Kobo Audiobooks vs Audible: Which One Should You Choose in 2025?
Summary:Looking for a comprehensive Kobo Audiobooks vs Audible comparison? This review breaks down the two top platforms across seven key aspects to help you make an informed choice. Plus, consider trying BookFab AudioBook Creator to expand your audiobook collection.
Table of Contents
Audiobooks are a better means of content consumption. It is a modern way to enjoy books while multitasking — whether you're at the gym, commuting, or simply relaxing. However, with numerous audiobook services available, finding the one that best suits your interests can be a complex task. Most users prefer Audible for its popularity. However, some rest their vote in favor of Kobo Audiobooks due to its cost-effectiveness. But how do you decide between Kobo Audiobooks and Audible? This blog post provides detailed reviews of both, along with a clear comparison of various parameters. Find out which one best meets your specific needs. It's a clash of audiobook giants — let's see which one comes out on top!
A Quick Overview of Kobo Audiobooks and Audible
Kobo Audiobooks and Audible are two of the most popular platforms for audiobook lovers today. While Kobo stands out as one of the most affordable services, Audible emerges as an old player with greater popularity. Each offers unique features, pricing, and listening experiences tailored to different user needs. In the sections ahead, we'll break down how they compare. By doing so, you can determine which one best suits your reading and listening style.
Kobo Audiobooks
Kobo Audiobooks were launched in 2017 by Rakuten in Canada. Despite being a relatively new platform, it has garnered immense global popularity due to its low prices. Its vast library and user-friendly UI make it an easy-to-use platform for users of all age groups. With over 1.5 million+ eBooks to choose from, readers and listeners get endless choices. They can select the Day or Night mode with their preferred font size, style, and more features.
Audible
Amazon Audible is a seasoned player in the digital industry, having launched in the U.S. in 2008. Since its introduction, there has been no looking back, and in fact, it has grown more popular each year. Its sole motto is to embrace readers' 'me' time without any compromise. It has over 200,000 captivating audiobooks to enrich your life. Each month, it offers three audiobooks, including two Audible Originals. Get audio programs from broadcasters, entertainers, magazine and newspaper publishers, and more.
Kobo vs Audible: Who is the Winner?
The features and limitations must not have been enough to choose between Kobo Audiobooks vs Audible. Each has its own strengths; selecting the right one depends on what matters most to you. In the comparison ahead, we'll examine key aspects such as pricing plans, available titles, supported devices, audio quality, credit systems, return and cancellation policies, and honest user feedback to help you determine which platform best suits your needs.
Pricing Plans
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| Free Trial | 30-day free trial | 30-day free trial |
| Monthly Subscription Fee | Kobo Plus Read: US$7.99 Kobo Plus Listen: US$7.99 Kobo Plus Read & Listen: US$9.99 |
Audible Plus: US$7.95 Audible Premium Plus: US$14.95 |
When comparing these two pioneering audiobook services, price plans are a crucial factor. Kobo Plus offers unlimited audiobook listening with eBook reading plans. You can choose individual reading and listening plans on Kobo at US$7.99 per month. Or, get both catalogs at just US$9.99 with the Kobo Plus Read & Listen plan.
On the contrary, the Audible Premium Plus plan offers 1 credit a month to buy any audiobook from our entire collection. Even if you cancel the subscription, its ownership and access remain with you forever. However, it is slightly pricier than Kobo.
🏆Winner: Audible (for audiobook ownership). You can choose Kobo Audiobooks for value and variety (audiobooks and eBooks combined).
Titles
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| Audiobook Titles | Over 150,000+ | Over 200,000+ |
| eBook Titles | Over 1.5 million+ | Not included with standard subscription |
| Subscription Includes | Audiobooks and eBooks | Audiobooks only |
| Catalog Size | Smaller compared to Audible | Significantly larger |
Knowing the available titles is also essential when comparing Kobo vs Audible. Kobo Plus offers over 150,000 audiobooks. It has substantial titles across different genres to choose from. In addition, it supports over 1.5 million eBook titles. However, some new titles may not be available globally at the same time.
