[2026 Latest] 15 Best Text-to-Speech Software! Thorough Comparison from Free to Commercial Use

In today's world of increasing digital content, demand is rising for text-to-speech software that converts text into audio.

In fact, the quality of speech synthesis has improved dramatically due to the development of AI.

An increasing number of software programs can generate natural-sounding audio that sounds like a human is speaking.

In this article, we will explain in detail the features, usage methods, and points for choosing software, ranging from free text-to-speech software to paid software that can read in character voices.

We also touch upon commercial use, so it is recommended for those considering utilizing it for business.

Now, let's look at text-to-speech software and services one by one.

6 Recommended Text-to-Speech Software Programs You Can Use Immediately in a Web Browser

First, we will introduce text-to-speech software (text-to-speech services) that can be used online from a web browser.

• Ondoku
• Yukumo!
• TTSFree
• ttsMP3.com
• TTSMaker
• Narakeet

1. Ondoku: High-Quality AI for Free Reading! Recommended Web Reading Service

Ondoku is a reading software (web service) that utilizes the latest AI technology and can be easily used from a browser.

The appeal lies in its intuitive operability, which allows you to generate high-quality audio simply by entering text without requiring installation.

Since you can choose from a variety of voices, you can read aloud with the optimal voice according to your purpose.

The biggest feature is that it can be used for free!

Even with the free version, you can read up to 1,000 characters without registration, and up to 5,000 characters after registration.

Because commercial use is also possible (credit notation is required for free use), it can be utilized for video production and business purposes.

It is equipped with extensive features that are hard to believe are free, such as multilingual support for over 48 languages.

Another key point is its convenience, as it is accessible not only from a PC but also from iPhone, iPad (iOS), and Android smartphones, allowing you to generate audio of the same quality on any device.

If you are unsure how to read text aloud, why not try Ondoku first?

2. Yukumo!: Read Aloud with Yukkuri Voice from Your Browser

Yukumo! is a rare software (web service) that allows you to use "Yukkuri Voice" (monotone voice) from a browser.

A distinctive feature is that it uses Aquest Co., Ltd.'s speech synthesis library "AquesTalk" without requiring installation.

With simple operability, you can read text just by entering it and pressing a button.

It supports multiple versions of AquesTalk, allowing you to select from various characteristic voice qualities.

The read-aloud audio can be downloaded in MP3 format and used for video editing and other purposes.

It can be used for free for non-commercial purposes, but a license purchase is required for commercial use.

This software is ideal for those who want to easily start creating videos such as "Yukkuri Commentary" or "Yukkuri Game Commentary" without installation.

3. TTSFree: Simple Online Text-to-Speech Software

TTSFree is a browser-based free reading software characterized by a simple interface.

Its appeal lies in its ease of use, allowing you to start reading text immediately without complex settings.

It supports major languages including English and Japanese, and uses a speech engine optimized for each language.

Generated audio can be downloaded in MP3 format and utilized for video production and presentation materials.

The fact that it supports reading long texts is also convenient.

It is a reading software recommended for beginners who want simple functions and intuitive operability.

4. ttsMP3.com: Multilingual Online Text-to-Speech Software

ttsMP3.com is a multilingual browser-based reading software that covers the world's major languages.

It uses the Amazon Polly speech engine, enabling reading with natural intonation and pronunciation.

You can choose the optimal voice for your purpose from a wide range of voice qualities, including male voices, female voices, and children's voices.

Read-aloud audio can be downloaded in MP3 format, and file management is easy.

The free version has character limits per use, but it is sufficiently usable within a practical range.

It is a high-performance software that also supports SSML (Speech Synthesis Markup Language) tags, allowing for detailed pronunciation adjustments.

It is recommended for those who handle international content or those who need multilingual reading audio.

5. TTSMaker: Multi-functional Web-based Reading Software

TTSMaker is a web-based text-to-speech software with numerous features.

It is characterized by a wide variety of choices, with more than 30 languages and over 100 types of voices.

Detailed adjustments such as audio speed, pitch, and volume are possible, allowing for customization according to needs.

Created audio can be downloaded in MP3 format, and the automatic filename generation function is also convenient.

It is a reading software recommended for those who seek diverse voices and detailed adjustment functions.

