How Does Audible Work - Everything You Need To Know [Oct 2023]

Hey there, fellow book lovers! If you’re anything like me, you’ll agree that there’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good story. But in today’s busy world, finding the time to sit down with a physical book can be a challenge. Enter Audible – Amazon’s game-changing audiobook service that transforms the way we consume literature.

In this blog post, I’m going to give you the lowdown on everything Audible. We’ll explore its vast library of audiobooks, break down the membership options, and even guide you through managing your account.

So, whether you’re commuting, working out, or just relaxing at home, Audible books lets you immerse yourself in captivating stories. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Most popular questions about Audible answered as their own blogs

Is Audible worth it?
Audible Free Trial – How to get (the best out of) it?
What does Audible membership give you?
Everything about Audible subscription cost
What’s better – Scribd vs Audible
What’s better – Audible vs Kindle
What’s better – Audible vs Audiobooks.com
What are Top Audible alternatives?
Audiobooks on Spotify – should you go for it?
Amazon Prime Audible – What do I get for being a Prime Member?
How to pause or cancel audible?
How does Audible work?

How does audible work – in a nutshell

Price: $8 (no book credits)

Why? Unlimited streaming from Plus catalog (Originals, podcasts, sleep tracks, meditation programs + other short form content)

Why not? No book credits, book outside the plus catalog needs to be purchased separately

Best for: Casual listeners, podcast / wellness & short form type content fans

Try Audible for FREE (30 days)

Price: $15 (one book credit/month)

Why? Full access to Plus catalog + 1 book a month (with ‘forever’ access) + cost savings when buying additional audio books

Why not? May become expensive if you are not a regular book listener

Best for: Regular listeners of Audiobooks + podcast / short form type content fans

Try Audible for FREE (30 days)

What is Audible?

Audible is an Amazon-owned audiobook and audio content subscription service that provides users with access to a vast library of audiobooks, podcasts, and exclusive content. It offers a wide range of titles, including classics, new releases, and original podcasts, all of which can be downloaded or streamed with an Audible membership.

Audiobooks on Audible are often narrated by talented professionals, authors themselves, or famous celebrities, making it an engaging platform for audio enthusiasts. Additionally, Audible frequently updates its catalog with new releases and exclusive content to keep subscribers entertained and engaged.

The narration makes Thinking, Fast and Slow much more enjoyable

How Much Does Audible Cost?

To access Audible’s extensive catalog, you can start with a promotional offer that often provides the first month for free or at a very affordable price; afterward, the standard subscription fee is $7.99 per month, which automatically renews unless canceled.

Depending on how much you intend to listen, you can choose a plan that is appropriate.

How to Get Free Books on Audible?

When you sign up for a free 30-day trial, Audible generously grants you one complimentary audiobook to get you started on your audio journey; as your membership progresses, you’ll receive regular credits that can be used to obtain audiobooks of your choice, with one credit covering the cost of any title, regardless of its price.

For those who find themselves accumulating credits faster than they can use them, Audible offers the option to “freeze” your account temporarily, allowing you to catch up on your listening without incurring additional charges.

How to Cancel an Audible Membership:

If you decide that Audible is not the right fit for you, it’s essential to know how to cancel your membership to avoid automatic renewals; simply log in to the Audible website, access your account details, navigate to account settings, and select the “cancel my membership” option, following the on-screen instructions.

It’s worth noting that while any purchased audiobooks will remain in your Audible library even after your subscription ends, any unused credits will expire upon canceling your membership, so it’s a good idea to use them before making that decision.

What is Audible?

Audible, an Amazon-owned platform, stands as one of the leading audiobook services globally, boasting an expansive collection of titles that encompass everything from beloved classics to contemporary releases and exclusive podcasts.

What sets Audible apart is its diverse range of narrators, including authors themselves, renowned celebrities, and skilled voice actors, making every audiobook an engaging auditory experience.

Audible continually updates its catalog with new releases and exclusive content, ensuring that subscribers have access to fresh and captivating material.

How Does Audible Work?

Upon subscribing to Audible, you gain access to a credit system where you receive one new audiobook credit every month, the specific number of credits depending on your chosen membership plan.

However, Audible is not limited to just one audiobook per month; many titles are available for free, and additional purchases can be made if desired.

Furthermore, Audible offers unlimited streaming of Audible Original Podcasts, along with enticing exclusive offers and daily deals, which grant substantial discounts, sometimes up to 80% off, on select titles.

What Are Audible Credits?

Audible credits serve as the platform’s internal currency, simplifying the audiobook purchasing process; essentially, one credit is equivalent to one audiobook from Audible’s vast library.

