Audible has become one of the most popular platforms for audiobooks, offering millions of titles across fiction, non-fiction, podcasts, and Audible Originals. At the same time, Barnes & Noble's Nook devices remain a favorite choice for readers who enjoy distraction-free reading and long battery life. However, many users often ask the same question: Can you listen to Audible books on Nook devices?
If you have an Audible library and a Nook eReader or tablet, the answer is not as easy as it is on Kindle or smartphones. Audible and Nook belong to different ecosystems, and compatibility is limited. However, there are reliable ways to listen to Audible audiobooks on Nook devices, especially for offline use.
In this full guide, you'll learn whether Audible works directly on Nook, how to convert Audible books into Nook-supported formats for offline listening, and how Nook audiobooks compare with Audible audiobooks. By the end, you'll have a clear, practical solution that fits your listening habits.
Part 1. Can You Play Audible Audiobooks on Nook Directly?
Before diving into workarounds, it's important to understand the native compatibility between Audible and Nook devices.
1. Is There An Audible App for Nook Devices?
Most Nook eReaders, such as the Nook GlowLight series, are designed primarily for reading ebooks and do not support third-party apps. These devices run on customized systems that cannot install the Audible app.
Some older or tablet-style Nook devices are based on Android, which may allow limited app installation. However, even on these Nook models, the Audible app often fails to work properly due to system restrictions, outdated Android versions, or lack of Google Play Services.
2. Is There A Built-in Web Browser for Nook Models to Access Audible Cloud Player?
Some Nook models, such as the Nook GlowLight 4 Plus, offer a web browser, which enables access to the Audible Cloud Player. This allows you to stream Audible audiobooks directly from the browser on your Nook. However, this functionality is limited to a few models and may not provide a smooth experience due to hardware restrictions and reliance on a stable internet connection.
3. DRM Protection Limits Direct Playback
Another major obstacle is Audible's DRM (Digital Rights Management). Audible audiobooks are typically downloaded in AA or AAX formats, which are encrypted and can only be played within authorized Audible-supported apps and devices. Since Nook devices are not officially supported by Audible, they cannot decode or play these protected files.
Official Conclusion
❌ Most Nook eReaders and tablets do not support Audible directly
❌ Audible AA/AAX files cannot be played on Nook without processing
✅ Offline Audible listening on Nook is possible only after converting Audible books to supported formats
This leads us to the most practical and widely used solution for enjoying Audible audiobooks on Nook devices.
Some Nook eReaders, including the GlowLight 4, 4 Plus, and 4e, support MP3, M4A, M4B, and AAC formats. Some Nook tablets support additional audio formats such as MP3, M4A, AAC, OGG, WAV, FLAC, and ALAC. Therefore, converting Audible files into a supported format is necessary for listening to them offline on a Nook.
Part 2. How to Play Audible Books on Nook Offline by Converting to Supported Formats [Best Method]
If you want to listen to Audible audiobooks on a Nook device, converting them into a Nook-compatible format is the most effective method. After conversion, you can transfer the files to your Nook and enjoy true offline playback without app or DRM restrictions.
This is where AudFree Audible Converter comes in. It's a dedicated Audible audiobook downloader that lets you download your Audible library in bulk at up to 100× speed, while preserving original ID3 tags and metadata for each title.
In addition, it supports multiple output formats, including MP3, M4A, M4B, and more. For most Nook devices, MP3 is the safest and most widely compatible choice, offering a good balance between audio quality and file size. For many eReaders, M4B is even better, as it retains chapter markers and audiobook metadata more accurately.
Nook eReaders rely heavily on ID3 tags. If an Audible book is converted to MP3 without proper "Title" and "Author" tags, it may appear on the Nook as a string of random numbers (e.g., 129158_01.mp3).
AudFree Audible Converter
- Convert Audible AA/AAX files to MP3, WAV, or other common formats
- Remove Audible DRM legally from your own purchased books
- Split audiobooks by chapters for easier navigation
- Preserve original audio quality and ID3 tags for Nook devices
How to Download Audible Books to Nook Tablets/eReaders for Offline Playback
The free trial converts only the first 30 seconds of each audiobook. To get a full conversion, you need a paid license of the AudFree tool.
- Step 1. Add Audible Audiobooks to AudFree Conversion List
- Install AudFree Audible Converter on your Windows or Mac computer. Launch the program and log in through the built-in Audible web player. Open your Audible library, select the audiobooks you want, and click the '+' button to add them to the conversion list (an active Audible membership is required).
