Text to Speech Readers (TTS)

There is a variety of Text to Speech tools that allow students who have a difficult time reading print text to listen to their textbooks, webpages, or pdf files with little to no training required. Many of these tools are now offered free and require no subscriptions to use. 

Below are some of our favorites:

Natural Reader

Features:

• Text-to-Speech software that can be used for Microsoft Word, Webpages, PDFs, and Email
• Customize reading voice and speed
• Available online with no download
• http://www.naturalreaders.com/

Compatibility: Windows; Mac OS; Online Resource

TTSFox

Features:

• Text-to-Speech add-on for Firefox web browser
• Can be used to have webpages be read out loud to the user
• Usable even while offline
• https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/ttsfox/

Compatibility: Firefox

Read Aloud

Features:

• Text-to-Speech add-on for both Google Chrome & Firefox web browsers
• Can be used to have webpages be read out loud to the user
• Multiple voices to pick from
• PDF reading support
• https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/ttsfox/

Compatibility: Firefox and Chrome

Balbolka

Features:

• Text-to-Speech program
• Saves text as mP3, mP4, WAV, OGG or WMA file for portability
• Reads DOC, EPUB, HTML, PDF, RTF
• Customize text and background colors for convent reading and release of eye strain
• http://www.cross-plus-a.com/balabolka.htm

Compatibility: Windows

If you have questions or need support using this assistive technology, send us an email at radr.aft@echo.rutgers.edu or schedule an online support call.

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Tag: Assistive Technology