Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

FBReader

FBReader is an e-book reader for various platforms. Features:.

FBReader

FBReader Reviews and Details

This page is designed to help you find out whether FBReader is good and if it is the right choice for you.

Screenshots and images

  • FBReader Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-10-22

Features & Specs

  1. Platform Support

    FBReader is available on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

  2. Format Compatibility

    The reader supports a variety of ebook formats like EPUB, MOBI, FB2, HTML, RTF, and plain text, which offers flexibility to readers.

  3. Customization

    FBReader allows extensive customization options such as font types, sizes, colors, and background images, letting users personalize their reading experience.

  4. Library Management

    The app offers robust library management features including book organization, sorting, and categorization, making it easier to manage large collections.

  5. Speed

    FBReader is known for its speed and efficiency in loading books and navigating through them, which provides a smooth reading experience.

Badges

Promote FBReader. You can add any of these badges on your website.

SaaSHub badge
Show embed code

Videos

Review FBReader on Linux Ubuntu

FBReader Android Review

FBReader - Best eBook Reader App [Android/iOS] #03

Social recommendations and mentions

We have tracked the following product recommendations or mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you see what people think about FBReader and what they use it for.
  • What is a good ebook reader for Linux?
    I use fbreader, it's probably in your disto's repository or you can get in from fbreader.org. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Best ebook app that also allows for reader?
    I've been using FBreader for years, and it can use the built in Android TTS. https://fbreader.org/. Source: over 3 years ago
  • 3x new books added to the Pirate Library Mirror (+24TB, 3.8M books)
    Based on what's on ZLibrary, various formats, though principally PDF, ePub, Mobi (Kindle), DJVU (similar to PDF), FB2, and a few others. Most ebook readers (with the exception of Amazon's own Kindle reader) can read virtually all of these, some with extensions. E.g., FB Reader , PocketBook Reader , Onyx's Neoreader (BOOX) ... No... - Source: Hacker News / almost 4 years ago
  • FOSS or privacy conscious ebook reading app (Mac/iOS)
    I came across FBReader which looks great in principal, but it uses a Google Drive account to sync with no other options. Also it's no longer OSS from 2015 (which wouldn't have been a deal breaker for me). Source: about 4 years ago
  • I need a good Software to read epub
    I use FBreader on android and PC. It's insanely customizable. I sometimes use it it double-page layout, 'though I haven't tried comics. Source: about 4 years ago
  • eBook app for listening to books you have on tablets phone so on to follow too that are free or cost less then 5$ on Android
    FBreader. Install plugins for library, pdf and text2speech and away you go. Source: about 4 years ago
  • What life changing item can you buy for less than โ‚ฌ100?
    I'd recommend FBReader for Android - great app for reading on your phone or tablet (or both, as it can sync your books/reading position between devices.) The free version doesn't even have ads IIRC, it's just missing a few of the premium features. Source: over 4 years ago
  • I'm 44 years old and I've just discovered audiobooks. I can't believe what I've been missing out on all these years.
    For .epub text-to-speech reading on my Android, I use FBReader (Favorite Book Reader) https://fbreader.org/. It's a great app with many features including rate and pitch adjustment. Be sure to get the FBReader TTS+ Plugin. Source: almost 5 years ago
  • Given a new class with one week before school starts and there's no textbook. Ethics of copying readings from other books?
    This epub reader supports more platforms than Freda (including iOS and MacOS): https://fbreader.org/. Source: almost 5 years ago
  • Best e-reader for these book bundles?
    For apps, I use Calibre (https://calibre-ebook.com/) installed on my Laptop to manage my library it manages the moving of books to and fro and keeping their data up to date. On my phone I use FBReader (https://fbreader.org/) connecting to the ODPS server provided by Calibre to read non-comic works. Source: over 5 years ago

Summary of the public mentions of FBReader

FBReader, a versatile eBook reader known for its support of a wide array of eBook formats like ePub, fb2, and mobi, consistently attracts attention and usage from a dedicated user base across various platforms. Initially launched as an open-source platform, FBReader has transitioned to a proprietary model since 2015, which has affected its availability and development trajectory. Despite this, it remains a competitive option in the crowded eBook reader market.

Positive Feedback and Popularity

FBReader is heralded for its lightweight design and multi-platform accessibility, supporting Android, iOS, and Linux environments. The software offers substantial customization optionsโ€”a feature often highlighted by users, who appreciate its ability to tailor reading experiences, including layout adjustments like the double-page view, and the integration of text-to-speech capabilities via the FBReader TTS+ Plugin. The seamless sync capability across devices, albeit limited to Google Drive, adds a layer of convenience, especially for users engaging with mobile reading on both phones and tablets.

Additionally, FBReader is recognized for its exceptional performance in handling diverse eBook formats, which makes it particularly appealing for users who frequently access different library networks or repositories, such as the Pirate Library Mirror. Its ability to operate as a robust eBook manager on various devices, including desktops, is noted as a key strength, positioning it alongside alternatives like Calibre or Amazon Kindle.

Challenges and Limitations

A notable point of criticism revolves around FBReader's shift from open-source to a proprietary model, a move that has disappointed some enthusiasts who value open-source solutions for their transparency and community-driven improvements. Moreover, the reliance on Google Drive for sync services has raised concerns among privacy-conscious users, detracting from its appeal in scenarios where data security and independent cloud solutions are prioritized.

Competitive Positioning

In a marketplace laden with alternatives like Calibre, Cool Reader, and Google Play Books, FBReader stands out for its user-centric features and adaptability, although it does lack the richness of an integrated marketplace like Kindle and the extensive format management of a tool like Calibre. Reviews from Linux communities highlight FBReader as a commendable choice within Linux distributions, complimenting its availability in various distros' repositories.

Conclusion

Despite certain drawbacks, such as the lack of advanced integrations and privacy-conscious syncing alternatives, FBReader maintains its status as a favored choice for eBook reading due to its flexibility, format support, and user-friendly customization options. Itโ€™s especially recommended for Android users seeking a free, ad-free reading experience, with additional features accessible via plugins. The ongoing development and beta tests for devices like the Onyx reader suggest a commitment to expanding its platform compatibility, ensuring that FBReader remains relevant in the rapidly evolving digital reading landscape.

Do you know an article comparing FBReader to other products?
Suggest a link to a post with product alternatives.

Suggest an article

FBReader discussion

Log in or Post with

Is FBReader good? This is an informative page that will help you find out. Moreover, you can review and discuss FBReader here. The primary details have not been verified within the last quarter, and they might be outdated. If you think we are missing something, please use the means on this page to comment or suggest changes. All reviews and comments are highly encouranged and appreciated as they help everyone in the community to make an informed choice. Please always be kind and objective when evaluating a product and sharing your opinion.