The number of credits you receive each month depends on your chosen membership plan, with options ranging from a single monthly credit to larger annual memberships.

Notably, Audible credits follow a rollover system, allowing unused credits to carry over to the following month; nevertheless, they do have an expiration date after a year of disuse.

What Do You Need to Use Audible?

To access Audible, you can either use a web browser or download the Audible app, which is compatible with nearly all smartphones and tablets, ensuring a seamless user experience.

It’s essential to have an Amazon account since Audible is an Amazon subsidiary; this account will serve as your gateway to this audiobook platform.

For Amazon Prime members, there are additional perks during the 30-day free trial period, including the ability to choose two free audiobooks from a selection that includes popular titles like “Spare” by Prince Harry and “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling.

Disclosure: This site is user supported. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can help me buy a coffee or two at no extra cost to you if you decide to purchase a paid plan.

Understanding Audible and Its Features

First off, let’s get acquainted with Audible. Imagine having a personal storyteller (some times even Barack Obama) at your fingertips, ready to whisk you away on a literary adventure wherever you are.

That’s exactly what Audible offers. Owned by Amazon, Audible is an audiobook service that brings thousands of books to life, from timeless classics to the latest bestsellers.

Your Personal Library, Amplified

The heart of Audible lies in its vast library. With hundreds of thousands of titles spanning across a myriad of genres, there’s truly something for everyone.

Looking for a chilling thriller to spice up your evening jog? You got it!

Need some romance to accompany your afternoon tea? It’s just a click away.

Need the tallest leaders in world to teach you about how the mind works, its just a small button away!

Non-fiction (particularly business and careers) is my favorite, and I’ve got 70000+ titles to choose from!

Books about business and careers on Audible

The Audible library is like your favorite bookstore, open 24/7, always ready to cater to your literary cravings.

The Magic of the Audible App

You’ll love the Audible app – regardless of you love iPhones or Androids. The app has great design and allows you to get to what you want intuitively.

Finding a new book – easy!

Continue the current book – simple!

Re-listen to an old book – done!

Listening to Obama – you want him to speed up or slow down, easy as it gets! I always listen at 1.25X btw.

The Audible app eco system allows you to learn while you drive, clean the kitchen or (you get the picture)!

Navigating the Audible Website

If you’re more of a desktop person, don’t worry – the Audible website has got you covered. It’s as intuitive and user-friendly as the app, making it a breeze to explore membership plans, compare Plus and Premium Plus options, and manage your account. Stuck somewhere? Their customer service is just a click away.

And the web version is as friendly as the App version. You are also connected to Amazon, you can easily switch between them with a click of your button (or your finger if you have one of those fancy laptops).

Membership Plans and Credits on Audible

Diving into the world of Audible begins with choosing the right membership plan. There are two main types – Audible Premium Plus and Audible Plus.

Audible Premium Plus membership is perfect for avid bookworms. It comes with 1 or 2 credits per month, depending on the plan you choose, which can be redeemed for any title in the premium selection, regardless of price.

On the other hand, if you’re new to audiobooks or don’t listen as frequently, Audible Plus could be a better fit. This plan provides unlimited access to the Plus catalog, which includes thousands of select audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals.

Understanding Audible Credits

Very simply put, Audible credits are tokens that you can redeem for one book of your choice.

Audible operates on a credit system. Each credit represents one title that you can add to your library. Credits are versatile and valuable – they can be used for any audiobook, no matter the price. This means you can get a brand new bestseller or a lengthy classic for just one credit.

One of the perks of being an Audible Premium Plus member is the ability to roll over unused credits to the next month. You can also buy additional credits if you’ve used up all of yours.

Using Audible credits to buy a book is much cheaper than buying the audiobook directly. The normal price can sometimes be 3-4 times more expensive.

The Power of One Free Audiobook Per Month

Both Audible Premium Plus and Audible Plus memberships come with a free 30-day trial. During this trial period, you receive one free audiobook of your choice. Even if you decide to cancel your subscription, that audiobook is yours to keep forever.

After the trial period, Audible Premium Plus members continue to receive one credit (or two, depending on the plan) each month, which can be exchanged for any audiobook in the premium selection. This allows you to steadily build your own personalized library of favorite titles.

Exploring the Audible Plus Catalog

The Audible Plus catalog is like your personal all-you-can-eat buffet of audiobooks, audible original podcasts, and Audible Originals. With an Audible Plus or Audible Premium Plus subscription, you can listen to any title in this catalog without using any credits. It’s an incredible way to discover new authors, explore different genres, or indulge in binge-worthy series.

