If you want to start building a new habit of reading and want to track your reads throughout the year, or if you’re already tracking the books you read, maintaining a never-ending TBR, socializing with your book-reading friends, and setting reading goals, a good book tracking app for your needs can make your reading life much easier.
While Goodreads has been my go-to for tracking my reads, plenty of other apps and platforms are worth exploring, whether you want detailed reading stats, personalized recommendations, or a way to connect with fellow book lovers.
In this post, I have rounded up some of the best book tracking apps to consider in 2027, along with their pros and cons, to help you find the one that works best for you. And if you’d rather keep things simple, I’ve also included a free reading spreadsheet option!
Note: I have tried the apps that I have recommended as an alternative to Goodreads, however, there are more options out there that you can explore (More on that below!)
Table of Contents
My Go-To:
Goodreads
Goodreads has been my go-to platform for tracking the books I read. From keeping tabs on my yearly reading goal to maintaining my never-ending TBR and rating the books I finish, it’s where I keep most of my reading life organized.
One of its biggest advantages is its massive book database, which makes it easy to find books, check ratings and reviews, and see what other readers think. You can also connect your Kindle to Goodreads, so every time you finish a book and rate it on Amazon, your Goodreads shelf updates automatically.
You can create custom shelves to organize your reads, mark books as currently reading, and take part in the annual Goodreads Reading Challenge. Goodreads has also recently introduced half-star ratings (much needed!).
Of course, Goodreads isn’t perfect. The interface could use an update, and its recommendations don’t always hit the mark. Still, its extensive book catalog and established reader community make it a convenient option, especially if you’ve been using it for years.
Pros:
- Huge database of books, including romance and indie titles.
- Easy tracking of books read, currently reading, and TBR, with custom shelves and tags for tropes and personal preferences.
- Kindle integration that syncs your Amazon ratings to Goodreads.
- Annual reading challenge and reading progress tracking.
- Ratings and reviews from a large reader community.
Cons:
- The App interface can feel dated compared with newer platforms.
- Personalized recommendations can be hit or miss.
- Discovering new books can take some digging.
Best for: Readers who want an established platform to track their reading, maintain a TBR, rate books, and explore reviews from a large community.
Pricing: Free to use.
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Find me on Goodreads: My Profile Link
Alternatives to Goodreads:
StoryGraph
I remember creating an account when StoryGraph started gaining popularity as a Goodreads alternative because of its cleaner interface and detailed reading statistics. And then, of course, I forgot all about it for a while!
StoryGraph remains one of the most popular Goodreads alternatives, especially if you want more detailed reading statistics based on your shelves and personalized book recommendations. You can set reading goals, join or create readalongs, and discover books based on your preferred moods, genres, and themes.
One of the things I like about StoryGraph is its mood-based recommendations and the tags listed under each book. You can filter books by mood and pacing, which is particularly helpful when you’re in the mood for something specific but don’t know what to pick up next.
It also offers half-star and quarter-star ratings, content warnings, and the option to import your reading data from Goodreads.
Pros:
- Detailed reading statistics and charts.
- Personalized mood-based book recommendations (I like their SGAI Feature).
- Reading challenges, goals, and progress tracking.
- Half-star and quarter-star ratings.
- Goodreads data import.
Cons:
- Some advanced statistics and customization features require a paid Plus subscription.
- The interface and features may take some time to get used to if you’re accustomed to Goodreads.
- Its social features and reader community may feel different from Goodreads, depending on how you use the platform.
Best for: Readers who love reading stats, personalized recommendations, and discovering books based on their mood.
Pricing: Free plan available, with an optional paid Plus subscription.
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Find me on StoryGraph: My Profile Link
The Understory App
The Understory app was recommended to me by a reader on Threads, and the team also chimed in to share some of its best features, which I loved.
Understory is a plant-themed reading tracker that makes keeping track of your books a little more fun. Along with logging your reading, setting goals, and organizing your TBR, the app lets you grow a virtual garden as you build your reading habit.
