Downpour review
A flexible audiobook retailer with strong playback controls and offline listening.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Downpour is a digital audiobook retailer and listening service operated by Blackstone Audio, Inc. It serves listeners who want a choice between individual audiobook purchases and a monthly credit membership. The service offers a storefront, digital downloads, mobile discovery, and listening across web, iOS, and Android. Its catalog includes more than 425,000 titles, and it also sells physical audiobook formats. The combination of a la carte buying and membership credits makes it suitable for people who do not want every purchase tied to a subscription.
The Downpour Audiobook Club costs $12.99 per month and includes one audiobook download credit each month. Credits can be used toward most downloadable audiobooks, while member discounts and promotions add value for regular buyers. Membership can be canceled at any time. Listeners can also purchase digital audiobooks without joining the club, giving occasional buyers a direct purchase path. The main tradeoff is that there is no free plan, and membership credits generally cover one downloadable audiobook, with exceptions possible.
Playback is the product’s strongest area. Downloaded audiobooks support offline listening, with speed controls from 0.5x to 3x, sleep timers with end-of-chapter options, bookmarks, notes, and synchronized listening progress across devices. The mobile apps also support audiobook browsing and discovery. Support is available through email, phone, and documentation, although 24/7 support is not listed. Downpour is a good fit for listeners who value detailed playback tools and flexible purchasing. Buyers seeking family sharing, verified integrations, or unrestricted downloads should consider another audiobook service.
Downpour pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Monthly membership includes one audiobook download credit
- Playback speed controls, bookmarks, notes, and sleep timers
- Offline listening with progress synchronization across devices
- Where it doesn't
- No free plan or family-sharing option
- No verified integrations listed
- Publisher restrictions apply to some audiobook products
Downpour fact sheet, pricing and score →
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