# Readest — Modern Cross-Platform Ebook Reader

> A feature-rich open-source ebook reader built with Tauri and Next.js, supporting EPUB, PDF, and cross-device sync for a seamless reading experience.

## Install

Save in your project root:

# Readest — Modern Cross-Platform Ebook Reader

## Quick Use
```bash
# Download from GitHub releases for your platform
# Or build from source:
git clone https://github.com/readest/readest.git
cd readest
pnpm install && pnpm tauri build
```

## Introduction
Readest is an open-source ebook reader that combines a clean, modern interface with powerful reading tools. Built with Tauri and Next.js, it runs natively on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android while keeping resource usage low compared to Electron-based alternatives.

## What Readest Does
- Opens EPUB and PDF files with high-fidelity rendering
- Syncs reading progress and annotations across devices
- Provides customizable typography, themes, and layout options
- Supports text-to-speech for hands-free reading
- Offers OPDS catalog browsing for discovering free ebooks

## Architecture Overview
Readest uses Tauri v2 for the native shell, with a Next.js frontend handling the UI. The EPUB rendering engine processes documents client-side for privacy. Cloud sync is optional and uses end-to-end encryption. The architecture keeps the binary small and memory-efficient compared to Electron-based readers.

## Self-Hosting & Configuration
- Download pre-built binaries from GitHub releases for desktop and mobile
- Build from source with pnpm and Rust toolchain installed
- Configure sync via the built-in cloud service or disable it for offline use
- Customize reading themes and font settings through the preferences panel
- Import ebook libraries from local directories or OPDS feeds

## Key Features
- Native performance with Tauri (not Electron) — small binary, low memory
- Cross-platform: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and web
- Built-in TTS (text-to-speech) engine
- OPDS support for browsing free ebook catalogs
- Annotation, highlighting, and bookmark sync

## Comparison with Similar Tools
- **Calibre** — powerful library management; Readest focuses on the reading experience
- **KOReader** — e-ink optimized; Readest targets desktop and mobile screens
- **Foliate** — Linux only; Readest runs on all major platforms
- **Apple Books** — proprietary; Readest is open-source and cross-platform

## FAQ
**Q: What file formats does it support?**
A: EPUB and PDF are fully supported, with more formats planned.

**Q: Is cloud sync required?**
A: No, Readest works fully offline. Cloud sync is optional for cross-device use.

**Q: Does it support DRM-protected books?**
A: No, it reads DRM-free EPUB and PDF files only.

**Q: How does it compare in size to Electron apps?**
A: Tauri-based builds are significantly smaller and use less RAM than Electron alternatives.

## Sources
- https://github.com/readest/readest
- https://readest.com

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Source: https://tokrepo.com/en/workflows/asset-b92b5fcb
Author: AI Open Source