One of its standout features is the connection between reading and tree planting. With a Premium membership, you can grow real-world trees by meeting monthly reading objectives, alongside the trees in your virtual garden.
Understory has social features, including book groups, a social feed where readers can like and comment on reviews, and leaderboards for reading progress and streaks. You can rate books, create custom reading lists, track audiobooks, and view reading statistics and shareable graphs. It also supports half-star ratings and private reads.
Pros:
- Fun, plant-themed design with a virtual garden.
- Reading goals, streaks, and progress tracking.
- Social feed, book groups, and leaderboards.
- Custom reading lists, including a DNF list.
- Half-star ratings and audiobook tracking.
- Real-world tree planting through Premium.
Cons:
- No web browser version; you need to use the mobile app.
- Real-world tree planting and some advanced statistics require a paid subscription.
- The gamified approach may not appeal to readers who prefer a simple, straightforward tracker.
- Its focus on social features and reading streaks may not suit everyone.
Best for: Readers who want to build a consistent reading habit through gamification, social interaction, and a little plant-themed motivation.
Pricing: Free to use, with an optional paid Premium membership.
Download the app: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Find me on Understory: My Profile Link
Hardcover
Similar to the other book tracking apps, Hardcover is a modern platform worth checking out if you’re looking for an alternative to Goodreads.
It lets you organize your reading, create custom lists, rate and review books, set reading goals, and discover new titles through personalized recommendations and community-curated lists.
The feature I liked most about Hardcover is its detailed reading statistics, some of which are different from what StoryGraph offers. Unlike some other platforms, these stats aren’t hidden behind a paywall. You can also import your books from Goodreads, making it easier to switch platforms without starting from scratch.
However, I did find the book catalogue somewhat limited. Some books had incomplete information, with missing details in their listings. This is something worth keeping in mind, especially if you read a lot of indie or lesser-known titles.
Overall, it’s a good option if you enjoy the organizational side of Goodreads but want to try a different platform.
Pros:
- Clean, modern interface.
- Reading lists, tags, and customizable organization.
- Book ratings, reviews, and discovery features.
- Reading goals and progress tracking.
- Goodreads import support.
- A community of readers sharing recommendations and lists.
- Detailed reading statistics available for free.
Cons:
- Its book catalog and community may not be as extensive as Goodreads.
- Some features may take time to get used to if you’re switching from Goodreads.
- Certain advanced features may require a paid membership.
Best for: Readers who want a modern book tracking experience with customizable lists, book discovery, and social features.
Pricing: Free to get started, with optional paid membership features. Check the official website for current plan details.
Download the app: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Find me on Hardcover: My Profile Link
Fable Co
Fable is a social reading platform built around books and book clubs. If you enjoy connecting with fellow book lovers, discussing your latest reads, and discovering books through community recommendations, you’ll want to check out Fable.
You can organize your reading lists, track your TBR and completed books, set annual reading goals, create and share posts, and view personalized reading statistics. I particularly liked the app’s interface, though I couldn’t import my Goodreads data, so I emailed the team to learn more.
They got back to me quickly and shared an alternative way to import my Goodreads library through their website. My books haven’t shown up in my library yet. The team mentioned that imports can take a little while to appear and that users receive an email once the process is complete. So, I’m still waiting to see how this works!
Pros:
- Review and Track books read, currently reading, TBR, and DNFed books.
- Set reading goals and track daily reading streaks.
- View personalized reading statistics and yearly progress.
- Join book clubs or start your own to discuss books with other readers.
- Discover books through community recommendations and curated lists.
- Track TV shows and join watch clubs, too.
Cons:
- Its many social and entertainment features may feel overwhelming if you only want a simple reading log.
- Some features, including enhanced benefits through Fable Plus, require a paid subscription.
Best for: Readers who want to combine book tracking with book clubs, social reading, personalized recommendations, and discussions with fellow book lovers.
