Alternatives to Adobe Reader
While Adobe Reader is a reliable program, it may not have enough features to meet your reading needs. The following TTS apps are excellent alternatives to this PDF reader and might be a better fit. In addition to converting PDFs to speech, most of these TTS programs can turn various file formats into audio files.
YakiToMe
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to convert PDF to audio files, YakiToME is a good option. Besides PDF documents, the software can process and convert other files into an mp3 format. It will read aloud web pages, text files, Word documents, RSS feeds, emails, and more. YakiToMe is available in different languages, including English, German, Spanish, Russian, and Portuguese.
NaturalReader
NaturalReader is a robust TTS app that can produce quality audio output from nearly all text formats. It will read aloud PDFs, Word documents, Google Docs, RTFs, EPUBs, HTML, TXT (plain text files), and more. The basic version provides 61 voices, while users with a paid subscription can unlock additional natural-sounding options. The program has inbuilt OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology, meaning it can scan files, identify images, and extract readable text.
Read Aloud
Read Aloud primarily reads web content, so it's not the best app for offline use. The program works as a browser plugin, and users can customize the narration voice, reading speed, and pitch. Read Aloud is compatible with Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox. It supports around 40 languages, allowing users to listen to content in English, Spanish, French, and more.
iSpeech
Another easy-to-use TTS tool, iSpeech boasts a strong API and supports nearly 50 languages. You can find the program on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. You can turn your Android, iPhone, or iPod Touch into a TTS reader with a few clicks. The program is also compatible with Mac products running on macOS 11.0 or newer.
Speechify
Speechify is one of the most advanced TTS solutions available. Not only can it read PDF files, but you can use it with apps like Outlook, Powerpoint, Excel, and other Microsoft Office tools. Speechify converts text into audio formats, and you can download the content as a WAV or mp3 file. It's perfect for offline and you can take the audio version wherever you go, just like a podcast. Although Speechify is helpful for people with learning difficulties, it's also perfect for practicing speed reading, multitasking, and content creation. Since the app recognizes all file formats, from PDFs to Google Drive Docs, you can also rely on it to create voiceovers for YouTube videos and ads.
Use Speechify as a PDF Speech Converter
Although packed with advanced features, Speechify has an intuitive interface and is easy to navigate. It can read digital text in more than 30 languages and has an impressive collection of natural-sounding male and female voices. After the text to speech program converts the content into an audio format, you can save the recording in your local storage. Users can adjust their reading speed and access note-taking tools to improve retention and boost productivity. Speechify is available as a Chrome extension for Windows and macOS computers and a mobile app for iOS and Android smartphones. Try it today for free to see why its attracted countless users. When you're ready to unlock additional features, you can always switch to the Premium version.
