Audiobookshelf vs Ubook

Audiobookshelf is a free, open-source media server for audiobooks and podcasts that users host themselves. It supports multiple users with custom permissions and keeps each user’s playback progress synced across devices. Its beta Android and iOS apps support offline listening, alongside web access and Linux and Windows platform support. Users can find and apply metadata and cover art from several providers. Audiobook tools include chapter lookup and editing, metadata embedding, and merging audio files into one M4B. Podcast features include finding shows, downloading episodes automatically, and open RSS feeds for podcasts and audiobooks. Basic ebook support covers EPUB, PDF, CBR, and CBZ, with an ereader and an option to send books to a device such as Kindle. Scheduled backups include the database and metadata-directory cover images, but exclude media files and covers stored with library items. Docker is the recommended installation method. Audiobookshelf does not provide built-in remote access: users must configure a VPN or reverse proxy, and the server uses unencrypted HTTP.

Ubook is a streaming subscription service for audiobooks, ebooks, and other digital content, available on Android, iOS, and the web. Its catalog lists more than 500,000 items, including podcasts, documentaries, series, newspapers, magazines, and music. Subscribers can download audiobooks, ebooks, series, and podcasts for offline access. Playback speed controls and markers for favorite passages support listening; where a title has both formats, users can choose to read or listen. Ubook says activity can synchronize across devices, so a session started on a phone can continue on a computer or tablet. A 30-day trial offers unlimited reading and listening at no charge, after which users can cancel or accept a subscription offer. Premium costs 24.90 BRL a month and includes the Premium catalog and offline mode. Premium+ costs 39.90 BRL a month and adds a partner app subscription and one extra book per month; named partner examples include Deezer, Looke, and NBA. Content visibility can vary by location, marketplace, and plan. Ubook is headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.