Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
Happiness
Did you know that the average person spends over 4.5 hours a day on their smartphone? Imagine transforming those hours into a productive, self-improving reading session.
Finding the perfect app to read books on your phone can change your learning experience. But how do you choose the best book app that suits your reading habits and goals?
Reading is no longer confined to physical books. With the rise of e-readers and digital platforms, book reading apps have become essential for readers.
For those of you who are always on the move, Headway is a top pick. Our app turns the most important insights from non-fiction books into 15-minute summaries. If you want to improve your productivity or learn about self-growth, download the Headway app! It is the perfect solution without requiring a big time commitment.
Find your next favorite book faster
• 2K+ book summaries always at your fingertips
• Save audio highlights of the best ideas
• Learn smarter in just 15 minutes
Why you should consider e-reading apps: Benefits included
E-reading apps do more than just save space in your bag. They offer unique benefits, including:
Accessibility: Read anywhere, anytime, even without an internet connection, thanks to offline download options.
Customizability: Adjust the font, background color, and line spacing to create a personalized reading experience.
Search Features: Find definitions, notes, or specific sections within a book to enhance your reading experience.
Interactive Options: Progress tracking and goal-setting features can help you with motivation and focus on your reading journey.
Today's best reading apps provide a streamlined and convenient way to carry your entire library in your pocket. No one reaches a bookshelf or gets a library card anymore. With a smartphone, you can access thousands of titles, customize your reading experience, and even track your progress.
Top 10 best apps to read books: 2025 edition
We've compiled a list of the top 10 best book apps for reading, covering everything from e-book readers to specialized apps that cater to audiobooks and self-help summaries. Whether you're an Android or Apple user or need a customized reading experience, there's an app for every type of reader.
Here are the best reading apps that will elevate your reading experience:
1. Headway
If you struggle to find time to read full-length books, Headway is the perfect solution. Our app specializes in bite-sized learning, offering detailed 15-minute summaries of bestselling nonfiction books.
Trying to stay on top of the latest self-development trend? Want to improve productivity or just gain new knowledge? Headway does it all by offering key takeaways in the form of short and engaging snippets. The app is available in the App Store and Google Play.
Headway offers an extensive selection of titles in text and audio formats, so you can choose how to consume your content based on your preferences. It also supports offline reading, allowing you to download summaries and read or listen to them without an internet connection.
Key features:
15-minute summaries of popular non-fiction books, helping you get the core insights in no time
Available in both text and audio formats to match your reading or listening preferences
Offline reading so you can keep reading, even without internet access
Progress tracking, goal-setting, and personalized growth plans to keep you motivated and on track
With Headway, you can turn your free moments into opportunities for self-improvement. It is also great for busy professionals that require learning during multi-tasking. And the seven-day free trial lets you try out the app before you commit.
2. ReadEra
ReadEra is a flexible and easy-to-use app that supports multiple e-book formats, including PDF, ePUB, and MS Word. One of its most convenient features is automatically detecting and adding compatible files from your device into the app's library.
The thing that makes ReadEra so admirable is that there are no advertisements in either version. And even in the free version, there are options to customize settings like font size, background color, and line spacing for a more personalized reading experience.
Whether you're reading a book on your phone or tablet, ReadEra is an easy, distraction-free environment to read comfortably.
Key features:
One of the few free reading apps without ads or intrusive purchases
Offline reading options for reading on the go, even without an internet connection
Customizable settings and functionality, including font size, background color, and line spacing
Supports multiple formats, including PDF, ePUB, and MS Word
While ReadEra is perfect for Android users, it's a shame that iOS users miss out on this app. However, for Android users, it offers an incredibly smooth and straightforward reading experience without all the extra clutter.
3. eBoox
eBoox is a phenomenal app for EBook novices. It's very simple to use, ad-free, and refreshing for anyone interested in reading without distractions. It accepts ePUB and PDF formats, which is why it is useful to have different types of file formats available.
eBoox also boasts fantastic Natural Language Processing (NLP) technology, making its audio feature a pleasure. Whether you're reading or listening to audiobooks, eBoox provides a seamless experience. Plus, its Google Drive integration allows you to sync your books across all your devices for a truly connected experience.
Key features:
Ad-free reading experience, allowing you to focus solely on the content
Natural Language Processing (NLP) for a smooth, enjoyable audiobook experience
Syncing across devices via Google Drive, keeping your library up-to-date everywhere
Simple and user-friendly interface that's perfect for eBook beginners
With eBoox, you'll get a clean and simple reading environment. It's free, making it a no-brainer for those looking for an easy-to-use app to start their eBook journey.
