Best Free Buddhist Apps for iPhone in 2026 (No Subscriptions)

Finding genuinely free Buddhist apps with no subscriptions or hidden costs can be tough. This article highlights five reliable options for iPhone users in 2026. Each app supports meditation, mindfulness, and scripture study without requiring payment or dealing with ads. Here’s a quick summary:

• Sutta 423: Offers one Dhammapada verse daily, reinforcing teachings over time. Free with optional donations.
• Plum Village App: Features 100+ guided meditations, 300+ video teachings, and mindfulness tools inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh. Fully free, supported by voluntary donations.
• Modern Buddhism: Provides Kadampa teachings, guided meditations, and free eBooks by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. No ads, accounts, or fees.
• Learn Buddhism: A vast library of 60,000 Buddhist scriptures in multiple formats and languages. Completely free with offline access.
• Zen Buddhism Apps: Tools like ZenOto and Meditation Zen focus on Zen practices, including virtual temple bells, chants, and meditation timers.

These apps prioritize accessibility and simplicity, making them excellent tools for anyone looking to deepen their practice without financial barriers.

Quick Comparison

App	Focus	Free Features	Offline Access	Special Tools
Sutta 423	Daily scripture (Dhammapada)	One verse daily, optional donations	Yes	Echo system for reinforcing teachings
Plum Village App	Mindfulness & meditation	100+ meditations, 300+ videos, no ads	Yes	Mindfulness Bell, children’s meditations
Modern Buddhism	Kadampa teachings	Free eBooks, meditations, podcasts	Yes	Locate Kadampa centers worldwide
Learn Buddhism	Buddhist scriptures	60,000 texts in 68 languages, no ads	Yes	Multiple formats (PDF, audio, video)
Zen Buddhism Apps	Zen meditation tools	Temple sounds, chants, timers	Yes	Virtual temple instruments

Each app offers something unique, from daily verses to extensive scripture libraries. Whether you're new to Buddhism or an experienced practitioner, these tools provide free, distraction-free ways to support your journey.

Plum Village App Introduction | Brother Phap Luu

1. Sutta 423

Sutta 423 provides a daily dose of wisdom by sharing one verse from the Dhammapada each day, offering insights into mindfulness and meditation practices rooted in Buddhist teachings.

Free to Use, No Strings Attached

This app is entirely free to download and use. There are no subscriptions, paywalls, or upgrade prompts to disrupt your experience. If you'd like to support the app, you can make optional contributions ranging from $0.98 to $149.98, but the core experience remains accessible to everyone at no cost.

This approach ensures that users can engage with the teachings in a calm, stress-free way.

Centered on Buddhist Teachings

The app employs the Echo learning system, designed to help users internalize the teachings. Each verse reappears on Day 8, Day 15, and at later intervals, reinforcing the lessons over time. As the app description explains:

"In 423 days, you'll have walked through the entire Dhammapada - not just read it, but lived with it".

There's no pressure to keep up with streaks or deal with intrusive notifications. The app encourages a relaxed, mindful pace for absorbing the teachings.

Designed for iPhone Users

The app is compatible with iOS 17.0 and later versions, with a lightweight size of just 4.6 MB. It also works on Mac (M1 or newer) and Apple Vision devices. Privacy-conscious users will appreciate that it collects only a non-identifying Device ID. Future updates aim to expand the content, adding more suttas and daily Buddhist teachings.

2. Plum Village App

The Plum Village App brings the wisdom of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh directly to your iPhone, offering an extensive collection of Buddhist teachings and practices. Since its launch in 2018, the app has been downloaded over 1,000,000 times and holds an impressive 5.0/5 rating from 3,700 reviews on the Apple App Store. It’s become a go-to resource for mindfulness enthusiasts around the world.

Free to Use with No Strings Attached

Here’s what makes the Plum Village App stand out: it’s completely free. No ads, no subscriptions, no in-app purchases. You get access to the full library - more than 100 guided meditations and over 300 video sessions - without any hidden costs. As Alex Dam, an App Store Reviewer, put it:

"This is by far the most useful meditation app I have ever encountered. It is also free, which is a huge blessing!"

The app operates solely on voluntary donations, so there’s no pressure to upgrade or pay for premium features. It’s a refreshing approach that prioritizes accessibility and authenticity over commercialization.

