E-book readers are dedicated e-ink devices for reading books, documents and articles, suited to people who read daily and find a phone or tablet screen tiring. Our range includes readers from PocketBook, Amazon Kindle, Onyx Boox and Kobo, with over 80 models to compare.
How to choose an e-book reader
Screen size. A 6 or 7-inch reader fits in a coat pocket and can be held in one hand for long sessions, which suits novels. Screens of around 10 inches show PDFs, textbooks and comics at a readable size without constant zooming.
Lighting and water resistance. A built-in front light is standard on most current readers, and adjustable warm light is easier on the eyes in the evening. If you read in the bath or by a pool, look for a stated waterproof rating (IPX8 is the usual one) rather than assuming it.
File formats and bookstore. Kindle readers are built around the Amazon book store, while PocketBook, Kobo and Tolino readers open EPUB files, the most common ebook format outside Amazon. If you borrow from libraries or buy from several shops, check format support before choosing a model.
Storage and extras. Text-only books take very little space, so 8 GB or 16 GB holds thousands of titles, while comics, PDFs and audiobooks need more. Physical page-turn buttons, stylus note-taking and Android apps are worth paying for only if you will actually use them.
E-book reader brands we carry
- PocketBook: the largest brand in our range, known for wide file format support (EPUB, PDF, FB2, MOBI and others) and for models with physical page-turn buttons.
- Amazon and Kindle: Kindle readers work with the Amazon book store and sync your library, bookmarks and reading progress across devices.
- Onyx Boox: Android-based e-ink devices that can run extra apps, which is why many people choose them for PDFs and handwritten notes.
- Kobo: owned by Rakuten, opens EPUB files natively and appeals to readers who prefer to buy books outside Amazon.
- Tolino: created by an alliance of German-speaking booksellers, and built around EPUB and those retailers' stores.
Also in our range: Geckocovers, Hama and Hannspree.
E-book reader FAQ
Is a Kindle better than a Kobo?
Neither is better in every case, because the right choice depends on where you buy your books. A Kindle is the natural fit if you already use the Amazon book store. Kobo suits readers who want to open EPUB files directly and buy from other shops.
Is an e-book reader better than a tablet for reading?
For long reading sessions, an e-book reader is usually easier on the eyes. Its e-ink screen does not flicker or glare in sunlight, and the battery typically lasts weeks rather than hours. A tablet is the better choice if you also want video, colour apps and web browsing.
Can I read PDFs on an e-book reader?
Yes, most e-book readers open PDF files, but the experience depends on screen size. On a 6-inch screen a full-page PDF becomes small and often needs zooming. A larger screen of around 10 inches, such as on many Onyx Boox devices, shows documents far more comfortably.
Does an e-book reader need Wi-Fi?
An e-book reader needs Wi-Fi only to download books, sync your library or install updates. Once a book is on the device, you can read it offline for as long as the battery lasts. You can also copy files over from a computer with a USB cable.
