Kindle has become synonymous with e-readers, eclipsing the term “e-reader” itself. This reflects the immense popularity of Amazon’s devices. However, while Kindle devices are top-notch, they aren’t the sole contenders in the market. Whether due to pricing concerns or a desire for additional features like water resistance, several excellent alternatives are available. Let’s delve into exploring these alternatives!
Note: For the finest ePub readers, refer to the linked guide.
1. Kobo Sage
For the latest Kindle alternative, try Kobo Sage. This new e-reader boasts an 8-inch HD anti-glare display, perfect for reading indoors or outdoors. Plus, ComfortLightPRO technology lets you adjust brightness and color temperature to reduce blue light.
The Kobo Sage boasts an IPX8 waterproof rating, meaning it can endure water depths of up to 2 meters for 60 minutes. Impressive, right? No need to fret if you drop it while reading in the tub. Plus, it doubles as an audiobook player, perfect for multitasking during activities like cooking or cleaning.
Features:
- 8-inch HD Glare-Free Display
- 32GB Storage
- Blue Light Reduction
- Carta E Ink Display Technology
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Sharp 8-inch display | Heavier |
| Listen to audiobooks | Average build |
| Snappy |
2. Kobo Libra 2
The Kobo Libra 2, a slightly toned-down version of the Kobo Sage, offers a 7-inch HD anti-glare display while retaining all Sage features. The Libra 2 provides better value-for-money compared to the Sage, considering the marginal difference in display size isn’t justified by the nearly $100 price gap.
If you plan to purchase the Libra 2, I recommend the White option for better dust particle concealment and added elegance. Like the Kobo Sage, it supports audiobooks and features ComfortLightPRO technology.
- 7-inch HD Glare-Free Display
- Waterproof
- 32GB Storage
- Blue Light Reduction
- Carta E Ink Display Technology
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Crisp 7-inch display | Average build quality |
| Convenient power button placement | Not the lightest |
| Includes Audiobook feature |
Buy on Amazon ($189.99)
3. Kobo Elipsa Pack
Kobo Elipsa stands out among Kindle alternatives. The Kobo Elipsa pack offers added value, including the Kobo Stylus and Kobo SleepCover. Though not inexpensive, it provides comprehensive functionality, eliminating the need for additional accessories.
The Kobo Elipsa boasts a spacious 10.3-inch display and superior build quality compared to the Kobo Sage and Libra 2. Additionally, it holds an IPX8 waterproof rating, safeguarding against spills. Its battery life is commendable. In essence, it’s everything you require to delve into the realm of e-reading.
- 10.3-inch HD Glare Free Display
- Waterproof
- 32GB Storage
- Carta E Ink Display Technology
- 6-inch HD Glare-Free Display
- 8GB Storage
- Waterproof
- MicroSD Slot
- Carta E Ink Display Technology
- 10.3-inch HD Display
- 64GB Storage
- 4GB RAM
- Carta E Ink Display Technology
- Stylus included
- 13.3-inch HD Glare-Free Display
- 128GB Storage
- 6GB RAM
- Carta E Ink Display Technology
- Includes stylus
- 10.1-inch Full-HD Display
- 32GB Storage
- 1TB Expandable Storage
- 3GB RAM
PocketBook Touch Lux 5
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Spacious glare-free display | Slow processing |
| Includes stylus and cover | |
| High build quality |
Buy on Amazon ($349.99)
Next, we present the PocketBook Touch Lux 5, another 6-inch reader serving as an ideal Kindle alternative. The Lux 5 includes audiobook support, enabling book listening. SMARTLight adjusts screen brightness and color temperatures, reducing blue light.
The dual-core processor may not offer the fastest performance, but given the price, it’s a great deal. Additionally, the Touch Lux 5 boasts an IPX8 waterproof rating and 8GB internal storage for numerous ebooks. If that’s insufficient, utilize MicroSD expandable storage.
5. Boox Note Air2 Plus
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Exceptional battery life | Slightly slow |
| Audiobooks support | Poor in-built dictionary |
| 8GB internal storage, expandable via MicroSD slot |
Buy on Amazon ($129)
When it comes to Kindle alternatives, Boox tablets can’t be overlooked. Especially the Boox Note Air2 Plus, a versatile 10.3-inch tablet, perfect for all your reading needs. With 64GB of internal storage, it’s ideal for storing countless books for on-the-go reading. Running on Android 11, it delivers a highly responsive experience, exceeding typical e-readers.
Boox tablets offer a stylus included, enhancing functionality. Despite their expense, they provide valuable utility. Alternately, you could opt for a tablet at a similar price, but without E Ink technology.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Spacious 10.3-inch display | Pricey |
| 4GB RAM, 64GB storage | |
| Includes stylus |
Available on Amazon ($449.99)
6. Boox Tab X
Elevating the Boox Note Air2 Plus, the Boox Tab X offers a larger 13.3-inch Carta E-Ink display, perfect for extensive reading. Embracing the Tab X means embracing enhanced utility.
This E-Ink Android tablet offers more than just reading books. You can listen to audiobooks and music, use third-party apps, and more. The stylus provided with the Boox Tab X adds utility, enabling note-taking and highlighting, similar to the Boox Air2 Plus. With 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, performance is enhanced. Whether you’re a student or a professional, the Boox Tab X stands as a top Kindle alternative.
Features:
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Large 13.3-inch display | Pricey |
| 6GB RAM, 128GB storage | |
| Includes stylus |
Available on Amazon ($879.99)
7. Nook Glowlight 4
If you haven’t heard of Barnes & Noble, you’ve probably been living under a rock. The Nook Glowlight 4 is among the top 6-inch e-readers, known for its portability and exceptional battery life, surpassing competitors in this regard.
Featuring a high-resolution 300-dpi display, this e-book reader boasts the highest pixel density available. With 29GB of storage, it offers ample space for all your books. Overall, it stands as one of the most reliable e-book readers today.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| High resolution display | May seem too small for some folks |
| Phenomenal battery life |
Buy on Amazon ($149.99)
8. Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro
This bonus addition targets children. The Amazon Fire HD 10 Pro, though primarily a tablet, serves as an excellent ebook reader for kids. Sporting a 10.1-inch display, 32GB internal storage, an octa-core 2.0 GHz processor, and 3GB RAM, it offers more than just technical specs. What truly sets it apart for kids are its features.
The Amazon Fire HD 10 Pro Kids Edition tablet includes one year of Amazon FreeTime Unlimited, providing access to thousands of kid-friendly books, movies, and more. Additionally, kids can listen to Audible audiobooks for free with FreeTime Unlimited. Amazon also offers a 2-year replacement guarantee on the Fire HD 10 Pro in case of damage. It’s one of the best Kindle alternatives for a versatile device for kids.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| 10.1-inch display | Not suitable for adults |
| FHD display | |
| Highly economical |
Available on Amazon ($199.99)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything else like Kindle?
Other brands such as Kobo and PocketBook offer Kindle-like e-readers. There are several alternatives to Kindle.
What is Google’s equivalent to Kindle?
Google doesn’t have a direct alternative to Kindle, but you can access eBooks via the Google Play Books store.
Best E-Reader for Eye Comfort
E-readers equipped with brightness and blue light reduction features are optimal for eye health. Additionally, many e-readers utilize Carta E Ink technology, further enhancing readability.
Compatibility of Kindle Books
To access Kindle books, a Kindle device is required; other e-readers cannot open Kindle files.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
