Comparison

FBReader vs ReaderNest

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

ReaderNest

Features
Read full description

ReaderNest brings readers together by making books social, discoverable, and easy to share within your community. Find books around you, connect with fellow readers, and build stronger reading habits — all in one place. Whether you want to discover your next read or share books you own, ReaderNest helps create a connected reading ecosystem. Discover Books Around You Search and explore books shared by readers nearby. Easily find books you want to read and connect with owners to rent or borrow them. Share Your Bookshelf List books you own and let other readers discover and request them. Give your books a new life while helping others read more. Join Reader Clubs Create or join book clubs and communities based on shared interests. Meet readers who enjoy the same genres and discussions as you. Group Chat with Readers Stay connected through club group chats, share recommendations, and discuss books with your reading community. Track Reading Progress Build your reading habit by tracking your activity and staying motivated alongside other readers. Compete on Leaderboards See how you rank among readers and stay motivated as your reading activity improves. Why ReaderNest? •⁠ ⁠Discover books shared by real readers •⁠ ⁠Make reading social and interactive •⁠ ⁠Share and access books locally •⁠ ⁠Connect with communities and clubs •⁠ ⁠Encourage consistent reading habits ReaderNest is built for readers who believe books are better when shared.

Screenshots

FBReader4 screens
ReaderNest4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: ReaderNest at none against FBReader's 2. FBReader's advantage is device support (4 vs 1) and iOS requirement (13.0 vs 18.0). On price, update cadence and ads 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. ReaderNest asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Both ship on a similar rhythm, roughly monthly. The most recent releases landed on October 13, 2026 and October 4, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
FBReader versus ReaderNest: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterFBReaderReaderNest
PriceFreeFree
Rating3.7 (128 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews52.5% of reviews—
Number of ratings128 — better—
Update frequencyMonthlyMonthly
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFree with in-app purchases—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — betteriPhone
Requires iOS13.0 — better18.0
Further details — not scored
Size22 MB68 MB
Age rating17+9+
DeveloperFBReader.ORG LimitedMayank Verma

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)

ReaderNest

Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.

In-app purchases

1 purchases

FBReader

One-time1
  • FBReader Full Edition2 variants$12.99
None

ReaderNest

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is FBReader free?
FBReader is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is ReaderNest free?
ReaderNest is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do FBReader or ReaderNest have ads?
Neither FBReader nor ReaderNest shows ads.
Which is updated more often, FBReader or ReaderNest?
FBReader ships an update monthly, and ReaderNest monthly. Most recently, FBReader was updated on October 13, 2026 and ReaderNest on October 4, 2026.

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