LumaRead vs SpeedyRead

LumaRead is a web-based speed reading app that presents text one word at a time using rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP). It accepts PDF and DOCX uploads and includes a free reading speed test that measures words per minute. The reader removes headers, footers and page numbers, anchoring words at an optical center point; readers can adjust speed, with pacing that responds to punctuation. The free plan saves progress and allows 1,500 words per day, one book in the library and speeds up to 600 WPM. Monthly costs $3.99 a month and allows unlimited reading, 10 library books and speeds up to 900 WPM, with reading statistics. Yearly costs $39.99 a year and adds an unlimited library, custom speeds up to 1,500 WPM, statistics, streaks and priority support. Login, library sync and session statistics require an internet connection. A loaded book can continue in an active session if it remains open on the page. LumaRead can be installed as a PWA for quicker access on mobile or desktop, though the supported platform is web.

SpeedyRead is an iPhone speed-reading app that presents text one word at a time using Rapid Serial Visual Presentation. It imports PDFs, Word documents, ePubs, Markdown, HTML, and other content, and can open files from the Files app. Readers can also paste a web address for article extraction or scan printed pages with live OCR and torch support. The reading pace can be adjusted from 300 to 725 WPM with a speed wheel and haptic feedback. An audio mode speaks each word in sync with the display, with adjustable audio speed from 50 to 450 WPM and multiple voices.

The app includes comprehension exercises, guided training, dark and light modes, five accent colors, automatic session saving, and reading-position resumption. Its library and progress are stored locally; personal files are not synced to servers unless a future cloud backup is enabled. The privacy policy says anonymous usage statistics are collected, with device model and OS version potentially collected for diagnostics. Support requests may involve an email address. SpeedyRead requires iOS 18.0 or later. It has a free download, and Monthly Premium costs $1.99 a month with a 14-day free trial.