The Best Audible Alternatives – Five Free or Cheap Audiobooks & More

In an era where convenience is king, audiobooks have carved out a significant niche in the literary world. Offering the ability to enjoy a good book while on the go, during a workout, or as part of a relaxing evening routine, audiobooks have become a popular choice for modern readers. Among the platforms offering this service, Audible has emerged as a prominent player.

However there are numerous other platforms that offer equally compelling, if not superior, audiobook apps. This guide aims to explore popular audiobooks that are Audible alternatives, helping you discover a new audiobook service for your next learning or literary adventure.

Book Summary Apps: Unique Audible Alternatives

This one is a bit controversial. You would think, isn’t great audible alternatives are all digital audiobooks, but I’m here to say a book summary app is. In the worst case, it can be a great compliment to a digital books app (Kindle) or audiobook listening app like (digital audiobooks like Audible, Audiobooks).

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There are millions of books already, and more come every day. There are lists from all kind of celebrities – how does one invest wisely? It’s hard to invest time and money into a book without knowing if it’s going to be worth the investment. Let’s assume audiobook is 20-30 hours each, how many audiobooks can you get through (even if it is a free app)?

This is where book summary apps come in, offering a unique alternative to traditional audiobook platforms like Audible. Book summary apps distill key insights from books, allowing users to understand the core ideas of a book in just about 15 minutes. This makes it possible to explore multiple topics in a short amount of time, broadening one’s knowledge base without the need for a significant time investment.

For instance, getAbstract, is the largest book summary service, providing over 25,000+ book summaries in audio and written formats. Similarly, the Headway app and Blinkist are also top contenders in the market, offering access to numerous bestselling books’ summaries. The monthly subscription for these start at $7/month making it a great compliment for another full digital books service.

These services offer a different approach compared to Audible. Instead of listening to full-length audiobooks, users can quickly skim through the essence of a book. This not only saves time but also allows for a more diverse reading (or listening) experience.

Moreover, reading a summary is often easier than tackling a full book, particularly when it comes to dense non-fiction works or academic texts. This encourages reading and learning by making it more accessible and less daunting.

So, if you’re looking for a way to consume more books and broaden your horizons without dedicating hours to each title, a book summary app might be the perfect alternative to Audible for you.

Understanding Audible

Owned by retail giant Amazon, Audible is a powerhouse in the audiobook industry. It operates on a subscription model where users pay a monthly fee in exchange for credits that can be used to purchase audiobooks.

With an extensive library boasting thousands of titles across various genres, Audible has something for everyone. It also allows you to download audiobooks and listen to them later (even without internet).From bestsellers and classics to indie titles and exclusives, the platform’s offerings are vast.

However, the audiobook credit based system may not appeal to everyone, especially those who consume audiobooks at a rapid pace or those who are looking for a more economical option.

The Need for Audible Alternatives

While Audible offers a comprehensive service, it isn’t without its drawbacks. The pricing structure and Audible subscription cost, which revolves around buying credits to exchange for books, might not offer the best value for money for voracious listeners who can quickly exhaust their monthly credits.

Furthermore, some listeners may prefer a flat-rate unlimited listening experience, a feature not available on Audible. Others might be looking for cheaper, or even free, ways to access audiobooks. When people start wondering if Audible is worth it, they may want to look for other options including the ones that support independent bookstores instead of large corporations.

All these factors create a demand for alternatives to Audible, which this guide will delve into.

Top Audible Alternatives for Avid Audiobook Listeners

Audiobook platforms are plentiful, each offering unique features and services. Here are some top alternatives to Audible:

Libro.fm

This platform is a favorite among those who wish to support local businesses. When you buy an audiobook from Libro.fm, you’re also supporting a local bookstore of your choice. The selection is vast, with all the latest bestsellers available.

Scribd

Known as the “Netflix for books,” Scribd offers unlimited access to their library for a monthly fee. While not every book is always available due to rotating selections, the variety is still impressive. Here’s a detailed comparison of Scribd vs Audible.

Google Play Books

No subscription is required here. You simply buy the audiobook you want and it’s yours to keep. Google Play often has sales, making it a good option for budget-conscious listeners.

OverDrive/Libby

With a library card, you can borrow audiobooks for free through these apps. The selection depends on your library, but many have a wide variety of titles.

Local Bookstores vs. Digital Platforms

The digital revolution has reshaped the way we consume literature, with digital platforms offering a level of convenience that is hard to match. These platforms allow for immediate access to a vast library of titles, often at a lower cost than physical books. They also offer features such as adjustable text size and lighting, making reading more accessible for many.

However, despite the advantages of digital platforms, local bookstores continue to hold a unique appeal for many readers. They provide a tangible sense of community, allowing readers to browse shelves, discover new authors, and even attend author events and book clubs. Moreover, purchasing from local bookstores supports local economies, contributing to job creation and community development.

