Top 10 Free Text to Speech Software & Apps for 2024 

We have come a long way from the days of robotic-sounding text to speech tools. From making its first appearance in Bell Labs singing "Daisy Bell" to one of the earliest models being used for Stephen Hawking. The text to speech technology allowed Mr. Hawking to “speak” with people after he lost that ability to a disease. Voice synthesis technology, more commonly known as text to speech, has evolved rapidly over the years. The integration of Artificial Intelligence in TTS has ushered in a new era of innovation and accessibility. Whether you currently use text to speech to listen to books, study, or proofread your own written work, there’s no doubt that it has made life easier for people in a variety of professions. TTS tools have found their way into gaming, branding, animation, voice assistant development, audiobooks, and more.

Let’s explore the best text to speech apps or software on the basis of its features, capabilities, and functionalities.

10 Best Free Text to Speech Apps & Software

Every TTS tool is different in some ways or the other but for some the elements found in the best text to speech online tools can be essential, while for others it might not be so important, let’s take a look at some of them in detail:

1. Murf - Redefining Realistic Voices for All

Murf AI is a powerful text to speech (TTS) platform that excels in offering high-quality, natural-sounding voices with customizable options. The platform prioritizes voice quality and naturalness and can be easy to use for everyone, even for beginners.

Features: The platform provides extensive customization tools, allowing users to adjust pitch, tone, speed, and emotion to suit various needs. Its streamlined interface ensures minimal effort as users can easily upload a script, choose a voice, and adjust settings. Users can create expressive voiceovers that replicate real human speech, including pauses and intonation changes. Murf supports over 20 languages and a wide range of accents. 

Plans: The free plan allows users to use all the features for 10 mins of voice generation. Paid plans range from $19 to $130 per month. 

Benefits: Murf AI stands out for its ability to produce natural-sounding voiceovers with precise speech patterns and intonations. Its multilingual and multi-accent capabilities allow users to create content for diverse audiences. The platform’s customization features are one of a kind such as “say it my way”, variability and word level emphasis. All of which makes it possible to fine-tune voiceovers for professional or creative use cases. Additionally, Murf offers fast processing, ensuring efficiency for both small and large projects. Data security and user privacy are key priorities, making it a trustworthy platform for professionals.

Limitations: The free plan is restricted to a single user and does not include download options for generated voiceovers, although sharing via link is available. Murf AI operates entirely online without offline functionality. However, its comprehensive documentation and support make the platform liked by creators and businesses alike.

2. Elevenlabs - Elevating AI Speech to the Next Level 

ElevenLabs offers a robust text to speech (TTS) platform with features that meet industry needs for voice quality, customization, and scalability. 

Features: The platform's voices are natural, capable of conveying various emotions and tones, creating lifelike audio output. It supports 29 languages and multiple accents, allowing businesses to communicate effectively with global audiences. Users can customize their voice output by adjusting pitch, tone, and style, or even cloning voices to fit specific needs like audiobooks, videos, or other media. The platform is also optimized for speed, delivering fast, low-latency voice generation and API support for real-time applications.

Plans: Elevenlabs offers audio generation for 10 mins and API access along with other features. Paid plans range from $5 to 1320 per month.  

Benefits: The platform is user-friendly, with an intuitive interface that makes voice generation accessible even to beginners. Its extensive voice library and customization features allow users to craft specific voice profiles tailored to their needs. ElevenLabs also prioritizes security and privacy, offering GDPR compliance and encryption to handle sensitive data safely.

Limitations: The absence of offline capabilities, which may be a concern for some users. While the platform excels in real-time usage and online speed, users requiring offline functionality may need to look elsewhere.

3. TTSReader - Read it Aloud, On-the-Go

A lightweight, simple, and functional free text to speech app that works right out of the box is TTSReader.

Features: TTSReader does not require installation or login. It offers over 30 AI-generated male and female voices across 15+ languages. A standout feature is its 'speech tracking word' function, which highlights the words as they are being read aloud. Additionally, users can adjust the reading speed, import web pages, add pauses, and manually set the caret position to resume playback from any selected point. The app also remembers the last text and position, allowing users to continue from where they left off.

Plans: The free version offers 5000 characters per day. The paid plans range from $10.99 per month to $39 per annum.  

Benefits: The software is designed for ease of use, functioning directly from any browser on any device without downloads. Its customization options, such as speed control and word highlighting, enhance the user experience. The fact that it remembers the last text and playback position adds convenience, allowing users to pick up where they last paused.