6. Narakeet: Text-to-Speech Software Suitable for Education and Presentations

Narakeet is a browser-based reading software.

It is also suitable for producing educational content and presentation materials.

Since you can choose from over 50 languages and more than 300 types of voices, it can also handle international content.

While the free version has functional limitations, special plans for educational institutions are also available.

It is a text-to-speech software recommended for educational content creators and those who want to add audio to presentation materials.

9 Recommended Installable Text-to-Speech Software Programs

Next, we will introduce text-to-speech software that you install on your PC to use.

• A.I.VOICE
• CeVIO
• VOICEPEAK
• VOICEVOX
• Bouyomi-chan
• SofTalk
• MYukkuriVoice
• COEIROINK
• Textalk

7. A.I.VOICE: Standard Character Voice Reading Software

A.I.VOICE is high-quality speech synthesis software developed by AI Inc.

As of 2026, the A.I.VOICE2 series is being developed.

It features popular character voices such as "Yuzuki Yukari" and "Kotonoha Akane/Aoi," which were previously known as VOICEROID.

It supports both Windows and Mac and is sold as a one-time purchase paid software.

It has rich emotional expression, and you can finely adjust the strength, pitch, and speed of the reading emotion.

Commercial use by individuals is basically possible by purchasing the product, but a separate license is required for corporate use.

This software is ideal for creative audio work production and high-quality narration creation.

8. CeVIO: Integrated Text-to-Speech Software with Singing Functions

CeVIO is audio creation software that combines reading and singing functions.

It features unique and popular character voices such as "Sato Sasara" and "Suzuki Tsudumi."

It is sold as Windows-exclusive one-time purchase paid software.

Because emotional parameters can be finely adjusted numerically, you can create audio with rich expressiveness.

In addition to "Talk Voice" for reading, "Song Voice" for singing is also sold, allowing characters to sing songs.

Commercial use conditions for individual creators are relatively lenient, but corporate use requires a separate license.

This is a standard paid software that is also highly popular for simulation game commentary, such as flight simulators.

9. VOICEPEAK: High-performance Text-to-Speech Software with Multi-platform Support

VOICEPEAK is high-quality speech synthesis software characterized by intuitive operability.

In addition to Windows and Mac, it uniquely supports Linux, which is rare for paid software.

One of the major features is that multiple voices are bundled in the package.

Most packages include bonus voices such as the male voice "Furimomen" in addition to the main character voice.

While commercial use rights are included in the basic license, separate terms may apply to character voices.

10. VOICEVOX: AI Reading Software with High-Quality Character Voices

VOICEVOX is high-quality open-source speech synthesis software that can be used for free.

The biggest feature is that it can read aloud with unique character voices such as "Zundamon" and "Shikoku Metan."

It supports major operating systems: Windows, Mac, and Linux.

With high-quality speech synthesis using deep learning technology, it can read with natural intonation and expression.

Detailed adjustment functions for intonation and audio parameters are also substantial, allowing for advanced editing.

A GPU-compatible version is also provided, enabling faster processing on high-performance PCs.

The software itself is free and allows for commercial use, but please note that there are separate terms of use for each character besides the software itself.

11. Bouyomi-chan: Standard Software for Streaming

"Bouyomi-chan" is standard reading software primarily used for game streaming and live streaming.

It features the "Yukkuri Voice" using an old version of AquesTalk, which has a distinct personality.

It is lightweight freeware for Windows and runs comfortably even on low-spec PCs.

Interaction functions with other software are extensive, and it is often used in combination with streaming software such as OBS.

It is also favored as a standard software for "Yukkuri Game Commentary" and "Yukkuri Commentary" on Niconico Douga and YouTube.

Unlike other Yukkuri Voice software and services, it is characterized by the fact that it can be used commercially for free.

12. SofTalk: Long-standing Software with Simple Functions

SofTalk is a free reading software for Windows that has been favored for many years.

It specializes in a simple interface and basic functions, making it easy for even beginners to use.

Multiple speech synthesis engines can be selected, including original audio based on the free speech synthesis engine "UTAU," allowing you to choose the audio according to your purpose.

The fact that it is lightweight and runs comfortably even on low-spec PCs is also a big advantage.