Platforms like Libro.fm have found a way to combine the best of both worlds. When you purchase an audiobook from Libro.fm, not only do you get the convenience and immediacy of a digital platform, but you also support a local bookstore or an independent bookstore of your choice. A portion of the sale goes directly to these businesses, helping them thrive in a digital age.

Exploring Free Audiobook Options

For those on a tight budget, there are several ways to access free audiobooks. Public libraries offer a wealth of resources, including audiobooks, accessible through apps like OverDrive and Libby. All you need is a library card. Another option is to explore sites like Project Gutenberg and Librivox, which offer free public domain audiobooks.

Unlimited Listening: Is It Worth It?

The concept of unlimited listening is appealing – pay a flat fee and listen to as many audiobooks as you want. Several platforms offer this feature, but is it worth it?

Services like Scribd and Playster provide unlimited access to their libraries for a monthly fee. This model can be incredibly cost-effective if you’re an avid listener who devours several books a month. However, there are caveats. Not all titles are always available, and ‘unlimited’ might not truly mean unlimited, with some users reporting throttling after a certain number of books.

On the other hand, services like Audible and Google Play Books have you pay for each book, but once you’ve bought it, it’s yours to keep forever, even if you cancel your subscription. This could be more appealing to those who re-listen to books or prefer to build a digital library.

Therefore, whether unlimited listening offers good value really depends on your listening habits.

New Releases and Popular Titles

One of the strengths of Audible is its extensive library, including new releases and popular titles. But how do alternatives stack up?

Most major platforms, like Google Play Books and Kobo, have deals with publishers, ensuring they also get new releases at the same time as Audible. Similarly, Libro.fm and Downpour boast impressive collections of popular and new titles.

However, if you’re using a free service like OverDrive or Librivox, new releases will not be as readily available. Libraries often have a waitlist for popular titles, and public domain sites mostly carry older works.

Conclusion

Choosing the right audiobook platform depends largely on your individual needs and preferences. While Audible remains a popular choice, there are numerous alternatives out there that offer different pricing structures, library sizes, and additional features.

For those who consume several books a month and desire a flat-rate model, Scribd or Playster might be the best option. If you want to purchase audiobooks outright and keep them forever, consider Google Play Books or Kobo. For listeners who wish to support their local bookstores while enjoying the convenience of digital downloads, Libro.fm is an excellent choice. And if budget is a concern, don’t overlook the wealth of free resources available through public libraries and sites like Project Gutenberg or Librivox.

In the end, the best alternative to Audible is the one that aligns most closely with your listening habits and values. By exploring these alternatives, you’re likely to find a service that not only provides you with great audiobooks but also enhances your overall listening experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the world of audiobooks and the various platforms available can be confusing. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Is there a free app similar to Audible?

Yes, there are several apps that offer similar services to Audible for free. OverDrive and Libby allow you to borrow audiobooks from your local library at no cost. You simply need a valid library card.

Is there something similar to Audible?

There are many platforms similar to Audible such as Google Play Books, Kobo, and Scribd. Each offers a vast selection of audiobooks but differs in pricing models and additional features.

Is there a completely free audiobook app?

Librivox is a completely free app offering access to thousands of audiobooks in the public domain. Similarly, Project Gutenberg also provides free access to public domain books.

Is Scribd better than Audible?

Whether Scribd is better than Audible depends on your listening habits. Scribd offers unlimited listening for a flat monthly fee but not all titles may be available at all times. Audible operates on a credit system where you own the audiobooks you purchase. Read in detail comparing Scribd vs Audible.

Are there any truly free audio books?

Yes, platforms like Librivox and Project Gutenberg offer truly free audiobooks, mainly classics in the public domain.

Why are Audible books so expensive?

Audiobook production costs can be high, including narration, editing, and technical adjustments. This could contribute to the higher prices seen on Audible and other platforms.

Is Audible free for Prime members?

No, Audible is not free for Amazon Prime members. However, Prime members do have access to a rotating collection of free audiobooks and Audible Originals each month.

Is audiobook free with prime?

Amazon Prime members have access to a limited number of free audiobooks through Prime Reading. However, the full Audible library is not included in the Prime membership. Read here for a better understanding of Audible membership options.

Where can I listen to all audio books for free?

OverDrive, Libby, Librivox, and Project Gutenberg are platforms where you can listen to audiobooks for free. The selection on OverDrive and Libby depends on your local library’s offerings.

Which audiobook app is best?

The best audiobook app depends on your individual needs and preferences. Audible is popular for its vast library, while Scribd offers unlimited listening. Libro.fm supports local bookstores, and Libby allows you to borrow audiobooks from your local library.

Why do people use Scribd?

People use Scribd for its unlimited listening model and affordable monthly subscription. While not all titles are always available, the variety and value for money it offers make it a popular choice among audiobook listeners.

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