Comparison

FBReader vs readwe

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

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.

Highlights
  • 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
Features
Read full description

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.

About

readwe

Features
Read full description

Welcome to readwe! Here, you can find like-minded people through books. Just select your favorite titles — and if other users have similar tastes, you’ll see their contact details and can start a conversation. Discover new friends through shared literary passions!

Screenshots

FBReader4 screens
readwe3 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: readwe at none against FBReader's 2. FBReader's advantage is update cadence (monthly vs every 8 months). On price, 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

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. FBReader sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. readwe asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

FBReader ships an update monthly, readwe every 8 months. The most recent releases landed on November 6, 2026 and October 25, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard2 real differences · 8 level
FBReader versus readwe: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterFBReaderreadwe
PriceFreeFree
Rating3.7 (129 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews52.5% of reviews—
Number of ratings129 — better—
Update frequencyMonthly — betterEvery 8 months
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFree with in-app purchases—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — betteriPhone, iPad, iPod
Requires iOS13.013.0
Further details — not scored
Size22 MB64 MB
Age rating17+4+
DeveloperFBReader.ORG LimitedAnton Onoiko

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)

readwe

Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.

In-app purchases

1 purchases

FBReader

One-time1
  • FBReader Full Edition2 variants$12.99
None

readwe

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is FBReader free?
FBReader is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is readwe free?
readwe is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do FBReader or readwe have ads?
Neither FBReader nor readwe shows ads.
Which is updated more often, FBReader or readwe?
FBReader ships an update monthly, and readwe every 8 months. Most recently, FBReader was updated on November 6, 2026 and readwe on October 25, 2026.

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