Strobe review
A focused, free Apple-platform RSVP reader with speeds up to 1,000 WPM.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Strobe is a free, open-source speed-reading app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It uses Rapid Serial Visual Presentation to show text one word at a time, with adjustable speeds from 100 to 1,000 words per minute. It is aimed at readers who want a focused way to move through documents and pasted text on Apple devices, especially those interested in RSVP rather than page-based reading.
The Free plan includes the complete listed feature set: RSVP reading, PDF, EPUB, TXT, Markdown, and pasted-text import, plus Smart Timing and passage search with saved progress. Smart Timing adjusts pacing for longer words, punctuation, sentence endings, and complex language. Optimal Recognition Point highlighting adds a visual focus cue, while passage view, word and phrase search, and chapter navigation provide ways to move around longer material. Hands-free playback and live speed control support listening-style reading sessions without requiring a paid tier.
Strobe’s narrow focus is also its clearest boundary. The app supports iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, but it does not extend beyond Apple platforms in the listed ecosystem. Its pacing approach centers on RSVP, and the published feature set does not include verified comprehension exercises. Documents, settings, and reading progress remain on the device, with no account, ads, or document uploads. Choose Strobe if you want a private, free Apple-platform reader with high speed control and practical document navigation. Readers seeking broader platform support, varied pacing methods, or built-in comprehension practice should look elsewhere.
Strobe pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free and open source with no account or document uploads
- Imports PDF, EPUB, TXT, Markdown, and pasted text
- Smart Timing, ORP highlighting, search, and saved progress
- Where it doesn't
- Available on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS only
- Uses RSVP rather than multiple pacing methods
- Does not include verified comprehension exercises
Strobe fact sheet, pricing and score →
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