Best Audiobook Subscription Services Compared for 2025
Listening to audiobooks is a simple way to enjoy stories and learn new things without having to sit down and read. Many services now offer easy access to thousands of audiobooks for a monthly fee. The best audiobook subscription services let people listen to their favorite books anytime, anywhere, and often at a lower cost than buying each book separately.
These services can be used on phones, tablets, or computers, making it easy to listen at home or on the go. Each service has different prices, book selections, and special features, so readers can choose a plan that fits their needs. Comparing these options helps listeners pick the right one for their reading habits. For online platforms promoting these services, using ecommerce SEO strategies can improve visibility and attract more audiobook enthusiasts searching for the best deals.
Quick List: Best Audiobook Subscription Services
- Audible
- Audiobooks.com
- Scribd
- Kobo Audiobooks
- Google Play Books
- Apple Books
- Storytel
- Bookbeat
- Bookmate
- Librivox
- Hoopla
- Blinkist
- getAbstract
- Follet
What Is an Audiobook Subscription?
An audiobook subscription is a service that lets people listen to digital books for a monthly or yearly fee. Users can stream or download books and listen on their phones, tablets, or computers.
Most audiobook subscription services work with popular apps. Some let users pick one or more books each month to keep. Others offer unlimited listening, like music streaming platforms.
Common features include:
- A wide selection of titles
- New book releases
- Personalized recommendations
- Offline listening
Some popular services include Audible, Libro.fm, Scribd, and Audiobooks.com.
Here is a simple table showing what is usually included:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | Fixed cost, paid every month |
| Book Credits | Get a set number of audiobooks |
| Unlimited Streaming | Listen to as many as you want |
| App Support | Use with phone or tablet apps |
| Members-Only Deals | Extra discounts or offers |
Audiobook subscriptions make it easier for people to enjoy books while doing other tasks. They are useful for commuters, busy parents, or anyone who prefers listening to reading.
Best Audiobook Subscription Services
Many audiobook platforms offer thousands of titles, special features, and different subscription choices. Some focus on exclusive content, while others give more flexibility on how you use credits or what extras you get.
Audible
Audible, owned by Amazon, is one of the most popular audiobook services. It has a big library with over 200,000 titles, including bestsellers, classic novels, and podcasts. Audible Originals are a highlight, offering exclusive stories you can’t find elsewhere.
Subscribers usually get one credit per month, good for any audiobook, plus unlimited listening to Audible’s Plus Catalog. The app works on most devices and saves your spot, so you can switch between listening on your phone and computer.
Membership starts at around $14.95 per month. Unused credits roll over for up to a year, and books you buy stay in your account even if you cancel. Audible gives a 30-day free trial for new users.
| Plan | Monthly Price | Credits per Month | Catalog Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audible Premium | $14.95 | 1 | Full access + Plus Catalog |
Audiobooks.com
Audiobooks.com has a wide selection of over 375,000 audiobooks, including new releases and kids’ books. The service lets you stream or download titles, making it easy to listen anywhere.
Subscribers get one credit each month to spend on any audiobook. There is also access to a VIP Rewards section, where members pick a free book each month from a special list. The app supports bookmarks, notes, and speed controls for playback.
Membership costs about $14.95 per month, similar to Audible. Users can try the service with a free 30-day trial, which includes three books during the first month. Unlike some platforms, Audiobooks.com has a focus on easy browsing and fast downloads.
Scribd
Scribd offers more than just audiobooks. It also gives unlimited access to ebooks, magazines, and sheet music, all for one monthly price. The audiobook library has thousands of titles, including popular fiction and nonfiction.
With a monthly fee of $11.99, users can listen to as many audiobooks as they want, but some titles may have limits based on demand or region. Scribd works across devices and saves your place automatically.
Other features include offline listening and recommendations based on your reading history. Subscribers get access to the full Scribd library, making this service a good choice for people who enjoy reading in different formats.
Other Leading Platforms for Audiobooks
Many audiobook listeners want options that fit their devices, budgets, and listening habits. The following platforms provide unique features, pricing, and selections, making them popular with a wide range of users.
Kobo Audiobooks
Kobo Audiobooks is part of Rakuten Kobo, known for its eReaders and digital books. This service offers a monthly subscription, usually at a lower price than some competitors. Each month, users get one credit to exchange for any audiobook, no matter the price.