Double the Pleasure with Two Free Audiobooks

If you’re still on the fence about joining Audible, here’s something that might tip the scales: a free trial of Audible comes with not one, but two free audiobooks. Yes, you heard it right! You can choose any two titles from their extensive library, and they’re yours to keep even if you decide to cancel your membership after the trial period.

But it does require that you haven’t tried Audible before. You cannot use the offer twice.

I would recommend to pick the two most books interesting for you, remember – you can keep them even after the trial!

Managing Your Audible Account

Managing your Audible account is a breeze. The one downside though is that you cannot do some of the actions via the mobile app. For example, cancelling or pausing your membership is possible only with the web version.

I don’t know if Amazon intentionally makes it difficult, but once you get the web version it is straight forward.

Reviewing Your Purchase History

Your purchase history is a comprehensive record of all the audiobooks you’ve bought. It’s a great way to look back at the titles you’ve enjoyed and even rediscover some hidden gems.

To view your purchase history, simply navigate to your account details. Here, you’ll find a detailed list of all your purchases, along with their purchase dates and prices. You can also see how you acquired each title, whether it was through credits, a free trial, or direct purchase.

Exiting Gracefully: How to End Your Audible Membership

Perhaps you’ve devoured all the audiobooks on your wishlist, or maybe life has just become too busy for leisurely listening. Whatever your reasons, canceling your Audible membership is straightforward.

After logging into your account, hover over your username at the top of the page and select “Account Details.” From there, you’ll see an option to cancel your membership. Remember, any titles you’ve purchased are yours to keep, even after you cancel.

You can also ‘pause’ your Audible membership plan for up to 90 days.

The Great Listen Guarantee: Audible’s Promise to You

Audible stands by the quality of their offerings with the Great Listen Guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with an audiobook, you can return it within 365 days of purchase.

This guarantee allows you to take a chance on new authors or genres without risk. After all, your listening pleasure is Audible’s top priority.

Additional Features and Benefits of Audible

Apart from the vast selection of audiobooks, Audible also offers additional features that cater to different listener preferences. For example, if you’re having trouble sleeping, Audible’s sleep tracks could be your perfect bedtime companion. For the hopeless romantics, the romance audiobooks collection is sure to make hearts flutter.

Additionally, Audible’s app for Android and other platforms offers several useful features like chapter navigation, bookmarking, timer, and variable narration speed, allowing you to customize your listening experience.

Connecting Amazon Prime and Audible

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, your Audible experience just got better. As a Prime member, you get access to the Audible Plus catalog for a limited period each month, without needing an Audible membership. This means you can enjoy select audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals for free.

Moreover, your Amazon account and Audible account are linked. This means you can use your Amazon credentials to sign in to Audible, making it easier to manage your subscriptions and purchases.

Instant Access to an Extensive Collection and New Releases

One of the major benefits of an Audible membership is instant access to a vast library of over 500,000 titles. Whether you’re into mystery, sci-fi, non-fiction, or anything in between, there’s something for everyone.

Not only do you get unlimited access to a great selection of audiobooks, but you also get to stay up-to-date with new releases. Whenever a new book comes out, it’s likely to be available on Audible almost immediately. This means you can start listening to the latest bestsellers right away.

The Cost and Review of Audible

A Look at Audible’s Membership Plans and Costs

Audible offers a range of membership plans catering to different listener needs. The Audible Plus plan is the most affordable, starting at $7.95 per month1. This plan provides unlimited access to the Audible Plus Catalog but does not include any credits for premium selection titles.

For those looking for more, the Audible Premium Plus plan is priced at $14.95 per month and comes with one credit each month. This credit can be exchanged for any audiobook in the extensive Audible library. There’s also a variant of this plan that offers two credits per month for $22.95.

Alternatively, if you’re an avid listener and prefer a yearly subscription, the Audible Premium Plus Annual plan costs $149.50 per year. It provides 12 credits at once, allowing you to pick up a year’s worth of audiobooks right away.

Audible Review: Is It Worth the Price?

Based on user experiences and professional assessments, Audible is generally considered to be well worth the price. The service’s vast library of over 500,000 titles ensures that listeners will always have something new to explore.

Users appreciate the flexibility of the various membership plans and the convenience of being able to listen anywhere, anytime. Audible’s additional features, like sleep tracks and chapter navigation, further enhance the listening experience.

Moreover, the Great Listen Guarantee gives users the confidence to try new authors or genres, knowing they can return an audiobook if it doesn’t meet their expectations.

How Does Audible Work – Everything You Need To Know [Oct 2023]

How does audible work – in a nutshell