FBReader vs Louise Reader
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.
Louise Reader
Access a wide range of ebooks and audiobooks from independent booksellers and digital libraries. Customize your reading experience with adjustable fonts, themes, and spacing. Supports EPUB, PDF, and audiobook formats, with options for bookmarks and annotations.
- Read DRM-free and LCP DRM protected ebooks
- Listen to DRM-free and LCP DRM protected audiobooks
- Customizable reading experience (fonts, themes, size)
- Bookmarks and annotations
- Text-to-speech for ebooks
- Supports EPUB and PDF formats
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Discover Louise, the best reading app for ebooks and audiobooks, delivered by your favourite bookseller or borrowed to a digital library. Enter a vast network of hundreds of independent booksellers and digital libraries, partners of ePagine or Numilog. You can also add your own ebooks stored on your device. No account required within the application. Features: - Read DRM free epub / PDF ebooks or protected with LCP DRM. - Listen to DRM free audiobooks or protected by LCP DRM. - Customize your reading experience: choose from a selection of fonts and color themes; set the character size for your reading comfort ; change the line spacing or the margin size. - Place bookmarks and annotate your ebooks. - Use text to speech options for your ebooks in epub format. Supported formats: - ebooks in epub and PDF formats - audiobooks as sold by your bookseller (ePagine network) If you encounter any issue or wish to send us your feedback and suggestions, contact : contact@louise-reader.com.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is review sentiment: FBReader at 52% against Louise Reader's 14%. FBReader also leads on iOS requirement (13.0 vs 15.0). Louise Reader's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 2). On price, update cadence, ads and device support 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
Both are free to download. FBReader sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Louise Reader asks for nothing beyond the download.
FBReader ships an update monthly, Louise Reader every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 25, 2026 and September 21, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | FBReader | Louise Reader |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 3.7 (128 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 52.5% of reviews — better | 14.3% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 128 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Monthly | Every 3 weeks — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | Free — better |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — better | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Requires iOS | 13.0 — better | 15.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 22 MB | 84 MB |
| Age rating | 17+ | 4+ |
| Developer | FBReader.ORG Limited | TITE LIVE |
Customer experience
FBReader
Louise Reader
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)
Louise Reader
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
FBReader
- FBReader Full Edition2 variants$12.99
Louise Reader
No in-app purchases