Kobo’s library includes bestsellers, classics, and indie titles. The platform’s user interface is simple, and the Kobo Books app is available on iOS and Android. Those who already have a Kobo eReader can listen to audiobooks directly on some models, though not all versions support audio.
Notable features:
- Credits never expire
- 30-day free trial for new users
- No extra membership required for ebook purchases
Customers outside the United States may find Kobo especially appealing, since it supports several languages and local markets. There are also frequent discounts and promotions for members.
Google Play Books
Google Play Books does not require a monthly subscription. Instead, audiobooks are available to purchase individually with no ongoing fees. This “pay as you go” model works well for those who do not listen to a lot of books each month.
The service has a wide selection, from new releases to public domain classics. Once purchased, audiobooks are added to a user’s Google account and can be accessed on Android, iOS, or web browsers.
Advantages:
- No subscription or membership needed
- Syncs across all devices linked to Google
- Family Library sharing lets other family members listen to eligible purchases
Google Play Books lets users listen offline and set playback speed. It also integrates with Google Assistant and smart devices, allowing easy voice controls for hands-free listening.
Apple Books
Apple Books is available to anyone using Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Audiobooks can be bought individually through the Apple Books app with no subscription required.
The platform features a large catalog of bestsellers, exclusives, and children’s titles. Books can be browsed, purchased, and listened to all in one place. The app includes features such as sleep timers, bookmarking, and adjustable playback speed.
Key points:
- Tight integration with the Apple ecosystem
- Personalized recommendations based on past purchases
- Offline listening and iCloud library support
Apple Books also supports Family Sharing, so purchased audiobooks can be shared with up to six family members. The platform’s clean design makes finding and listening to audiobooks simple for Apple users.
Niche and International Audiobook Services
Some audiobook platforms are known for focusing on specific genres, languages, or countries. These services give listeners access to stories and voices not always found on bigger platforms.
Storytel
Storytel operates in over 25 countries, mainly in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It offers a wide selection of audiobooks in multiple languages, making it a strong choice for people outside English-speaking regions. Storytel’s library includes bestsellers and local authors, plus its own Storytel Originals.
The app features curated lists and family-friendly content. It is easy to search by language or category. Storytel uses a subscription model with unlimited listening each month.
Languages offered:
- English
- Spanish
- Swedish
- Hindi
- Dutch
and more.
Storytel supports offline listening and can be used on both Android and iOS devices.
Bookbeat
Bookbeat is available in several European countries, most notably Sweden, Finland, Germany, and the UK. It features a large catalog with many European authors, as well as popular books in English.
Bookbeat’s pricing is based on hours listened each month, starting from about 20 hours. This is different from other audiobook services that use a credit or unlimited model. Users can upgrade to more hours if needed.
The interface is simple and designed for quick browsing. Lists and recommendations can be filtered by language, category, or popularity. Bookbeat has family account options for households.
Bookbeat offers support for Android, iOS, and web listening. Key languages besides English include German, Swedish, and Finnish.
Bookmate
Bookmate has a global reach, with a strong presence in Russia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Its content is available in more than ten languages, including Russian, Spanish, Turkish, and English.
Bookmate works as both an audiobook and ebook service. The monthly subscription includes unlimited access to a variety of genres, indie publications, and classics. The platform is known for its personal recommendations, with social features that let users follow friends or share recommendations.
Bookmate users can create their own bookshelves and listen or read offline. The tablet and mobile apps support both iOS and Android. Bookmate is valued for supporting less common languages and regional content often missing from mainstream services.
Free and Alternative Audiobook Sources
Some audiobook services do not require a monthly payment. Libraries and public projects can offer thousands of free books. These options are useful for budget-conscious listeners or those seeking classics and lesser-known titles.
Librivox
Librivox provides free audiobooks from the public domain. Volunteers read and record books, so the selection focuses on older works like classic literature and historical documents. The website is easy to use. Users can search by author, title, or genre. Librivox audiobooks can be streamed online or downloaded as MP3 files for offline listening.
There are no subscription fees or sign-ups required. The quality of recordings may vary, as different volunteers read different chapters. Many popular works, such as Pride and Prejudice and Moby-Dick, are available in several versions. Librivox is available worldwide, making it accessible to almost anyone with internet access.
