The Best Microsoft Edge Text-to-Speech Add-ons

Fri Feb 02 2024 • Aliaksei Horbel

Exploring Microsoft Edge's text-to-speech (TTS) add-ons can significantly enhance your browsing experience, especially if you prefer auditory learning, need assistance due to visual impairments, or simply want to consume content hands-free. Among the myriad of options, three stand out for their unique features, benefits, and use cases. Here’s a closer look at each:

Speechify Text to Speech Voice Reader

Pros:

• Converts a wide range of text formats into speech, including docs, articles, PDFs, and emails, making it highly versatile.
• Known for its clear and natural-sounding voice output, enhancing the listening experience.

Cons:

• Detailed cons were not directly available, but potential downsides might include limitations on voice options or features in the free version.

Unique Features:

• One of the fastest-growing voice generator extensions in the Edge store, indicating a strong user base and ongoing development.

Main Use Case:

• Ideal for users looking to convert various text formats to audio seamlessly, whether for learning, accessibility, or multitasking.

Who Might Benefit:

• Students, professionals, and individuals with visual impairments or learning disabilities.

Read Aloud: A Text to Speech Voice Reader

This TTS extension from LSD Software is one of the most popular among all browsers. Pros:

• Offers a simple and intuitive interface for converting text to speech, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
• Supports a variety of text formats, enabling users to listen to almost any content on the web.

Cons:

• As with Speechify, specific cons are not listed, but users might encounter limitations with customizability or advanced features in the free offering.

Unique Features:

• Provides an easy-to-use solution for reading aloud text from web pages, documents, and more.

Main Use Case:

• Particularly useful for reading web content aloud, enhancing web accessibility, and improving comprehension for auditory learners.

Who Might Benefit:

• Individuals with dyslexia or other reading difficulties, as well as those who prefer auditory learning methods.

Microsoft Edge's Built-in Read Aloud Feature

image from geekermag.com

While not an add-on, it's worth mentioning Microsoft Edge's built-in Read Aloud feature as a notable text-to-speech option. Pros:

• Integrated directly into the Edge browser, requiring no additional installation.
• Offers a range of natural-sounding voices across multiple languages.

Cons:

• May not have as many features or the same level of customization as dedicated TTS extensions.

Unique Features:

• Built-in and seamless integration with the Edge browser, providing an immediate TTS option without the need for external tools.

Main Use Case:

• Ideal for users who need quick and easy text-to-speech functionality without additional setup.

Who Might Benefit:

• Anyone using Microsoft Edge who needs to convert text to speech directly within the browser.

Each of these options caters to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a comprehensive TTS tool with wide-ranging format support, a straightforward solution for web content, or a built-in feature for immediate use, Microsoft Edge offers solutions that can enhance your auditory experience online.