The letter O tile, shown in place of a product photo.

Orca Screen Reader

by GNOME Project

Free

Free to download and use.

Setup with instructions Orca is free and usually already on the computer, so a family member or the user can set it up by following the documentation. It still takes some time to set up and to learn the keyboard commands. That is why it fits guided setup instead of working right out of the box.

What it is

Summary

AI-generated from vendor-published content · October 1, 2026

Orca is a free, open-source screen reader for Linux desktops that use GNOME. It reads what is on the screen aloud, can send text to a braille display, and can enlarge the screen, so someone who is blind or has low vision can work on their computer. It comes built into most Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian. You'll want to learn your desktop's own navigation commands too, since Orca works alongside them.

Getting it

Where to get it

GNOME Project Visit
Free

This is the vendor WhatCanHelp tracks for this product — it may also be available from other retailers or a local supplier, and prices vary.

Details

Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
Type
Addresses
Platform
Age range
Complexity
Setup with instructions
Price
Free
Funding
  • Out of pocket

What setup looks like

  • With a guide
    1. Check that Orca is installed on your Linux system. Most major distributions include it, and it can be turned on from the accessibility settings.
    2. Choose a speech voice, speaking speed, and any braille or magnification options in Orca's preferences.
    3. Learn the basic keyboard commands for your desktop, then practice reading and moving around a few common apps. Plan on about an hour or two for first setup.

Sources & fine print

Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from GNOME Project — view on vendor site (opens in a new tab); last checked October 31, 2026.

Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on October 1, 2026 · confidence: medium. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.

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