If you love reading, unlimited reading subscriptions sound like a dream come true. That’s why Kindle Unlimited is so popular. However, it’s not for everyone, especially since it’s filled more with self-published and indie titles versus bestsellers. If the pickings aren’t to your liking, try out some Kindle Unlimited alternatives. Pricing tends to be around the same amount, but you’ll find completely different selections of books, magazines, and more. And, they all include ebook reader apps.
1. Bookmate
Bookmate is one of the best Kindle Unlimited alternatives and is the most similar. However, Bookmate has more bestsellers, though you’ll still find plenty missing. If you like HarperCollins or Bloomsbury authors, you’re set. The social element helps set it apart, though. Connect with friends to see what they’re reading and share what you’re reading, too. Find new books by searching, editor’s choices, popular bookshelves, publisher, and more.
The subscription currently includes over 1.8 million ebooks, audiobooks, and comics. You can read all you want on iOS and Android devices (with the Bookmate app) for $9.99/month or $99.99/year. Browse their library first to see if the plan has the books you’re interested in.
2. Scribd
Scribd is another strong alternative. It’s also the best alternative if you’re looking for more bestsellers. You’ll usually find a better selection of the most current books at Scribd than you will with Bookmate or Kindle Unlimited’s plans. However, you get a bonus here – unlimited audiobooks, too. This is in addition to magazines, documents, and even sheet music. Overall, the subscription includes more than a million book titles.
Everything’s included in one price at just $9.99/month. There is a catch, though. Scribd used to limit readers to just three books per month, but now it’s mainly unlimited. Reading a “high volume” of books per month may restrict how many you can access temporarily, but that number isn’t specified. However, you can try it for free for 39 days to see how the limits work.
3. 24symbols
24symbols is kind of a dark horse when it comes to Kindle Unlimited alternatives. However, you shouldn’t count it out. With over a million titles, you get a great selection. The problem is you won’t find as many bestsellers or mainstream titles. If you prefer indie or self-published ebooks, you’ll find everything you could want. You’ll also find plenty of graphic novels, too.
The best part is 24symbols is one of the cheaper alternatives at $8.99/month. There isn’t a free trial, but you can cancel at any time.
4. ComiXology Unlimited
The previous Kindle Unlimited alternatives were more exact matches. If you prefer to read comics over books, you may want something else entirely. ComiXology Unlimited is the comics version of Kindle Unlimited. And that’s all you’ll find here – comics.
If you prefer just Marvel and want a bigger selection, subscribe to Marvel Unlimited, which has over 28,000 comics. Try it free for a week, and then it’s $9.99/month.
5. Kobo Plus
Kobo Plus makes a great Kindle Unlimited alternative, but unlike other alternatives, it’s only available in Canada, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Currently, the library isn’t quite as extensive, with only hundreds of thousands versus over a million. It’s $9.99/month and includes mainstream titles, self-published originals, and classics. There’s a free 30-day trial, so if you live in one of the included countries, it’s worth trying out.
6. Epic!
Does you child want unlimited reading? Try a kid-friendly alternative to Kindle Unlimited with Epic. It’s designed for kids 12 and under. With over 40,000 books, it’s a great way to ensure your child has access to plenty of books fit for their age and interests. This also helps you better control what they’re reading.
Analytics help you see how they’re progressing and jump in to start reading with them. There are no in-app purchases or ads either. There are built-in learning tools, original series, and videos. You can have up to four children on a single account for $7.99/month.
7. OverDrive
OverDrive is only available in the United States, making it one of the most limited. However, it’s completely free. All you need is a valid library card from one of the thousands of participating libraries across the nation. Some schools also participate. Virtually borrow from over a million titles, including New York Times bestsellers. Search OverDrive’s site for libraries near you. Or, contact your local library to see if they participate or have anything similar.
Try out one or more of these Kindle Unlimited alternatives to see which one works best for you. You can always switch to another when you get tired of one. You can even switch to a new ebook reader. If you already have a massive ebook library, use Calibre to help you manage it.
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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