Hoopla
Hoopla is a digital service provided by many public libraries in the United States and Canada. With a library card, users can borrow audiobooks, eBooks, music, movies, and more at no cost. Audiobooks can be borrowed for a set period, usually 21 days, and are automatically returned when the loan ends.
The catalog includes both new releases and popular titles. Unlike some library systems, Hoopla lets users stream or download audiobooks. There are no late fees or waitlists for most items. The number of checkouts per month is limited by each library, so the exact loan limits may vary. Registration requires only a valid library card and email address.
Specialty and Educational Audiobook Services
Some audiobook services focus on learning, professional growth, and educational resources rather than general entertainment. These platforms often feature book summaries, academic texts, or school-focused audiobooks.
Blinkist
Blinkist is designed for people who want to learn quickly. It offers summaries of nonfiction books, called "Blinks," that last about 15 minutes each. Users can listen to or read these summaries, making it easier to gain knowledge without spending hours on a full book.
Topics include business, self-help, psychology, and science. Blinkist releases new summaries every week from bestsellers and classic titles. The app is available on phones and web browsers, making it easy to access anywhere.
Blinkist charges a monthly or yearly fee. It lets users download summaries for offline use. There is also a feature called “Shortcasts,” which condenses podcast episodes alongside book summaries.
getAbstract
getAbstract is aimed at professionals and students who need access to quality business content. The service provides summaries of books, articles, and reports in business, leadership, finance, and technology.
Summaries are usually around five pages or 10 minutes in audio format. Content comes from publishers, industry experts, and researchers. The platform covers thousands of titles and updates its collection regularly. Some summaries are also available in other languages, including German and Spanish.
getAbstract offers both personal and business subscriptions. It provides integrations with platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams for organizations. Many companies and universities use getAbstract to provide learning resources to their teams.
Follet
Follet focuses on educational audiobooks for schools and students. The service supplies schools with a library of audiobooks, ebooks, and other digital resources for all grade levels.
Content includes both fiction and nonfiction. There are classic novels, textbooks, and learning materials that support the school curriculum. Follet partners with publishers to offer age-appropriate and teacher-approved content.
Access works through the Follet Destiny platform, which allows teachers to manage, assign, and track student reading. Follet supports group licensing, making it suitable for whole classrooms and large school districts. The service is used by K-12 schools across the United States.
Subscription Features and Pricing
Audiobook subscription services offer a range of plans and special deals. The main differences are in what you get each month, the number of books you can access, and the price.
Membership Plans and Costs
Most audiobook services have tiered membership plans. For example, Audible offers the Audible Plus plan at $7.95 per month and the Audible Premium Plus plan at $14.95 per month. The Plus plan gives access to a streaming library, while Premium Plus includes one credit each month to buy any audiobook.
Scribd charges $11.99 per month for unlimited listening, but there may be limits on popular books during high demand. Apple Books and Google Play Books do not charge a subscription fee but sell audiobooks one by one.
Here's a quick comparison:
| Service | Price Per Month | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Audible Plus | $7.95 | Streaming only |
| Audible Premium | $14.95 | 1 credit + streaming |
| Scribd | $11.99 | Unlimited (some limits) |
| Libro.fm | $14.99 | 1 credit, supports local |
Choosing depends on how many audiobooks someone listens to each month and whether they prefer streaming or ownership.
Trial Offers and Promotions
Many services offer free trials to new members. Audible gives a 30-day free trial, with 1 or 2 free audiobooks depending on the plan. Scribd usually offers a 30-day free trial as well.
Some services, like Libro.fm, may have special sign-up deals or extra credits in the first month. Occasionally, bigger promotions run on holidays or special events, adding extra weeks to trial offers or giving bonus content.
It is common for members to cancel at any time during the trial with no charge. When choosing, readers should check if the free trial matches their listening habits. Promotional deals are often featured on the homepage or through sign-up emails, so checking regularly can be useful.
Device Compatibility and App Experience
Audiobook subscription services differ in the devices they support and the ease of their user apps. Both of these factors can affect how and where someone listens to their audiobooks.
Supported Devices
Most top audiobook services offer apps for major platforms like iOS and Android. Many also have web players for desktop computers. Some, such as Audible, go further with support for Alexa speakers, Kindle devices, and even some smartwatches.
