NV Access
Verified working Sep 17, 2026
Free, open-source screen-reading software for independent computer access.
NV Access is the nonprofit behind NVDA, a free screen reader for blind and vision-impaired computer users. The site provides downloads, user support links, training materials, certification, and information for organizations that need accessibility consulting or rollout help.
Why it stands out
- Core screen reader is free rather than priced like many commercial alternatives.
- Open-source project with public GitHub and ongoing release activity.
- Developed by an organization focused specifically on blind and vision-impaired users.
- Pairs software access with training, certification, and organizational deployment support.
- Long-running project with a large stated global user base.
Good to know
- Paid products such as training materials and certification are separate from the free screen reader.
- The site is centered on screen-reader access, not the full range of assistive technologies such as magnification hardware or mobility tools.
- New users may still need training or community support to use a screen reader effectively.
Photos
Blind and vision-impaired desktop users can get a capable screen reader without paying for commercial assistive software. Install NVDA on a new or shared computer to make visual interface content available through speech. Find training materials or certification options for improving NVDA skills. Plan a workplace, school, or government deployment with procurement and consulting information. Follow release news and beta updates for upcoming NVDA versions.
NVDA screen reader download, open-source development links, help and community resources, training ebooks and bundles, expert certification, corporate/government rollout information, accessibility consulting services, newsletter and release updates.
Alternative listings
A plain-language guide to screen reader options and selection factors.
Accessibility & assistive technology resourcesThis American Foundation for the Blind resource explains how screen readers let blind and low-vision users interact with computers and mobile devices through speech and braille output. It also outlines practical buying considerations and lists a range of screen reader and related access products for different platforms and needs.
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Accessibility & assistive technology resourcesOrca is an open source screen reader that makes graphical Linux and other free desktop environments usable through configurable speech and braille output. It is part of the GNOME ecosystem and works with applications that expose accessibility information through AT-SPI.
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Similar sites elsewhere
- JAWS — freedomscientific.com/products/software/jaws
- Dolphin ScreenReader — yourdolphin.com/ScreenReader
- Orca Screen Reader — help.gnome.org/users/orca
- Microsoft Narrator — support.microsoft.com/windows/narrator
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