Top 10 Best Text to Speech APIs for Enhancing User Experience

The Text-to-speech (TTS) APIs are transforming digital content consumption by converting text into audible speech, making it more accessible and engaging for users. As businesses steadily adopt these technologies, the demand for the best text to speech API is increasing, especially in a linguistically diverse country like India.

According to a recent report, there will be over 900 million active internet users in India by 2025, underscoring the urgent need for TTS solutions that deliver multilingual content for efficient communication in a rapidly evolving virtual landscape. 

This blog aims to review and highlight the top 10 TTS APIs that can significantly improve customer experiences. By examining the features of each API, this guide will help organisations to leverage text to speech output successfully. 

How does the Best Text to Speech API work?

TTS APIs, or speech synthesis technologies, convert written text into spoken language. These APIs generate natural-sounding speech in different dialects and accents, enhancing interactions and accessibility across various platforms.

By employing advanced machine learning, text-to-speech APIs can accurately process multiple Indian languages. By analysing linguistic data, these systems create audio that captures regional nuances, making them vital for businesses targeting local audiences.

The best text to speech API improves user engagement by delivering voice with precise tone, rhythm, accent, and pronunciation. This level of accuracy is essential in the nation’s multilingual environment, allowing firms to connect effectively with various linguistic groups.

Use Cases for the Best Text to Speech API 

Text-to-speech technology offers versatile applications across multiple industries. Here are some prominent use cases: 

• Customer services

The TTS APIs enhance customer service by powering automated voice assistants that can engage with individuals in multiple Indian languages. This usability not only improves correspondence but also cultivates an inclusive customer support experience.

• Navigation Assistance

TTS technology provides vital navigation assistance in multiple regional languages, ensuring travellers receive clear and understandable directions. This capability enhances travel experiences in both urban and rural settings, making navigation easier for people.

• Language Learning

The best text to speech API facilitates language learning by offering correct pronunciations and interactive tools for mastering Indian languages. This functionality helps learners practise speaking and comprehension, enriching the educational experience and promoting linguistic proficiency.

• Healthcare 

The TTS solution is transforming healthcare by improving patient education and accessibility. It offers clear instructions for individuals with visual impairments or literacy challenges, ensuring they understand their health information and treatment plans for better outcomes.

• Education 

In education, text-to-speech APIs convert textbooks and study materials into spoken content in various local languages, enhancing comprehension and retention. This diversity provides tailored resources for students’ language preferences. 

• Entertainment 

Text-to-Speech technology elevates the entertainment sector by powering audiobooks, voice-overs, and interactive media for diverse local audiences. This enables creators to produce culturally relevant content, broadening engagement and reach.

• Audiobooks

TTS APIs are driving the growth of audiobooks in India by providing narrations in multiple languages. This accessibility broadens the audience, making literature available to those who prefer auditory formats, thereby enriching the overall reading experience.

Top 10 Text-to-Speech APIs on the Market 

When evaluating TTS APIs, it’s crucial to consider factors such as cost, security, and privacy. The following are 10 prominent text-to-speech APIs that organisations can leverage:

1. Reverie 

Reverie’s TTS API is an AI-driven solution that converts text into lifelike voices, redefining the text-to-speech domain. With neural voices and customisable tones, it enhances application accessibility and user engagement, making it ideal for businesses and developers. As one of the best text to speech API, it supports multiple Indic languages, setting your applications apart in a competitive market.

Main features of Reverie’s TTS API

• Uses advanced AI technology to convert text into spoken words in 11 Indian languages and accents.
• Prioritises data security and privacy, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Offers flexible voice selection with options for male and female voices to suit various applications.
• Provides fine-grained control over speech synthesis with Speech Synthesis Markup Language (SSML).

2. Amazon Polly 

Amazon Polly is a cloud-based Text-to-Speech (TTS) API that employs Speech Synthesis Markup Language (SSML) to create natural-sounding speech. It improves application access and customer involvement, making it a valuable choice for programmers. Users can access Amazon Polly through the AWS free tier, though voice options are limited.

