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the best e-reader to buy right now The latest evaluations of e-readers highlight the best options available for avid readers, particularly as Black Friday approaches.

the best e-reader to buy right now

Understanding E-Readers

While smartphones can store a vast library of e-books, e-readers provide a more focused reading experience. They are designed to minimize distractions and reduce eye strain, making them ideal for prolonged reading sessions. Many models come with features like adjustable front lighting, waterproofing, and physical buttons for page turning, which enhance the reading experience. Over the years, I have tested numerous e-readers, from popular models like the Kindle Paperwhite to lesser-known alternatives like the PocketBook Era. Below, I present the best e-readers currently available, catering to various needs and preferences.

The Best Kindle

Kindle Paperwhite (2024)

Score: 8

Pros: The best-looking screen on any e-reader, slightly larger screen without a noticeably larger device, faster page turns, loading, and a more responsive UI, a splash of color (without a color screen).
Cons: Upgrades aren’t as significant as the last Paperwhite, lacks stylus support and page turn buttons, Signature Edition wireless charging is frustrating without magnets, Signature Edition back panel feels less grippy.

Where to Buy: $159.99 at Amazon (ad-supported), $159.99 at Best Buy (ad-supported), $159.99 at Target (ad-supported)

Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 0.3 inches / Weight: 211 grams / Screen area and resolution: 7-inch screen, 300ppi resolution / Storage: 16GB / Other features: IPX8 waterproofing, Bluetooth audio support.

If you primarily purchase e-books from Amazon, the Kindle Paperwhite is the best choice for most users. Priced at $159.99, it is more affordable than the Kobo Libra Colour, which I will discuss later. The Paperwhite features a spacious 7-inch 300ppi display with excellent contrast levels and an adjustable warm white front light. This feature not only enhances readability but also reduces blue light exposure, which can disrupt sleep.

The warm white front lighting is a significant advantage over the cool white light of the base-model Kindle, which retails for $109.99. Additionally, the Paperwhite is IPX8 rated for water resistance, making it suitable for reading by the pool or in the bath. The $199.99 Signature Edition Paperwhite includes an auto-adjusting front light and no lock screen ads, along with wireless charging—an uncommon feature for e-readers.

Amazon’s dominance in the U.S. e-book market means Kindle users benefit from exclusive offers unavailable to other e-reader owners. Frequent discounts on e-books and free content through Prime Reading make the Kindle Paperwhite particularly appealing for Amazon Prime members. However, the Paperwhite does have some drawbacks. It displays lock screen ads unless you pay an additional $20 to remove them. Furthermore, its size may make it uncomfortable for one-handed reading. Most notably, Kindle devices are limited to Amazon’s proprietary format, meaning they do not support EPUB files, which are widely used across other platforms. This can pose challenges for readers who purchase books from other retailers.

For those who primarily buy from Amazon, the Kindle Paperwhite is an excellent choice.

The Best Non-Amazon E-Reader

Kobo Libra Colour (32GB, ad-free)

Pros: Nice color screen with sharp, 300ppi black-and-white resolution, physical page-turning buttons, built-in stylus support, compatible with Overdrive.
Cons: More expensive than the Kindle Paperwhite, lacks the vibrancy of other color e-readers, getting books from other stores onto the device can be tough.

Where to Buy: $229.99 at Amazon, $229.99 at Rakuten Kobo, $229.99 at Target

Dimensions: 5.69 x 6.34 x 0.33 inches / Weight: 199.5 grams / Screen area and resolution: 7-inch screen, 300ppi (black-and-white), 150ppi (color) / Storage: 32GB / Other features: Physical page-turning buttons, waterproofing, Kobo Stylus 2 support, Bluetooth audio support.

The Kobo Libra Colour is an excellent alternative for those who prefer not to use Amazon’s ecosystem. This e-reader boasts many features similar to the Kindle Paperwhite, including waterproofing and USB-C support. The standout feature is its color display, which utilizes E Ink’s Kaledio technology, providing soft pastel hues that are easy on the eyes. While the color resolution drops to 150ppi, it enhances the experience when viewing book covers and comics.

Additionally, the Libra Colour supports the Kobo Stylus 2, allowing users to highlight text and take notes directly on the screen. This feature, combined with the device’s ability to solve math equations and convert handwriting to typed text, makes it a versatile tool for students and professionals alike. Unlike the Kindle, the Libra Colour does not feature lock screen ads and includes physical page-turning buttons, which many users find more intuitive.

