Compare
How Aloud compares
Fair, sourced comparisons with the text-to-speech apps people consider on a Mac, including where each one is the better pick.
Updated 8 October 2026.
- Aloud vs SpeechifyA Speechify alternative for Mac: $19 once vs $139 a year.
- Aloud vs NaturalReaderNative Mac reader vs web app with cloud voice plans.
- Aloud vs Voice Dream ReaderOne-time Mac app vs a Mac subscription with deep accessibility features.
- Aloud vs ElevenReaderOn-device Mac reader vs ElevenLabs voices on phone and web.
- Aloud vs macOS Speak SelectionWhat the built-in feature does well, and what Aloud adds.
- Aloud vs Speech CentralTwo one-time readers: cross-platform breadth vs a Mac-first reader.
At a glance
| App | Price | Native Mac app | Voices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aloud | $19 once | Yes | Apple, Kokoro on device; ElevenLabs/Cartesia with your key |
| macOS Speak Selection | Free, built in | Built in | Apple |
| Speech Central | $9.99 once (Mac) | Yes | Offline system, enhanced, cloud |
| Voice Dream Reader | $75.99/yr (Mac) | Yes | Apple plus offline partner voices |
| NaturalReader | $79–$159/yr online | Older desktop app; web app | Cloud and device |
| ElevenReader | Free 10 h/mo; $99/yr | No (web) | ElevenLabs cloud |
| Speechify | $139/yr | Yes, library-style | Cloud |
Prices checked 8 October 2026; sources are on each comparison page.
More Mac utilities from the developer: SnapState puts your Mac windows, apps and browser tabs back after sleep or a monitor reconnect. $9.99 one-time.