Main features of Amazon Polly 

• Supports over 20 languages and variations for both basic and advanced TTS.
• Offers sampling rates of 8kHz, 16.05kHz, 22.05kHz, and 24kHz. 
• Enables custom words and pronunciations through lexicons.

3. IBM Watson 

IBM Watson’s TTS API leverages advanced technology to transform text into speech via HTTP and WebSocket. This realistic text to speech provides two primary voice types i.e. expressive neural voices and enhanced neural voices, both designed for authenticity. Premium users can also create personalised custom voices.

Main features of IBM Watson

• Utilises deep neural networks (DNNs) to analyse pitch, sound structure, and waveform.
• Provides audio in Ogg, MP3, WAV, FLAC, PCM, A-law, Mu-law, and G.729 formats.
• The Tune by Example feature allows users to modify speech without needing SSML expertise.

4. Lovo AI 

The Lovo AI’s voice generator, Genny, efficiently transforms text into realistic speech. Its TTS API recognises language patterns and adjusts key features like voice and accent, allowing for tailored audio outcomes that meet specific requirements.

Main features of Lovo AI 

• Offers more than 100 languages and 400+ voices.
• Add up to 25 emotions to voiceovers for more expressive speech.
• Clone voices to create custom, branded audio for a unique identity.

5. Google Cloud Text-to-Speech API

Google Cloud’s Text-to-Speech (TTS) API is a leading solution that leverages DeepMind’s advanced neural network, trained on extensive speech samples. This technology enables high-quality, natural-sounding voices, making it well-suited for applications in the Indian market and positioning it as the best text to speech API for various dialectal requirements. 

Main features of Google Cloud Text to Speech API 

• Supports over 50 languages with 380+ voices for localisation.
• Allow custom voice training for a unique brand voice.
• Provide adjustable speaking rates and pitch control for customisation.

6. Microsoft Azure 

Microsoft Azure’s Text-to-Speech (TTS) API employs a RESTful setup for efficient speech generation from data sources. By using Speech Synthesis Markup Language (SSML), it allows precise control over speech attributes like speed, pitch, and pronunciation, making it well-suited for different apps. 

Main features of Microsoft Azure 

• Supports over 80 languages and regional dialects, catering to India’s linguistic diversity.
• Utilises neural text-to-speech with SSML for precise audio control.
• Enable the creation of custom neural voices using real voice samples for personalised applications.

7. Play.ht 

Play.ht delivers the best text to speech api solution adaptable to different needs, allowing individuals to develop unique audio outputs for conversations, narrations, and more. With a vast selection of AI voices, users can easily find the perfect match for their specific requirements.

Main features of Play.ht 

• Offers 142 languages and accents with 829 AI voices.
• Automatically updates with the latest voices in real-time.
• Supports audio file downloads in MP3 and WAV formats for quick distribution and use.

8. Speechify 

Speechify’s Text-to-Speech (TTS) API enhances accessibility for websites and applications used in publishing, blogging, and content marketing. It helps companies boost engagement and improve customer satisfaction. Additionally, Speechify can be utilised as a Chrome extension for reading text aloud.

Main features of Speechify 

• Live text highlighting indicates words currently being read.
• A floating widget allows speech control while scrolling.
• Compatible with both web and iOS platforms.

9. Resemble AI 

Resemble AI’s RESTful TTS API enables users to create unique voices with just five lines of code. As one of the best text to speech api, it allows access to web content, offers voices from the Resemble marketplace, and facilitates custom recordings for quick integration.

Main features of Resemble AI 

• Core Cloning engine for designing custom voices.
• Easy audio file uploads for sound modification.
• Access to a popular Voice Marketplace with 35 languages.

10. ReadSpeaker 

ReadSpeaker’s cloud-based TTS API is user-friendly and works seamlessly on desktop, web, and mobile. It offers easy setup as part of the ReadSpeaker Web Application Service Platform and includes SSML control for precise speech adjustments.

Main features of ReadSpeaker 

• Adaptable dictionary for saving specific terms.
• Over 200 voices available in 50+ languages.
• Timing information for synchronised text highlighting.

How to Select the Best Text to Speech API for Your Needs? 