Limitations: While TTSReader offers a range of voices, the generated audio often sounds robotic and less natural. It lacks offline capabilities and does not provide any information regarding privacy or security policies on its platform.

4. Play.ht - AI voices Breaking Boundaries

Play.ht offers a variety of features that make it stand out as a high-quality text to speech (TTS) platform.

Features: It provides natural, expressive voices that capture realistic intonations and emotions, perfect for enhancing content across various use cases. With over 147 languages and accents, it is an ideal solution for businesses looking to connect with audiences worldwide. Users can customize voiceovers with ease, adjusting pitch, tone, and speed to fit different contexts, whether it’s a formal narration or a lively advertisement.

Plans: The free version offers 12,500 characters. The paid plans range from $39 to $99 per month. 

Benefits: The platform’s strengths lie in its number of voices and languages. Converting text into voice is straightforward and can be done in just a few clicks. Additionally, Play.ht's vast array of voices and customization options provide users with precise control over voiceovers. It is also GDPR-compliant, ensuring security and privacy of stored user data.

Limitations:  A limitation for Play.ht is the lack of offline capabilities, it also lacks pause or emotion customizations. All in all, Play.ht combines voice quality, extensive language support, making it a versatile TTS software.​

5. Lovo AI - AI voices Crafted for Creators

This text to speech tool allows users to create natural-sounding voiceovers instantly, making it an ideal option for creators. 

Features: It offers a range of voice options, allowing users to convey different emotions, such as excitement, calmness, or authority. Lovo’s voice library has over 180 voices in 33 languages, with customization features that let users adjust pitch, speed, tone, and emphasis. A pronunciation editor is also available to refine how individual words are spoken. The tool is designed for ease of use, requiring just three simple steps: enter your script, apply customizations, and render the final voiceover.

Plans: Lovo AI allows up to three downloads per month and three-day access to premium voices. Paid plans range from $25 to $75 per month.

Benefits: Lovo excels in producing high-quality, natural-sounding voiceovers with the ability to express a wide range of emotions, enhancing the output's overall realism. The platform’s extensive voice library and customization tools make it suitable for various content types and tones. Additionally, the process is user-friendly, allowing users to create voiceovers in just a few steps. 

Limitations: Lovo users should carefully review how voice cloning and sensitive data are handled. The platform is cloud-based and does not support offline functionality. Additionally, if users require a broader selection of languages and accents you may find lesser options compared to other platforms.

6. Natural Reader - Convert Text to Speech, Simply and Effortlessly

Natural Reader converts text from documents of almost all formats, be it TXT, DOC, or EPUB.

Features: It provides high-quality AI-generated voices that deliver a natural sound, making it suitable for casual listening or narration. The software also offers customization options, allowing users to adjust the reading speed and view real-time word highlighting as the text is read aloud. Additionally, Natural Reader supports multiple languages and accents, including American, British, and Australian English, as well as French, Spanish, and German. 

Plans:The free version has access to limited voices and features. There are two types of premium plans, one is for personal use where the subscription starts from $9.99 to $19 per month and the other for commercial that ranges from $49 to $79 per month.    

Benefits: The software’s interface is user-friendly, making it accessible for individuals with little to no technical experience. It also works offline, allowing users to convert text to speech without needing an internet connection, which is especially helpful in areas with unreliable connectivity.

Limitations: While Natural Reader provides basic security and privacy features, it lacks enterprise-grade security measures. This makes it less suitable for businesses or users with strict data protection requirements.

7. Speechify - Turn Reading into Listening in Minutes

Speechify is a text to speech app known for its high-quality, natural-sounding voices. The voices simulate human intonation, pauses, and emotions, delivering a realistic listening experience. 

Features: Speechify offers 100+ AI-generated voices across 30+ languages, users can tailor the voice by adjusting accent, tone, and style. Additionally, Speechify offers extensive customization, allowing users to modify pitch, speed, and voice settings to match their project requirements. It supports syncing across both desktop and mobile platforms, enabling users to seamlessly access their content across devices. 

Plans: The free version has 10 standard reading voices and provides a shareable link with no download file options. The paid plans are for $29 per month with 60% discount if you opt for an annual one. 

Benefits: Speechify is designed with the ease of use in mind. The app's simple interface makes it easy to generate voiceovers, catering to both tech-savvy users and beginners. Its flexibility and customization make it ideal for professionals, students, and individuals with reading difficulties such as dyslexia, boosting productivity. The syncing capability across devices further enhances user experience, ensuring accessibility and convenience.