On the other hand, Audible has a comparatively larger library with over 200,000+ audiobook titles. Members also get exclusive Audible Originals every month. It definitely emerges as a better choice in terms of in-depth listening.
🏆Winner: Kobo Plus for a combined, budget-friendly audiobook and eBook experience in a single plan. But choose Audible (for audiobook variety and depth).
Supported Devices
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| Supported Platforms | Android 6+ and iOS 12+ (via Kobo app only), select Kobo eReaders | Android 9+ and iOS 17+, Windows 9/10, Macs, select Kindle e-readers and Fire tablets, and Cloud Player |
| Computer Playback | Not supported | Supported via download + iTunes/Windows Media Player |
| Browser/Cloud Playback | Not available | Audible Cloud Player |
| Support for Kindle e-ink Devices | Not supported | Supported (Kindle Keyboard, Touch, Oasis 8th/9th Gen, etc.) |
| Listening Flexibility | Limited |
Versatile |
A fair comparison won't be complete unless we consider the device compatibility of Kobo Audiobooks and Audible. Kobo Audiobooks are available for listening on mobile devices (Android and iOS) only. Unlike the Kobo apps for mobiles, it is not available for computers.
On the other hand, you can listen to Audible audiobooks through many platforms and devices. It supports Android, Windows 9/10, Apple Devices (iOS and Macs), Kindle Fire, and even a Cloud Player. It is also available to download on Kindle e-ink devices for seamless listening. However, if you want to listen to audiobooks on a phone that runs an older version of Android or iOS, Kobo might be the only option that meets your audiobook needs.
🏆Winner: Audible (for extreme flexibility and device compatibility)
Audio Quality
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| Supported Formats | MP3 and Kobo Audiobooks | AA and AAX (Audible proprietary) |
| Bitrate | 64 kbps to 128 kbps | 64 Kbps (Audible Enhanced) and 32 Kbps (Standard) |
| Compression | MP3 (more universal and less optimized) | AAC and Audible Codec 4 (lossy, optimized for speech) |
| DRM | Sometimes (depends on the publisher) | Yes (AAX files locked to Audible account) |
When comparing Kobo Audiobooks vs Audible based on technical audio specs, each platform takes a different approach. Kobo uses MP3 and its own audiobook format, offering bitrates from 64 to 128 kbps. It can provide better raw audio quality and universal compatibility. Additionally, Kobo's DRM varies by publisher, providing more flexibility.
Audible, on the other hand, uses proprietary AA and AAX formats with 64 kbps (Enhanced) and 32 kbps (Standard) bitrates. While Audible's compression (Codec 4) is optimized for spoken word, it is locked with strict DRM.
Overall, Kobo offers higher bitrate potential, but Audible is more optimized for spoken content.
🏆Winner: Kobo Audiobooks (for higher raw audio bitrate and universal compatibility). Users can opt for Audible for speech-optimized compression and consistent audio quality.
Credits
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| Monthly Credit | 1 credit/month (covers most books) | 1 credit/month (with Premium Plus) |
| Purchase Additional Credits | Yes, available when needed | Yes, available |
| Credits Rollover | Unused credits roll over | Yes, but may be limited by membership tier |
| Credit Expiry (Active Account) | Never expires while the account is active | May expire after 12 months or upon cancellation |
| Credit Expiry (After Cancellation) | Credits are valid for 6 months after cancellation | Unused credits are forfeited immediately upon cancellation |
Kobo Audiobooks subscribers receive monthly credits to purchase book titles. Members get 1 credit monthly, which is equivalent to the cost of most books in its library. Subscribers can also purchase additional credits if required. The best part is that unused credits do not expire; instead, they roll over to the next month.
However, when Kobo and Audible are compared, Audible lacks the ease of using credits. Audible Premium Plus members get 1 credit per month to purchase and keep audiobooks permanently. The unused credits roll over. But the amount may vary depending on your membership tier. Also, the credits may expire after 12 months. Upon canceling your Audible subscription, any unused credits will be immediately forfeited.