Rooted in Buddhist Traditions

The app takes your mindfulness journey deeper by offering teachings grounded in timeless Buddhist practices. It features guided meditations led by Thich Nhat Hanh and Plum Village monastics, covering everything from deep relaxation and silent sessions to eating meditations and contemplative practices. The "Ask Thay" section provides thoughtful responses to common challenges like anger and worry.

There’s also a rich collection of traditional elements - chants, poems, and practice songs - along with a customizable Mindfulness Bell and even 15 guided meditations designed specifically for children. It’s a well-rounded tool for anyone looking to integrate mindfulness into their daily life.

Offline Access and Seamless iPhone Integration

The Plum Village App is designed with practicality in mind. You can download meditations and talks for offline use, ensuring your practice isn’t interrupted when you’re on the go. Text-based resources are also available offline, and the app syncs with Apple Health to track your "Mindful Minutes." Whether on an iPhone or iPad, the app’s minimalist design makes navigation effortless, and features like picture-in-picture video support enhance the overall experience.

3. Modern Buddhism

Modern Buddhism keeps things simple and accessible, offering authentic Kadampa teachings without any strings attached. This app stands out for its commitment to delivering spiritual content without barriers. With a 4.9-star rating on the Apple App Store and over 5,000 downloads on Google Play as of January 2026, it also climbed to the #5 spot in Buddhist app rankings by December 2025. Let’s dive into what makes this app so approachable and user-friendly.

Free and No Subscriptions Required

This app is completely free - no subscriptions, ads, or hidden fees. You don’t even need to create an account or log in to access its full features. Luna Kadampa, a practitioner and author, captures the essence of its simplicity:

"Available entirely free, this app offers a beautiful, easy-to-use interface and a clear presentation of a time-tested tradition. And you don't need to sign into anything. Completely no-strings."

Through this model, users gain access to guided meditations, podcasts, and full eBooks by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, including Modern Buddhism and How to Transform Your Life, all at no cost.

Focus on Buddhist Practices

The app is designed to support core Buddhist practices. It features short guided meditations for daily use, alongside podcasts that explore themes like compassion, patience, and managing anxiety. Additionally, a built-in tool helps users locate any of the 1,000+ Kadampa Buddhist Centers around the globe.

Offline Functionality and iPhone Compatibility

All content is downloadable, making it accessible even without an internet connection. Whether it’s meditations, podcasts, or books, everything is available offline. The app’s minimalist interface ensures smooth navigation, catering to both beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.

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4. Learn Buddhism

Learn Buddhism is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Buddhist teachings, offering access to 60,000 Buddhist scriptures and teachings. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting your journey, this app serves as a digital library tailored to your needs. Developer Mahendra Sagar has expanded its offerings by introducing features like "Meditate with Famous Masters" and updating the interface for a smoother user experience. It’s no surprise that the app holds a stellar 5.0-star rating on the Apple App Store.

Free with No Strings Attached

One of the standout features of Learn Buddhism is its completely free model. There are no subscriptions, no in-app purchases, and no ads. Mahendra Sagar, the developer, emphasizes:

"We are not a for-profit concern and everything we do is always free - without ever asking any money, ads, or selling you anything." – Mahendra Sagar, Developer

This commitment aligns with the Buddhist principle of Dhamma Dāna, or the gift of teachings, ensuring that users have unrestricted access to the app's extensive library.

Dive Deep into Buddhist Teachings

Unlike many apps that focus primarily on guided meditation, Learn Buddhism provides a deeper dive into Buddhist scripture. It highlights Theravāda teachings, offering translations of key texts like the Tipiṭaka, Udānapāḷi, Itivuttakapāḷi, and Theragāthāpāḷi. For those looking for more than just written content, the app also features guided meditation sessions led by renowned masters.

To accommodate diverse learning preferences, content is available in 68 languages and across 21 formats, including PDF, ePub, Kindle, audio, and video. This ensures that users can engage with the material in a way that suits their style.

Offline Access and Seamless iPhone Integration

Learn Buddhism makes it easy to study on the go. Scriptures can be downloaded in formats like PDF, ePub, and Kindle for offline use. The app is compatible with iOS 15.0 and later, running smoothly on iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. Recent updates have improved navigation, added user history tracking, and introduced onboarding features to help new users get started.

If you're looking for a comprehensive and accessible way to explore Buddhism, this app is a standout option.

