Be honest. How many books have you started this year and never finished?
I’m not judging, life gets busy, and our phones are a major distraction.
Here’s the good news. The same phone that steals your attention can also help you read more. You just need the right app for the way you actually live.
So let’s walk through the best apps for reading, whether you want ebooks, audiobooks, free library books, or a some encouragement to keep going.
What are the best apps for reading?
The best apps for reading are Google Play Books (Android) and Apple Books (iPhone) for everyday ebooks, Kobo for tracking your reading, Everand for wide choice, Hoopla for free library books, Speechify for listening to any text, and StoryGraph, Bookly and Fable for staying motivated. Choose based on the phone you have and what stops you from reading.
Which reading app fits you?
| If you… | Try this app |
|---|---|
| Use an Android phone | Google Play Books |
| Use an iPhone | Apple Books |
| Love stats and goals | Kobo |
| Read a lot and want choice | Everand |
| Want free books from a library | Hoopla |
| Struggle to sit and focus | Speechify |
| Need motivation | StoryGraph, Bookly or Fable |
Apps for reading on your phone
1. Google Play Books
If you have an Android phone, this app is probably already on it. You can buy ebooks and audiobooks, grab free classics, and even upload your own PDF or EPUB files. It’s simple, light, and doesn’t need much space.
The catch is that store availability depends on your country, so check what you can buy where you live.
Best for: Android users who want something simple.
2. Apple Books
On an iPhone or iPad, Apple Books is the easy starting point. You can download free samples, set a daily reading goal, and sort books into collections so your pile feels less scary.
Best for: iPhone users who like a clean, simple look.
3. Kobo
Kobo works on phones, tablets and its own e-readers. I like it for the reading stats, which show how much you’ve read and how your habit is growing. Seeing the numbers go up is surprisingly motivating.
Some extras, like its subscription, depend on where you live.
Best for: readers who love tracking their progress.
Apps for reading more without spending more
4. Everand
Everand (formerly part of Scribd) is a subscription app with ebooks, audiobooks and magazines all in one place. If you read widely and hate being stuck with one book, it’s worth a free trial. Just remember to cancel if you stop using it.
Best for: big readers who like variety.
5. Hoopla
Hoopla lets you borrow ebooks, audiobooks and comics for free through a participating library. There’s usually no waiting list, so you can start reading right away. There’s often a monthly borrowing limit, and it only works if your library offers it.
Best for: free, instant books.
Apps for when you can’t sit still
6. Speechify
Some days your eyes are tired but your mind still wants to learn. Speechify reads text aloud, including PDFs, articles and documents, so you can read while walking or cooking. The free version is limited, and the nicer voices are paid.
Best for: busy people and anyone who finds long text tiring.
Apps that keep you motivated
7. StoryGraph
Think of StoryGraph as a reading journal with brains. You log your books, set goals, and see stats on your habits. It also suggests books based on your mood and the pace you like, which beats scrolling endlessly for your next read.
Best for: tracking books and finding what to read next.
8. Bookly
Bookly has a reading timer, daily goals and streaks. If you’re the type who needs a little competition with yourself, start the timer, read for twenty minutes, and watch the streak grow.
Best for: building a daily reading streak.
9. Fable
Reading is more fun with friends. Fable is built around book clubs and sharing what you’re reading, so you can discuss a book as you go. It’s perfect if you need accountability.
Best for: readers who love book clubs.
Already have Kindle, Libby or Audible?
Those big names are great too, and I’ve covered them already. Read my guide to the Bible and reading apps for daily growth
How to read more using an app
An app only helps if you open it. Here’s what works:
- Read ten minutes a day. Small and steady beats big and rare.
- Pick one app and use it for two weeks before trying another.
- Keep your book on your home screen where you’ll see it.
- Turn off one distraction. Silence one app while you read.
- Celebrate finishing, even the little books.
Want more ways to grow? You might enjoy these life-changing podcasts for your mindset and my tips on taking massive action.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best app for reading books?
Google Play Books is a good choice on Android, and Apple Books on iPhone. Both are easy to use and have free samples.
What is the best free app for reading books?
Hoopla is a great free option if your library offers it. Google Play Books and Project Gutenberg also have free classic books.
Which app is best for listening instead of reading?
Speechify reads any text aloud. For audiobooks, Everand and Google Play Books both offer them.
How can I stay motivated to read?
Use a tracker like StoryGraph or Bookly, set a small daily goal, and join a book club on Fable.
Final thoughts
You don’t need every app on this list. You need one that fits your phone and your life. Download one today, read for ten minutes, and see how it feels.
Which app are you trying first? Tell me in the comments.
