Which Audiobook App is Right For You? Audible, Libby, Everand, and Spotify
Update on 1/18/25. Everand is now also doing credits similar to audible. This means they are no longer offering unlimited audiobooks, they have a premium section that costs 1 credit, or a price, and the non-premium section is all you can listen if you are a member. I also recently learned about Libro.fm which is similar in credits and price to Audible, but supports local bookstores.
Audiobooks have become an increasingly popular way to consume literature, and with the rise of various apps, it’s easier than ever to enjoy your favorite books on the go. In this review, I share the major pros and cons of the four prominent audiobook services: Audible, Libby, Everand, and Spotify. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so let's dive into the details to help you decide which one might be right for you.
Audible
Pros:
Extensive Library: Audible boasts a vast selection of audiobooks, offering numerous titles across various genres. With a membership, you get credits that can be used to purchase books from this extensive library.
Exclusive Content: Audible often features exclusive content, including original audio productions and early releases.
Cons:
Cost: Audible is relatively expensive at $14.95 a month, compared to the other services. The subscription fee covers one book per month, but additional books can add up.
Limited Premium Books: While Audible Premium offers extra books each month that do not cost a credit, this library is lacking major titles.
Libby
Pros:
Cost: Libby is entirely free to use through your local library, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. It connects with your local library, giving you access to a wide range of audiobooks and eBooks.
Request Feature: If a library doesn’t currently offer the book you wish to listen to you can request it and libraries often fill these requests
Cons:
Wait Times: Due to its reliance on library systems, you might experience long wait times for popular books.
Everand
Pros:
Affordability: At $11.99 per month for unlimited books, Everand is a cost-effective choice if you’re an avid listener.
E-Book Integration: The app also offers eBooks, providing a multi-format experience for readers.
Cons:
Selection Limitations: The library isn’t as extensive as some other services. The range and quality of books may vary, so finding specific titles might be more challenging.
Playback speed: Everand limits your playback speed to random increments (1.5, 1.8, 2.0, 2.5 etc) and caps at 3x playback speed.
Spotify
Pros:
Included in Plan: If you already have a Spotify premium subscription, some 15 hours of listening time are included without additional cost making it a budget-friendly option for occasional listeners.
Cons:
Limited Listening Time: The 15-hour listening time limit means you’ll need to pay extra for additional hours or content. If a book take 15 hours at 1x speed but you listen at 2x speed it still counts as 15 hours.
Selection and Availability: The selection is smaller than Libby or Audible and you have to pay extra for some books.
Cost: If you want to use Spotify solely for audiobooks the 9.99 a month for 15 hours of listening is steep.
Each audiobook app has its own unique set of advantages and drawbacks:
Audible is ideal for dedicated listeners who want a vast library and don’t mind the cost.
Libby is a great choice for those who want free access and are okay with waiting for popular titles.
Everand offers a budget-friendly, unlimited listening experience but may lack in selection.
Spotify is perfect for current subscribers looking to add a bit of audiobook content to their existing plan without a major commitment.
Consider your priorities—whether it’s cost, selection, or convenience—when choosing the best audiobook app for you. Happy listening!