The table below shows the typical device support for popular providers:
| Provider | iOS | Android | Windows/Mac | Kindle | Smart Speakers | Car Integration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audible | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ (Web) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Libro.fm | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ (Web) | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ (CarPlay/AA) |
| Google Play | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ (Web) | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ (CarPlay/AA) |
| Scribd | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ (Web) | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ (CarPlay/AA) |
Users with specific devices, such as Kindles or smartwatches, should check compatibility before choosing a service. Car integration, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is helpful for listening during drives.
App Usability
Easy navigation and reliable playback are important for audiobook apps. Most major services feature large buttons, clear menus, and search functions that help users find books quickly. Speed controls, chapter skips, and bookmarking are standard on many apps.
Some services, like Audible and Scribd, add extras such as sleep timers, recommendations, and downloadable content for offline listening. Personalized libraries and progress syncing across devices make it simple for users to pick up where they left off.
Technical support, regular app updates, and few reported glitches improve the app experience. Users often look at app ratings and reviews to choose a service with stable, easy-to-use features.
Content Selection and Exclusive Titles
Audiobook subscription services give listeners access to thousands of titles covering many interests. Some platforms also offer special content, including audiobooks you cannot find anywhere else.
Genres and Catalog Variety
Different audiobook services have different catalogs. Audible is known for its large selection, featuring over 200,000 audiobooks across categories like fiction, non-fiction, self-help, business, and children’s books. Scribd includes audiobooks, eBooks, magazines, and even sheet music, making it appealing for people who want more than just audiobooks.
Most services organize their libraries by genres, making it easy to browse. Some platforms also highlight new releases, bestsellers, and staff picks. Libro.fm stands out for its connection to independent bookstores and supports a diverse range of popular and niche genres. It is important for listeners to check if their favorite authors and subjects are available before choosing a service.
| Service | Number of Titles | Notable Genres |
|---|---|---|
| Audible | 200,000+ | Fiction, Non-fiction, Kids |
| Scribd | 100,000+ | Mysteries, Romance, Biographies |
| Libro.fm | 300,000+ | Indie picks, Memoirs |
Original and Exclusive Audiobooks
Some audiobook subscriptions offer original content as a main selling point. Audible has Audible Originals, which are exclusive audiobooks, podcasts, and series produced in-house. These can include celebrity narrators and popular authors writing special stories just for the platform.
Scribd Originals adds unique nonfiction and stories only available to their subscribers. Spotify recently started providing exclusive audiobook access as part of its premium plans, including popular titles and special editions.
This exclusive content gives subscribers access to stories not sold in regular bookstores or on other platforms. Many listeners value these titles for their fresh topics and the chance to hear something new. Exclusive audiobooks help each subscription stand out and may influence which service people pick.
Listening Experience and Offline Access
Access to audiobooks on the go and how users control their listening both matter for daily use. Subscription services differ in how they handle downloads, storage, and playback options.
Offline Listening Options
Most major audiobook services, like Audible and Scribd, allow users to download books for offline listening. This lets users listen without an internet connection, which is useful for travel or unreliable Wi-Fi. Typically, downloads are managed within the app and can be deleted to free up space.
Downloading is usually fast, with books available in a few seconds to minutes, depending on file size and internet speed. Some platforms offer the option to download whole books or only certain chapters. Storage limits usually depend on device space rather than the app’s policy.
The table below shows downloading options for popular services:
| Service | Download Entire Book | Download Chapters | Remove Downloads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audible | Yes | No | Yes |
| Scribd | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Libro.fm | Yes | No | Yes |
| Audiobooks.com | Yes | No | Yes |
Listening Features and Controls
Playback features help users control how they experience each book. Most audiobook apps include adjustable playback speeds, a sleep timer, and the ability to skip ahead or rewind. Speed choices usually range from 0.5x to 3x, letting users listen as slow or fast as they want.
Bookmarking and note-taking are commonly supported for marking favorite parts or making reminders. Some platforms allow syncing progress across devices, so users can start on a phone and continue on a tablet or computer without losing their place.
A typical set of controls includes:
- Play/Pause
- Rewind/Skip Forward (15–30 seconds)
- Speed Adjust
- Sleep Timer
- Bookmarks
These options make it simple to fit audiobooks into any daily routine, whether during commutes, workouts, or before bed.
