FBReader vs BookPal
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.
BookPal
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BookPal is an iOS reading companion app. Use it to catalogue or to track your reading over time in whatever way works for you. Use it to .. 1. catalogue your reading list 2. track your bookmarks 3. take notes as you read and hopefully to inspire you to make reading part of your everyday.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is in-app purchases: BookPal at none against FBReader's 2. FBReader's advantage is device support (4 vs 1) and iOS requirement (13.0 vs 26.0). On price 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
Both are free to download. FBReader sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. BookPal asks for nothing beyond the download.
| Parameter | FBReader | BookPal |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 3.7 (128 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 52.5% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 128 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Monthly | — |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — better | iPhone |
| Requires iOS | 13.0 — better | 26.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 22 MB | 11 MB |
| Age rating | 17+ | 4+ |
| Developer | FBReader.ORG Limited | mark jones |
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)
BookPal
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
FBReader
- FBReader Full Edition2 variants$12.99
BookPal
No in-app purchases
