Text-to-speech apps are a great way to make reading and understanding written text, especially for individuals who have dyslexia and and other reading or language learning disabilities. Many people use text to speech applications for school and work to help them read more quickly and retain more information than manual reading. Other uses for the best text-to-speech online tools include Interactive Voice Response (IVR) and voice API.

Below, compare 5 of the top text-to-speech programs and get answers to your most frequently asked questions.

1. Balabolka

Balabolka is a no-cost text-to-speech application that allows users to translate text into spoken words and export the audio files in a wide variety of formats, such as .WAV, .MP3, .MP4, .WMA, and .OGG. Although the user interface is a bit outdated and clunky, it does offer relatively adequate functionality that meets many needs. This tool also needs updates regularly for new languages.

Pricing

• Free basic text-to-speech capabilities

Features

• Designed for beginners and people who have never used a text-to-voice program

• Customization options for multiple settings, including articulation, reading speed, and voice style

• Good compatibility with Microsoft Windows

• Bookmarking tools make studying and work easier

2. NaturalReader

NaturalReader is a sophisticated text-to-speech app and browser extension that is popular for both commercial and personal use. The AI-powered voice reader features more natural-sounding voices than some of its competitors, making an excellent choice for a wide variety of purposes.

Pricing

• Limited free version available

• Personal version is a one-time payment of $99.50

• Professional version is a one-time payment of $129.50

• Ultimate version is a one-time payment of $199.50

Features

• Scan images and convert them to audio text using OCR technology

• Compatible with desktop and mobile devices

• Available for both Windows and Mac operating systems

• Speech voices are able to identify specific syntactic environments

3. Voice Dream Reader

The Voice Dream Reader is a high-quality voiceover app that is often thought of as one of the best text-to-speech online tools available on the market today. Adjustable font style and size makes it easier for people with low vision, dyslexia, and other visual or learning challenges to consume written content.

Pricing

• Purchase the program once for $9.99 (no subscriptions)

• Pay extra for premium voices

Features

• Over 200+ voices that can be bought in-app

• 30+ languages available

• Multiple reading levels

• Dynamic customization of text and audio controls

• Listen to content read to you at speeds of 50 to 500 words per minute