NVDA
Free, open-source screen reader for Windows.
Open the official app on www.nvaccess.org
This tool is hosted by its maintainers. Click below to open www.nvaccess.org in a new tab — it's their official demo.
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Choose how you want to get started.
Use it free
Open the official tool or demo — no account needed.
Self-host it
Run the open-source version on your own infrastructure.
What is NVDA?
NVDA (Non-Visual Desktop Access) is a free, open-source screen reader designed for visually impaired users, enabling them to access and interact with computers running Microsoft Windows. Developed by NV Access, it addresses the critical need for affordable accessibility tools by providing text-to-speech functionality and keyboard navigation, allowing users to operate software, browse the web, and manage files without visual input. Over 250,000 people have used NVDA to gain independence, education, and employment opportunities, particularly in regions where high-cost commercial screen readers are prohibitive. The tool is distributed under the GNU General Public License (GPL-2.0), ensuring its accessibility to all users globally, regardless of financial status or geographic location. NVDA is specifically tailored for Windows 10 and later, though older versions support Windows 8.1 and 32-bit systems, reflecting its commitment to serving diverse user needs.
How it works
NVDA is a non-visual desktop access tool that translates on-screen content into synthesized speech and braille, enabling blind and visually impaired users to navigate computers. It is developed by NV Access, a non-profit organization founded in 2004, with a mission to provide equitable access to technology. The primary purpose of NVDA is to bridge the gap between visual interfaces and users with visual impairments. By converting text and graphical elements into auditory feedback, it users to perform tasks such as email communication, document editing, and web browsing independently. NVDA supports text-to-speech synthesis, keyboard navigation, and compatibility with mainstream Windows applications. It can read web pages, documents, and software interfaces, with features like object navigation and dynamic content updates. The tool also includes a built-in braille display driver for users with braille readers.
How to use it
- 1Open the NVDA page
- 2Use the tool directly in your browser
- 3Results appear instantly — no waiting, no downloads
What it can do
- screen reader
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/nvaccess/nvda
- license: GPL-2.0 — free to use
- privacy: Self-hosted — you control your data
Limitations
- Limited compatibility with Windows versions older than 10, requiring older versions for Windows 8.1
- No native support for mobile operating systems like iOS or Android
- Dependence on third-party speech synthesis engines for advanced text-to-speech features
- Community-driven development may result in slower updates compared to commercial alternatives
- Some applications may require additional configuration or add-ons for full accessibility
Understanding the result
Free, open-source screen reader for Windows.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by (MIT).
- Built with
- (nvaccess/nvda)
- License
- MIT
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Query
- Output
- Text
Built with nvaccess/nvda. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- License
- MIT
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- / — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- GPL-2.0 License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
What is NVDA and who can use it?
NVDA is a free, open-source screen reader developed by NV Access for blind and visually impaired users. It is compatible with Windows 10 and later, and older versions support Windows 8.1. The tool is designed for individuals who require auditory or tactile feedback to interact with computers, including those with total blindness or low vision.
How does NVDA convert visual content into speech?
NVDA uses a combination of screen scraping and accessibility APIs to access the graphical user interface (GUI) of Windows applications. It then translates this information into synthesized speech using text-to-speech engines. Users can navigate elements like menus, buttons, and text fields via keyboard shortcuts, with NVDA providing real-time auditory feedback about the selected content.
How do I install and configure NVDA?
Download the latest NVDA version from the official website, ensuring compatibility with your Windows version. Run the installer, follow the prompts to complete the installation, and launch NVDA via the Start menu or keyboard shortcut (Insert + Enter). Configure settings through the NVDA menu, including speech rates, keyboard shortcuts, and add-on management.
How does NVDA compare to commercial screen readers like JAWS?
NVDA is open-source and free, while JAWS (Job Access With Speech) is a proprietary commercial product. NVDA offers similar core functionalities, such as text-to-speech and keyboard navigation, but lacks some advanced features like full-screen magnification in JAWS. NVDA’s community-driven development ensures frequent updates, whereas JAWS provides enterprise support and specialized training resources.
What should I do if NVDA audio is not working?
Check that your system’s speakers or headphones are enabled, and verify that NVDA’s speech settings are correctly configured. Ensure the default speech synthesis engine is selected in NVDA’s preferences. If issues persist, reinstall the speech engine or consult the NVDA forums for troubleshooting guidance.