Audiobooks Online Reviews

Audiobooks Online is an online audiobook store that offers users the opportunity to pick up audiobooks in a variety of formats for reduced prices. Operating since 1994, Audiobooks Online has a library of titles numbering more than 100,000, including many bestselling books and new releases. Unlike other services, users of Audiobooks Online do not need to pay any standard monthly subscription charge, but instead simply pay for the books that they wish to buy – just like any other online store. Although this site didn’t quite match up to some of the big players in this category (such as iTunes, Audible.com or Simply Audiobooks), we did enjoy checking it out, and it is particularly good if you wish to buy audiobooks in less standard formats, such as cassette tapes or Audiofy bookchip.

Joining Audiobooks Online is straightforward, with members being able to sign up in a matter of minutes. Searching for the perfect audiobook couldn’t be simpler either, with users being able to ‘quick search’ for the book they are looking for, or browse through the offerings at the site by author or genre. All books on the site come with reader reviews, giving other readers the opportunity to decide whether to buy a particular book based on the opinions given by those who have already listened to it. Books can be purchased as digital downloads, in CD format, on Cassette or on the less common Audiofy bookchip (where books are distributed on SD memory cards or other transportable media). This is ideal for those users who prefer not to buy audiobooks as instant downloads (as with other services such as iTunes or Audible). Those who do choose to receive their purchases as instant downloads will be pleased to note that the site supports most portable media devices (including all major brands such as Creative Zen, Apple, Microsoft, Research in Motion, Android and more) and that no additional software is needed to download or play the books.

As well as a range of delivery methods, users can also enjoy a range of additional features. Shoppers at Audiobooks Online receive regular updates by email informing them of the latest releases and recent site news and promotions. While members can normally pick up books from around $8 a time at their cheapest, these special deals significantly reduce the cost of using the service and helps to bring the cost in line with other major services in this category. These newsletters also contain shopper reviews, giving customers yet further information about new products. Finally, customers can share the joys of audiobooks with friends and family by buying Audiobooks Online gift certificates – perfect for special occasions.

Although we were impressed by the range of delivery media available at Audiobooks Online, the service can’t always compete on price, especially when compared to other services in the category. If you’re interested in giving this site a go, by all means hit the link below to check whether they stock the book you’re looking for (there’s no subscription after all!). If not, however, be sure to check out other sites in this category to find a service that gives you what you’re looking for, at the right price!

Check out our #1 rated site instead! Why not check out Audible, our top rated Audiobook Website and winner of our prestigious Gold Award! You can also check out our Top 10 Audiobook Websites here!

Please note that Audiobooks Online has now been discontinued.