How to Read PDF Aloud and What 5 Apps to Use

Jun 23, 2024

Person Reading Texts on Mobile - Read PDF Aloud

Arib Khan

Are you looking for an easy and efficient way to take in your favorite content on the go? Regarding book reading apps, deciding which one to choose can be challenging. The good news is that Read PDF Aloud is a game-changer that makes the experience as seamless as possible. If you want to learn how to read PDFs aloud and discover astonishing apps to cater to your book-reading needs, this guide has got you covered.

Justlisten's solution, eBook to Audiobook Converter, offers a stress-free approach to helping you achieve your objectives. Whether you want to know more about reading PDF aloud or have been looking for the best apps for reading, Justlisten has it all.

Table Of Contents

What is Text-To-Speech?

Text to Speech Symbol - Read PDF Aloud

Text-to-speech (TTS) technology converts written text into spoken language. It analyzes the text and synthesizes speech that sounds human-like. This technology can be incredibly useful for reading PDFs aloud, allowing you to listen to the document's content rather than having to read it visually.

Who might find this functionality helpful?

There are many reasons why someone might want to read a PDF aloud. Busy professionals can listen to documents while commuting or completing other tasks, allowing them to multitask and maximize their productivity. People with visual impairments or learning disabilities can use TTS to access information in PDFs that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to read. Additionally, anyone who finds it easier to retain information through audio learning can benefit from listening to PDFs aloud.

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How PDFs Can Be Read Aloud

Woman Reading an eBook - Read PDF Aloud

Two primary methods for converting PDFs to speech are utilizing built-in features in PDF readers or dedicated Text-to-Speech apps.

Built-in Features in PDF Readers

Many popular PDF reader applications, like Adobe Acrobat Reader and Microsoft Edge, have built-in Text-to-Speech functionality. This enables you to activate the TTS feature within the program and listen to the content without additional software. 

Advantages

Convenient and readily available, no need for additional software downloads.

Disadvantages

Limited features (e.g., fewer voice options, no speed control).

Dedicated Text-to-Speech Apps

Dedicated Text-to-Speech apps are available for download on various platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS). These apps offer more advanced features than built-in reader functionalities, such as a broader range of natural-sounding voices, control over reading speed and pitch, and the ability to save the narration as an audio file.

Advantages

More advanced features and improved user experience often offer free trials.

Disadvantages

It may require additional software installation, and some features might be behind a paywall.

How to Use a Text-to-Speech App to Read a PDF Aloud (Step-by-Step Guide)

Person Using Mobile  - Read PDF Aloud

Import the PDF Document

Most apps allow you to import a PDF file by browsing your device's storage or using a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox.

Select the Desired Voice and Settings

Many TTS apps offer various voice options with different accents and speaking styles. You can also adjust the reading speed and pitch to your preference.

Initiate Text-to-Speech

Once you've imported the PDF and adjusted the settings (if desired), locate the play button or similar function within the app to start listening to the document being read aloud.

JustListen: Convert eBooks into Audiobooks

JustListen converts ebooks into audiobooks in minutes. Upload your epub file, and an audiobook will be ready in minutes. Our team has built leading AI voice tools, so we have integrated AI voice technology to enable you to listen to audiobooks in essentially anyone’s voice! 

Try our eBook to Audiobook Converter for free today. Log in with Google or create an account, and you’ll be set to go within minutes. Turn your eBooks into Audiobooks with ease with JustListen.

Top 5 Apps to Read PDFs Aloud

Person Using Mobile - Read PDF Aloud

1. Justlisten

JustListen allows users to effortlessly convert their eBooks into audiobooks. Users can have their audiobook ready within minutes by simply uploading an EPUB file. With advanced AI voice technology, JustListen offers the option to listen to audiobooks in any voice they desire. 

Try our eBook to Audiobook Converter for free today. Log in with Google or create an account in minutes. Turn your eBooks into Audiobooks with ease with JustListen.

2. NaturalReader

NaturalReader is a top text-to-speech software known for its exceptional voice quality, which provides users with a natural listening experience. Besides PDFs, it supports various document formats and offers customization options for voice settings, playback speed, and text highlighting preferences. NaturalReader may require a subscription to access all features and voices.

3.  Microsoft Edge (Built-in Functionality)

For Windows users, Microsoft Edge has a built-in Immersive Reader feature designed to read PDFs aloud efficiently. Though it offers basic text-to-speech functionality, adjustable reading speed, and dyslexia-friendly options, it may not be as comprehensive as dedicated TTS apps. Ideal for Windows users requiring simple text-to-speech features.

4. @Voice Aloud Reader

@Voice Aloud Reader is a user-friendly Android app that reads various text formats aloud, including PDFs. With a clean interface and basic voice controls, this app is perfect for those looking for a lightweight solution on Android devices. However, it may fall short of advanced features compared to paid TTS apps.

5.Speechify

Speechify is a cloud-based platform offering a robust solution for reading PDFs aloud. With a wide range of natural-sounding voices and advanced features like speed and pitch control, text highlighting, and audio file-saving options, Speechify is appealing for users seeking diverse voice options and customization. Keep in mind that Speechify's full features require a subscription.

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Benefits of Using Text-to-Speech for Reading PDFs

Person Using Tablet - Read PDF Aloud

Improved Multitasking and Productivity

Listening to PDFs instead of visually reading them can help you multitask more effectively. For example, you can listen to a client's report while commuting to a meeting, keeping you informed and allowing you to prepare for the meeting without visually reading the report.

Reduced Eye Strain

Staring at a screen for long periods can lead to eye strain. Listening to PDFs offers an alternative way to consume information, reducing strain on your eyes. This can result in more comfortable reading sessions and longer reading periods without discomfort.

Enhanced Accessibility for Visually Impaired Users

TTS is a valuable tool for visually impaired users or those with reading difficulties. It allows them to access information in PDFs that they might not otherwise be able to. For instance, someone with dyslexia could listen to a lengthy academic article using TTS, reducing eye strain and potentially improving their understanding compared to traditional reading methods.

Ability to Learn Through Auditory Learning

Some people absorb and retain information more effectively through auditory channels. Listening to PDFs can be valuable for such individuals, improving comprehension and knowledge retention. For example, students could listen to educational materials while doing other tasks, reinforcing learning and increasing knowledge retention.

Turn Any of Your Ebooks Into Audiobooks In Minutes - Get Started for Free Today!

JustListen offers an innovative solution with its eBook to Audiobook Converter, allowing users to swiftly transform their ebooks into audiobooks. Users can generate an audiobook within minutes by simply uploading an epub file. 

The JustListen team has integrated advanced AI voice tools into the platform, enabling users to listen to audiobooks in virtually any voice of their choice. With JustListen's eBook to Audiobook Converter, converting written content into audio form has never been easier. Why give it a try and experience the convenience for yourself today?

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