Spotify Audiobooks: What You Need to Know!

We’ve all used Spotify to stream our favorite songs and maybe even caught up on a few podcasts. But what if I told you Spotify is now a solid competitor in the audiobook game?

Indeed, Spotify now offers more than just music and podcasts. Audiobooks are the newest addition—and they’re growing fast. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or just unwinding, audiobooks on Spotify are becoming a go-to.

This article walks you through everything you need to know, based on real use and tons of listening hours. So let’s dive into this growing trend, explore how it works, and whether it’s worth switching from Audible or other audiobook platforms.

2. Why Spotify Entered the Audiobook World

Spotify’s move into audiobooks wasn’t just random. It’s part of a bigger plan to become your all-in-one audio platform.

Key Reasons Spotify Expanded:

• Market Growth: The audiobook industry has been booming, with a $5+ billion market in the U.S. alone.

• User Retention: Spotify wanted to keep users inside the app longer by offering more types of content.

• Compete with Audible: With Audible (owned by Amazon) dominating the space, Spotify saw a chance to shake things up.

They started by acquiring audiobook platform Findaway in 2021, which gave them the tech and distribution power to scale quickly.

3. How to Find and Listen to Audiobooks on Spotify

If you’re like I was at first, you might be confused. Where exactly do you find audiobooks in the app?

Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open Spotify on mobile or desktop.

2. Tap “Search” and type in the title of a book or “audiobooks.”

3. Select the Audiobooks tab (on mobile, it’s more visible).

4. Browse curated categories like:

   • Bestsellers

   • New Releases

   • Biography & Memoir

   • Self-Help

   • Fiction & Mystery

Once you find a title, you can sample it for free or, if you’re a Premium user in certain regions, access a limited number of hours monthly.

4. Is It Free or Paid? Understanding the Model

Spotify changed the audiobook game with a unique payment model.

Free Users:

• Can listen to sample chapters only.

• May have to purchase full audiobooks à la carte (depends on region).

Premium Subscribers (U.S., UK, AU, and more):

• Enjoy 15 hours of monthly audiobook listening time.

• Option to purchase more hours if needed.

• The books are accessed during your subscription; you do not “own” them.

This hybrid model is different from Audible’s 1-credit-per-month approach and has its pros and cons.

5. Personal Experience: My First Spotify Audiobook

I was skeptical at first. I’ve been a long-time Audible listener, and switching felt like a risk.

I started with “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. It was super easy to find, and the interface was clean. What surprised me most? The sound quality and narration were top-notch.

But I hit a snag when I realized I only had 15 hours—and the book was nearly 7 hours itself. One more book, and I’d be out of time for the month.

Nevertheless, the experience was easy and pleasant for casual listeners.

6. A Comparison of Audible, Spotify, and Other Audiobooks

Let’s break it down to see how Spotify stands up against the big players.

Verdict:

Spotify is perfect for light to moderate audiobook listeners who already have Premium. Heavy readers might find Audible better for its unlimited “Plus Catalog” and ownership options.

7. Pros and Cons of Spotify Audiobooks

Here is a detailed look at what you will receive:

Pros:

• Seamless integration with music & podcasts

• Great for casual listeners

• Premium includes hours at no extra cost

• Easy to browse and play audiobooks

Cons:

• 15-hour monthly cap can feel limiting

• Not all titles are available

• No “ownership” of books

• Limited international access

8. Hidden Features & Hacks You Should Know

A few tricks can enhance your experience big time:

• Speed Controls: Adjust playback speed from 0.5x to 3x.

• Sleep Timer: Great for bedtime listening.

• Download for Offline: Avoid using data or streaming on the go.

• Create a Playlist: Bundle audiobooks and related podcasts in one list.

• Listen Across Devices: Start on your phone, finish on your laptop.

9. How to Make the Most of Audiobooks on Spotify

1. Track Your Hours: There’s a tracker under your account showing how much audiobook time you’ve used.

2. Try Shorter Books: Fit 2–3 short reads into your monthly 15 hours.

3. Use Book Summaries: Some podcasts summarize full books—great supplement.

4. Create Themed Days: Audiobook on Monday, music on Tuesday, podcast on Wednesday.

5. Switch Devices Smartly: Listening on your smart speaker won’t eat into your phone battery.

10. Is Spotify the Future of Audiobooks?

The move by Spotify seems like a preview of what audio will look like in the future. Imagine one app for:

• Your gym playlist

• Morning meditation

• True crime podcast

• Bedtime audiobook

That’s powerful. Their ability to blend these formats in one space is where the real magic happens. For creators, it’s also a new opportunity to distribute spoken-word content directly to an engaged audience.

While Audible and other platforms offer more depth and selection, Spotify wins on ease, interface, and integration.

11. Final Thoughts: Should You Switch?

If you’re already a Spotify Premium user and want a simple way to enjoy audiobooks without extra costs, then YES — you should try it.

For heavy listeners, though, Audible still gives more bang per buck, especially if you prefer to own your books or listen to multiple titles monthly.

Either way, Spotify audiobooks are here to stay — and they’re only getting better.

FAQs

Q1: Are audiobooks on Spotify free?
A: Only sample chapters are available for free users to listen to. In eligible countries, premium subscribers receive 15 hours of free audiobook listening per month.

Q2: How do I find audiobooks on Spotify?
A: Type “audiobooks” or a specific title into the search field. You’ll see a dedicated Audiobooks section with curated lists.

Q3: Is it possible to download Spotify audiobooks to listen to them offline?
A: Yes! Premium users can download audiobooks just like songs and podcasts for offline access.

Q4: What happens when I use up my 15 hours?
A: You’ll need to wait for the next month to get a new 15-hour allowance or purchase more hours through the app (where available).

Q5: Can I keep the audiobooks forever?
A: No, you don’t own the audiobooks. Access is tied to your subscription and listening hours, similar to Netflix for movies.