# Reading Machine vs READING MAGIC 2

The clearest difference is rating: READING MAGIC 2 at 4.8 against Reading Machine's 3.8. Reading Machine's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 1) and iOS requirement (8.0 vs 13.7). On price, review sentiment, ratings volume and update cadence there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. READING MAGIC 2 sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Reading Machine asks for nothing beyond the download.

READING MAGIC 2 holds the better App Store score, 4.8 against 3.8. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 12 and 21 respectively. Written reviews point the same way: 75% of Reading Machine's written reviews are positive against 81% of READING MAGIC 2's.

Reading Machine ships an update every 14 months, READING MAGIC 2 every 19 months. The most recent releases landed on September 16, 2026 and October 6, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Reading Machine | READING MAGIC 2 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [3.8 (12 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/reading-machine-full-install/id368974482/reviews) | **[4.8 (21 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/reading-magic-2/id432526055/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | 12 | **21** |
| Positive reviews | 75.0% of reviews | **81.3% of reviews** |
| In-app purchases | **No** | Yes |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | **Every 14 months** | Every 19 months |
| Monetization | **Free** | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 107 MB | 258 MB |
| Requires iOS | **8.0** | 13.7 |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Diana Sharp Consulting](https://appshunter.io/developer/368974485) | [PRESCHOOL UNIVERSITY](https://appshunter.io/developer/404048727) |

## What reviewers say

### Reading Machine

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/reading-machine-full-install/id368974482)

This educational app helps beginning and struggling readers learn new words by breaking them down into letters and sounds. It acts as a personal reading tutor, guiding users to decode unfamiliar words independently, enhancing confidence and reading enjoyment.

**Highlights:** Word decoding with phonics, Personalized reading tutor, Supports over 5,000 words, Text-to-speech engine, Book suggestions for readers, Full decoding support for early reader titles

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none


### READING MAGIC 2

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/reading-magic-2/id432526055)

This app helps children master consonant blends, a key skill for reading success. It offers interactive modes for blending sounds, segmenting words, and independent reading practice with over 300 words and engaging themes.

**Highlights:** Blending Mode for sound practice, Segmenting Mode for word breakdown, Reading Mode for independent word reading, Focus on CCVC and CVCC words, Advanced consonant blend practice, Over 300 words with male/female voices, Themed lessons for engagement

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Deluxe Upgrade | $3.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Reading Machine free?

Reading Machine is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Is READING MAGIC 2 free?

READING MAGIC 2 is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Which has better reviews, Reading Machine or READING MAGIC 2?

READING MAGIC 2 is rated higher. Reading Machine averages 3.8 out of 5 from 12 ratings, while READING MAGIC 2 averages 4.8 from 21 ratings.

### Do Reading Machine or READING MAGIC 2 have ads?

Neither Reading Machine nor READING MAGIC 2 shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Reading Machine or READING MAGIC 2?

Reading Machine ships an update every 14 months, and READING MAGIC 2 every 19 months. Most recently, Reading Machine was updated on September 16, 2026 and READING MAGIC 2 on October 6, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*