EBooks are convenient — but do you know what’s even more convenient? Audiobooks. No hands, no eyes, just pure storytelling while you get on with life. Whether you’re commuting, cleaning, or just lying on the sofa pretending to be productive, having your book read aloud is an absolute game-changer.
And no, we’re not talking about shelling out £20 for a professionally narrated bestseller (though those are great, too). What if you could convert eBooks to audiobooks using simple tools — some of them free — without needing a studio, a microphone, or even any techy skills?
This guide walks you through how to turn your digital bookshelf into a personal audiobook library. You’ll learn what Text-to-Speech tech actually is (and why it’s not as robotic as it sounds), how to pick the right tool for your needs, and exactly how to get it done — step by step. Whether you’re an indie author, a time-starved reader, or just fancy trying something new, you’re in the right place.
Ready to give your books a voice? Let’s get into it.
Understanding Text-to-Speech (TTS) Technology
Text-to-speech technology is one of the best ways to convert eBooks to audiobooks—but before you get stuck into the “how,” let’s chat about the “what.” Because if you’re going to hand over your precious prose to a machine, you’d best know what it’s doing with it.
What Actually Is TTS?
Text-to-Speech (or TTS, if you want to sound like you know what you’re on about) is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s software that takes written text—say, your favourite eBook—and turns it into spoken words using synthetic voices. But don’t worry, we’re not talking Dalek-style delivery. Today’s TTS has come a long way since the clunky, robotic days of early tech.
At its core, TTS breaks down your text into phonetic bits and pieces, processes it with linguistic algorithms, and stitches it together into coherent speech speech. The result? A voice that can read your story aloud while you fold the laundry or walk the dog. Not bad, right?
How does TTS match human speechSpeech?
Now, here’s where it gets exciting. TTS technology has had a bit of a glow-up. Thanks to AI and deep learning (yes, the same stuff behind chatbots and self-driving cars), modern TTS voices can sound remarkably lifelike. Some platforms, like Murf.ai and Amazon Polly, even offer voices with subtle inflexions and emotional tones—so your romantic climax doesn’t sound like a weather report.
Still, let’s manage expectations. While the tech is seriously impressive, it’s not quite Oscar-worthy. You might notice the odd awkward pause or the wrong emphasis on a word. If you’re reading fantasy with made-up language, well, brace yourself.
Why Bother with TTS, Anyway?
Let’s be real. Hiring a narrator can cost a small fortune, and recording your own audiobook means battling microphones, editing software, and possibly your own voice. TTS? It’s fast, fuss-free, and—this is the clincher—affordable. Many tools offer free versions or low-cost subscriptions, making it perfect for indie authors or anyone testing the audiobook waters.
It’s also a huge win for accessibility. For readers with visual impairments or learning differences like dyslexia, TTS opens up the joy of storytelling in a way that traditional eBooks just can’t match. If you’re wondering how to listen to audiobooks without shelling out loads of cash, TTS could be your new best mate.
The Cons of TTS
Of course, there are a few bumps on the audio road. Even the best software can mispronounce names, stumble over strange formatting, or deliver dialogue that sounds a bit… off. The voice might be smooth but don’t expect dramatic flair. If you’re after high emotion or character accents, professional narration still reigns supreme.
That said, for casual listening, background learning, or just powering through that growing eBook pile, TTS offers a cracking solution. It’s not perfect—but it’s quick, cost-effective, and a brilliant way to convert eBooks to audiobooks without pulling your hair out.
How to Pick the Right TTS Tool?
Now that you’ve wrapped your head around how TTS works let’s talk about picking the right tool for the job. Because not all TTS software is created equal — and if you’re going to convert eBooks to audiobooks without wanting to lob your laptop across the room, choosing wisely makes all the difference.
There’s plenty out there, so don’t stress. We’ll cut through the noise and show you what to look for — and which names are worth your time.
NaturalReader – Simple, Clean, and Surprisingly Natural
If you’re after something you can just download and get on with, NaturalReader is a solid shout. The interface is clean, beginner-friendly, and the voice options range from robotic (free tier) to surprisingly lifelike (premium).
There’s also an online version, in case you don’t fancy installing anything. It handles EPUB and PDF files well, though with heavier formatting, it can sometimes glitch.
- Best for: First-timers who want an easy way in.
- What to watch: NaturalReader’s best voices live behind a paywall. The free voices are decent but not bedtime-story-worthy.