Family and Sharing Options
Several audiobook services support sharing. This can allow families or groups to share a subscription and listen on different devices. Some accounts also let users give subscriptions or books as gifts.
Family Plans
Most big services like Audible and Scribd do not offer a real family plan where multiple people can have separate profiles under one subscription. Each member needs to buy their own plan. However, some apps, like Google Play Books and Apple Books, use family sharing features built into their platforms. With Google Family Library or Apple Family Sharing, up to six people can share purchased audiobooks without paying extra.
A table comparing top services:
| Service | Family Plan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Audible | No | One account only |
| Scribd | No | One account only |
| Google Play Books | Yes | Uses Google Family Library |
| Apple Books | Yes | Uses Apple Family Sharing |
Using family sharing means everyone can listen on their own device and keep their own progress.
Gifting and Group Accounts
Audiobook services almost always support gifting. Audible, Libro.fm, and others let you buy credits, gift memberships, or send specific audiobooks. This is helpful for birthdays or holidays since the recipient does not need a subscription to enjoy the gift.
Group accounts are less common. Services focused on libraries, like OverDrive/Libby or Hoopla, are made for groups but are tied to a library card rather than a household membership. For most paid services, joint access is done by sharing account details, which is often against the platform's rules. Gifting and sharing options can make trying audiobooks easier for families or friends.
Customer Support and User Reviews
Audiobook subscribers often want both reliable support and chances to connect with other listeners. Experiences with customer service, platform help options, and social features can all affect satisfaction.
Customer Service Quality
Most audiobook services offer several ways to reach customer support, including live chat, email, and phone options. Audible and Libro.fm, for example, both provide 24/7 support and detailed FAQ pages. Smaller services like Scribd may only offer email or ticket support, sometimes with slower response times.
Good platforms give users clear guidelines for fixing payment issues, troubleshooting app problems, and handling returns or refunds. Some services also send quick confirmations or updates when requests are received. The table below gives a comparison of support methods.
| Service | Live Chat | Email Support | Phone Support | FAQ/Help Center |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audible | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Libro.fm | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Scribd | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Google Play Books | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Community and Sharing
Some audiobook apps offer features for readers to share book recommendations, reviews, and reading progress. Audible has a review system where users can rate and comment on audiobooks. These reviews help other listeners decide if a book is right for them.
Many services now let users follow friends or join groups to exchange their book lists or favorite narrators. Libro.fm’s community feature lets people connect with local bookstores and join themed playlists. However, options vary; not all platforms emphasize social connections.
User feedback about these community features is mixed. Some enjoy the interaction and discover new books through others’ posts. Others prefer platforms with a more private or solo listening experience.
Emerging and Regional Audiobook Players
Several audiobook services have grown outside the major brands, focusing on specific regions or audiences. These platforms often offer unique catalogs, different pricing models, and support for more languages.
Downpour
Downpour is a US-based service with a strong catalog of titles. It is known for its DRM-free downloads, letting users keep and use their audiobooks anywhere, even after they cancel their subscription.
- Subscription: $12.99/month for one credit
- Catalog: Over 80,000 titles, including many classics and new releases
- Formats: MP3, DRM-free
- Extras: Rent or buy options available
Downpour also offers sales on individual audiobooks. Unlike some bigger services, it allows both renting and buying, which can save money for people who only want to listen once.
Mofibo
Mofibo is popular mainly in Denmark and other parts of Scandinavia. It is owned by Storytel and gives users unlimited access to a wide range of audiobooks and ebooks for a fixed monthly price.
- Subscription: Around $15/month, unlimited listening
- Languages: Focus on Danish, Swedish, and English titles
- Catalog: Thousands of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books
- App Features: Personalized recommendations, offline listening
Mofibo focuses on local authors and exclusive content. It supports family accounts and has a strong presence in European countries that are not always well-served by global brands.
Ubook
Ubook began in Brazil and targets Latin American audiences. It stands out for its wide selection in Portuguese and Spanish, including bestsellers, local writers, and podcasts.
- Subscription: Around $5-7/month, unlimited listening
- Languages: Portuguese, Spanish, with some English content
- Content Types: Audiobooks, podcasts, magazines, even audio series
- Availability: Accessible in over 15 countries
Ubook’s app is easy to use and includes special features like sleep timers and offline listening. It appeals to users looking for local language options and an affordable price.