Homework doesn't have to be a fight.
When a difficult word gets in the way, a reading pen can help your child scan it, hear it, understand it, and keep going.
- For K-12 Students
- Simple to Use
- Loved by Families & Educators
Why Families Choose Reading Pens
Three things that matter more than the spec sheet.
Reads the page out loud
Slide the pen across a line and hear it spoken back immediately. Nothing to set up, nothing to type.
Designed for readers who get stuck on words
A child can use the pen when a word becomes a barrier, without waiting for someone else to read it for them.
No diagnosis needed
You don't need a label or an IEP to use it. If reading is hard, this helps.
How It Works
Real interactive preview — pick a word and watch the whole pen flow happen
The student opened the book and found a strange new word: telescope.
Click a word above, then press play.
Support for Every Learner
Tailored reading tools and guides for students, parents, and educators
For Students
Build confidence, read independently, and get unstuck on any word.
Read Student Guide →
For Educators
A little support can go a long way in building independent readers.
Explore Educator Guide →Make Reading Comfortable
Every reader is different. Adjust the text to what feels best.
The student opened the telescope , for the first time.
When one word stops everything
"What's this word?"
"I can't read it either."
"Forget it."
Pen finder
Which reading pen is right for your child?
Answer 3 quick questions and get a straight recommendation. No email, nothing to sign up for.
Who will use it?
Do you need translation or a dictionary?
Will it be used during exams with accommodations?
Pick one answer for each question — your match appears right here. Change an answer any time and the recommendation updates.
Compare Top Reading Pens
Standalone pens work with no phone or computer. Connected pens need a device to display and speak.
PAL vs. Max, side by side
Both are standalone reading pens — no phone, no app, no Wi-Fi. Here's exactly what the extra $120 for Max buys.
Start here  Scanmarker PALSimple, immediate read-aloud$179 |  Scanmarker MaxThe standalone powerhouse$299 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Simple, immediate read-aloud with nothing to configure | Full independence — exam-approved, phonics-ready |
| Works without a phone or app | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Battery life | 8 hours | 16 hours |
| Read-aloud languages (offline) | 10 | 30 |
| Read-aloud languages (online) | 20 | 60 |
| Touchscreen | — | ✓ Yes |
| Translation | — | 112 online · 30 offline |
| Built-in dictionary | — | On-device + 50 online |
| Phonics module | — | ✓ Yes |
| Exam-lock mode | — | ✓ Yes |
| Recognition speed | < 1.5 sec/line | < 1 sec/line |
| Shop PAL — $179 → | Shop Max — $299 → |
Short version: PAL keeps things simple for young readers. Max adds a touchscreen, translation, a dictionary, phonics practice, and exam-lock mode for older students.
Compare all 7 Scanmarker models →Why Families Choose Reading Pens
Helps with reading accuracy and fluency
Builds vocabulary and comprehension
Supports students with dyslexia
Easy to use anywhere
No Wi-Fi needed (most models)
Great for home, school, and travel
Trusted by Families & Educators
Based on 1,200+ reviews
"It has been a game changer for my son. He reads more and feels more confident every day."
Compare Top Reading Pens
Compare features, languages, and support to find the right pen for your child.
Give your child another way forward. ✨
Scan it. Hear it. Understand it. Keep going.
Read Full Article →Before you buy, here's what parents usually want to know
Quick answers for parents, educators, and readers.
Will my child need a phone?
No. PAL and Max are fully standalone — they read aloud on their own with a built-in speaker. No phone, no app required.
Can they use it without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Both PAL and Max read aloud fully offline. Max's translation and dictionary also run on the device itself — no connection needed.
Does it work with ordinary books?
Yes. It reads any clearly printed text — books, worksheets, handouts, and other printed materials.
Does my child need a diagnosis?
No. A reading pen is a practical assistive tool. Scanmarker helps any reader who decodes slowly or loses meaning while sounding out words — diagnosis or not.