Best Speed Reading Apps in 2026: Free & Paid Options Compared

Speed reading apps have exploded in popularity, but which ones actually help you read faster? We tested the most popular options in 2026 to find out which deliver real results — and which are just gimmicks.

What Makes a Good Speed Reading App?

Before diving into specific apps, here's what matters:

• RSVP Training — The most research-backed technique. Any serious speed reading app needs this.
• Adjustable WPM — You need fine control over speed to progressively train.
• Comprehension tracking — Speed without understanding is useless. Good apps test comprehension.
• Progress tracking — Seeing improvement over time keeps you motivated.
• Multiple training modes — Different techniques work for different people.
• Custom text support — You should be able to train with your own material.

1. Read Faster in 30 Days (Free — Web)

Full disclosure: this is our app. We built it because we couldn't find a free speed reading app that had everything we wanted.

What it offers:

• RSVP training with adjustable WPM (100-1000)
• Chunk reading (2-5 words at a time)
• Multiple reading modes: Focus Blur, Highlight, Line Zoom, Pace Guide
• AI-generated practice texts on any topic
• Comprehension and recall testing after each session
• Progress dashboard with WPM history and effective WPM tracking
• Timed speed tests without any reading aids
• Custom text input and file upload support

Best for:

Anyone who wants a comprehensive, free speed reading trainer. Particularly popular with UKCAT candidates and students.

Price: Free

Try it now →

2. Spreeder (Free/Premium — Web)

One of the oldest speed reading apps around. Spreeder offers basic RSVP functionality with a simple interface.

Pros:

• Clean, distraction-free interface
• Basic RSVP with adjustable speed
• Browser-based — no download needed

Cons:

• Limited free version
• No comprehension testing
• No progress tracking in free tier
• Outdated design

Price: Free (limited) / $4.99/month premium

3. ReadMe! (iOS/Android — Paid)

A polished mobile app focused on RSVP speed reading with a modern interface.

Pros:

• Beautiful mobile interface
• Good RSVP implementation
• Integrates with Pocket and Instapaper

Cons:

• Paid only — no free tier
• No comprehension testing
• Limited training variety (RSVP only)

Price: $4.99 one-time

4. Acceleread (iOS — Paid)

Claims to be based on scientific research. Offers a structured training program with exercises.

Pros:

• Structured course approach
• Comprehension exercises
• Eye movement training games

Cons:

• iOS only
• Expensive
• Content can feel repetitive
• No custom text support

Price: $9.99

5. Outread (iOS — Paid)

A pace guide-based speed reading app that highlights text progressively as you read.

Pros:

• Clean reading experience
• Good for e-book reading
• Adjustable pacing

Cons:

• iOS only
• No RSVP mode
• No comprehension tracking
• Limited training features

Price: $4.99

6. Reedy (Android — Free)

An Android-focused speed reading app with RSVP and integration with other reading apps.

Pros:

• Free
• Good RSVP implementation
• Integrates with many Android apps
• Share-to-read functionality

Cons:

• Android only
• No comprehension testing
• Basic progress tracking
• Dated interface

Price: Free (with ads) / $2.99 ad-free

7. Speed Reading with Schultz Tables (iOS/Android — Free)

A different approach that focuses on expanding your peripheral vision using Schultz table exercises.

Pros:

• Unique training approach
• Targets peripheral vision specifically
• Free to use

Cons:

• Not actual reading practice
• Unclear real-world impact
• Should be supplementary, not primary training

Price: Free

Our Recommendation

If you're serious about improving your reading speed, you need an app that offers:

1. Multiple training modes — RSVP alone isn't enough. You need chunk reading, pace guides, and comprehension testing.
2. Custom text support — Practice with material relevant to your goals (work documents, study material, etc.)
3. Progress tracking — Seeing your WPM improve over time keeps you motivated and helps you adjust your training.
4. Free access — You shouldn't have to pay to learn a fundamental skill.

We built Read Faster in 30 Days to check all these boxes. It's completely free, web-based (works on any device), and includes everything from RSVP training to timed speed tests with progress tracking.

Whatever app you choose, the most important thing is consistency. 15-20 minutes of daily practice will get you further than any premium feature.