If you love books but struggle to find the time to sit and read, Amazon Audible might be the perfect solution for you. Audible is Amazon’s world-leading audiobook platform, offering millions of audiobooks, podcasts, and exclusive audio series—ready to stream anytime, anywhere.
In this complete beginner guide, we’ll walk you through what Amazon Audible is, how it works, its pricing, top features, pros and cons, and whether it’s worth it. This guide is written especially for readers of Amazon Audible, so you’ll get the most clear, simple, and up-to-date explanation.
What Is Amazon Audible?
Amazon Audible, commonly known simply as Audible, is a subscription-based platform where you can listen to professionally narrated audiobooks, podcasts, audio dramas, and exclusive Audible Originals not available anywhere else.
Think of Audible as a giant audio library—but with premium narration, offline listening, and ownership of audiobooks even after your subscription ends.
How Does Audible Work?
Audible works by offering two main components:
1. Audible Subscription Plans
Audible gives you access to:
- Monthly credits to buy audiobooks
- Unlimited listening to the Audible Plus catalog
- Exclusive Audible Originals
- Offline downloads
- Member-only deals and discounts
2. Credits System
Each credit lets you buy one audiobook of any price. Once purchased, the audiobook is yours forever, even if you cancel the plan.
Audible Plans & Pricing (Simplified)
Audible currently offers two popular memberships:
🔹 Audible Plus Plan
- Access to Audible Plus catalog
- Unlimited listening
- Podcasts + Exclusive content
- No credits
This is best for people who mainly want streaming.
🔹 Audible Premium Plus Plan
- All Audible Plus benefits
- 1 or 2 credits per month
- Keep purchased audiobooks forever
- 30% discount on extra purchases
Best for those who buy and collect audiobooks.
What Can You Listen to on Audible?
Audible has one of the largest audio libraries in the world, featuring:
✔ Audiobooks
Fiction, non-fiction, self-help, business, biographies, classics, and more.
✔ Audible Originals
Exclusive audio stories, dramas, documentaries, and series made only for Audible.
✔ Sleep Tracks & Meditation
Guided meditation, soundscapes, sleep audio.
✔ Podcasts
Free and paid podcasts—ad-free.
✔ Language Learning Programs
Spanish, French, German, and many more languages.
Top Features of Amazon Audible
1. Keep Audiobooks Forever
Even after canceling your membership, any purchased audiobook remains yours.
2. Offline Listening
Download books and listen without internet—perfect for travel and commuting.
3. Whispersync
Switch between reading on Kindle and listening on Audible seamlessly.
4. Adjustable Narration Speed
Speed up or slow down narration (0.5x–3.5x).
5. Free Exchanges
If you don’t like a book, Audible allows easy returns.
Is Audible Free?
No, Audible is not completely free, but it offers a 30-day free trial for new users.
During the trial, you get:
- 1 free audiobook (yours forever)
- Access to Audible Plus catalog
- 100% free cancellation
Is Amazon Audible Worth It?
Audible is worth it if:
- You love books but lack time to read
- You enjoy learning on the go
- You commute or travel often
- You prefer professional audio narration
- You want to own audiobooks long-term
For heavy listeners, Audible offers massive value, especially with monthly credits that let you buy expensive audiobooks for a small price.
Pros and Cons of Audible
👍 Pros
- Huge library of audiobooks
- Exclusive Audible Originals
- Offline listening
- You keep books after cancellation
- High-quality narrators
- Easy refunds for disliked books
👎 Cons
- Monthly cost
- Some books only available via purchase
- Credits do not roll over forever
Who Should Use Audible?
Audible is perfect for:
- Students
- Professionals
- Travelers and commuters
- Fitness enthusiasts
- Busy parents
- Book lovers
Basically, anyone who wants to learn, grow, and enjoy stories—hands-free.
How to Start Using Audible (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the Audible website or download the Audible app.
- Sign in with your Amazon account.
- Start your 30-day free trial (if available).
- Choose an audiobook using your credit.
- Download the Audible app for your smartphone.
- Start listening instantly!