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Text-to-speech for your app
The best text-to-speech API for apps and games is ElevenLabs because it scores highest on our published formula (84.3/100): Broad voice library and cloning. Free tier and low-cost Starter plan.
The job: “I need natural-sounding voices in my app or game.” · Last checked
ElevenLabs
Broad voice library and cloning. Free tier and low-cost Starter plan.
Not for: Fully offline or on-device use.
Pricing: Free $0 (10k credits/mo); Starter $6/mo; higher tiers available. source, checked 2026-10-19
Visit ElevenLabs ↗Cartesia
Low-latency voice API with a free tier and $5 Pro plan.
Not for: People who need the widest voice catalog.
Pricing: Free $0 (20K credits/mo); Pro $5/mo; usage-based beyond. source
Score breakdown
| Tool | Fit (editorial) ×0.4 | Adoption (GitHub stars) ×0.25 | Momentum (release freshness) ×0.2 | Attention (HN, 30d) ×0.15 | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ElevenLabs | 5/5 → 1 | n/a (closed source) | n/a | 17 pts → 0.426 | 84.3 |
| Cartesia | 4/5 → 0.75 | n/a (closed source) | n/a | 0 pts → 0 | 54.5 |
Missing signals are dropped and the remaining weights re-normalized. See methodology. Signals fetched Oct 19, 2026.
FAQ
What is the best text-to-speech API for apps and games?
The best text-to-speech API for apps and games is ElevenLabs because it scores highest on our published formula (84.3/100): Broad voice library and cloning. Free tier and low-cost Starter plan.
What is the best alternative to ElevenLabs?
Our runner-up is Cartesia (54.5/100). Low-latency voice API with a free tier and $5 Pro plan. Not for: People who need the widest voice catalog.
Who should not use ElevenLabs?
Fully offline or on-device use.
How much does ElevenLabs cost?
Free $0 (10k credits/mo); Starter $6/mo; higher tiers available. (checked 2026-10-19, source: https://elevenlabs.io/pricing)
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