When evaluating Text-to-Speech APIs, businesses will encounter a variety of options, but not all offer the same functionalities. Here are the key factors firms should consider when choosing an api text to speech:

• Language Support 

Selecting a Text-to-Speech (TTS) API that offers broad support for Indian dialects is crucial for maximising audience engagement. By providing support for regional languages like Hindi, Tamil, and Bengali, businesses can ensure an inclusive experience, particularly in sectors like education and customer service.

• Integration Capabilities

Ensure the TTS API smoothly merge with commonly used Indian systems and platforms, such as CRM software, mobile apps, and web applications. Easy integration can streamline workflows and improve operational efficiency, making it a critical factor for organisations aiming for efficient technological adoption.

• Customisation and Configuration 

Customisation options in a TTS API allow firms to tailor voice productions to reflect local accents and tonal variations. This capability lets brands craft relatable voices that resonate with regional audiences, enhancing emotional connection and user satisfaction. Utilising the best text to speech API ensures voice response aligns with consumer preferences.

• Trail Options 

Trial options are important for evaluating a TTS API’s performance in real-world scenarios before committing financially. This phase allows decision-makers to assess language accuracy, voice quality, and compatibility with local systems, ensuring the solution meets operational needs.

• Reliable Customer Support

Reliable customer support with local expertise is key to resolving issues during TTS API implementation. Prompt service ensures smooth operations and quick responses to customer needs, boosting satisfaction and trust in the technology.

Why Choose Reverie to Manage all your Text-to-speech API Needs? 

Reverie’s Text-to-Speech API uses advanced AI to convert text into spoken words in 11 Indian languages. This extensive support helps businesses engage diverse audiences while customising voices to match their brand personality. With precise pronunciation control and seamless IVR integration, our TTS API automates customer interactions, streamlining operations and enriching user experience.

Integrating Reverie’s TTS API has transformed the virtual banking experience at Easiofy, allowing banking avatars to communicate authentically in 22 languages. Using the best text to speech API ensures businesses effectively connect with customers across various linguistic backgrounds.

Here’s how Reverie stands out from other Text-to-Speech APIs:

• Support Multiple Languages 

Reverie’s TTS API offers instant text-to-speech conversion in all 11 official Indian languages: Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and English. This feature improves interactive platforms and virtual assistants, allowing brands to connect with various audiences across India.

• Natural Sounding Voices 

Our API delivers lifelike, natural-sounding voices tailored to native speakers, ensuring engaging audio experiences. With neural voice technology, you can develop unique and personalised voices for multiple applications.

• Flexible Integration 

The API allows seamless integration into applications and websites, backed by comprehensive documentation and software development kits, making it accessible for developers of any expertise.

Final Note 

Digitisation impacts nearly every aspect of our lives, emphasising the need to replicate human interaction through technology. Selecting the best text to speech API is crucial for businesses, as these APIs serve as a vital link between humans and machines, enriching communication and fostering deeper connections.

For organisations seeking a reliable and versatile solution, Reverie’s Text-to-Speech API is an excellent choice. With support for multiple Indian languages, it meets the unique demands of Indian businesses. Contact us today and discover how Reverie’s API can elevate your user interactions and drive engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. What is the difference between Voice Generator API vs. Text-to-Speech API?

Voice Generator APIs create unique vocal outputs from text inputs, featuring advanced options for emotion and tone variations. In contrast, Text-to-Speech (TTS) APIs convert written text into spoken words, usually providing a selection of pre-set voices and accents with limited customisation.

Q2. How to integrate Text-to-Speech API into a website or mobile app?

To integrate a Text-to-Speech API, choose a provider, obtain API keys, and implement the API with SDKs or RESTful services. Developers use JavaScript for web apps and native languages for mobile apps for easy voice synthesis.

Q3. Is it possible to customise the voice in Text-to-Speech API to suit different accents? 

Yes, many Text-to-Speech APIs allow modification of voices and accents, enabling adjustments in pitch, speed, and tone to create a personalised audio output that matches regional preferences.

Q4. How much does a Text-to-Speech API cost?

Text-to-speech APIs usually charge based on usage or requests, with pricing varying among providers from startups to large tech companies. Companies can expect to spend several thousand dollars annually for a TTS API with dependable support.