How to Convert PDF Text to Speech?

Having your content or essential data in a PDF format is the most convenient, as all devices have built-in PDF readers. However, reading multiple PDFs or having to read them regularly can take time and effort. Text-to-speech methods are becoming more popular to help with easy reading and efficient data consumption. Whether you have a Windows PC or a Mac, you can easily take advantage of the multiple resources available to convert your PDF to speech.

Android and iOS have different free and paid options to turn your PDF content into easily comprehensible files. Converting the written PDF file into speech format can not only help teachers who have to check all the essays submitted by students but can also help students go through all their digital notes without straining their eyes. Moreover, pdf to speech conversion is also a boon to people with learning or other physical disabilities.

Best Ways to Convert PDF Text to Speech

Converting PDF text to speech on your Mac or PC should be easy to do, so you can complete your tasks without feeling handicapped by technology.. Having multiple options at your disposal allows you to pick and choose what works best for you. You can weigh the benefits and cos as per your needs. The compatibility of different converters also depends on the type of device you are using. For instance, a converter to be used on Chrome may or may not have an app for Android or iOS. There are multiple ways to have your texts read out to you. Here are the best options we have compiled.

Use Adobe Acrobat Reader DC

Adobe Acrobat is an excellent program for reading PDF files and also comes in handy when you want it to be read aloud for you. All you need to do is have the Adobe Acrobat Reader DC program installed on your computer. You need to go to the view menu and choose the Read Out Loud option.

It is easy to turn on or off, so you get control over when you want to read and when you want to switch to listening. The best part about this particular conversion from PDF to speech is that you can pick whether it reads out the page you are on or the entire document. It can be helpful if you are revising for a specific topic only before an exam.

What we like the best in this program is that it can change the voice according to your preferences. If you are planning on listening to PDFs more, you can also set your preferred voice as default. Listening to audio can also be more efficient by adjusting the speech of the speech. When you adjust the words per minute in the settings, you can hear the audio faster or slower at your convenience.

Use Speechify

Speechify is an emerging choice for many mobile users because it has apps made for the ease of both Android and iPhone users. The app has many features you can access for free and additional features you can upgrade to with a premium subscription. The Speechify app is compatible with multiple file formats along with PDF and allows you to download the converted audio file to hear later.

Speechify is a good option if you want to convert PDFs in multiple languages into audio. The user can also pick the type of voice they would like to read aloud the text for them. You have control over the tone and style of the voice, which makes the listening experience more pleasant. The app highlights the text it reads aloud so that you can track your progress as the audio progresses.

What we like the best about Speechify is that you can increase the speed of the speech. You can make it read quicker, matching your reading speed. Additionally, you can also make the program skip over graphs and other diagrams, which will reduce the overall time spent on the content. Changing the selected voice or accent is easy, as you can do it by clicking the Person icon. It also has a Chrome extension, so you can access this program no matter where you connect from.

Use TTS Tool

TTS is short for Text-to-speech and is available online via phone or computer with a quick search. You do not need to download an app or install an extension to access the TTS tool. A TTS tool, however, will require more effort on your part as you would have to paste text manually in order for it to be converted. 

What we like about the TTS tool is how it is at any user’s fingertips without having to download an app or access a program. If you need to convert text to speech immediately, the TTS tool will come in handy. Even if voice modulation is not possible, the readiness of conversion makes the trade seem fair. 

Use Natural Reader

Natural Reader is an excellent program if you want to convert PDF to speech online for free. It is friendly with Windows and Mac and can also assist in languages other than English. Natural Reader is great not only for PDF files but also for Word documents. If you want to convert the text into an audio file, Natural Reader is a good choice. It will also help export the audio to your computer in your preferred audio format. 

Otherwise, you can use this program as a reader for the text in your file. You can drag your file from its loacor pick one manually from the computer into the page. Once uploaded, it can start playing for you right away. If you want to listen to the content later, you can also save the audio file in mp3 format. 

What we like best about Natural Reader is that you do not have to spend a penny to access the features. It is helpful for multiple languages, so all multilingual users do not have to switch platforms to convert their PDF text to speech. 

Use Text Aloud

Text Aloud is a helpful tool for students or users who want to save time. It has a straightforward interface, which makes pdf to speech conversion easy. Even if you copy and paste text from the PDF, Text Aloud will prove compatible with the text you put into the program. It can also help with comprehension since you can read and listen to the words at the same time. 

What we like about Text Aloud is the flexibility it allows its users completely free of cost. For instance, you can not only adjust the speed but also have control over the voice modulation. Over 20 accents allow users to choose a voice that feels the most comfortable. Like other competitive platforms and apps, you can also export the audio files in your preferred format to listen to them later. The creators have also introduced a program for people with speech difficulties. 

Use Voice Dream Reader

Voice Dream Reader is a recommendation specifically for iPhone users. While many of its features are paid, you get to convert your PDF text into audio, which reads in a tone of your choice. The app also allows you to convert text from over 25 languages. The free features of the app are good enough to get you hooked. The speed of the conversion makes you stay.

What we like about this app is that it can not only read your text aloud but can also translate your content into a language of your choice. It is also secure enough to not worry about your data breach by third parties. It can aid in studies and also help in better comprehension for students with a Mac or iPhone.

Use Native Features on Apple Devices

The iPhone can convert PDF text to speech with its built-in feature. iOS allows their phone users to access the Native Voice Reader Feature. All you have to do is access the Spoken Content feature from the Accessibility menu. On Mac, you do not need to turn any separate settings on. Browse the menu and go to Edit and choose the speech option. 

The device will start reading the text for you. The device will read your text once you turn the speech selection on. It is convenient for users who do not want to install any other apps. However, it is an automated voice, so you might have to access another platform if you want voice modulations and accents with your text. 

Use Speaking Notepad

Speaking Notepad is a boon to all writers who want to proofread their words without wanting to strain their eyes. It works just like a Notepad, where you can type your text and have the computer read it loud for you. The compatibility of this program is with multiple file formats, and it allows conversion into multiple audio formats as well. 

What we like about Speaking Notepad is that you can edit the PDF text once it is read aloud to you. Exporting the audio file is made easy in mp3, WMA, and WAV formats. The program can convert text in about 20 languages into speech without a hitch. It is helpful for people with disabilities, students, adults, and even children who want to learn the pronunciation of a particular language. 

The Takeaway

PDF text-to-speech liberates the user to listen to their preferred file without being limited to the format. It opens new doors for a user with physical disabilities. Students can also better understand the text as they can listen to the words while reading them. TTS conversion tools can be used for multiple purposes, like proofreading. Listening to text allows users to catch grammatical or other mistakes that can be rectified quickly. There are multiple tools in our list so that your device does not limit you. There are free options if you want to try the features and paid options if you find your favorite one. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)