Pricing: Free to use, with an optional paid Fable Plus subscription.
Download the App: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Find me on Fable: My Profile Link
Literal
Literal is a minimalist book tracking app compared to some of the other platforms I have mentioned above. It focuses on organizing your reading, sharing your thoughts on books, and connecting with other readers.
You can organize your library using custom shelves, follow other readers, share book reviews, set reading goals, track your progress, and discover new books through readers whose tastes align with yours.
While Literal covers the basics of book tracking and social reading, I personally didn’t enjoy using it as much as some of the other alternatives on this list.
Pros:
- Clean interface with focus on book tracking (Literally).
- Track books you’ve read, are currently reading, or want to read.
- Create custom shelves to organize your reading.
- Import your library from Goodreads and StoryGraph.
- Follow readers and discover books through their recommendations.
- Set reading goals and track your progress.
Cons:
- Its community and book database may not be as extensive as Goodreads.
- Readers who prefer detailed reading statistics may find its tracking features less comprehensive than StoryGraph’s or Hardcover’s.
Best for: Readers who want a simple book tracker with social features, custom shelves, and book recommendations.
Pricing: Free to use, with optional supporter features.
Download the app: Apple App Store | Google Play Store
Reading Spreadsheet or Journal
If you don’t want the hassle of using another app and prefer tracking your reading the old-school way, a reading spreadsheet or journal can be just as useful. Whether you want to maintain a simple list of books you have read or create a more detailed record of your reading journey, you can customize it to suit your needs.
You can use trusty old Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to create your own tracker, OR… I have created one that you can explore!
I usually use Google Sheets to organize my blogs and social media posts and ideas, but it’s just as useful for tracking your reads (and it gave me an opportunity to learn a few new Excel tricks).
Pros:
- Customize your tracker to suit your reading habits.
- Track your TBR, reading progress, ratings, and yearly goals.
- No subscription or recurring costs.
- Complete control over how you organize your reading data.
Cons:
- Requires manual updates.
- Doesn’t offer automatic book recommendations or book discovery features.
- Requires some initial setup if you’re creating your own tracker.
Best For: Readers who want a private, simple, customizable, budget-friendly way to track their reading.
Pricing: Free if you create your own spreadsheet. Ready-made templates may be free or paid.
Get the tracker: Google Sheets (Make a Copy or Download as Excel Worksheet)
Other Book Tracking Apps Worth Exploring:
There are plenty of other book-tracking apps and platforms worth checking out beyond the ones I have covered above. These are a few options I came across during my research and through recommendations from fellow readers on Threads.
NOTE: I haven’t personally used them, so consider these brief introductions to help you decide whether they’re worth exploring.
Here’s the Threads discussion I had with fellow readers on some good reading tracker apps:
LibraryThing
LibraryThing is designed for readers who enjoy cataloging and organizing their personal libraries. It offers detailed book information, tagging, recommendations, and community features, making it useful for readers who want more than a basic reading log.
Bookmory
Bookmory focuses on personal reading logs and reading habits. You can track books, record reading progress, set goals, and view statistics. It’s worth exploring if you prefer tracking your reads privately.
Oku
Oku is a book discovery and tracking platform with a clean, minimalist interface. It lets you organize your reading, discover books, and explore recommendations.
Verse Reading
Verse Reading takes a habit-focused approach to reading, combining reading progress with goals and challenges. It may appeal to readers who enjoy tracking their consistency and staying motivated.
Which Book Tracking App Is Best for You?
The best book tracking app depends on what you want from it. Some are great for detailed reading statistics and personalized recommendations, while others focus on social reading, book clubs, or organizing your personal library.
