Audiobooks have become a part of everyday life. Instead of sitting down with a book, many people now prefer listening while doing other tasks. You can enjoy audiobooks while commuting, walking, working out, or even relaxing at home.
Thanks to modern smartphones, audiobook apps work smoothly on both iPhone and Android. Most of them support offline listening, so internet access is not always required. Many apps also suggest new titles based on your listening habits, making discovery easier.
With so many choices available, picking the right app can make a big difference.
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How We Chose These Audiobook Apps
Not all audiobook apps offer the same experience. Some focus on subscriptions, while others let you buy books one by one. To create this list, we compared apps on both iOS and Android devices.
We looked at pricing, content variety, audio quality, offline performance, and ease of use. User feedback and real-world usage were also considered. The goal was to find apps that feel practical, reliable, and enjoyable for everyday listeners.
Audible – Best Overall Audiobook App
Audible continues to be one of the strongest audiobook platforms available. It offers a massive library with hundreds of thousands of titles, including popular releases, podcasts, and exclusive original content.
The app works on a credit system. You receive credits each month and use them to pick audiobooks. Once you buy a title, it stays in your library permanently. The listening experience is smooth, with clear narration and reliable downloads for offline use.
Audible also supports features like Apple Watch, CarPlay, and device syncing across platforms. Personalized suggestions help you find books that match your interests.
Pros
- Large and diverse audiobook collection
- Smooth playback and strong app performance
- Purchased books remain yours
Cons
- No free listening without a paid plan
- Extra benefits depend on membership level
Audiobooks.com – Best Budget-Friendly Choice
Audiobooks.com is a good option for listeners who want value without sacrificing variety. New users get a free trial that includes multiple audiobooks. The platform offers a mix of premium titles, podcasts, and relaxation content.
Each month, subscribers receive credits that can be used to select books. Additional credits can be purchased if needed. Family sharing is available, which makes it useful for households with multiple listeners.
Offline listening works well most of the time, though occasional issues have been reported by users.
Pros
- Large library with audiobooks and podcasts
- Flexible credit system
- Family sharing supported
Cons
- Subscription required after the trial
- Offline playback may not always be perfect
Google Play Books – Best Without a Subscription
Google Play Books does not require a monthly membership. You simply pay for the audiobooks you want. This makes it a solid choice for casual listeners who don’t consume audiobooks regularly.
The app allows previews before purchase and supports family sharing. Users can earn reward points that convert into store credits, which helps reduce costs over time.
Along with audiobooks, the app also supports ebooks, comics, and manga. Syncing works well across Android devices, and hands-free controls are available on supported platforms.
Pros
- No subscription fees
- Pay only for what you listen to
- Family sharing included
Cons
- Some device compatibility limits
- Fewer advanced audiobook features
Kobo Books – Best for eReader Users
Kobo Books is ideal for users who enjoy both reading and listening. The platform supports millions of ebooks and a large audiobook collection. You can switch between devices without losing your place.
The app offers customizable reading options like adjustable fonts, day and night modes, and built-in tools that improve the reading experience. Audiobook listeners also get personalized suggestions based on past activity.
Availability may vary by region, and the app performs best on Android devices.
Pros
- Works well for both ebooks and audiobooks
- Device syncing without losing progress
- Clean and customizable interface
Cons
- Content depends on location
- Better experience on Android than iOS
Scribd – Best All-in-One Subscription
Scribd offers a single monthly plan that includes audiobooks, ebooks, podcasts, magazines, and newspapers. Instead of buying individual titles, users get access to a large rotating library.
The platform is great for people who like variety and don’t mind not owning titles permanently. Some popular books may have temporary access limits, but the overall value remains strong for frequent listeners.
Pros
- Huge mixed content library
- One affordable monthly fee
- Includes audiobooks and reading material
Cons
- Titles are not owned permanently
- Access to certain books may be limited
Libby – Best Free Library App
Libby connects directly to public libraries. With a valid library card, you can borrow audiobooks at no cost. The app is simple to use and supports offline downloads.
Playback speed controls, bookmarks, notes, and sleep timers are included. Availability depends on your local library, so popular titles may require waiting.
This app is perfect for students and anyone looking to save money.
Hoopla – Instant Library Access
Hoopla is another library-based app, but it focuses on instant borrowing. Most titles can be accessed without long wait times. Along with audiobooks, it also includes movies, music, comics, and TV shows.
Offline listening works well, though monthly borrowing limits may apply depending on your library.
LibriVox – Free Classic Audiobooks
LibriVox provides free audiobooks from the public domain. The library mainly includes classic literature, poetry, and historical works in multiple languages.
Because recordings are created by volunteers, narration quality can vary. Still, it’s an excellent option for fans of classic books who want free access.
Storytel – Best for Regional and Multilingual Content
Storytel focuses on international audiences and offers strong regional content. The app includes exclusive originals and supports both reading and listening in one place.
Users can track progress, follow favorite authors, and download books for offline use. It’s especially useful for listeners who prefer non-English or local language titles.
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Final Thoughts
Audiobook apps make reading more flexible than ever. Whether you want premium content, unlimited access, or completely free options, there’s an app that fits your needs.
Audible stands out for serious listeners. Scribd and Kobo offer great value. Google Play Books works well for occasional use. Libby and Hoopla are excellent free alternatives.
Choose an app based on how often you listen and what kind of content you enjoy. Once you start, stories are always just a tap away.
Jatin Rajput (Tech Golu) — Tech blogger & YouTuber with 6+ years of experience in WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and mobile guides. Founder of TechGolu.in.