PLD Reading Apps vs ReadTheory
PLD Reading Apps
pld-literacy.org
ReadTheory
readtheory.orgSide by side
| Figure | PLD Reading Apps | ReadTheory |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | $40/mo |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | — | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 5 |
| Spec score · Reading Apps | 7.3 (#42) | 8.8 (#6) |
| Founded | 2007 | 2010 |
| Security and privacy | PLD’s privacy policy applies to its website and describes personal information handling there; it does not state that the policy covers the apps. | The privacy policy states COPPA compliance, FERPA-compliant handling where applicable, GDPR compliance and account-data deletion rights. |
| Support | PLD directs app selection questions to its support team and recommends a scheduling guide or short reading or spelling assessment to choose an app level. | Support is offered through live chat, email and self-service guides, with a stated goal of answering within 24 hours. |
Plans
PLD Reading Apps
- Reading Race 1a–1d$5.99, paid once
- Reading Race Mega Bundle$19.99, paid once
ReadTheory
- BasicFree
- BasicFree
- School Champion$40 a month
- School Champion$40 a month
- School & DistrictPriced on request
In their own words
PLD Reading Apps
PLD Reading Apps has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
ReadTheory
ReadTheory is a web-based platform for personalized reading comprehension practice. A benchmark assessment identifies a student's reading level, then the platform adjusts practice as the student works. Its library includes thousands of fiction and nonfiction texts aligned to standards, alongside printable materials and tools for creating custom content. Reports cover Lexile and grade levels, ELA standards, and student progress history. The platform serves K–12, ESL, and special education learners, and the School & District plan is aimed at schools and districts. Browser-based access is designed for Chromebooks, tablets, and Windows or macOS computers; phones are not optimized for student use. Integrations listed include LMS, LTI, and rostering, with single sign-on through Clever, Google Classroom, and ClassLink. ReadTheory says student personal information is not sent to third-party AI systems or used to train AI or machine-learning models. The free Basic plan covers one staff member and 30 students with limited quizzes and progress history. School Champion costs $40 a month for one staff member and 40 students, with unlimited quizzes and progress history.