4. Epic
Epic is the app for young readers and families that has the most options. There is an extensive collection of children's books, learning tools, and games to help cultivate a love for reading in children of all ages. From picture books to early chapter books, Epic is a fun and interactive way to engage children with reading.
One of Epic's standout features is its narrator assistance. Kids can follow the narrator's voice, helping them build reading comprehension and fluency. Plus, the app is completely free, with no hidden fees or memberships required.
Key features:
Hundreds of children's books and interactive learning materials.
Narration support for readers who need help keeping up with reading.
Free content, no memberships or hidden fees.
Interface with a simple navigation, which is suitable for kids.
Epic is the perfect solution for parents looking to foster a love for reading in their children while keeping the experience fun and educational. Plus, with a ton of content available for free, it's an excellent value.
5. Kobo Books
Kobo Books, by Rakuten, offers a vast selection of over five million titles, including eBooks and audiobooks. With Kobo, you can read thousands of titles across genres with both bestsellers and undiscovered gems, and read them on your phone or tablet from anywhere.
Kobo Books also provides Kobo Plus, a membership program with unlimited access to its entire catalog. Whether you're a casual reader or a bookworm, Kobo lets you indulge in as many books as you want, whenever you want. It also has a great daily deals section, where you can snag books at a discount.
Key features:
A library of over five million books, including bestsellers and audiobooks
Kobo Plus membership for unlimited access to books
Cross-platform syncing so you can read on any device
Kobo eReader integration for an enhanced reading experience
Kobo Books offers a highly user-friendly interface and great customization options for those who prefer reading on their tablet or smartphone. Whether you're reading for fun or personal development, Kobo is a strong contender in the eBook app space.
6. FBReader
FBReader is an app that will let you customize the reading experience. FBReader supports some of the most popular e-book formats, including ePUB, PDF, and Mobi, making it a great choice for the reader who likes to load content themselves.
FBReader provides a sleek and easy-to-use interface, allowing you to personalize your reading environment with different themes, fonts, and line spacing. Whether using an iPhone, Android device, or Mac, FBReader ensures your library and reading preferences are always accessible.
Key features:
Supports multiple e-book formats like ePUB, PDF, and Mobi
Personalized user settings: skin styles, fonts, and themes, to customize your reading space (extra great on iPads and any iOS device!)
Seamless cloud syncing across devices for reading (all bookmarks, notes, and highlights sync)
Support for different languages, perfect for international readers
FBReader is a great app for users who want to customize their reading experience to the last detail. If you like to experiment with various themes and settings, FBReader is a great option, and it is an efficient app.
7. ComiXology
If you're a comic book fan, then ComiXology is the app for you. If you love superhero comics, graphic novels, or manga, you can choose from thousands of titles from renowned publishers, such as DC, Marvel, or Dark Horse.
The app's clean, high-quality interface ensures you get the best visual experience while reading comics, with crisp images and easy-to-navigate controls.
ComiXology also allows you to borrow books from other platforms like Prime Reading and Kindle Unlimited, making it easy to manage all your comic collections in one place. ComiXology Originals also offers exclusive content you can't find anywhere else.
Key features:
Thousands of comics from top publishers, including Marvel, DC, and Dark Horse
Borrow books from Prime Reading and Kindle Unlimited for seamless access
High-quality digital display for comic book lovers
ComiXology Originals exclusive content is only available on the app
Whether you're a seasoned comic reader or just starting your journey, ComiXology makes it easier than ever to enjoy comics digitally. Its user-friendly interface and vast selection make it the go-to app for graphic novel enthusiasts.
8. Bluefire Reader
Bluefire Reader is an excellent choice if you're looking for a reliable and efficient e-book reader. Known for its high-quality rendering, this app smooths your reading experience, eliminating lagging and poor organization issues. It benefits Adobe DRM-protected e-books, a standard format for many libraries and book vendors.
In addition to its excellent technical aspects, Bluefire Reader offers many customization options. You can annotate your books, highlight text, and leave notes for later reference. The app also allows you to adjust background colors and font sizes, leading to a thoroughly personalized reading experience.
Key features:
Outstanding rendering for reading of e-books protected by the DRLM publishing agreement
Adjustable settings, including the ability to customize font sizes, background colors, and themes
Annotating tools, including but not limited to a highlighter, or the ability to make notes, make it easy to reference later on
Syncing to your Adobe ID to download your DRM-protected eBooks from the library policy.
