The StoryGraph is an independent reading tracker known for mood based recommendations and detailed charts. ShelfBuddy is a private library app that works without an account. Both track audiobooks properly; they differ in community features, series and where your data lives.
| Feature | ShelfBuddy | The StoryGraph |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | iPhone, iPad, Android and the browser | iPhone, iPad, Android and the web |
| Account | Not needed | Required |
| Price | Free with ads, no book limit. Premium: one-time purchase, no subscription | Free without ads. Plus subscription: $4.99 a month or $49.99 a year (in Germany €3.99 or €39.99) |
| Barcode scanning | Yes, also several books in a row | Yes |
| Audiobooks | Own format with listening time and playback speed | Own audio mode with minutes and listening goals |
| Series | Owned and missing volumes, alerts for new volumes and followed authors | Series information; a series tracker and release alerts are still on its roadmap |
| Import | Goodreads, StoryGraph, Reado, any CSV or spreadsheet | Goodreads CSV; CSV export |
| Social features | None: a private library without a public profile | Friends, buddy reads, readalongs, book clubs, community reviews with moods and pace |
| Where your data lives | On your device; sync through your own iCloud or Google Drive | On StoryGraph's servers; the app needs a connection |
| App languages | English, German, Dutch, Spanish | English |
In The StoryGraph, open Manage Account and export your library as a CSV file. Open that file in ShelfBuddy under Settings, Import library, and choose StoryGraph. Reading status, ratings (quarter stars included, unchanged), tags and read dates come along, audiobooks keep their format, and the import can be undone in one step.
Details about other apps come from their websites and store listings, checked in September 2026. Spotted something out of date? Write to us via Inquiries.