Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Best overallAmazon Kindle Paperwhite (2024) | Library booksKobo Clara BW | BudgetAmazon Kindle (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Buy |
| Typical price | £150–£180 | £120–£140 | £90–£110 |
| Best for | Best overall | Library books | Budget |
| Key feature | Waterproof 7-inch screen with warm light | OverDrive library borrowing built in | Light, compact and affordable |
| Screen | 7" | 6" | 6" |
| Waterproof | IPX8 | — | No |
| Library | — | OverDrive | — |
| Where to buy | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link |
Amazon · E-readers
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2024)
Waterproof 7-inch screen with warm light.
- Buy it if
- you read regularly and buy from Amazon
- Skip it if
- you borrow library e-books
Pros
- Fast
- Waterproof
- Long battery
Cons
- Limited library support
Key specifications
- Screen
- 7"
- Waterproof
- IPX8
Kobo · E-readers
Kobo Clara BW
OverDrive library borrowing built in.
- Buy it if
- you borrow library books
- Skip it if
- you buy only from Amazon
Pros
- Library access
- Waterproof
- EPUB support
Cons
- Smaller store
Key specifications
- Screen
- 6"
- Library
- OverDrive
Amazon · E-readers
Amazon Kindle (2024)
Light, compact and affordable.
- Buy it if
- you want a cheap Kindle
- Skip it if
- you read in the bath
Pros
- Light
- Affordable
- USB-C
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Smaller screen
Key specifications
- Screen
- 6"
- Waterproof
- No
Compare more E-readers on Amazon Paid link
Who this list is for
Kindle and Kobo e-readers compared on screen, waterproofing, library borrowing and value. We show what each model does best, what it typically costs in the UK and who should skip it.
How we chose
We compared manufacturer specifications, UK warranty terms, running costs and typical UK prices, then gave every product a clear verdict: Buy, Consider or Skip. Our verdicts are based on this research, not on lab tests we have not done.
What to look for
- A warm light is easier on the eyes at night.
- Waterproof models suit the bath and the beach.
- Kobo supports library e-books directly.
Buying in the UK
Kobo e-readers have OverDrive (Libby) built in, which many UK public library services use, so you can borrow e-books free.
Related comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Kindle or Kobo?
Kindle is best if you buy from Amazon; Kobo is better for library borrowing and EPUB files.
Can I borrow library books on a Kindle in the UK?
Not directly from most UK library services. Kobo makes it much easier.