Audible, Amazon’s audiobook giant, has been a top choice for listeners worldwide, offering over 200,000 audiobooks spanning every genre imaginable. Its robust selection, mobile app, and exclusive “Audible Originals” series have attracted millions of loyal users.

However, Audible isn’t perfect for everyone. Some users find it expensive, dislike the credit system, or want ownership of audiobooks without monthly subscriptions. Others seek cheaper, freer, or more flexible audiobook platforms in 2025.

Luckily, the audiobook industry is booming, and there are fantastic Audible alternatives for every type of listener—whether you crave bestsellers, indie books, or free public domain classics.

Let’s dive into the 10 best alternatives to Audible available today.

1. Scribd – Unlimited Audiobooks, Ebooks, and More

Scribd offers an all-you-can-read (and listen) subscription model covering audiobooks, ebooks, magazines, podcasts, and sheet music for a flat monthly fee.

Unlike Audible, which limits you to one credit per month, Scribd gives you unlimited access (with some rotation based on popular titles).

Best for: Avid readers and listeners wanting more than one audiobook per month.
Why it’s great: One monthly price, unlimited listening + reading.

2. Libro.fm – Support Local Bookstores

Libro.fm offers a model similar to Audible but with a twist: your purchases support independent local bookstores instead of Amazon.

You still pay monthly for credits, but you directly help the indie book community. The catalog is massive, including new releases and bestsellers.

Best for: Listeners who want to shop ethically and support local businesses.
Why people switch: Feel-good purchasing + great selection.

3. Audiobooks.com – Massive Library with 1-2 Books per Month

Audiobooks.com offers a similar credit-based model to Audible but often throws in extras: like one bonus book per month from a curated VIP list.

It features over 400,000 titles, supports mobile apps, CarPlay, and offers podcasts too.

Best for: Users who want Audible-like experience but with bonus perks.
Highlight: Free extra books monthly through VIP Rewards.

4. Chirp Audiobooks – Pay-as-You-Go, No Subscription Needed

Chirp is perfect for casual listeners. Instead of paying monthly, you simply buy audiobooks at huge discounts, often up to 90% off retail prices—no membership required.

It’s great for deal hunters who don’t want to be tied to recurring subscriptions.

Best for: Casual listeners and bargain hunters.
Why Chirp shines: No subscriptions, no credits, no pressure.

5. Hoopla – Free Audiobooks via Your Library

Hoopla partners with local libraries to offer free audiobooks, ebooks, movies, TV shows, and music. All you need is a valid library card!

You can stream or download titles for offline listening, making it perfect for budget-conscious listeners.

Best for: Free, unlimited listening through your local library.
Pro tip: Check if your library offers Hoopla access—it’s free!

6. Libby by OverDrive – Borrow Audiobooks Like Real Books

Libby, developed by OverDrive, connects you with your library’s audiobook and ebook collection. You “borrow” titles for a set period—just like physical books.

It has an elegant app experience and supports syncing across devices.

Best for: Budget listeners who don’t mind waiting on popular books.
Best feature: Completely free access to popular audiobooks via libraries.

7. Google Play Books – Buy Once, Own Forever

Google Play Books lets you buy audiobooks individually without a subscription. Once purchased, the audiobook is yours forever, synced across Android, iOS, and web apps.

It’s great for occasional listeners who prefer ownership over subscriptions.

Best for: Listeners who don’t want a recurring fee and prefer one-off purchases.
Why it’s solid: Huge catalog + cross-device support without monthly commitment.

8. Apple Books – Seamless Audiobooks for iOS Users

Apple Books offers audiobooks for individual purchase through its App Store ecosystem. The app is beautifully designed for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users, and integrates well with Siri and CarPlay.

It’s the best Audible alternative for those living within the Apple ecosystem.

Best for: iPhone and iPad users.
Biggest plus: Gorgeous UI, Siri integration, and no subscription required.

9. Storytel – Subscription Model for Global Users

Storytel is a leading audiobook subscription platform available in 25+ countries. It offers unlimited access to audiobooks and ebooks, including lots of international titles in non-English languages.

It’s hugely popular in Europe, India, and Latin America.

Best for: Multilingual listeners and audiobook fans outside the U.S.
Why it’s rising: Unlimited listening, strong non-English catalog.

10. Spotify Audiobooks – Audiobooks on a Music Platform

Spotify now offers audiobooks for purchase and subscription access alongside its music and podcast content. While still growing its catalog in 2025, Spotify aims to become a major audiobook hub.

You can stream or download audiobooks directly within the Spotify app.

Best for: Spotify Premium users wanting one app for music, podcasts, and audiobooks.
Future potential: Integrated playlists + audiobooks = seamless entertainment.

 Conclusion:

While Audible remains powerful, it’s far from the only game in town in 2025.

• Choose Scribd or Storytel for unlimited listening.

• Pick Chirp or Google Play Books if you want no monthly subscription pressure.

• Use Hoopla or Libby to listen for free via libraries.

• Support local stores through Libro.fm if you want to shop consciously.