Best Audiobook Apps for books | Part 1: Subscription based apps

So, do you love audiobooks.....well, I do. I recently listened to one or two audiobooks and could not stop falling in love with them. They are so convenient to listen to especially when you have a lot of work to do besides reading books. They come in handy don't you think. In recent years audiobooks have emerged as a beloved companion for people like me i.e. book enthusiasts and multitaskers alike. With the surge in audiobook consumption, a lot of apps have flooded the market, each targeting the top spot in delivering exceptional listening experiences. So, to navigate this sea of options, I have researched and curated a list of 10 subscription-based apps for you to try:

1. Audible

Audible stands at the top of the list. It is backed by Amazon and has an extensive library containing every title that is out there. It also analyzes your listening history to offer personalized suggestions There are also subscription plans; Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus, which cater to diverse reading preferences. Moreover, the inclusion of Audible Originals and the option to retain purchased titles indefinitely make it a frontrunner in the audiobook domain.

Subscription Plans:

It has two plans;

Audible Plus: $7.95 per month (unlimited access to Plus catalog)
Audible Premium Plus: $14.95 per month (unlimited access to Plus catalog and 1 credit for any book in the full catalog)

2. Scribd

Scribd is an appealing option for people looking for a diverse reading experience. In addition to audiobooks, Scribd's collection includes ebooks and podcasts too. Scribd also has introduced a flat rate for unlimited access to audiobooks, ebooks, and a magazine library. This effectively went viral since, before this everyone was required to pay for audiobooks separately. So, it is a great opportunity for readers.

Subscription Plans:

It has one subscription plan with access to a limited number of titles) at $11.99/month

Did you know Scribd provides an open publishing platform? You can self-publish an audiobook in minutes!

3. Kobo Books

Renowned for its prowess in ebook retailing, Kobo Books extends its expertise to the realm of audiobooks. With budget-friendly subscription plans like Kobo Plus Listen and Kobo Plus Read and Listen, Kobo Books grants unlimited access to an extensive audiobook collection. Notably, its meticulous organization and insightful analytics empower readers to delve deeper into their literary pursuits.

Subscription Plans:

It has two plans;

Kobo Plus Listen: $9.99 per month (unlimited access to all audiobooks)
Kobo Plus Read and Listen: $12.99 per month (unlimited access to all audiobooks and ebooks)

4. Blinkist

This is more than simply an audiobook app. It basically specializes in concise summaries of nonfiction literature, providing vital insights into the book in minutes, thus easily adapting to today's fast-paced lifestyles. While its membership plans may appear expensive, the promise of personalized suggestions and subsidized access to full-length audiobooks increases its worth.

Subscription Plans:

It has two plans;

Yearly plan— $8.34 per month (unlimited access to all blinks)
Monthly plan — $15.99/month (unlimited access to all blinks)

5. Barnes and Noble’s Nook

Barnes & Noble's Nook goes beyond traditional audiobook applications. It has a large collection of ebooks, digital comics, magazines, and audiobooks. Its subscription strategy offers a fully engaging experience for readers while cultivating a vibrant bibliophile community.

Subscription Plans:

It has a yearly plan— $14.99 per month

6. Realm FM

Realm FM uniquely does things by crafting engaging programs and podcasts with bite-sized episodes geared to varied tastes, featuring fascinating storylines from a variety of genres. While it lacks conventional audiobook material, its devotion to uniqueness and creative narrative makes it a hidden gem. Realm FM is available for both iOS and Android.

Subscription Plans:

It has two plans;

Yearly plan — $29.99 per year (unlimited access)
Monthly plan — $3.99/month (unlimited access)

7. Bookmobile

Bookmobile differentiates itself by stressing the user experience and providing seamless interaction with numerous audiobook sources. Bookmobile caters to audiobook lovers with a wide range of interests by making material from iTunes, Audible, and other platforms easily accessible. Its user-friendly UI and integrated driving mode demonstrate its commitment to improving the audiobook listening experience, making it an excellent choice for readers.

Subscription plan:

It has a monthly plan — $3.99/month (unlimited access)

8. Smart Audiobook Player

Smart Audiobook Player revolutionizes audiobook listening by putting customization at the forefront. By allowing users to contribute their own audio recordings, Smart Audiobook Player provides unrivaled versatility in creating individualized reading experiences. While it lacks pre-existing material, its extensive feature set, which includes customizable book covers and flawless compatibility with a variety of audio sources, distinguishes it as a go-to platform for audiobook lovers looking for personalized experiences.

Subscription Plans:

It has a Monthly plan with unlimited access starting at $1.99/month.

9. eStories

With its extensive library spanning multiple genres, eStories entices audiobook fans with tempting offers and membership benefits. From discounted pricing on extra audiobooks to extended return periods, eStories strives to improve the audiobook experience for its users. Furthermore, its unlimited storage option demonstrates its dedication to encouraging an inquiry and discovery culture among audiobook fans.

Subscription Plans:

It has two membership plans

First three months — $5.99 per book per month
Post first three months — $11.9 per book per month

10. Downpour:

Downpour reinvents audiobook consumption by proposing a renting model that provides affordable access to a large variety of audiobooks. Its customizable rental lengths, together with crucial features like offline listening and various playing speeds, appeal to audiobook lovers with a variety of tastes. Furthermore, its subscription-based membership, supplemented by free audiobook options, increases accessibility.