While it uses a speech synthesis engine from the Windows 8 era, it was confirmed to work on Windows 11 as of 2026.

The software itself is free, but please note that if you use it commercially, you may need to check the terms of the speech engine.

13. MYukkuriVoice: Easy-to-use Yukkuri Audio Creation Software Exclusive to Mac

MYukkuriVoice is Mac software specialized for creating "Yukkuri Voice."

Developed exclusively for macOS, it uses an AquesTalk-based speech synthesis engine and is ideal for creating audio for "Yukkuri Game Commentary" and "Yukkuri Commentary" videos.

It features detailed audio adjustment functions and an interface that allows for visual intonation editing.

This reading software is recommended for Mac users who want to produce videos using Yukkuri Voice.

14. COEIROINK: Open-source Software for Creative Work

COEIROINK is AI speech synthesis software developed for creative activities.

In addition to official and authorized characters, user-created voice models "MYCOE" can also be used, allowing for reading with a rich variety of voices.

It supports Windows, Mac, and Linux, achieving high-quality character voices.

Detailed intonation and emotional expression adjustments are possible, enabling the creation of expressive audio, so it can be widely utilized for creative purposes.

It can be used for free and basically allows for commercial use, but credit notation is mandatory, and the terms must be checked for each voice model.

15. Textalk: Lightweight and Simple Reading Software

Textalk is a lightweight and simple free reading software for Windows.

It uses OpenJTalk and the standard Windows speech synthesis engine, providing sufficient performance for basic reading.

Specializing in simple functions, it requires no complex settings, so even beginners can use it easily.

Another point is that it is very lightweight and can be used comfortably even on old PCs or low-spec environments.

It is suitable for those seeking simple and lightweight software or those looking for portable reading software.

What is Text-to-Speech Software? A Basic Guide for Beginners

From here, we will explain the basic knowledge you should know when choosing text-to-speech software!

Basic Knowledge of Reading Technology. What are the Characteristics of Evolving Text-to-Speech?

Text-to-speech software refers to software or programs that automatically convert input text into audio.

Mechanical vocalization used to be common, but the latest AI technology has made it possible to achieve natural intonation and pausing like a human.

Many free software programs that allow for high-quality reading have appeared, and they are being utilized for accessibility improvement, language learning, and content production.

There are two types of reading software: "Web browser-based types" and "PC-installable types."

Since each has its own characteristics, it is very important whether to choose the web-based or installable type.

Additionally, since commercial use conditions vary by software, it is also important to check the terms of use when choosing software.

Latest reading software supports multiple voice qualities and languages.

An increasing number of high-performance tools are even capable of emotional expression.

Characteristics and How to Choose Between Web-based and Installable Types

The biggest appeal of reading software used in a web browser is the ease of being able to start using it immediately.

Web-based software such as Ondoku can generate high-quality audio without requiring installation, allowing you to benefit from the latest AI technology regardless of your PC's performance.

On the other hand, installable reading software is characterized by the fact that it can be used even in offline environments.

We recommend the web-based type for beginners or those who want to use it easily, and the installable type for more specialized purposes or those who want to make detailed adjustments.

Difference Between Free and Paid Versions: How Far is Commercial Use Possible?

While basic functions can be sufficiently used even with free versions of reading software, character limits, voice types, and commercial use conditions may differ from paid versions.

Since many software programs do not allow commercial use for free, check the terms of use beforehand.

Of course, there is software that can be used commercially for free.

For example, Ondoku is available for commercial use even when used for free by displaying credit.

Also Pay Attention to Terms of Use for Each Speech Engine

It is necessary to be careful because even with free reading software, commercial use conditions may differ depending on the speech engine used.

This applies to VOICEVOX, COEIROINK, etc.

When using for commercial purposes, a key point is to always check the terms of use for each software and use it after meeting the conditions.

It is also recommended to start from a free version and upgrade to a paid version as necessary.

How to Choose the Optimal Text-to-Speech Software by Purpose

Recommended Reading Software for Video Production and Streaming

For video production and live streaming, there is optimal reading software depending on the application.

The natural audio of Ondoku is ideal for narration creation!

It is popular among video creators because it can be used commercially even for free.

If you want to use unique character voices, paid speech synthesis software such as "A.I.VOICE" and "CeVIO" is suitable.

