Screen Readers for Computers

by Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
Updated June 27, 2025
Screen readers are essential assistive technology tools for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. These software programs convert on-screen text into synthesized speech or refreshable braille, allowing users to navigate and interact with computers independently. By serving as a bridge between the operating system and the user, screen readers provide access to applications, documents, the internet, and more.
Screen readers are operated primarily through keyboard commands or braille display input, making it important for users to develop familiarity with shortcuts and chord combinations. Choosing the right screen reader depends on the user’s needs, environment, and the tasks they want to perform.

Key Factors When Choosing a Screen Reader

Compatibility with Operating System
  • Ensure the screen reader is fully compatible with your device’s operating system.
  • For example:
    • JAWS and NVDA support Windows
    • VoiceOver is exclusive to macOS
    • Orca works with Linux distributions
    • Narrator, built into Windows, continues to improve but has limitations.
Application and Web Compatibility
  • Screen reader performance can vary across applications and browsers.
  • Verify that the screen reader supports the specific programs you use (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Docs, Canvas, Zoom, web browsers like Chrome or Firefox).
  • Use screen-reader-friendly browsers (like Chrome or Firefox with NVDA, Safari with VoiceOver).
Braille Display Support
  • Not all screen readers support all braille devices.
  • Check compatibility between the screen reader and your refreshable braille display.
  • Example: The APH Chameleon 20 is not compatible with Windows Narrator, but is supported by JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard & Braille Commands
  • Each screen reader has its own set of keyboard and braille display commands.
  • Evaluate whether these commands are intuitive and customizable.
  • Students may benefit from having command cheat sheets or personalized instruction.
Voice Options and Synthesizers
  • Many screen readers offer multiple voices and allow users to adjust pitch, rate, and inflection.
  • Some screen readers support third-party voices (e.g., Vocalizer, Eloquence, or Acapela), which may require additional licensing.
Cost and Licensing
  • Costs range from free to several hundred dollars:
    • Free: NVDA (Windows), VoiceOver (macOS/iOS), Narrator (Windows), Orca (Linux)
    • Paid: JAWS (~$95/year for Home license; higher for professional use)
  • Consider institutional licenses if you're working in a school setting.
Training and Community Support
  • Look for screen readers with robust user communities, tutorials, and customer support.
  • Popular screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver offer extensive documentation and user forums.

Overview: Windows Narrator

Narrator is Microsoft’s built-in screen reader for Windows 10 and 11. It allows users to access basic computer functions without installing additional software.
Pros of Narrator:
  • Pre-installed: No download or setup needed
  • Free: Included with all versions of Windows
  • Continuously Improved: Updated regularly with new Windows releases
  • Supports Braille (with limitations): Compatible with some braille displays
  • Basic functionality: Sufficient for web browsing, email, and document reading
Cons of Narrator:
  • Limited Braille Compatibility: Not compatible with the APH Chameleon or some other displays
  • Fewer Advanced Features: Lacks the rich scripting and customization of JAWS or NVDA
  • Steep Learning Curve: Command structure may feel less intuitive than alternatives
  • App Limitations: May not perform well with all third-party software
  • Occasional Lag: May exhibit slower performance with resource-heavy applications

​Popular Screen Readers at a Glance

Screen Reader
Platform
Cost
Best For
JAWS
Windows
Paid
Advanced users, professionals, students needing scripting/ customization
NVDA
Windows
Free (donation based)
Students, schools, everyday use, braille support
Narrator
Windows
Free
Basic needs, built-in option for Windows users
VoiceOver
macOS/ iOS
Free
Apple users, strong braille and mobile support
Orca
Linux
Free
Linux users and tech-savvy environments

Tips for Implementation

  • Provide hands-on instruction in screen reader navigation, not just passive exposure.
  • Teach common keyboard commands and use real-world tasks (emailing, searching, document editing).
  • Reinforce screen reader etiquette, especially in shared classrooms or testing environments.
  • Ensure students try demo versions of paid screen readers before committing.

​Resources

By carefully evaluating your needs and the compatibility of the screen reader with your device and learning environment, you can select a tool that promotes independence, productivity, and long-term success for students who are blind or visually impaired.

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