🏆Winner: Kobo Audiobooks (more flexible and user-friendly credit policy)
Return Policy and Cancellation
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| Return Option on Website | Not available | Yes, users can return titles from the Audible website |
| Return Process | Must contact customer service and provide a reason | Easy self-service return online; no reason is usually required |
| Return Timeframe | 45-day return period for purchased audiobook | Up to 365 days after purchase under the Great Listen Guarantee for purchased audiobook |
| Exchange for Another Title | Not clearly stated or officially supported | Yes, allowed within the return window |
| Return/Exchange Limits | Unknown | Not publicly defined; may depend on account standing |
| Transparency of Return Policy | Lacks clear, accessible return terms on the website | Clear and detailed policy publicly available |
Kobo Audiobooks you purchased individually offer a 45-day return timeframe. However, users can not find a clear return option on the website. They must contact the customer service and state the reason for successful return. Also, the exchange policy is not clearly stated or may not be officially supported. For audiobooks accessed through the Kobo Plus subscription service, users can cancel the service at any time. However, the subscription fee is generally non-refundable, which means you still can listen to audiobooks until the end of the current billing cycle.
In contrast, Audible has a more transparent and more flexible exchange and return policy. It allows for the return or exchange of a purchased audiobook within 365 days of the original purchase date. This makes Amazon Audible a safer, more secure, and easily accessible website. Also, you can switch or cancel the audible subcription plans at any time, but just like Kobo Plus, Audible generally doesn't offer refunds for membership fees already paid.
🏆Winner: Audible (for return and exchange flexibility, transparency, and user convenience)
Users' Feedback
| Key Parameters | Kobo Audiobooks | Audible |
| App Store Rating | iOS: 4.5/5 (64156 reviews) Android: 3.9/5 (287,836 reviews) |
iOS: 4.9/5 (5,273,398 reviews) Android: 4.3/5 (1,677,672 reviews) |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.0/5 (8737 reviews) | 1.6/5 (980 reviews) |
| Speechify | 4.9/5 (276,000 reviews) | 4.9/5 (276,000 reviews) |
| Subscriber (User) Count | 10M+ downloads | 100M+ downloads |
| Regional Preferences | Strong in the U.S./Canada/Australia, and EU (Books & Reference top 20 – 121) | Global leader, a strong integration with the Amazon ecosystem |
| Common Complaints | Sync issues, buggy app, poor store UX | Cluttered reviews, buried low‑star feedback |
Honest user feedback is also essential and helpful. Users on trusted rating sites, such as Trustpilot, find Kobo easy to work with. It has a kind and helpful customer service that works fine. However, some users call out Kobo for its "appalling returns process." Overall, the returns system is "cumbersome and inconvenient."
Conversely, for most users, Audible stands out with "helpful, professional, and friendly customer service." It has "a great selection of books," "regular sales," and an accessible, “easy return policy." However, some users found it "absolutely rubbish" and "Waste of time." Some claim it has a "terrible setup and is expensive for no reason."
🏆Winner: Audible (for its superior infrastructure, broader user approval, and better content ecosystem). However, some users prefer Kobo Audiobooks for its simplicity and less intrusive UI.
The Final Verdict
That was a detailed comparison of Kobo vs Audible. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal listening habits and preferences. For some users, Audible remains the more complete and polished audiobook platform. Besides offering a massive library of bestsellers and a clear credit system, it has user-friendly policies backed by years of experience.
However, Kobo Audiobooks is a strong budget-friendly alternative, especially appealing to those who want unlimited listening and reading in one plan. While Audible is ideal for dedicated listeners who value premium features and ownership, Kobo is better suited for more casual users looking for value. Thankfully, with free trials available, you can try both to find your perfect match.
Bonus: How to Convert Your Kobo/Kindle eBooks to Audiobooks?
Now, we have explored the differences between Kobo Audiobooks and Audible. However, you may wonder if there's a way to transform your existing digital book files into audiobooks. Whether you have books from Kindle or Kobo, BookFab Audiobook Creator can come in handy.
