Absorb vs Flash-Read
Absorb
absorb-app.comFlash-Read
flash-read.comSide by side
| Figure | Absorb | Flash-Read |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $1.67/mo | $4.49/mo |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 3 | 4 |
| Spec score · Speed Reading Apps | 7.7 (#14) | 8.0 (#8) |
| Privacy | Absorb says an account is not required and imported content, reading progress, and preferences are designed to stay on the device. | The site says imported content is processed locally in the browser and uploaded files are not stored, read, or shared. |
| Purpose | Absorb is an iPhone RSVP reader that displays books and other text one word at a time with ORP highlighting. | Flash-Read is a speed-reading app that presents words one at a time using RSVP technology. |
| Reading speed | The app advertises adjustable reading speeds from 150 to 1,000 WPM. | The app says speed ramping starts at 200 WPM and can increase to 2,000 WPM. |
Plans
Absorb
- Absorb$4.99 a month
- Absorb Pro Annual$19.99 a year
- Absorb Pro Lifetime$69.99, paid once
In their own words
Flash-Read
Flash-Read is a web-based speed-reading app that displays words one at a time using RSVP technology. Readers can paste text or upload.txt and.epub files, or choose from a library of more than 500 original stories in 20 genres; guests get three free stories. Speed ramping starts at 200 WPM and can increase to 2,000 WPM. The reader highlights the Optimal Recognition Point in each word, adjusting its position according to word length. Progress features include session statistics and performance charts, while game elements include XP, achievements and streaks. Every plan includes the RSVP reader, speed ramping, ORP highlighting, keyboard shortcuts and dark mode. Flash-Read says imported content is processed locally in the browser and uploaded files are not stored, read or shared. It works on devices with a web browser and needs no app download. The Free plan is available at free; paid plans start with Starter at $4.49 a month. Reader costs $6.99 a month and Ultra costs $9.99 a month.