Bluefire Reader is a solid option for readers looking for a high-performing, feature-rich e-book app that supports DRM. The app provides a good balance of technical performance and customization for an overall pleasant reading experience.
9. Bookmate
Bookmate is perfect for readers who want a highly personalized reading experience. Offering both e-books and audiobooks, this app customizes library recommendations based on your preferences and interests. You can get suggestions from friends or follow other readers for more book recommendations.
The app also has a community-oriented approach, allowing users to share their books and thoughts. If you can't find a book you're looking for, you can upload your own content, making it a flexible and dynamic reading platform. It also supports a wide variety of languages, catering to international readers.
Key features:
Personalized book recommendations based on your reading preferences
Ability to upload your own content using FB2 and EPUB files
Cross-device syncing so that you can read on multiple devices
Available in 14 different languages, ideal for multilingual readers
With Bookmate, you can meet other book lovers, share your reading life, and discover books curated just for you. If you’re interested in trying out new genres and participating in a social reading experience, Bookmate is perfect for you.
10. Prolific Works
Last but not least, Prolific Works is a unique app that caters to both readers and authors. It's not just an e-book reading platform — it's a community where authors and readers can connect. Readers can use Prolific Works to find free giveaways of e-books, learn about new authors, and preview upcoming books.
The application offers easy access to download authors' books and enables the sharing of your own work. It is a great opportunity to connect with other readers and writers, while receiving complimentary books and content that is only available to users.
Key features:
Access to free books from new authors
Ability to share your own writing and engage with readers
Exclusive sneak peeks and previews of upcoming titles
No membership fees, allowing you to explore new authors at no cost
For readers looking to discover new talent and explore different genres, Prolific Works provides a unique opportunity to get involved with the literary community. It's also a fantastic way to enjoy free e-books while supporting indie authors.
Start reading smarter: Download the Headway app today!
Choosing the proper reading app is essential to making the most of your reading time, especially when you have a busy lifestyle. Whether you're looking for e-book readers, audiobook apps, or bite-sized book summaries, there's an app out there that suits your needs.
Find your next favorite book faster
• 2K+ book summaries always at your fingertips
• Save audio highlights of the best ideas
• Learn smarter in just 15 minutes
Apps like Headway offer a wonderful mix of convenience, flexibility, and an experience that's self-paced to accommodate your busy life. If your goal is to keep up with all of the latest personal development books while distilling insights in just 15 minutes a day, then Headway is certainly a useful tool.
With concise summaries and various features to track your progress, you can keep learning and growing without feeling overwhelmed. Headway makes engaging with self-improvement books easy, whether at home or during a lunch break.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your reading experience. With Headway, you can access over 2000+ book summaries from bestselling non-fiction books. Download the Headway app today and start your journey toward personal growth!
FAQs about the best reading book apps
Which app is best for online book reading?
For online book reading, the Amazon Kindle app, Apple Books, Scribd, Headway, Wattpad, Nook, and Google Play Books stand out. Many of these are Android apps and are suitable for iPhone users, too. It's difficult to pick only one app from the online reading ecosystem, but the mentioned ones always become the reader apps of choice.
Is there a free app that can read a book to you?
Yes! Libby is a free app that allows you to borrow eBooks and audiobooks from your local library. It's a great option for anyone looking to listen to books for free, and it works seamlessly with Overdrive for easy access. With the ability to read or listen offline, Libby makes enjoying books on the go a breeze.
Which book summary app is best?
Headway is one of the best apps for book summaries. It provides bite-sized summaries of popular non-fiction books, perfect for readers who want to learn on the go. Headway allows you to absorb key insights in just 15 minutes. Plus, it's a great way to stay updated with the self-development trends while offering a social media-like interface that tracks your reading progress.
Is Headway a free app?
On Headway, you can try a free trial that allows you to experience all the nonfiction summaries. After it expires, you'll need a plan to access the full library. It's a fantastic app for someone who wants to quickly and easily summarize excellent self-help books, with goal-setting, tracking their reading progress, and other helpful features.
Is Blinkist or Headway better for book summaries?
While Blinkist and Headway are known for book summaries, the latter stands out for its interactive options, such as bookmarking your reading progress and setting learning goals. Blinkist has a more extensive library; however, if you prefer specified routes to develop yourself, Headway is your choice. It will benefit anyone who enjoys tracking their progress, similar to how Goodreads does for book readers.