5. Zen Buddhism

The Zen Buddhism category offers free apps that bring the essence of Zen temple practices straight to your iPhone. These apps focus on traditional meditation techniques and provide virtual Dharma tools, allowing you to engage in Zen practices anytime, anywhere - no physical items required. Whether you're just starting with Zazen or you're a seasoned practitioner, these apps provide step-by-step guidance backed by authentic Zen temples. Unlike apps that cover general Buddhist teachings, these focus specifically on Zen, staying true to the theme of diverse, free tools.

Free and Subscription-Free Options

Apps like ZenOto come fully functional at no cost. While you can opt to remove ads with a one-time payment, the main features remain free. Similarly, Meditation Zen - Buddha Mantra is entirely free to download and use, with no hidden fees or subscriptions. Another option, Zenways, offers its Zen meditation tools completely free as an iOS app.

Immersive Zen Practices

These apps recreate an authentic Zen atmosphere with recordings of temple bells, drums, and sutras, alongside calming nature sounds. They even include virtual versions of traditional instruments like the wooden fish (Mokugyo drum), standing bells, and prayer beads (mala) for chanting and recitation. Guided sessions led by Rinzai Zen Buddhist masters focus on techniques like "Mindfulness of the Breath", helping users calm their minds. There’s also a collection of mantras dedicated to seven Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, including Amitābha and Avalokiteśvara, enriching the experience.

Designed for iPhone and Easy to Use

These apps are thoughtfully designed to cater to both beginners and experienced users. Features like a self-knocking tool synchronize with chanting rhythms, making it easier for newcomers to follow along. Customizable meditation timers allow users to create personalized sessions with a variety of sound combinations. For those looking to build consistency, progress tracking tools like diaries and activity logs are included. ZenOto, for example, has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating on the App Store from 23 reviews, with users praising its clear and practical guidance.

Feature Comparison

Find the app that aligns with your practice needs - whether it's a simple daily scripture or an extensive library of meditations. Here's a quick side-by-side look at their features, offline capabilities, language options, and standout elements:

App	Primary Purpose	Offline Access	Language Support	Special Features
Sutta 423	Delivers one Dhammapada verse daily	Yes	English	Streamlined design offering a single verse each day to inspire reflection
Plum Village App	Offers meditation, mindfulness, and teachings from Thich Nhat Hanh's tradition	Yes (downloadable talks and meditations)	Multiple	Over 100 guided meditations, 300+ video sessions, and a Bell of Mindfulness tool; downloaded by more than 500,000 users

If you're drawn to a minimalist approach with daily scripture as your guide, Sutta 423 fits the bill. On the other hand, the Plum Village App is perfect for those exploring a diverse collection of mindfulness and meditation content. Each app offers something distinct to enhance your practice.

Conclusion

You don’t need to worry about monthly fees or trial periods to deepen your Buddhist practice on your iPhone. The five apps reviewed here - Sutta 423, Plum Village, Modern Buddhism, Learn Buddhism, and Zen Buddhism - offer practical tools for meditation, scripture study, and mindfulness without requiring subscriptions or hidden costs.

If you’re new to Buddhist practice, the Plum Village App is a great starting point. With over 100 guided meditations and a gentle approach to mindfulness, it’s designed to help beginners incorporate these practices into their daily lives. As one App Store reviewer shared:

"This app, through Thich Nhat Hanh's gentle lessons and example, helped me learn to enjoy my in-breath and out-breath while meditating".

While Plum Village focuses on guided meditation and mindfulness, each app brings something unique to the table. For example, Sutta 423 offers a simple way to engage with daily scripture by providing a single Dhammapada verse each day. Its minimalist approach encourages reflection without feeling overwhelming. Together, these apps reflect Buddhism’s dedication to making spiritual practices accessible and meaningful for everyone.

FAQs

Which app is best for complete beginners?

The Plum Village App by Thich Nhat Hanh is a great option for anyone starting their meditation journey. It provides easy-to-follow guided meditations and has a user-friendly design, making it ideal for beginners. The app focuses on helping users practice mindfulness and meditation in a simple and approachable manner.

Do these apps work fully offline?

Yes, some apps, like the Modern Buddhism app and the Plum Village app, work entirely offline. They provide access to guided meditations and teachings without requiring an internet connection. This makes them perfect for practicing without interruptions, no matter where you are.

Are donations or in-app payments truly optional?

Yes, donations and in-app payments are entirely optional. You can enjoy the core features of these free Buddhist apps without spending a dime. They're built to offer resources for meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings at no charge, making them accessible to everyone.