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Many people who are visually impaired or dyslexic find it difficult to read text in a PDF format. However, with the advancement of technology, converting PDFs into speech formats has become possible. In this article, we will be discussing the top 7 PDF to speech converters that can transform your PDFs into accessible speech formats.
Video Tutorial:
What is a PDF to speech converter?
A PDF to speech converter is software that can convert PDF files into speech formats such as MP3 or WAV. These software tools are beneficial for people with disabilities or those who prefer to listen to texts instead of reading. They are also helpful for individuals who want to multitask and listen to their documents while doing other things.
Top 7 PDF to Speech Converters
1. NaturalReader
NaturalReader is a powerful software tool that converts PDFs into speech formats, making it easier for users to listen to the document. It has a user-friendly interface that allows users to drag and drop PDF files onto the software. NaturalReader supports multiple languages and voices, allowing users to pick the perfect voice to suit their preferences. The software has a free version and a premium version that offers additional features such as more natural-sounding voices and the ability to convert webpages and emails into speech formats.
Pros:
– User-friendly interface
– Supports multiple languages and voices
– Offers a free version and a premium version
– Converts webpages and emails into speech formats
Cons:
– The premium version can be expensive
2. Balabolka
Balabolka is another popular PDF to speech converter that is easy to use. It supports multiple languages and voices and can read text from clipboard, HTML, and RTF files. Balabolka has a customizable interface, allowing users to choose the font, background color, and highlight color. The software has a portable version that can be run from a USB drive, making it convenient for users who are always on the go.
Pros:
– Easy to use
– Supports multiple languages and voices
– Customizable interface
– Portable version
Cons:
– Limited file format support
3. Voice Aloud Reader
Voice Aloud Reader is an app available for both iOS and Android devices. It converts text-based files into speech formats, including PDFs. The app has a simple interface, making it easy to use. It also has a built-in web browser that can read webpages out loud. Voice Aloud Reader offers different voices and language options, allowing users to personalize their listening experience.
Pros:
– Free to download
– Available for both iOS and Android devices
– Built-in web browser
– Different voices and language options
Cons:
– Limited file format support
Download Link for Android / Download Link for iOS
4. iSpeech
iSpeech is a web-based PDF to speech converter that is user friendly and simple to use. It supports multiple file formats, including PDF, and can read text from websites. The software offers different voices and languages, allowing users to choose the one that suits them best. It also has a document reader feature that can read text from documents in real-time.
Pros:
– User-friendly interface
– Supports multiple file formats
– Different voices and languages
– Document reader feature
Cons:
– Internet connection required
5. ReadSpeaker
ReadSpeaker is a powerful text-to-speech software that can convert PDF files into speech formats. It has a natural-sounding voice that makes for a pleasant listening experience. The software is available as a web-based and desktop version, making it versatile. It has an extensive language and voice selection, allowing users to personalize their listening experience.
Pros:
– Natural-sounding voice
– Versatile (web-based and desktop version)
– Extensive language and voice selection
Cons:
– Expensive
6. Talkify
Talkify is a PDF to speech converter that is cloud-based. It has a user-friendly interface and can convert PDF files into speech formats quickly. The software offers different voices and languages, making it an ideal option for people who prefer to listen to their documents in a specific language. Talkify is web-based, making it easy to access anywhere with an internet connection.
Pros:
– User-friendly interface
– Fast conversion
– Different voices and languages
– Cloud-based
Cons:
– Internet connection required
7. Zamzar
Zamzar is an online file conversion software that can convert PDFs into speech formats. It has a simple interface and can convert files quickly. The software supports multiple file formats, including PDF, and can read text from websites. Zamzar also offers different output file formats, such as MP3 and WAV.
Pros:
– Simple interface
– Fast conversion
– Supports multiple file formats
– Different output file formats
Cons:
– Internet connection required
Comprehensive Comparison
| Software | Free Trial | Price | Ease-of-Use | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NaturalReader | Yes | $99.50 (Premium) | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Balabolka | N/A | Free | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Voice Aloud Reader | N/A | Free (with in-app purchases) | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| iSpeech | Yes | $9.99/month (Basic) | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| ReadSpeaker | N/A | Request a Quote | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Talkify | Yes | Free (with in-app purchases) | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Zamzar | N/A | $9.00/month (Basic) | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Our Thoughts on PDF to Speech Converters
PDF to speech converters are revolutionary software tools that make it easier for individuals with disabilities or those who prefer to listen to their documents. Our top pick is NaturalReader, which has a user-friendly interface and supports multiple languages and voices. Balabolka is also an excellent option, especially for individuals who prefer customizability when it comes to font selection and highlight color.
FAQs on PDF to Speech Converters
Q1: How do PDF to speech converters work?
A: PDF to speech converters analyze the inputted PDF files and convert their text content into speech in a format such as MP3 or WAV.
Q2: Which is the best PDF to speech converter?
A: The best PDF to speech converter varies depending on individual preferences and requirements. However, our top recommendation is NaturalReader.
Q3: Are PDF to speech converters easy to use?
A: Yes, most PDF to speech converter software tools are user-friendly and easy to use.
Q4: Do PDF to speech converters support multiple languages?
A: Yes, most PDF to speech converters support multiple languages.
Q5: Can PDF to speech converters read text from websites?
A: Yes, some PDF to speech converters, such as Zamzar and NaturalReader, can read text from websites.
In Conclusion
Converting PDFs into speech formats has become increasingly vital for individuals with disabilities or those who prefer to listen to their documents. From our research, NaturalReader and Balabolka are our top recommendations due to their ease-of-use, customizability, and support for multiple languages and voices. However, the other software tools on the list are also excellent options, depending on individual requirements and preferences.