How To Listen To Kindle Books Without Audible

Kindle books have revolutionized the way we read, allowing us to carry an entire library in our pockets. However, sometimes it’s not convenient or possible to sit down and read a book. That’s where the option to listen to Kindle books comes in handy. While Audible is a popular platform for audiobooks, there are alternative methods to listen to your Kindle books without relying on Audible. In this article, we will explore different ways to listen to Kindle books and make the most out of your reading experience.

1. Text-to-Speech Feature

One of the easiest and most accessible ways to listen to Kindle books is by utilizing the built-in text-to-speech feature available on many Kindle devices. This feature converts the text into spoken words, allowing you to listen to your books. To enable this feature:

Open the Kindle book you want to listen to.
Tap on the screen to bring up the toolbar.
Click on the “Text-to-Speech” icon, usually represented by a person’s head.
Adjust the speed and voice settings according to your preference.

While the text-to-speech feature may not provide the same quality as a professionally narrated audiobook, it can still be a useful option for those who prefer listening to reading.

2. Kindle App with Accessibility Features

If you prefer using your smartphone or tablet to read Kindle books, you can take advantage of the accessibility features available on the Kindle app. Both iOS and Android devices offer built-in screen readers that can read aloud the content on your screen. To enable this feature:

Open the Kindle app on your device.
Go to the settings menu.
Find the accessibility options.
Enable the screen reader or text-to-speech feature.

Once activated, the screen reader will read the text on your Kindle books, allowing you to listen to them on the go.

3. Third-Party Text-to-Speech Apps

If the built-in text-to-speech features on your Kindle device or app are not sufficient, you can explore third-party text-to-speech apps. These apps often offer more customization options and higher-quality voices. Some popular text-to-speech apps include:

Voice Dream Reader: This app supports various file formats, including Kindle books, and offers a wide range of voices and reading options.
NaturalReader: NaturalReader is available for both desktop and mobile devices, allowing you to listen to your Kindle books on multiple platforms.
Read Aloud: Read Aloud is a free Chrome extension that can read web pages, PDFs, and Kindle books.

By exploring third-party text-to-speech apps, you can find the one that best suits your needs and enhances your listening experience.

4. Convert Kindle Books to Audiobook Format

If you prefer a more professional and immersive audiobook experience, you can convert your Kindle books into audiobook format. There are several tools and services available that can help you with this conversion process. One popular option is using the Amazon Polly service, which allows you to convert text to lifelike speech. Here’s how you can convert your Kindle books using Amazon Polly:

Visit the Amazon Polly website.
Sign in with your Amazon account.
Click on “Text-to-Speech” in the navigation menu.
Enter or upload the text from your Kindle book.
Select the desired voice and settings.
Click on “Create Speech” to generate the audiobook file.

Once you have the audiobook file, you can transfer it to your preferred device or app and enjoy a professionally narrated version of your Kindle book.

5. Sync with Whispersync for Voice

If you have both the Kindle book and the corresponding audiobook version, you can take advantage of Amazon’s Whispersync for Voice feature. This feature allows you to seamlessly switch between reading and listening, syncing your progress across devices. To use Whispersync for Voice:

Open the Kindle book you want to read.
Tap on the screen to bring up the toolbar.
Click on the “Aa” icon to access the settings.
Scroll down and find the “Switch to” option.
Select the audiobook version to switch to listening mode.

With Whispersync for Voice, you can easily switch between reading and listening without losing your place in the book.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I listen to Kindle books on my computer?

Yes, you can listen to Kindle books on your computer by using the Kindle Cloud Reader or by installing the Kindle app for PC or Mac. These platforms offer text-to-speech features or allow you to sync with audiobook versions.

2. Are all Kindle books compatible with text-to-speech features?

No, not all Kindle books are compatible with text-to-speech features. Publishers have the option to enable or disable this feature for their books. If the text-to-speech option is not available, you can explore other methods mentioned in this article.

3. Can I listen to Kindle books offline?

Yes, you can listen to Kindle books offline by downloading them to your device beforehand. Once downloaded, you can listen to the books without an internet connection.

4. Are there any additional costs associated with listening to Kindle books?

While some text-to-speech apps may require a one-time purchase or offer premium features at a cost, the built-in text-to-speech features on Kindle devices and apps are typically free to use. However, purchasing audiobook versions or using conversion services may involve additional costs.

5. Can I adjust the narration speed when listening to Kindle books?

Yes, most text-to-speech features and apps allow you to adjust the narration speed according to your preference. You can increase or decrease the speed to match your reading pace.