FBReader review
A flexible reader for varied ebook formats, catalogs, translation, and synchronized reading.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
FBReader is a cross-platform ebook reader for people who read across devices and keep books in varied formats. It supports EPUB and FB2 alongside MOBI, HTML, RTF, plain text, and Readium LCP-protected EPUBs. Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS are supported, while customizable rendering, bookmarks, and reading-position synchronization address everyday library management. Readers can also browse OPDS online catalogues and optionally store a cloud library through Google Drive.
Its main strength is breadth across formats and reading environments. Desktop editions are free for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and Android and iOS provide free reader options. The iOS Free edition has a ten-book library limit, while FBReader Full Edition removes that limit, provides all features for unlimited time, and unlocks network translators. Android Premium adds PDF and comics support, text-to-speech reading, and integrations with Google Translate and DeepL. The plan structure suits readers who want to start free and pay for specific platform features.
FBReader is a strong fit for readers who want format flexibility, cross-platform access, catalogues, translation, and synchronized reading rather than a narrow single-format tool. Its optional Google Drive storage and translator integrations extend the reading workflow without changing the core app into a broader learning product. Choose it if your library spans multiple ebook and document formats. Readers seeking structured reading instruction should choose a product built around lessons or guided literacy features instead.
FBReader pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports EPUB, FB2, MOBI, HTML, RTF, plain text, and protected EPUBs
- Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Adds synchronization, OPDS catalogues, translation, and customizable layouts
- Where it doesn't
- The free iOS edition limits the library to ten books
- PDF, comics, and text-to-speech features require Android Premium
- It is not designed as a structured reading-instruction app
FBReader fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update