The 7 best book apps in one place
Are you a passionate reader or a true bookworm? Then you probably want to devour every page, even from your phone or tablet. But which apps are best for that? No need to search yourself: we’ve done the work for you! In this blog, we’ll share the best reading and audiobook apps so you can dive into pages with your eyes or your ears.
What is a book app?
A book app lets you read or listen to digital books. Some people prefer an e-reader because it allows you to bring more books on vacation without carrying heavy stacks. Digital reading is also more affordable and sustainable.
You can just as easily use your phone or tablet to enjoy reading books or audiobooks . Some apps are free, but most work like Spotify or Netflix: you pay a monthly fee to access a large catalog of ebooks and audiobooks, including the latest new releases.
The best apps for books
You may be wondering: what are the best reading apps? Where can you read free ebooks online? Or where can you download free digital books? To help, we’ve selected some of the most popular apps for your phone or tablet. From free versions to subscription-based services, these apps are available for both Android and iOS (except one). Here they are:
Google Play Books
Google offers much more than a search engine, including its own reading app. With the Google Play Books app, you can sync your reading progress across devices, read ebooks, listen to audiobooks, browse comics, or study with textbooks. The app is free to download, and many free ebooks are available. New releases can be purchased for € 2 to € 15.
Download Google Play Books for iOS or Android .
Kobo Books
Kobo is one of the most popular e-readers in the world, and it also comes with its own reading app. With this app, you get access to a digital library of over six million titles, ranging from ebooks to audiobooks, graphic novels, and children’s books.
You can download and read books directly in the app on your smartphone, tablet, or e-reader. A Kobo Plus subscription is required, starting at €11.99 per month, and can be used on up to five devices. The first month is free, so you can try it before you commit.
Download Kobo Books for iOS or Android .
Storytel
The Swedish app Storytel is very popular in the Netherlands and available in 24 other countries. It lets you read, listen, and relax with over 350,000 titles from Dutch and international authors.
For €12.99 a month, you get unlimited access with one account. There’s also a Family plan starting at €16.99 per month. The first month is free, and subscriptions can be canceled monthly, so you stay flexible.
Download Storytel for iOS or Android .
Online Bibliotheek
If you’re a member of a local library in the Netherlands, you can use the Online Bibliotheek app for free ebooks and audiobooks. There are no extra costs beyond your library membership.
The app lets you see your previously borrowed books and offers new recommendations by genre. Whether you prefer thrillers or emotional non-fiction, there’s something for everyone to read or listen to on your phone or tablet.
Download the Online Bibliotheek app for iOS or Android .
Wattpad
Wattpad is a platform where you can both read and write stories. It’s especially popular among teenagers, with thousands of stories about high school romances, fanfiction, YouTubers, and Netflix-inspired plots. You can also share your own writing with other readers.
The best part: the app is free!
Download Wattpad for iOS or Android .
Apple Books
Apple’s own reading app, Apple Books, comes pre-installed on iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and iPods. It gives you access to millions of books and audiobooks across every category.
You pay per download in the Book Store and can share purchases with your family via iCloud. Apple Books also offers customization features such as font and color settings, bookmarks, and a scrolling view option. However, it is only available for iOS users.
Download Apple Books for iOS .
Amazon Kindle
The Kindle app by Amazon gives you access to a library in your pocket. You buy ebooks through Amazon and open them in the app on your phone, tablet, or e-reader.
The app includes features like dictionaries, translations, font customization, progress tracking, and even estimates of how much time you’ll need to finish a chapter based on your reading speed. You can also highlight text, take notes, and bookmark passages.
Download Amazon Kindle for iOS or Android .
Read and listen worry-free with Simyo
Want to enjoy your books anytime, anywhere, without interruptions? With Simyo, you can easily adjust your Sim Only bundle via Mijn Simyo or the Mijn Simyo app. Need extra data for a vacation month? No problem, you can upgrade temporarily and lower it again later. Easy!