Limitations: The app lacks offline functionality, requiring an internet connection to function. Additionally, although data security is sufficient, the app does not offer end-to-end encryption.

8. TTS Maker - A Text to Voice Basic

TTS Maker is a solid choice for basic text to speech software that caters to text to speech voices for users with varying needs.

Features: It offers a selection of 300+ voices, though the naturalness of the speech has scope for improvement. The software supports 50+ languages, which is helpful for global users, though more advanced users may find the range of accent options limited. Customization features such as pitch, tone, and speed adjustments are available, providing some flexibility, although these options are more basic compared to other premium TTS tools. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible to beginners with little technical knowledge.

Plans: The free version has a 20,000 character per week limit. Paid plans range from $12.99 to $140 per month. They offer a 34% discount for annual plan selection.  

Benefits: The software is easy to use and suitable for users just starting out with text-to-speech. It supports multiple languages and accents, with customization options that can be tailored to different projects. The free version offers a good entry point, and the paid plans are affordable for those seeking more features.

Limitations: It lacks the ability to deliver highly natural, nuanced speech with emotional depth. Advanced customization options are limited, and there is no offline functionality. Additionally, documentation, customer support, security, and privacy features are not up to the mark, which may be a drawback for users seeking more support and protection.

In terms of cost, TTS Maker offers a free version with limitations, and paid plans that unlock additional features, making it a budget-friendly option. However, its security, privacy, and support options could be better, with limited documentation and customer assistance. Overall, TTS Maker is a good starting point for basic text to speech needs.

9. WellSaid Labs - One-Stop Solution for Voiceovers

WellSaid’s powerful text to speech software's free plan packs a punch..

Features: The platform provides access to around 53 voice avatars, including regional variations of American English accents. While the software supports customization, such as voice cloning, the advanced options such as pitch, pauses and speed are limited. It also features a user-friendly interface with intuitive controls, making it accessible for most users.

Plans: Users can use the app for free for up to seven days by simply signing up with their work email IDs. Paid plans range from $49 to $199 per month with a 10% discount if you wish to purchase an annual subscription.   

Benefits: With WellSaid, users benefit from high-quality voice output, making it a reliable option for those seeking natural and professional-sounding audio. The platform's intuitive design, variety of voice avatars and speedy conversions enhance the user experience, even at the free level.

Limitations: The voices are limited primarily to English and American accents. Additionally, the platform lacks offline capabilities, requiring a constant internet connection. Security and privacy measures are solid but vary depending on the plan chosen. 

10. Balabolka - Your Personal Reader in your Pocket

Balabolka is a free text to speech (TTS) software that utilizes various versions of the Microsoft Speech API to modify voice parameters such as speed and pitch. 

Features: It supports multiple languages and accents and allows users to save audio files in formats like MP3, WAV, WMA, OGG, and MP4. Additionally, it offers bookmarking for longer articles, making it easy to resume reading at any point. The software also works offline, providing a portable solution for users on the go.

Plans: As a free tool, Balabolka is accessible without any cost or licensing fees, offering budget-conscious users a practical solution for basic text to speech needs. 

Benefits: Balabolka’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for users of all levels to navigate. The ability to adjust speech rate and pitch adds a degree of customization suitable for casual use. Its offline functionality is a significant advantage for users requiring voice output in areas with limited internet access. There are no significant privacy concerns, making it a secure choice for most users.

Limitations: While Balabolka delivers decent voice quality, it lacks the natural tone and immersive experience provided by premium TTS solutions. The variety of voices, accents, and customization options is limited compared to more advanced tools. Additionally, as a free product, it does not offer robust encryption or advanced security features that may be found in paid alternatives.

Any TTS app that you choose will be dependent on your requirements. However, here is a checklist for the key aspects of a good TTS app and software before you make that decision.

8 Must-Haves in the Best TTS App & Software

Selecting a good TTS tool pivots on various factors such as voice quality, flexibility, and the degree of customization available, including the ability to emulate celebrity voices for a more personalized touch. Let’s see what it takes to become the best text to speech app or software across various industries and applications.

1. Voice Quality and Naturalness - Real Voices, No Robot Vibes

It is the absolute and most essential quality to look for in a TTS app. The text to speech tool should also be able to replicate the voice of a human being, be it the pause and breathe in all the right places, change of style or emotion.