However, at $229.99, the Libra Colour is pricier than the entry-level Paperwhite, and the additional cost of the stylus can make it less appealing. Furthermore, Kobo’s library of e-books is not as extensive as Amazon’s, which can be a disadvantage for users with a large Kindle library. Despite these drawbacks, the Kobo Libra Colour remains a top choice for those seeking a high-quality reading experience.

The Best Cheap E-Reader

Kindle (2024)

Pros: Excellent, high-resolution display, easy to hold with one hand, faster than its predecessor with improved battery life, fun color options.
Cons: No waterproofing, lacks adjustable color temperature, slightly more expensive than its predecessor.

Where to Buy: $109.99 at Amazon (with ads), $109.99 at Best Buy (with ads), $129.99 at Amazon (without ads)

Dimensions: 6.2 x 4.3 x 0.32 inches / Weight: 158 grams / Screen area and resolution: 6-inch screen, 300ppi resolution / Storage: 16GB / Other features: USB-C support, Bluetooth audio support.

The base-model Kindle is the best budget e-reader available. Priced at $109.99, it offers a 300ppi resolution that enhances text clarity compared to other budget options. Its compact size makes it lightweight and portable, making it an ideal choice for children or casual readers. The Kindle Kids Edition, priced at $129.99, includes parental controls and a two-year replacement guarantee, along with access to Amazon Kids Plus, which offers thousands of children’s books and audiobooks.

While the base Kindle lacks waterproofing and physical page-turning buttons, it remains a solid choice for those who prioritize affordability and essential features. However, users should be aware that they will be locked into Amazon’s ecosystem, which may not suit everyone.

The Best E-Reader for Taking Notes

Kobo Elipsa 2E

Pros: Intuitive note-taking features, great e-reader, adjustable warm light, useful note-taking capabilities, including handwriting-to-text conversion.
Cons: Lacks native support for Kindle books, 227ppi display isn’t as sharp as the competition, no note-summarization features.

Where to Buy: $399.99 at Walmart, $399.99 at Target, $399.99 at Rakuten Kobo

Dimensions: 7.6 x 8.94 x 0.30 inches / Weight: 390 grams / Screen area and resolution: 10.3-inches, 227ppi resolution / Storage: 32GB / Other features: Handwriting to text conversion, magnetic stylus, Bluetooth audio support.

The Kobo Elipsa 2E stands out for its note-taking capabilities. Users can write directly on pages, making it feel more like a traditional notebook. The device also includes features such as math equation solving and the ability to insert diagrams, enhancing its functionality for students and professionals. While the Elipsa 2E’s display resolution is lower than some competitors, its larger screen size compensates for this, making text easier to read.

Despite its strengths, the Elipsa 2E does not support Kindle books natively, which could be a drawback for users with existing Kindle libraries. However, its intuitive note-taking features and adjustable warm light make it a strong contender for those who prioritize these functionalities.

Other E-Readers We Tested

Several other e-readers are worth mentioning, even if they did not make the top recommendations:

Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition: This model features E Ink’s color screen technology, offering improved contrast and vibrant colors. Priced at $279.99, it is the most expensive Kindle model available but lacks stylus support.
Kindle Colorsoft: A more affordable alternative to the Signature Edition, priced at $249.99. It offers a similar reading experience but lacks some premium features.
Kobo Clara Colour: At $159.99, this model is a more budget-friendly non-Amazon option, featuring a six-inch display and color capabilities.
Nook Glowlight 4 Plus: Released in 2023, this model is a solid alternative for Barnes and Noble customers, featuring a 300ppi screen and physical buttons.
Boox Palma 2: A compact e-reader that runs Android 13, allowing users to install productivity apps. Priced at $275.98, it offers a unique blend of e-reading and app capabilities.
Boox Go 10.3: An ad-free e-reader priced at $409.99, known for its versatility and functionality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right e-reader depends on individual preferences, reading habits, and budget. The Kindle Paperwhite remains the best option for Amazon users, while the Kobo Libra Colour offers a compelling alternative for those seeking a non-Amazon device. For budget-conscious readers, the base Kindle provides excellent value, while the Kobo Elipsa 2E is ideal for those who prioritize note-taking capabilities. As the e-reader market continues to evolve, these models stand out for their features and performance, making them worthy investments for any avid reader.

Source: Original report