Based on my experience with the apps I explored, along with my research and reviews from other readers, here’s my take on which platform is best for different reading needs.
| Reading Needs | Apps Worth Considering |
|---|---|
| Reading statistics and personalized recommendations | StoryGraph, Hardcover |
| Social reading, ratings, and book reviews | Goodreads, StoryGraph, Understory |
| A personal reading journal | Bookmory, Spreadsheet or Journal |
| Book clubs and group discussions | Goodreads, Fable (and Reddit!) |
| Organizing a personal book library | Goodreads, LibraryThing, Hardcover |
| A free, customizable reading tracker | A spreadsheet or reading journal |
If you’re happy with Goodreads but want more detailed insights into your reading habits, I’d start with The StoryGraph or Hardcover.
And if you prefer to keep your reading records organized your own way, a spreadsheet is a simple alternative that lets you choose exactly what to track.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for detailed reading statistics, better book recommendations, a place to connect with fellow book lovers, or simply an easy way to keep track of the books you’ve read, there’s a book tracking app worth exploring.
Goodreads is still my go-to because of its Kindle integration (as a Kindle Unlimited user, that’s where I do most of my reading). While I loved some of these apps, particularly StoryGraph, Hardcover, and Understory, having to manually update my reading shelves isn’t something I want to deal with. Maybe if there were a way to sync Goodreads with these apps, I’d be sold!
Remember, you don’t necessarily need another app to keep your reading life organized! A simple spreadsheet or reading journal can work just as well if you prefer something customizable and don’t need all the extra features.
I’d recommend exploring a couple of alternatives before you make a switch from your current app. See which interface and features work best for you, and don’t be afraid to use more than one platform if that suits your reading habits.
Which book tracking app do you use? I’d love to hear about your favorites, especially if there’s one you think more readers should try!
Frequently Asked Questions About Book Tracking Apps
1. What is the best app for tracking books you've read?
The best app depends on what you’re looking for. Goodreads is a popular choice for tracking books, maintaining a TBR, and reading reviews. The StoryGraph comes second in reader reviews, and it is great for detailed reading statistics and personalized recommendations, while Hardcover and Understory offer other ways to organize your reading and discover books.
2. Are there any free apps to keep track of books you've read?
Yes! Goodreads, StoryGraph, Hardcover and all the other apps offer free options for tracking your reading. Some also have optional paid plans for additional features. If you don’t want to use an app, you can create your own reading tracker using Google Sheets or Excel.
3. What is the best alternative to Goodreads?
Based on reader recommendations, The StoryGraph is one of the strongest alternatives to Goodreads, particularly if you want detailed reading statistics and mood-based recommendations.
However, I also found some great options in Hardcover and Understory, each offering its own set of features.
The best alternative ultimately depends on which Goodreads features you want to replace.
4. Can I transfer my Goodreads library to another book tracking app?
Yes, several book tracking platforms let you import your Goodreads library using an exported CSV file. Check the import options before making a switch. Also, keep in mind that the information transferred can vary between platforms.
5. Is it better to use a book tracking app or a spreadsheet?
Both options work well, depending on your preferences.
A book tracking app is convenient if you want built-in book information, recommendations, reading statistics, and community features.
A spreadsheet gives you more control over how you organize your reading and lets you add custom details such as tropes, spice levels, genres, and ratings.
6. What should I look for in a book tracking app?
Look for features that match your reading needs and habits. These might include a TBR list, reading goals, progress tracking, personalized recommendations, detailed statistics, custom shelves, reviews, and Goodreads import options. If you read a lot of books in a series, series tracking may also be useful. You don’t need every feature; choose an app that makes keeping track of your reading easier.
7. Can I sync my reading progress across multiple book tracking apps?
This is one of the biggest challenges when using multiple book tracking apps. While some platforms allow you to import your Goodreads library, that doesn’t necessarily mean they can continuously sync your reading activity across apps.
For example, I loved exploring alternatives like The StoryGraph and Hardcover, but having to manually update my reading progress and shelves on each platform can get tedious. Ideally, I’d love a way to sync my Goodreads activity across all my trackers automatically!
For now, check whether your preferred apps support integrations or automatic syncing before committing to multiple platforms.