The Best E-Readers (2026): Kobo, Kindle

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Nothing will ever really replace a paperback or a hardcover book, but the best e-readers will give you the best digital version of that experience. E-readers (short for ebook readers) are just so convenient—and they might just make you read more too. Rather than lumping two or three books in a bag, an e-reader lets you carry thousands of books or dozens of audiobooks in a single, slim, rectangular tablet. Their paper-like screens are easy on the eyes, and unlike an app on your phone, they won’t inundate you with distracting notifications. Books can also be expensive and take up a lot of physical space, but that’s not a problem with ebooks. Even better, you can check out digital books from a library without leaving your house.

Naturally, when you hear “e-reader,” you might think Kindle, there are some great non-Amazon e-readers out there too. Our favorite all-around e-reader is the Kobo Libra Colour ($200), which has a color screen, page turner buttons, and can even double as a digital notebook. If you're looking for the best Kindle, our favorite is the 12th-generation Kindle Paperwhite ($160) (and we've got an entire Best Kindles guide that breaks down the full Kindle lineup).

Looking for more reader recommendations? Don't miss our guides to the Best Kindles, Best Digital Notebooks, Best Reading Lights, Best Kindle Accessories, and Best Gifts for Book Lovers.

Updated April 2026: We've added notes on the Boox Go 7, Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, and Kindle Scribe (3rd Gen) to Honorable Mentions.

Comparing Our Favorite E-Readers

| Model | Display | Resolution | Color? | Storage | Weight | Battery Life and Charging | |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| Kobo Libra Colour | 7 inches, adjustable front light | 300 ppi, black-and-white; 150 ppi, color | Yes | 32 GB | 7.03 ounces | Up to 40 days, USB-C charging | Kindle Paperwhite (2024, 12th Generation) | 7 inches, adjustable warm light | 300 ppi (pixels per inch) | No | 16 GB | 7.4 ounces | Up to 12 weeks, USB-C charging | Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (2024, 12th Generation) | 7 inches, auto-adjusting front light | 300 ppi | No | 32 GB | 7.55 ounces | Up to 12 weeks, USB-C and wireless charging | Kobo Clara Colour | 6 inches, auto-adjusting warm light | 300 ppi, black-and-white; 150 ppi, color | Yes | 16 GB | 6 ounces | Up to 42 days, USB-C charging | Amazon Kindle (11th Generation) | 6 inches, adjustable front light | 300 ppi | No | 16 GB | 5.56 ounces | Up to 6 weeks; USB-C charging | Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids | 7 inches, adjustable warm light | 300 ppi | No | 16 GB | 7.4 ounces | Up to 12 weeks, USB-C |