8 best RSS reading applications for Windows

With many RSS readers for Windows, choosing the right one depends on your needs. They're not as popular as they once were, but they're still an invaluable tool for bringing together all the different content you want to read from multiple sources into a single feed. Try them all and see which one makes it easier for you to follow your favorite blogs and websites!

1. FeedLab

FeedLab is the perfect way to bring the power of Feedly to your Windows desktop. While you can access Feedly from a browser or iOS/Android device, until now, there hasn't been a dedicated app for Windows. You will need a Feedly account to use this app.

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 You can quickly test FeedLab before connecting to your account to see what the interface looks like. Easily find sources, organize things the way you want, and customize your reading experience.

Ads aren't too invasive so the free version is all you really need. However, if you want a cleaner look and some additional customization features, upgrading won't be expensive.

2. NewsFlow

NewsFlow is the best RSS reader for Windows. It's a simple, clean interface that does exactly what it should without any redundant features. Search feeds by keyword, URL, etc. Organize all your feeds the way you want for easy viewing. You can customize each feed individually, including notifications.

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It is not designed to synchronize with other RSS services. There is a Feedly sync feature but it doesn't work well. Think of this as a standalone service versus working with other services.

Sometimes sync issues occur and you need to manually refresh your feed. However, the design and customization make this minor hiccup easy to accept.

 3. RSSOwl

RSSOwl uses a more Outlook-style approach and may remind you of many Windows XP applications. This is one of the best RSS readers for Windows, just because of its powerful search features.

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Assign tags to quickly find anything. You can even perform searches within the app and save them as a separate feed for easy access. Although you can donate if you want, you can use RSSOwl for free as much as you like.

It's not the prettiest app out there, but the focus is more on reading than looking good. Organizing your feeds will make using the app much easier.

4. Awasu

Awasu is more advanced than other RSS readers for Windows. The free personal version has some limitations, such as no custom branding and plugin limitations for additional features, but it's perfect for most users. Easily update channels as often as you want, receive notifications, and organize your feeds the way you want.

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If you are a power user, you may want to upgrade to Advanced Edition. This takes you from just 100 channels (feeds) to follow to unlimited. Plus, you get offline reading support and updates every 30 minutes instead of every hour.

It's a lot of fun to use, especially for customizing things. However, be patient as it will take some time to learn how to use it.

5. Ark View

Ark View is one of the lesser known RSS readers for Windows but offers a beautiful and highly intuitive interface. Minimalist design helps avoid clutter to focus on the content you want to read. It also offers paid password protection to protect your data sources.

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Ads are non-invasive and all features beyond password protection are completely free. It would be better if the app offered both ad-free and password protection in a cheaper package.

However, it must be admitted that it looks better than most of the other RSS readers on this list. It definitely feels more modern and makes it easier to view your different feeds.

6. Flipboard

Flipboard is already a famous RSS reader but works a little differently. Stories are curated based on interaction from Flipboard users and staff. However, you can create your own 'magazines' with sources that suit your interests.

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Although it doesn't function like a traditional RSS reader, this Windows app is perfect for any Flipboard user who wants a feed on their desktop. Plus, it syncs with web and mobile versions for access anywhere.

If you want a pure RSS reader, skip this one. However, if you want a curated experience similar to playlists created on a music streaming service, it's a fun way to find new content.

7. QuietRSS

QuietRSS may seem simple, but it works great when it comes to getting news from the sources that matter to you. It has a similar interface to RSSOwl and doesn't look as modern as some of the other options on this list.

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 However, it is also portable so you can take it with you on other devices. This app also imports feeds from other RSS readers (if your reader exports the feed). Plus, you can back up your feed at any time if you change devices.

Users like the feeling of checking email. Any unread stories are bolded to quickly see what you still need to see. Additionally, the label system makes organization easier.

8. Fluent Reader

Fluent Reader is simple, clean, and quite easy to use. It's best if you know the RSS feed URL but the app also searches for the feed based on the main URL. The design is very minimalist, but that works in its favor.

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A favorite feature is the many different types of views. Tags are the default but you can also use Magazine, List and Compact.

The organization is very simple. Create a group and add your feed to the group. The menu is even collapsed so all you see is your feed without distractions; There aren't even any ads. What's surprising is that it's all free and there are no premium plans.

Micah Soto

Update 16 January 2024