Amazon Polly – Powerful, But Built for Tinkerers
Amazon Polly is what happens when a tech giant decides to flex. It’s powered by Amazon Web Services and offers scarily realistic voices using neural TTS tech. The customisation options are endless — from speed and pitch to pronunciation tweaks using SSML (basically, voice coding).
- Best for: Tech-savvy users who want control.
- What to watch: The learning curve. Polly isn’t plug-and-play. And unless you’re publishing via AWS, it may feel like overkill for casual listening.
Google Text-to-Speech – Solid for Android, Nothing Flashy
If you’re on Android, chances are you’ve already met Google Text-to-Speech — even if you didn’t realise it. It powers voice features on your phone and works well with basic eBooks via reading apps.
It’s not customisable, and it’s definitely not a premium narrator, but it does the job on the go.
- Best for: Android users who want bare-bones, functional reading aloud.
- What to watch: Limited voice options and no real ability to tweak the tone or pacing.
Voice Aloud Reader & Pocket – TTS for Your Commute
Prefer something that lives on your phone? Voice Aloud Reader is a favourite on Reddit, praised for its ability to handle websites, PDFs, and eBooks without fuss. It reads aloud from your library or browser and even lets you queue content.
Pocket, on the other hand, isn’t just for saving articles. It also has a built-in TTS tool — handy for non-book content.
- Best for: Busy folks who want to squeeze in chapters while walking the dog or cooking dinner.
- What to watch: These apps work best for lighter content — you may hit bumps with complex layouts or big novels.
How to Turn Your eBook into an Audiobook – Step by-Step
Step 1: Sort Your eBook File First
Before you feed your book into anything, check the format. Most TTS tools play nice with EPUB, PDF, and TXT files. That said, not all PDFs are created equal — those with scanned images or columns can confuse the software. If it’s a messy file, clean it up. Remove headers, odd spacing, and anything that might throw off the read.
Step 2: Load It Up
Open your TTS software and import the file. This bit’s usually as easy as dragging and dropping. Some tools like NaturalReader or Voice Aloud Reader will give you the option to preview the first few lines — worth doing, just to check everything’s displaying properly.
Step 3: Customise the Voice (Yes, It Matters)
Now for the fun bit: choosing your narrator. Most apps let you pick from a handful of voices, and many offer tweaks like speed and pitch. Go too fast, and it’ll sound like a horse race; it’s too slow, and you’ll nod off by chapter two. Play around until it feels right for you.
Step 4: Hit Convert and Save It
Once you’re happy, go ahead and start the conversion. Some tools will let you save your file as MP3 or WAV, depending on how you plan to listen. Just double-check the output folder so you’re not hunting it down later.
Step 5: Fix the Fiddly Bits
Sometimes, the software stumbles — maybe it butchers a name or pauses weirdly. Don’t panic. Go back, tweak the pronunciation settings or reformat the text slightly. A little trial and error here can save your ears later.
Let Someone Else Do the Heavy Lifting
Speechify – Fast, Slick, and Built for Busy People
Speechify is one of the big names when it comes to online eBook-to-audio conversion. You upload your text or link your file, choose a voice, and let the tool do its thing. It even works across devices, so you can start on your laptop and finish on your phone.
It’s especially handy if you’re short on time or not too fussed about fiddling with the backend. The voices are polished, especially in the premium tier.
The catch? You’ll need a paid plan to unlock the better voices and longer conversions. There’s also the usual question of what happens to your data once it’s uploaded — so if privacy’s a big deal, read the fine print.
Murf.ai – More Than Just TTS
Now, Murf.ai is a little different. It’s technically a voiceover tool, but it does a cracking job with longer text, too. It offers studio-quality voices and even lets you add background music or adjust emphasis for certain words. Think of it as the closest you’ll get to professional narration without hiring an actual voice actor.
Downside? It’s overkill if you’re just looking to listen casually. Like Speechify, the best features are locked behind a paywall.
Optimising Your Audiobook Listening Experience
Start with the Right Playback Setup
First things first: how are you going to listen? If you’re out and about, your phone’s the obvious go-to. Android and iOS both have solid built-in media players, or you can use apps like VLC or Smart Audiobook Player for better control.
Prefer to stay put? Tablets are great for reading and listening in bed, while smart speakers — like an Alexa or Google Nest — make multitasking a breeze. Just say the word, and your story picks up where you left off.
