10 Best audiobooks 2026 in the United States

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Book 1, is a popular choice in audiobooks, especially for children and fans of fantasy and magic. The narrator, Jim Dale, is well-known for his engaging performance, bringing the characters and magical world to life with his voice. This can significantly enhance the listening experience, especially for younger audiences. The audiobook runs for a substantial 8 hours and 18 minutes, which is a good length that can occupy several listening sessions, making it convenient for long trips or daily commutes.

Being in the fantasy and magic genre, it appeals to both children and adults who enjoy imaginative and adventurous stories. The format is unabridged, meaning the entire text is included, ensuring you don't miss any part of the story. It’s available in English, making it accessible to a wide audience. On the downside, the long listening length might be a bit overwhelming for very young children or those with shorter attention spans. Additionally, while Jim Dale's narration is generally praised, some listeners might prefer a different style or voice.

If you are new to audiobooks or looking for a captivating fantasy story for children, this audiobook is a strong contender with its high ranking in Audible Books & Originals.

The Kobo Elipsa 2E is a sleek and eco-friendly eReader designed primarily for reading eBooks, with additional audiobook functionality enabled through its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Its standout feature is the large 10.3-inch glare-free E Ink touchscreen, providing a comfortable reading experience without eye strain. With 32GB of storage, it can hold thousands of books and documents, and users can connect to the Kobo Store for access to millions of eBooks and audiobooks.

For audiobook playback, the Elipsa 2E requires wireless headphones or speakers connected via Bluetooth since it does not have built-in speakers. Battery life during audio playback lasts about 2 hours, which may necessitate more frequent charging for listeners who use this feature extensively. The device is more focused on reading than delivering a rich audiobook experience.

This eReader is well-suited for users who want a versatile device with note-taking capabilities and occasional audiobook playback. Those who prioritize advanced audiobook features, such as adjustable narration speed or enhanced audio controls, might prefer a dedicated audiobook player or a smartphone app.

The Kobo Libra Colour is a versatile eReader designed for a rich reading experience with its 7-inch glare-free colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 display. It supports audiobooks, which is a significant plus if you enjoy switching between reading and listening. With 32GB of storage, this device can hold up to 150 audiobooks, making it suitable for avid listeners. The Kobo Plus subscription offers unlimited access to a vast library of eBooks and audiobooks, adding value for those who consume a lot of content.

The device is waterproof, allowing you to use it confidently near water, and its ergonomic design includes page-turn buttons and customizable font sizes, enhancing usability. However, there are a few potential drawbacks. The 4-hour battery life may be limiting for long listening sessions, and since the narrator performance will depend on the specific audiobook, it's not guaranteed to meet everyone's standards. Additionally, while the device supports multiple formats and genres, accessing some content may require additional purchases or subscriptions.

The Kobo Libra Colour stands out as a feature-rich option for those who want a multifunctional eReader that can also handle audiobooks effectively.