While RSS readers might not be as popular as they once were, they’re still invaluable tools for pulling together all the various content you like to read from numerous sources into a single feed. As you may expect, RSS readers don’t all work the same (find out what is RSS here). That’s why you have to compare and find the best RSS reader for Windows for your needs.

1. FeedLab

FeedLab is the perfect way to bring the power of Feedly to your Windows desktop. While you can access Feedly from a browser or iOS/Android device, so far there isn’t a dedicated Windows app. You can quickly take FeedLab for a test run before connecting to your account to see how the interface looks. Easily search for sources, organize everything the way you want, and customize your reading experience.

Pros:

  • Serves as a Windows desktop interface for FeedlyCustomize your homepage with a specific source, topic, keyword, etc.Customize layout with font, colors, etc.Syncs between Windows devices

Cons:

  • Ad-supported (plans range from $1.49 to $4.99 and include additional features)Only works with Feedly accounts

2. NewsFlow

NewsFlow is hands down the best of the RSS readers for Windows. It’s a simple, clean interface that does exactly what it’s supposed to without any excess features. Search for feeds with keywords, URLs, and more. Organize all your feeds the way you want for easy viewing. You can customize every feed individually, including notifications.

  • Search for and organize feeds within the appReceive notifications of new storiesAdd posts to favoritesAdd favorite sources to the menu for quicker accessRead articles and watch videos directly from the app versus the browser

  • Only for Windows devicesThe live tiles feature only works with Windows 10

3. RSSOwl

RSSOwl takes more of an Outlook-style approach and may remind you of many Windows XP apps. It’s one of the best RSS readers for Windows simply for its powerful search features. Assign tags to quickly find anything. You can even perform searches within the app and save those as separate feeds for easy access. While you can donate if you’d like, you’re free to use RSSOwl as much as you want for free.

  • Compatible with Windows, macOS, and LinuxPowerful news search filterCreate saved searches in addition to feedsCreate labels to easily organize feedsSave favorite stories to organized news binsCompletely free

  • Interface may feel dated or cluttered to some usersRequires the installation of the Java Runtime Environment to run

4. Awasu

Awasu is more advanced than other RSS readers for Windows. The free personal edition has a few limitations, such as no custom branding and limited plugins for additional features, but it’s perfect for most users. Easily update channels as often as you’d like, get notifications, and organize your feeds however you’d like.

  • Customize entire interface, including menus, hotkeys, folders, and layoutSave favoritesClean up old channels (feeds) or channels that no longer workCreate custom search strings to find stories quicklyIndividual feeds open in tabs

  • With numerous features, it can feel intimidating at firstNot as intuitive as other options (tutorials are included, though)

If you’re looking for a more professional and powerful reader, upgrading to the Advanced ($35) or Professional ($95) may be worth it. Overall, these are geared more toward businesses, though individuals would benefit as well.

5. Ark View

Ark View is one of the lesser-known RSS readers for Windows but offers a visually pleasing interface that’s highly intuitive. The minimal design keeps clutter out so that the focus is on the content you want to read. It also offers password protection, for a fee, to protect your data sources. The ads aren’t intrusive, and every feature other than password protection is completely free.

  • Search for sources or add feeds manuallyReads content to youRead entire articles in the app (use “Extend” option above articles)Organize sources into categoriesSave favorites

  • Ad-supported ($3.99 to remove ads)Password protection is only available in premium version ($3.99 to add feature)

6. Flipboard

Flipboard is already a well-known RSS reader but works a bit differently. Stories are curated based on user interactions and Flipboard staff. However, you can create your own “magazines” with sources that fit your interests. While it doesn’t work like a traditional RSS reader, the Windows app is perfect for any Flipboard user who wants to have their feeds on their desktop.

  • Create custom “magazines” with the content you wantEnjoy curated magazines on the topics that matter most to youSync with your Flipboard account on the Web, iOS, and Android devicesFlip through stories just as you would a virtual magazine

  • No traditional RSS feedAdding new content isn’t as intuitive as other options

7. QuiteRSS

QuiteRSS might seem simple, but it works well for pulling in stories from the sources that matter to you. It sports a similar interface to RSSOwl and doesn’t look nearly as modern as some of the other options on this list. However, it also comes in a portable form so that you can take it with you on other devices. The app also imports feeds from other RSS readers (if your reader exports feeds). Plus, you can back up your feeds at any time if you’re changing devices.

  • Simple interfaceOrganize feeds with color-coded labelsSave stories for laterShare stories with othersQuickly filter by unreadCustomize feed properties and app columns

  • May feel too simple for some usersFeed URL is required to add a new feed (Some other RSS readers automatically pull the feed based on the main website URL.)

Online Only: Feedly

If you don’t want to download anything, access Feedly on Windows through any browser. It’s also available on iOS and Android. It’s easy to create feeds, organize them, and stay up to date on whaat you enjoy reading online while in the comfy environment of Windows. Plus, it’s constantly being updated, unlike some of the options on this list.

Image credit: RSS Digital Announcement Network Technology Concept by 123RF

Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems.

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