FBReader vs cMate
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
FBReader
A fast and versatile e-book reader supporting multiple formats like ePub, Kindle, and fb2. It offers cloud syncing for reading progress and a customizable interface. Upgrade to unlock unlimited library access and advanced features.
- Supports ePub, Kindle azw3, fb2, RTF, Word, HTML, and text
- ePub3 and Readium LCP DRM support
- Cloud syncing of library and reading positions
- Customizable appearance and behavior options
- Direct opening of downloaded files
- Free version with library limits
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FBReader is a fast and easy-to-use e-book reader for iPhone and iPad. It supports all major e-book formats, including ePub (with key ePub3 features), Kindle azw3, and fb2 (.zip). You can open both unprotected books and ePub files protected with Readium LCP DRM. FBReader also reads RTF, Word (.doc), HTML, and plain text, so you can keep all your books and documents in one place. Read anywhere and pick up right where you left off. FBReader can sync your library, reading positions, bookmarks, and more across devices using the FBReader Book Network, a cloud service powered by Google Drive. If you prefer managing files yourself, you can download books in your browser and open them directly with FBReader. A wide range of appearance and behavior options lets you customize the reading experience to match your preferences. Free version and upgrade options: • The free version allows up to 10 books in your library. • The built-in translation feature is disabled. Upgrade to the full version to remove these limits and enjoy the complete FBReader experience.
cMate
Access the complete MARPOL Convention, including the latest amendments, in both English and Russian. This app offers easy navigation and a powerful search function for quick access to specific sections.
- Full MARPOL Convention text
- Latest amendments included
- Bilingual (English/Russian)
- Convenient search function
- Easy navigation
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The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships cMate-MARPOL contains the full text of the MARPOL Convention with the latest amendments and additions in two languages (Russian, English). cMate-MARPOL is equipped with a convenient search and navigation through the sections of the convention.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is price: FBReader at Free against cMate's $2.99. FBReader also leads on update cadence (monthly vs every 69 months). cMate's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 2). On review sentiment, ads, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
FBReader is free to download; cMate costs $2.99 up front. FBReader sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. cMate asks for nothing beyond the download.
FBReader ships an update monthly, cMate every 69 months. The most recent releases landed on October 3, 2026 and September 28, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | FBReader | cMate |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free — better | $2.99 |
| Rating | 3.7 (128 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 52.5% of reviews — better | 50.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 128 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Monthly — better | Every 69 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases — better | Paid |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — better | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Requires iOS | 13.0 | 12.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 22 MB | 26 MB |
| Age rating | 17+ | 4+ |
| Developer | FBReader.ORG Limited | Maxim Lukyanenko |
Customer experience
FBReader
cMate
Bugs and requests
FBReader
Reported bugs
4 issues- Syncing issues with Google Drive
- Deletion of books from library
- Formatting problems with large footnotes
- Compatibility issues with newer iOS versions
Requested features
5 requests- Vertical scrolling mode
- Improved bookmark and annotation tools
- Ability to add/change book covers
- Text-to-speech functionality
- Better library management (read/unread, collections)
cMate
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
FBReader
- FBReader Full Edition2 variants$12.99
cMate
No in-app purchases
