Audiobooks are a game-changer for book lovers who want to read on the go. But let’s face it—they can get pricey if you consume a lot of them. The good news? There are plenty of ways to get Audible audiobooks for free or at a fraction of the cost you see when scrolling through the app. Whether you’re a casual listener or a die-hard fan, here’s your guide to making the most of your audiobook experience without breaking the bank.
1. Audible Plus Catalogue: More Than Just a Credit
You know the feeling: you’ve just finished your latest audiobook and realize you don’t have any credits left this month. Now you feel stuck until the next one comes, or tempted by the offer to buy a pack of credits at a discount.
But that’s not your only option: Did you know your Audible subscription comes with a secret stash? Enter the Audible Plus catalogue.
What is the Audible Plus Catalogue?
Think of it as an all-you-can-listen buffet of audiobooks, podcasts, and more included in your subscription. It’s the perfect way to keep your ears entertained without draining your precious credits.
Who Can Access It?
If you’re an Audible subscriber, even on the entry-level Audible Plus plan, you’re in luck. The Plus catalogue is yours to explore.
How to Access the Audible Plus Catalogue:
To access the Audible Plus catalogue, simply log into Audible and click “Discover,” then select the “Audible Plus” tab (you may have to scroll a bit to get there). Once you click it, browse, stream, or download titles to your heart’s content. It’s like discovering a hidden library within your subscription.
Free Trial Tip
Not an Audible subscriber yet? No problem. Sign up for Audible’s free trial and get instant access to the Plus Catalogue, along with one premium credit to use on any title. It’s a risk-free way to test the waters.
2. Libby and Hoopla: Audiobooks for Free? Yes, Please.
Let’s talk about your local library for a moment. Remember those childhood trips to check out stacks of books? Well, libraries have leveled up in the digital age, and they’re here to save your audiobook budget.
What Are Libby and Hoopla?
These magical apps connect you to your local library’s digital collection. Libby is like the sleek, modern librarian who remembers your favorite genres, while Hoopla is your cool best friend with endless entertainment recommendations. Together, they give you free access to thousands of audiobooks and ebooks.
Who Can Use Them?
Anyone in the U.S. with a library card. If you don’t have one yet, sign up now. Just do it – pretty pleaaase. You’ll support your local library’s funding, which helps your local community access more books, more resources (like books, printers, and computers), and more.
Cost:
Zero dollars. Nada. Completely free.
How to Get Started with Libby or Hoopla:
- Download the Libby or Hoopla app from your app store.
- Create an account.
- Link your library card. It’s that simple.
No Library Card? No Problem:
Getting a library card is easier than ever. Visit your local library or check if they offer online registration. Many libraries allow you to sign up from the comfort of your couch.
3. Kindle Unlimited: Audiobooks Included
Another tool you may not use to its full potential: Kindle Unlimited.
If you have a subscription, but live your life thinking it’s just for ebooks, then Surprise! Kindle Unlimited is like that friend who brings an extra dessert to the party—a lot of audiobooks are also included.
What is Kindle Unlimited?
If you didn’t know, Kindle Unlimited is a subscription service from Amazon that gives you unlimited access to a massive library of ebooks. You can borrow up to 20 at a time and read to your heart’s content.
But here’s the kicker: many Kindle Unlimited books come with free audiobook companions. Borrow the ebook, and the audiobook is yours to listen to as well.
How to Sign Up
If you don’t yet have Kindle Unlimited, start with a free trial, then decide if the $11.99/month (as of publishing) subscription fits your reading habits.
It’s generally better for ebook readers than audiobook listeners, but it might be worth it depending on your tastes. (PS – you can read using the Kindle app on your phone, tablet or computer, you don’t have to have an actual Kindle, if you’re worried about that.)
How to Find the Kindle Unlimited Audiobooks Options
To find the audiobooks available through Kindle Unlimited, follow these steps:
- Open the Kindle app on your phone.
- Tap “Explore” in the upper left quadrant.
- Tap “Kindle Unlimited.”
- Scroll to the right through the tabs on this page (the first few are “Overview,” “Discover,” and “Ebooks”) until you find “Audiobooks.”
- Browse and enjoy!
Why It’s Worth It:
If you’re devouring books at a pace of 2-3 a month or more, Kindle Unlimited practically pays for itself. Plus, the library is packed with popular titles across genres, so you’re never short on options.
4. Audible Sales: Timing is Everything
Ah, the thrill of a sale. For audiobook lovers, Audible’s sales are like mini holidays—a chance to grab those bucket-list listens without blowing your budget.
What Sales Should You Look For?
Audible’s sales calendar is full of gems:
- 2-for-1 deals (get two books for one credit)
- Daily Deals (books for as little as $1.99)
- Seasonal sales (Black Friday, Prime Day, etc.)
Pro Tip:
Add every audiobook you could want to your wish list. Whenever that audiobook goes on sale, you’ll get an email letting you know so you can swoop it at a great price.
Additionally, sign up for Audible’s email notifications to stay in the loop. Some sales feature bestsellers for as low as $0.99, though most discounted books fall in the $5 to $10 range—still a steal compared to a credit.
5. Whispersync: The Kindle Unlimited Hack
Picture this: you’ve borrowed an ebook from Kindle Unlimited, but you’d rather listen than read. Enter Whispersync, a feature that lets you buy the audiobook version at a steep discount.
How to Get the Whispersync Price with Kindle Unlimited
- Borrow an ebook from Kindle Unlimited.
- Open the Audible app, find the title, and refresh (if you already had it open).
- If Whispersync is available, you’ll see a discounted price for the audiobook (often $7.49 or less). It’s that easy! Then you can either return the ebook or use both together.
Why It’s Worth It:
Not every audiobook deal is mind-blowing, but it’s always worth checking. Some Whispersync audiobooks are priced as low as $1.99—a small price to pay for the convenience of switching between reading and listening.
6. Use Your Spotify Subscription
If you already pay for a Spotify membership, then you get up to 15 free hours of audiobook content free with your subscription.
Pro tip: Search for audiobooks in the 9-10 hour range, because every minute counts against that 15 hour limit. That means that if you rewind/replay a section or fall asleep listening to a book, those minutes count. With a 12-15 hour book, you may run out of time to finish it and will have to wait until the following month to complete it if you aren’t careful with your time.
7. Bonus Tips for Audiobook Fans
Because you’re clearly a savvy listener, here are a few extra tricks to up your audiobook game:
- Try Multiple Libraries:
If you’re a super listener, consider getting library cards from multiple locations (many states allow this). - Check Out Chirp:
This audiobook platform specializes in limited-time deals on audiobooks, often rivaling or beating Audible sales. - Family Library Sharing:
Amazon’s Family Library feature allows you to share audiobooks with family members at no extra cost.
With these tips, you can fill your audiobook queue without emptying your wallet. So grab your headphones, find a cozy spot, and get ready to lose yourself in your next great listen.
Not sure what to listen to next? Check out our audiobook recommendations here.