Tweak the Speed (Without Wrecking the Flow)
Most players let you adjust playback speed — handy if the narrator’s pacing feels like a slow trudge or a caffeine-fuelled sprint. The sweet spot? Usually, somewhere between 1.2x and 1.5x, where you can still follow along but squeeze more in.
Don’t forget the volume. Sounds obvious, but too loud and you’ll tire out quick, too quiet and you’ll keep rewinding. It’s all about comfort.
Use Proper Headphones or Speakers
Your audiobook deserves better than tinny phone speakers. A good pair of headphones makes a massive difference — especially noise-cancelling ones if you’re in a loud space. At home? A decent Bluetooth speaker gives you the depth and clarity your ears will thank you for.
Cut the Distractions
Here’s the bit no one talks about: listening is a skill. If you’re trying to absorb a dense non-fiction book while cooking dinner, you’re setting yourself up to forget half of it. Stick to familiar tasks — walking, cleaning, light gym sessions — that don’t demand your full focus.
Some people even listen while lying down, lights off, eyes shut. Not bad if you’re into deep focus, or just pretending you’re being read a bedtime story.
Final Note
You’ve seen just how simple it can be to convert eBooks to audiobooks — whether you do it yourself with a reliable TTS tool or hand it off to a slick online service. You’ve learned what works, what to avoid, and how to actually enjoy the final product without turning your ears inside out.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the best way to convert eBooks to audiobooks if I’m not tech-savvy?
If you’re not the most tech-comfortable person, your best bet is to use an online platform like Speechify. It’s designed for ease — you upload your file, pick a voice, and let it work its magic. There’s no software to install or settings to configure. Just make sure your eBook is in a supported format (like PDF or EPUB), and you’re good to go. These platforms are ideal if you just want to listen and not mess around with tech jargon.
Is Text-to-Speech the best way to listen to audiobooks made from eBooks?
For casual listeners or multitaskers, yes — TTS is one of the most accessible and cost-effective ways to consume written content. While professional narration will always win in terms of performance, TTS has come a long way. With tools like Amazon Polly and Murf.ai offering AI-generated voices with inflexion and emotion, the listening experience can be surprisingly smooth. If you’re reading non-fiction or just want to get through more books, TTS is a smart move.
How do I know if the format of my eBook will work with TTS tools?
Most modern TTS apps and services support EPUB, PDF, and TXT formats. That said, not all PDFs are created equal. Scanned documents or those with multi-column layouts may confuse the voice engine. Before uploading, try to convert your file into clean text (if possible) and remove odd formatting like page numbers, headers, or footers. Some tools even let you preview a few lines of speech to make sure everything reads well before converting the full text.
Are free audiobooks legal, and can I use TTS for that?
Great question. Free audiobooks can absolutely be legal — but it depends on the source. Public domain platforms like Project Gutenberg or Librivox are 100% legit and safe. However, using TTS to convert copyrighted eBooks you don’t own could enter murky legal territory, especially if you plan to share the audio. For personal use? It’s usually fine. For anything beyond that? Best to check the terms or publisher’s rights.
What are the top audiobook platforms to upload or listen on?
If you’ve created an audiobook file and want to listen on the go, apps like Smart Audiobook Player, VLC, and Voice Aloud Reader are solid picks. These let you adjust speed, save bookmarks, and manage your listening queue. If you’re looking to distribute your finished audiobook (especially one you’ve narrated or legally created), Audible, Findaway Voices, or Google Play Books are worth exploring — though keep in mind they usually require professional-level quality.
I’ve made my own audiobook — now what?
If you’re using it for personal listening, save it in MP3 format and load it onto your phone or preferred device. Want to share it? That’s where it gets trickier. You’ll need to ensure you have the rights to the book and that the audio meets the publishing platform’s technical standards. If you’re wondering how to make an audiobook that’s publishable, consider platforms like Murf.ai or even outsourcing to a professional voiceover artist for final polish.
Where’s the best place to buy audiobooks once I get into it?
If DIY isn’t your thing long-term, or you just want a professionally narrated experience, check out Audible, Kobo, Google Play Books, or Libro.FM (great if you want to support local bookshops). Subscription services like Scribd also offer unlimited access to thousands of audiobooks. Prices vary, but you’ll find just about every genre and voice type under the sun.