Audible: Audio Entertainment

Audible, a subsidiary of Amazon, has become synonymous with audiobooks. With a vast library, original content, and user-friendly features, it’s no surprise that Audible dominates the audiobook market. This review will delve into everything you need to know about Audible, from its features to its pricing, benefits, and drawbacks. Whether you’re considering signing up or are a current user looking to make the most of your subscription, this detailed review will guide you through the ins and outs of the platform.

What is Audible?

Audible is an online platform offering a vast collection of audiobooks, podcasts, and original content. As part of the Amazon ecosystem, Audible provides users with access to a variety of audio content, from best-selling novels to niche genres and exclusive Audible Originals. Its seamless integration with Amazon allows for an easy purchasing experience, making it a go-to for many audio enthusiasts. One of Audible’s key strengths is its extensive library, which includes over 200,000 titles across various genres. Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, self-help, or learning new languages, Audible likely has something for you. With its monthly membership, users receive one credit per month, which can be used to purchase any audiobook, regardless of its price.

How Does Audible Work?

Audible operates on a subscription model, with users choosing from several plans. The most common plan is the Audible Plus membership, which includes access to the entire Plus Catalog and one credit per month for any premium selection title. Additionally, there’s the Audible Premium Plus plan, which offers two credits per month and discounts on all purchases.

Audible Credits

Each month, subscribers receive a credit that can be exchanged for an audiobook of their choice. These credits roll over if unused, so you can accumulate them for a later date. However, it’s important to note that credits do expire, usually after a year.

Audible Plus Catalog

The Audible Plus Catalog is a collection of thousands of titles that are included with the membership, meaning you can listen to them without using a credit. This catalog includes Audible Originals, podcasts, and a wide range of audiobooks. However, it’s important to distinguish between the Plus Catalog and the premium titles, which require credits to purchase.

Audible’s Content Library

One of the most significant advantages of Audible is its vast content library. With over 200,000 audiobooks, there is something for everyone. The library includes bestsellers, classics, new releases, and titles across every imaginable genre. Audible also offers Audible Originals, which are exclusive to the platform and include performances by famous actors, dramatized audio plays, and unique content that you won’t find elsewhere.

Audiobook Genres

Audible categorizes its library into various genres, making it easy for users to find content that suits their tastes. Whether you’re interested in mystery, romance, science fiction, or self-help, Audible’s library has you covered. The platform also features niche genres such as foreign language audiobooks, children’s stories, and educational content.

Audible Originals

Audible Originals are exclusive audio productions available only to Audible members. These range from documentaries to dramatizations and include content from well-known creators. Audible Originals are part of what makes the platform unique, offering content that cannot be accessed anywhere else.

Listening Experience on Audible

Audible’s listening experience is designed to be as user-friendly as possible. The platform offers multiple features to enhance your audiobook experience, whether you’re at home, commuting, or working out. Audible supports listening on various devices, including **smartphones, tablets, and Amazon Echo devices.

Offline Listening

One of the standout features of Audible is the ability to download audiobooks for offline listening. This means you can enjoy your favorite titles without needing an internet connection, perfect for traveling or areas with poor connectivity.

Playback Speed and Bookmarks

Audible allows you to adjust the playback speed of your audiobooks, so you can listen at a pace that suits you. The platform also lets you set bookmarks and make notes, making it easy to return to specific sections or remember important points.

Audible Membership Plans

Audible offers a range of membership plans to suit different needs and budgets. The most popular plan is the Audible Plus membership, which costs $7.95 per month and includes access to the Plus Catalog. The Audible Premium Plus plan is priced at $14.95 per month and includes one credit per month for any audiobook in the premium selection.

Free Trial

New users can take advantage of Audible’s 30-day free trial. During this trial period, you can enjoy one audiobook of your choice and unlimited access to the Audible Plus Catalog. If you decide Audible isn’t for you, you can cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged.

Student Discount

Audible also offers a discounted membership for students. The Audible Student Membership includes all the benefits of a Premium Plus membership but at a reduced price of $9.95 per month.

Pros and Cons of Audible

Like any service, Audible has its pros and cons. Understanding these can help you determine whether Audible is the right choice for you.

Pros

• Vast Library: Audible offers a massive selection of audiobooks and exclusive content.
• Flexibility: Credits roll over, and there’s a wide range of membership plans to suit different needs.
• Offline Listening: Download audiobooks to listen offline, perfect for travel.
• Exclusive Content: Access to Audible Originals that you can’t find elsewhere.

Cons

• Price: Audible can be expensive, especially for avid listeners who may need more than one credit per month.
• Limited Ownership: While you own the audiobooks you purchase with credits, the subscription service doesn’t provide ownership of the entire Plus Catalog.
• Device Restrictions: Audible is primarily designed for Amazon and mobile devices, which may limit usage on other platforms.

How Audible Compares to Competitors

Audible is a leader in the audiobook industry, but it’s not the only option. Comparing Audible to its competitors can provide a clearer picture of its value.

Audible vs. Scribd

Scribd offers an all-you-can-read subscription, including audiobooks, eBooks, and magazines. While Scribd is more affordable, its audiobook selection is smaller compared to Audible. However, Scribd provides unlimited access to its entire library without the need for credits.

Audible vs. Apple Books

Apple Books is another competitor, especially for users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. Apple Books sells audiobooks individually, with no subscription model. This can be advantageous for those who only listen to audiobooks occasionally but may be more expensive for regular listeners.

Customer Support and Refund Policy

Customer support is an essential aspect of any service, and Audible doesn’t disappoint. Audible offers 24/7 customer service, accessible via phone, email, or chat. The support team is generally responsive and helpful.

Refund Policy

Audible’s refund policy is one of the most customer-friendly in the industry. If you’re not satisfied with an audiobook, you can return it for a refund or exchange it for another title. This policy applies to audiobooks purchased with credits or directly with cash.

Conclusion

Audible remains the leading audiobook service, offering a vast library, exclusive content, and user-friendly features. While it may not be the cheapest option, its value proposition is hard to beat for avid audiobook listeners. With the ability to try the service for free, it’s worth exploring if you’re passionate about audio content.