If you are creating "Yukkuri Game Commentary" or "Yukkuri Commentary" videos, "Bouyomi-chan," "Yukumo!," and "MYukkuriVoice" are perfect.

For reading comments in game streaming, "Bouyomi-chan" is used as a standard software due to its extensive interaction functions.

Yukkuri Voice is also explained in this article.

Optimal Reading Software for Learning and Educational Purposes

The usage of converting learning content into audio and listening during commuting or school time is also effective for memory retention.

By choosing software that allows for easy-to-hear speed adjustments, you can increase learning efficiency.

What is important for reading software for learning and educational purposes is the balance between ease of hearing and functionality.

Because Ondoku can read long texts with natural intonation, it is suitable for making educational materials into audio.

Also, since the speed can be lowered to 0.3x, it is ideal for learning foreign language pronunciation.

A technique you definitely want to incorporate into language learning using reading software is "shadowing."

By creating foreign language audio such as English with reading software, you can easily start shadowing.

Shadowing methods are explained in this article, so why not start shadowing using reading software like Ondoku?

Reading Utilization for Accessibility Improvement

Reading software also plays a major role in improving accessibility for people with visual impairments or reading disabilities.

Reading software with natural audio like Ondoku has the advantage of being less tiring even when listening for long periods.

By making web content into audio, more people can access digital information.

Implementing reading functions into services for the elderly also improves ease of use.

By supplementing visual information with audio, you can promote a multi-faceted understanding of information.

Points for Further Utilizing Text-to-Speech Software

From here, we will explain points you should be conscious of in order to utilize text-to-speech software.

Setting Points for Improving Sound Quality

To improve the quality of read-aloud audio, pay attention to several setting points.

Adjust the reading speed according to the text content; setting important information to be slightly slower makes it easier to convey.

Since voice pitch can also be adjusted in Ondoku, optimal settings suited to the listener are possible.

Even with installable software such as VOICEVOX and COEIROINK, you can approach natural reading by adjusting the intonation.

For technical terms and proper nouns, it is effective to either specify the pronunciation or change kanji to hiragana.

Also, when reading long texts, inserting breaks and pauses at appropriate positions makes it easier to hear.

How to insert pauses as desired is explained in this article!

How to Utilize Reading Software on Smartphones

Of course, reading software can be effectively utilized on iPhone, iPad (iOS), and Android smartphones.

When you want to use it on a smartphone, browser-based software such as Ondoku is recommended.

Since it is accessible from a smartphone, you can easily use it while on the go.

When using text-to-speech software on a smartphone, use in a Wi-Fi environment is recommended to save on mobile data traffic.

By saving reading audio created on a smartphone to cloud storage such as Google Drive or Dropbox, you can easily utilize it for editing work on a PC.

Of course, it is also ideal for effective use of gap time, such as listening to learning content on a smartphone during commute or travel time.

Recommended reading methods for iPhone and Android smartphones are also introduced in these articles, so please take a look!

Summary: Why Not Try Using the Text-to-Speech Software That Is Perfect for You?

As you can see, there are many choices for text-to-speech software.

Even free text-to-speech software can read with very high quality, so it can be widely utilized from individual to commercial purposes.

Browser-based software such as Ondoku is recommended for beginners or those who want to use it easily.

For video production in specific genres, software with characteristic voices such as "Bouyomi-chan," "A.I.Voice," "CeVIO," and "VOICEVOX" is suitable.

If you are considering commercial use, it is also important to always check the terms of use for each software and follow the conditions.

A key point is to first try the free version and consider paid versions or specialized software as necessary.

By finding the software that is optimal for your purpose, you can put it to use in a wide variety of ways, such as creative activities, language learning, and business.

Why not experience text-to-speech software for free right now?

■ AI voice synthesis software "Ondoku"

"Ondoku" is an online text-to-speech tool that can be used with no initial costs.

• Supports approximately 50 languages, including Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, and German
• Available from both PC and smartphone
• Suitable for business, education, entertainment, etc.
• No installation required, can be used immediately from your browser
• Supports reading from images

To use it, simply enter text or upload a file on the site. A natural-sounding audio file will be generated within seconds. You can use voice synthesis up to 5,000 characters for free, so please give it a try.