2. Language and Accent - Master Every Accent, From Boston to Bangalore

A fantastic TTS tool should allow users to convert the content into different languages, expanding their reach worldwide and overcoming language barriers. This can unlock tremendous potential for businesses as customers with a global footprint can create a consistent user experience across languages and regions. 

3. Customization Features - Personalize Every Voice 

A text to speech voice without customization is just an unnatural robotic voice. The app should be able to adjust pitch, tone, rate, and other settings to achieve the perfect custom voiceover, depending on the project. 

4. Ease of Use - Transform Text to Speech in Just a Few Clicks

Using a good text to speech software should not be rocket science. Creating a voiceover should be done in just a few simple clicks. Step 1: Pasting your script Step 2: Choosing a voice Step 3: Generating a high-quality voiceover and voila! Prioritize tools that are easy to navigate and have a straightforward interface.

5. Cost and Licensing - Premium Voices Without Going Broke

While the best text to speech apps offer free versions, they come with limitations. To unlock the full power of the tool, you’ll have to either pay a monthly subscription or make a one-time purchase. 

6. Security and Privacy - Protect your Voice and your Data

To evaluate the security and privacy of a TTS app, do check their policies, certifications, or encryption. One may have sensitive or confidential information that you do not want to expose or share with anyone. There may also be legal or ethical obligations to protect the privacy and rights of the users or customers. 

7. Support and Documentation - With you in Every Step of the Way

For support and feedback look for available customer support, tutorials, and documentation to help with troubleshooting and maximizing the tool’s capabilities for a better and sophisticated output.

8. Offline Capability - Unplug and Create

Some apps and software allow offline usage, which is beneficial if the application in which you integrate the text to speech file needs to function without an internet connection.

Murf's Premium Service: Unlock the Full Power of AI Voices

While Murf's free version offers a wide range of features and enables users to explore most things the software offers, the premium version takes creating voiceovers a level up. The Murf Gen 2 is not just a text to speech synthesis app it is an AI generator that creates realistic and authentic voiceovers. The advanced customization features help you harness the full potential of AI, allowing you to mold and modify voiceovers the way you want. Some of the other features available in the Murf premium services are:

Voice cloning - Say it My Way

The voice cloning feature can Transform a single recording into infinite script performances. Customize the AI voice clone to exhibit different emotions depending on the use case be it advertisements, IVR, or character voices in games and animation. With the introduction of the Murf Gen 2 feature known as the ‘Say it My Way’ is the ultimate customization feature that enhances the voice cloning capabilities of the app.  

Voice over video - Script to Screen Made Easy

You use a robust and one of the best text to speech apps for generating top notch quality audio files. The voices used are natural sounding and you can convert from written text to voice seamlessly. Now, you are ready to upload your premium voice to the video, but what happens when the synchronization of your video is not as perfect or not as seamless as your voice generation process?      

One of the most important abilities for any text to speech app is to be able to add images and videos. Murf goes beyond converting text to speech. It gives you all the tools you need to go from script to a finished video in a few simple steps. With Murf, you can overlay voiceovers with background music to keep things interesting. As our clients like to say, "If you can imagine it, you can Murf it." 

Voice changer - From Raw Audio to Polished Perfection

Did you record your voice in a noisy place, or did you simply not like the sound of your voice or did you not like the speaking rate and volume of your audio file? Murf has got you covered. 'Voice Changer' on the menu is a game changer. You can  change your voice in 5 simple steps. Murf’s AI voice changer allows you to convert your recorded audio file into an editable script. Remove or add pauses, delete extraneous words, and arrange the sequences just like editing a word document.

AI Translation - Break Language Barriers

Translate your script, text file or uploaded voice recording to any language of your liking with just a click of a button. With Murf AI Translate all your translation projects can benefit from the wide range of language options available. You will find all the major languages such as French, Arabic, Italian, Japanese, English (Australian, American, British, and Indian accents), and Indonesian among the 20+ languages that Murf supports.

FAQs

What is the best free text to speech tools?

Murf, Speechify, TTS Reader, and Voice Dream Reader are among the best free TTS tools.

Do I need a text to speech subscription?

If you want to explore the premium features of a text to speech software, you must get a subscription to one of the application's paid versions. 

What are the limitations of free TTS software?

There are several limitations to free TTS software: fewer voice options and languages supported, API, chrome extension, access to premium features, lack of voice quality and variety, and more. Check out the list of best text to speech softwares.

What is the best free text to speech software for windows? 

Natural Reader, Microsoft Edge, TTSMaker, Readme TTS, Office Immersive Reader, Panopreter, Balabolka