Flash-Read vs LightSpeedRead
Flash-Read
flash-read.comLightSpeedRead
lightspeedread.comSide by side
| Figure | Flash-Read | LightSpeedRead |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $4.49/mo | $1.58/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 3 |
| Spec score · Speed Reading Apps | 8.0 (#8) | 9.0 (#1) |
Plans
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.
LightSpeedRead
LightSpeedRead is a speed-reading reader that presents words or short groups of words one at a time at a fixed point on screen using Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP). The web reader accepts pasted text, links, PDFs and EPUBs. Readers can adjust speed, pauses for long words and punctuation, gradual ramp-up, themes, fonts, emphasis and word size. A red letter marks each word’s optimal recognition point, aligned to a fixed center line. Submitting an article URL sends it to r.jina.ai to fetch and extract text; pages behind logins or paywalls may not extract cleanly. Pasted and uploaded text is processed locally in the browser, and the Chrome extension reads page text only when invoked. The free plan includes the website reader and extension reading up to 600 wpm. Pro is $2.99 per month or $19.00 per year, with speeds up to 1000 wpm and additional controls. The iOS app is marked “Coming soon.” The maker cautions that high RSVP speeds can reduce comprehension, especially for dense or important material.