Audiobooks have revolutionized the way we consume literature, offering a hands-free, on-the-go reading experience. With several platforms providing access to audiobooks, choosing the best service depends on factors like pricing, library size, exclusive content, and user benefits. In this guide, we compare leading audiobook subscription services, including Audible, Bookdio, Scribd (Everand), Google Play Books, Spotify, and Amazon Music Unlimited, to help you find the best audiobook subscription option for your needs.
1. Audible
Overview: Owned by Amazon, Audible is one of the most recognized audiobook services, offering an extensive library and exclusive content.
Pricing:
Audible Plus: $7.95/month – Unlimited access to a curated selection of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals.
Audible Premium Plus: $14.95/month – Includes all Audible Plus benefits plus one credit per month to redeem any audiobook.
Features:
Library size: 500,000+ titles.
Exclusive Audible Originals and podcasts.
Offline listening and device integration (Amazon Echo, mobile apps, etc.).
Pros: ✔ Vast selection, including bestsellers and new releases. ✔ High-quality audio and exclusive content. ✔ Discounts and promotions for members.
Cons: ✖ The credit-based model may not be ideal for some users. ✖ Unused credits expire after one year.
2. Bookdio
Overview: Bookdio is a unique platform that provides free audiobook summaries, delivering key insights from popular books in a concise, easy-to-understand format.
Pricing: Free
Features:
Free audiobook summaries on various topics.
Time-efficient learning, allowing users to absorb key takeaways quickly.
Accessible online without requiring an app download.
Pros: ✔ Completely free to use. ✔ Saves time by summarizing essential book concepts. ✔ Ideal for busy professionals, students, and casual learners.
Cons: ✖ It offers summaries, not full audiobooks. ✖ The library is limited compared to paid audiobook services.
Best For:
Casual listeners who want quick insights without committing to full-length books.
Students looking for supplementary material.
Professionals who need a fast way to stay informed.
3. Scribd (Everand)
Overview: Formerly Scribd, Everand offers an all-in-one subscription for audiobooks, e-books, magazines, and more.
Pricing: $11.99/month
Features:
Library size: 300,000+ audiobooks and 2 million e-books.
Includes magazines, documents, and sheet music.
Access is available on up to six devices; offline downloads are available.
Pros: ✔ Unlimited access to various content types. ✔ Affordable compared to credit-based services. ✔ User-friendly interface.
Cons: ✖ Some popular books may be unavailable at times. ✖ Heavy users may experience title restrictions.
Overview: Unlike subscription-based models, Google Play Books allows users to purchase audiobooks individually without a monthly fee.
Pricing: Varies per title (No subscription required)
Features:
Library size: 100,000+ audiobooks.
Cross-platform access (Android, iOS, web).
Offline downloads are available.
Pros: ✔ No recurring fees; buy only what you need. ✔ Frequent promotions and discounts. ✔ Seamless Google integration.
Cons: ✖ It lacks subscription benefits like monthly credits. ✖ Smaller selection compared to competitors.
5. Spotify
Overview: Primarily a music streaming platform, Spotify now offers audiobooks as part of its premium service.
Pricing: Included with Spotify Premium ($9.99/month)
Features:
Library size: Limited compared to dedicated audiobook services.
Integrated experience with music and podcasts.
Offline listening is available.
Pros: ✔ Great for existing Spotify subscribers. ✔ All-in-one platform for music, podcasts, and audiobooks.
Cons: ✖ Limited selection compared to other services. ✖ Lacks audiobook-specific features.
Overview: Amazon Music Unlimited now includes audiobooks as part of its subscription.
Pricing: $9.99/month (Prime members), $10.99/month (Non-Prime members)
Features:
The library includes a selection of audiobooks.
Subscribers get one free audiobook per month from Audible.
Offline listening and cross-device syncing.
Pros: ✔ Includes both music and audiobooks. ✔ Great value for Prime members.
Cons: ✖ Limited audiobook catalog compared to Audible. ✖ No unlimited audiobook access.
Final Recommendations - Best Audiobook Subscription
Best for Frequent Readers: Audible – Audible offers the most extensive library and high-quality production.
Best for Free Audiobook Summaries: Bookdio – This is Perfect for quick learning without any cost.
Best for Budget-Friendly Unlimited Access: Scribd (Everand) – It is Affordable and offers diverse content.
Best for One-Time Purchases: Google Play Books – Ideal for those who prefer buying audiobooks without a subscription.
Best for Multi-Use Streaming: Spotify & Amazon Music Unlimited – Good for those who already have a music subscription and want occasional audiobooks.
Each service has unique advantages, making it essential to choose based on your listening habits and preferences. Whether you want full-length audiobooks, summaries, or a mix of both, there's an option that fits your needs.
