Download uBook – Free Windows eBook Reader

Overview

uBook is a lightweight, free e‑book reader designed specifically for Windows‑based computers dating back to Windows 95. First added to our catalog in 2007, the program has accumulated more than 54 000 installations worldwide, with active users in the United States, Egypt, Bulgaria and many other countries. Despite its modest age, uBook still offers a clean reading experience for plain‑text and rich‑text formats, and the most recent update (v0.9, released 19 September 2007) introduced embedded PNG support in RTF files, fixing several long‑standing bugs. The application belongs to the “Home & Hobby” category under the “eBooks – Readers” sub‑category, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a simple, ad‑free solution for reading digital books on legacy Windows machines.

Key Features & Capabilities

• Supports plain‑text (.txt), Rich Text Format (.rtf) and embedded PNG images within RTF files.
• Ultra‑light footprint – the installer is under 2 MB and requires less than 30 MB of disk space.
• Customizable font size, style, and background color for comfortable long‑reading sessions.
• Bookmarking system that remembers your last page across sessions.
• Simple, Windows‑classic interface that runs smoothly on Windows 95, 98, ME and later.
• Keyboard shortcuts for page navigation, zoom, and bookmark management.
• English‑only UI, eliminating language‑pack bloat and ensuring a fast start‑up.
• Free of ads, telemetry, or hidden fees – truly a “download‑once, use‑forever” tool.

These features combine to create a no‑frills reading environment that focuses on what matters most: the content. Because uBook does not try to be a multi‑format powerhouse, it stays responsive even on older hardware, and the absence of unnecessary plug‑ins keeps the program secure from third‑party vulnerabilities. The recent PNG support means that authors can embed simple graphics or diagrams directly inside RTF books without needing a separate viewer.

Installation & Usage Instructions

Step‑by‑Step Installation

1. Download the uBook installer from the official link provided below.
2. Locate the downloaded uBook_setup.exe file and double‑click to launch the wizard.
3. Follow the on‑screen prompts: accept the license agreement, choose an installation folder (default is C:\Program Files\uBook), and click “Install”.
4. When the progress bar reaches 100 %, click “Finish”. The program will automatically create a shortcut on your desktop and in the Start menu.

Getting Started with Your First Book

After installation, launch uBook by double‑clicking the desktop shortcut. You will be greeted with a clean window featuring a menu bar at the top. To open a book, select File → Open or press Ctrl+O. Navigate to the folder containing your .txt or .rtf file, select it, and click “Open”. The content appears instantly, rendered with the default font (Arial, 12 pt) on a white background.

Customize the reading experience via View → Settings. Here you can change the font family, increase or decrease size, switch to a sepia or dark background, and enable line‑spacing options. Bookmarks are created with Ctrl+B and accessed later from the “Bookmarks” submenu. All changes are saved automatically, so the next time you open the same file, uBook remembers your last position and visual preferences.

For users who frequently switch between multiple books, the “Recent Files” list (found under File) provides quick access to the last five opened documents. Keyboard navigation (Page Up/Page Down, Home, End) works seamlessly, making it possible to skim large documents without ever reaching for the mouse.

Compatibility, Pros & Cons

Operating System Compatibility

uBook runs on Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 2000, and all later versions up to Windows 10 (32‑bit). Because the application uses only native Win32 APIs, there is no need for .NET Framework or additional runtime libraries. This makes it especially valuable for users maintaining legacy PCs or kiosks that cannot upgrade to modern operating systems.

Pros

• Extremely low system requirements – perfect for older hardware.
• Free, ad‑free, and without hidden in‑app purchases.
• Simple, distraction‑free interface that focuses on reading.
• Supports embedded PNG graphics in RTF files, a rare feature for such a small reader.
• Reliable bookmarking and customizable appearance.

Cons

• Limited to .txt and .rtf formats – no native EPUB or PDF support.
• English‑only UI may be a barrier for non‑English speakers.
• Last official update was released in 2007, so no modern security patches.
• No cloud sync or mobile companion apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is uBook safe to download and install?

Yes. uBook is distributed from a verified source and does not contain malware, adware, or telemetry. The installer is digitally signed, and because the program is self‑contained, it does not require any third‑party libraries that could introduce vulnerabilities.

Can uBook open EPUB or PDF files?

No. uBook is limited to plain‑text (.txt) and Rich Text Format (.rtf) files. If you need EPUB or PDF support, you’ll have to convert those files to RTF or use a dedicated reader for those formats.

Will uBook run on a 64‑bit Windows 10 PC?

Yes. Although uBook was originally built for 32‑bit Windows, it runs without issues on 64‑bit Windows 10 thanks to Windows’ built‑in compatibility layer. The program will appear in the “Program Files (x86)” directory.

How do I add a new book to the recent files list?

Simply open the book via File → Open or the Ctrl+O shortcut. Once opened, uBook automatically adds the file to the top of the “Recent Files” submenu, making future access one click away.

Is there any way to get uBook in languages other than English?

Currently, uBook is released only in English. The developer has not announced plans for localization, so users who need a different language will need to look for alternative readers that support multilingual interfaces.

Final Verdict & Call to Action

uBook stands out as a nostalgic yet functional e‑book reader for anyone who still runs legacy Windows systems or simply prefers a minimalist reading environment. Its ultra‑light design, free price tag, and straightforward feature set make it an excellent choice for students, hobbyists, and IT professionals maintaining older machines. While the lack of modern formats and language options limits its appeal for power users, the core reading experience remains solid and reliable.

If you need a quick, secure way to open .txt or .rtf books on a Windows PC without dealing with clutter or subscription fees, download uBook today and enjoy a hassle‑free reading experience. Click the button below to start the download, install in minutes, and dive straight into your favorite digital books.