- Step 2. Set Output Parameter of Audible Books for the Nook
- Click the 'Menu' icon in the top-right corner and choose 'Preferences'. Under the 'Conversion' tab, select MP3 or M4B as the output format based on your Nook model. You can also customize the bit rate, sample rate, and audio channels if needed.
- Step 3. Download Audible Audiobooks for Nook Tablets/eReaders
Once your settings are saved, click the 'Convert' button. AudFree Audible Converter will start converting your Audible audiobooks at high speed (up to 100×). After completion, you can find the converted files in the output folder under the Converted section. These files can now be played on Nook devices, as well as in cars, smart speakers, and other players.
- Step 4. Transfer Converted Audible Books to Nook
Connect your Nook to your computer using a USB cable and wait for it to appear as external storage. Open the Nook folder and locate the Music or Audiobooks directory. Drag and drop the converted Audible files into the folder, then safely eject the device. You can now use the built-in audio player on your Nook to listen offline.
If your Nook model supports an external SD card, you can also copy the converted audiobooks to the SD card and insert it into your Nook for offline playback.
See also: How to Transfer Audible Books to SD Card
Why This Is the Best Method
Compared with streaming or browser-based solutions, converting Audible audiobooks offers several clear advantages:
✅ Full offline playback on Nook devices
✅ No dependence on Audible app compatibility
✅ Works with all Nook models that support audio playback
✅ Permanent access to your purchased audiobooks
For travelers or users who prefer distraction-free listening, this method is the most flexible and reliable way to enjoy Audible audiobooks on a Nook.
Part 3. Nook Audiobooks vs Audible Audiobooks: Which Is Better?
For users who are new to audiobooks, choosing between Nook Audiobooks and Audible can be confusing. The comparison below highlights the key differences to help you decide which platform best fits your needs.
| Feature | Nook Audiobooks | Audible Audiobooks |
|---|---|---|
| Content Library | Smaller catalog with fewer exclusives; mainly integrates with the Barnes & Noble ecosystem | Massive library with hundreds of thousands of titles, including Audible Originals, podcasts, bestsellers, and new releases |
| Device Compatibility | Primarily designed for Nook tablets and Nook apps; limited cross-platform support | Works on smartphones, tablets, Kindle devices, smart speakers, car systems, and more (limited native support on Nook) |
| Pricing and Membership | Mostly pay-per-title purchases; limited subscription benefits | Monthly membership with credits ($14.95/month), Audible Plus catalog included, and frequent member discounts |
| Free Trial | No free trial; limited or occasional promotions depending on region | 30-day free trial with one or more free audiobook credits |
| User Experience | Basic playback features for straightforward listening | Advanced features including playback speed control, sleep timers, chapter navigation, and cloud syncing |
| App Availablity | Nook app available on select platforms; not supported on most e-ink readers | Audible apps available on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and many smart devices |
| Best For | Users who prefer staying fully within the Barnes & Noble ecosystem | Heavy audiobook listeners who want the largest selection, best value, and advanced listening tools |
Overall Verdict
• Choose Audible if you want the largest audiobook library, exclusive content, and advanced listening features.
• Choose Nook Audiobooks if you prefer purchasing audiobooks directly within the Barnes & Noble ecosystem.
• Convert Audible audiobooks for Nook if you want the best of both worlds - Audible's rich content with offline playback on your Nook device.
Part 4. FAQs About Listening to Audible on Nook Devices
Can all Nook devices play converted audiobooks from Audible?
Not all Nook devices support audio playback. Most modern Nook tablets can play audio files, while some eInk-based Nook eReaders do not include speakers or headphone support. Always check your specific model's specifications.
Is it legal to convert Audible books for Nook?
Converting legally purchased Audible audiobooks is generally considered acceptable for personal use in many regions. However, sharing or distributing converted files is not allowed. Please be cautious and follow local copyright laws.
Do I need an internet connection to listen to Audible books on Nook?
No. Once Audible audiobooks are converted and transferred to your Nook, you can listen completely offline.
Why won't my Nook recognize the audio files from Audible?
This usually happens if the format is unsupported or the files are placed in the wrong folder. Make sure you use MP3 or other Nook-supported formats and copy them into the correct audio directory on your Nook.
In Conclusion
Although Nook devices do not natively support Audible audiobooks, that doesn't mean you're locked out of your Audible library. By converting Audible AA or AAX files into Nook-supported formats like MP3, you can easily listen to Audible books on Nook devices offline and without restrictions.
For users who value Audible's vast catalog but prefer the simplicity of a Nook device, this approach provides a practical and flexible solution. With the right tools and steps, you can enjoy your favorite audiobooks anytime, anywhere - no Audible app or internet required.
Ivan Scott
Staff Editor
