Side by side
Audiobookshelf vs BookPlayer
Both stand on audiobook apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+4
Audiobookshelf combines self-hosted audiobook and podcast management with multi-user progress sync, metadata tools, and basic ebook support. Account for the need to arrange remote access yourself and the limits of scheduled backups.
Visit Audiobookshelf Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac
Choose BookPlayer if you want a free player for DRM-free audiobooks with several import routes, library organization, and support for Audiobookshelf or Jellyfin. Look elsewhere if you need an included audiobook catalog, or choose Pro if cloud sync or standalone Apple Watch playback is essential.
Visit BookPlayerThe facts
| Audiobookshelf | BookPlayer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | audiobookshelf.org | bookplayer.app |
| On audiobook apps | #2 of 32 | #6 of 32 |
Audiobookshelf: what it does well
- Free and open source.
- Syncs each user's playback progress across devices.
- Beta Android and iOS apps support offline listening.
- Includes chapter tools and M4B merging.
- Supports several ebook formats and an ereader.
What to know first
- Remote access requires a user-configured VPN or reverse proxy.
- The server serves unencrypted HTTP.
- Scheduled backups exclude media files and some covers.
- Mobile apps are beta.
BookPlayer: what it does well
- Plays M4B, M4A, MP3, and FLAC audiobooks.
- Includes chapters, speed controls, smart rewind, and volume boost.
- Organizes books with progress tracking, playlists, and folders.
- Imports through AirDrop, Files, iTunes File Sharing, and ZIP archives.
- Supports Audiobookshelf, Jellyfin, and Hardcover tracking.
What to know first
- Cloud sync and server storage require BookPlayer Pro.
- Standalone Apple Watch playback is a Pro feature.
- The included catalog has 0 titles.
Alternatives to Audiobookshelf Alternatives to BookPlayer The whole list