Screen readers

Screen readers are tools that read out what is on your screen using a computer-generated voice

About screen readers

Screen readers are tools that read out what is on your screen using a computer-generated voice. They allow people to navigate websites, documents, and apps without needing to see the screen.

They can be controlled using a keyboard, gestures, or other input devices, depending on the device being used.

Screen readers are useful for a range of situations:

  • Accessibility (visual impairments): They are essential for people who are blind or have low vision, providing access to digital content through speech or braille displays.
  • Reading and learning support: People with dyslexia or other reading difficulties may find it easier to understand content when it is read aloud.
  • Proofreading and writing: Hearing text read back can help spot spelling mistakes, missing words, or awkward phrasing that might be missed when reading silently.
  • Reducing screen strain and fatigue: Listening instead of reading can help people who experience eye strain, migraines, or fatigue from long periods of screen use.

Types of screen readers

There are both free and paid options available, depending on your needs

Which one should I use?

Help choosing the right one for you.

What each one does best

A comparison of the main features

Built-in tools (free)

Many devices include screen readers as standard:

  • Narrator (Windows)
  • Immersive reader (Windows)
  • VoiceOver (Apple devices)
  • TalkBack (Android)

Third-party tools (paid):

These often offer more advanced features and are commonly used in workplaces:

  • JAWS (Job Access With Speech)
  • NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

If you mainly need help to read and understand text

Choose Read Aloud or Immersive Reader:

  • Read Aloud is great for listening to documents, webpages, and proofreading.
  • Immersive Reader is great if you want a calmer reading layout (bigger text, spacing, fewer distractions), plus optional reading out loud.

If you need to navigate your whole computer without relying on sight

Choose a screen reader:

  • Start with Narrator if you want something built-in and free to use.
  • Try NVDA if you want a widely-used free option with strong everyday support.
  • Consider JAWS if you need advanced workplace features and formal support.

Read Aloud

  • Built in to Windows computers
  • Great for proofreading – you might hear errors you did not notice in the text
  • Useful for fatigue or eye strain
  • Fast to use, minimal setup needed

Immersive Reader

  • Built in to Windows computers
  • Reduces visual clutter and supports focus
  • Helpful for dyslexia, visual overwhelm, and for those who experience focus or attention challenges
  • Makes reading feel calmer and more controlled

Narrator

  • Built in to Windows computers
  • Good for core navigation and everyday tasks
  • Useful as a starting point or backup option

NVDA

  • Strong, popular choice for web browsing and general use
  • Free and widely supported in the accessibility community
  • Good “default recommendation” when cost is a factor

JAWS

  • Strong for complex workplace systems and power users
  • Often chosen where formal support or training is needed
  • Established in many organisations with good support for your day-to-day work

Built-in Microsoft screen readers

Guide to Read aloud and Immersive reader

These tools help make content easier to read, understand, and focus on by combining audio support with a simpler, more customisable reading experience.

Guide to Microsoft Narrator

Narrator helps you hear and navigate what is on your screen

Other screen readers

Guide to the NVDA screen reader

NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) is a free, open-source screen reader for Windows

Guide to JAWS

JAWS (Job Access With Speech) is a paid screen reader for Windows which can convert on-screen text into Braille or speech