Comparison

FBReader vs FusionRead

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

FusionRead

This application allows users to read EPUB and PDF files with integrated translation for over 70 languages. It features a bilingual reading mode, vocabulary building tools, and reading statistics to aid language learners and bilingual readers.

Highlights
  • EPUB & PDF reader
  • Instant translation
  • Bilingual reading mode
  • Vocabulary builder
  • Reading statistics
  • iCloud sync
  • Dark mode
Features
Read full description

FusionRead is a free EPUB and PDF reader with built-in translation. The perfect ebook reader for language learners and bilingual readers. READ ANY BOOK IN ANY LANGUAGE Open EPUB and PDF files instantly. Our smart translator helps you understand foreign books in 70+ languages - English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, German, and more. KEY FEATURES: - EPUB & PDF Reader: Open any ebook format - Instant Translation: Tap to translate any text - Bilingual Mode: Read side-by-side translations - Vocabulary Builder: Learn new words with spaced repetition - Reading Statistics: Track your progress daily - iCloud Sync: Continue on any device - Dark Mode & Themes: Customize your reading PERFECT FOR: - Language learners practicing foreign reading - Researchers working with multilingual sources - Travelers reading local literature - Students studying abroad WHAT USERS SAY: "Perfect for reading Japanese novels while learning!" "The translation feature is incredibly accurate." "Finally an app that helps me read foreign books!" PRIVACY FIRST: Translations are processed on-device when possible. Your reading data stays private. Download FusionRead - your multilingual book reader today!

Screenshots

FBReader4 screens
FusionRead4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is review sentiment: FBReader at 52% against FusionRead's 0%. FBReader also leads on device support (4 vs 2) and iOS requirement (13.0 vs 18). FusionRead's advantage is update cadence (weekly vs monthly). On price, ads, in-app purchases and monetization model 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 and FusionRead sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

FBReader ships an update monthly, FusionRead weekly. The most recent releases landed on September 30, 2026 and September 29, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard4 real differences · 6 level
FBReader versus FusionRead: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterFBReaderFusionRead
PriceFreeFree
Rating3.7 (128 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews52.5% of reviews — better0.0% of reviews
Number of ratings128 — better—
Update frequencyMonthlyWeekly — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesYes
MonetizationFree with in-app purchasesFree with in-app purchases
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — betteriPhone, iPad
Requires iOS13.0 — better18
Further details — not scored
Size22 MB33 MB
Age rating17+17+
DeveloperFBReader.ORG Limited音 卢

Customer experience

FBReader

All ratings128 ratings
Positive64.8%
Neutral9.4%
Negative25.8%
Written reviews322 reviews
Positive52.5%
Neutral14.0%
Negative33.5%

FusionRead

Written reviews1 reviews
Positive0.0%
Neutral0.0%
Negative100.0%

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)

FusionRead

Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.

In-app purchases

1 purchases

FBReader

One-time1
  • FBReader Full Edition2 variants$12.99
1 purchases

FusionRead

One-time1
  • Pro Lifetime$3.99

Questions

Is FBReader free?
FBReader is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is FusionRead free?
FusionRead is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Do FBReader or FusionRead have ads?
Neither FBReader nor FusionRead shows ads.
Which is updated more often, FBReader or FusionRead?
FBReader ships an update monthly, and FusionRead weekly. Most recently, FBReader was updated on September 30, 2026 and FusionRead on September 29, 2026.

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