BookFab Audiobook Creator
BookFab Audiobook Creator allows users to convert eBooks into top-quality spoken audio. It utilizes high-quality AI voices to enable you to enjoy your digital library hands-free. With a broad range of female and male voices, you get complete control over several parameters. Whether you're on the go or just prefer listening over reading, BookFab helps bridge the gap between text and audio.
- Generates high-quality and realistic audio
- Converts TXT files into MP3 and OPUS formats
- Transforms EPUB eBooks to M4B audiobooks for extensive compatibility
- Supports over 20+ distinct male and female voices (English and Japanese)
- Personalizes music by controlling the speed, volume, and tone
- Transfers downloaded audiobooks to different devices for seamless listening
- Organizes imported eBooks systematically by title and cover for quick access
- Live text highlights and auto-scrolling to move through the information while listening
- Adjusts pronunciation and creates customized reading rules
Tutorial for Converting Your eBooks to Audiobooks
Step 1: Install and run BookFab
Get BookFab Free Download here.
Launch the BookFab software on your Windows 7 and above computer. Paste the pre-selected book text into the main interface of the program. Alternatively, you can import a .txt book file for conversion.
Step 2: Select and tailor the selected voice for narration
Henceforth, choose the preferred language. Similarly, pick a voice from the right side of the main interface. If desired, customize the speed, volume (loudness), and emotional tone of your audio.
Step 3: Convert your book
Tap Start to Convert at the bottom to generate and play the audio. You can also download and preserve the audio file for backup.
FAQs
No. You cannot play Audible audiobooks directly on Kobo. Also, keep in mind that some Kobo e-readers may not support audiobooks. However, Kobo Sage, Kobo Elipsa, Kobo Libra 2 and Kobo Clara Colour/BW/2E enable listening to audiobooks. You must decrypt Audible audiobooks and convert them to MP3 for seamless playback on Kobo.
Yes. BookFab Audiobook Creator is a powerful solution for high-quality and personalized text-to-speech conversion. It features multiple male and female voices to help you create lifelike audio with ease. This AI-based, versatile reader can convert TXT to MP3 and OPUS formats. Additionally, it can convert EPUB ebooks into high-quality audiobooks for seamless listening.
Audible is popular for its extensive selection of audiobooks across various categories. It is easy to use and offers a flexible return and exchange policy. However, Kobo has a blend of ebooks and audiobooks. It features a flexible credit system and is more budget-friendly than Audible. Overall, it largely depends on your choice and needs.
Final Wrap Up
Kobo Audiobooks and Audible are two top-notch contenders in the audiobook market. In addition to their individual features and limitations, we have also covered several other essential parameters. You can now compare them on their respective offerings, including price, titles, credits, return policy, user feedback, and more. Remember, your personal preferences may influence and impact your chosen factors in making a wise decision. Plus, try downloading BookFab Audiobook Creator to convert your eBook files into high-quality audiobooks, which enables you to unlock more audiobook resources.
Discover how to convert eBooks to audiobooks with ease. Learn about top ebook to audiobook converters, including free and AI-powered tools. Whether you're using Android or other devices, this guide covers how to quickly and efficiently transform your eBook to audiobook in multiple languages. Find the best ebook to audiobook apps for a seamless audio experience.
By Amber - Jun 17, 2025
Whether you're looking to enrich your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation, gather information, or just get the sound of a book as a background sound when you're resting with your eyes closed, there are tools available to enhance your reading experience. EPUB readers with text-to-speech capabilities can make your reading time more enjoyable and engaging.
By Amber - Jun 6, 2025
This article presents a comprehensive guide to the top tools for converting EPUB into audiobooks. It covers various software options, including BookFab, Speechify, and Balabolka, highlighting their unique features, customization options, and limitations. With step-by-step instructions for each tool, you can easily transform your ePub into engaging audiobooks.
By Amber - May 29, 2025
Kindle Text to Speech is a great feature that helps you multitask and manage your time efficiently. In this article, you will see how to enable Text to Speech Kindle app and on PC/Mac.
By Amber - May 22, 2025