E-Readers Buying Guide (2026): What to Check Before You Buy

What to look for

• Pick your store first: Kindle books stay on Kindle, and EPUB files are easiest on Kobo.
• Waterproofing is worth it if you read in the bath, by the pool or at the beach.
• Warm light makes bedtime reading more comfortable.
• A 7-inch screen fits more text per page; 6-inch models are easier to pocket.

How much to spend

Typical prices run from £79 to £259. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys bigger, faster 7-inch waterproof screen. Only pay for features you will use.

Who should skip what

• Skip the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite if you mostly read EPUB files from other stores; Kobo handles those natively
• Skip the Kobo Clara BW if you already own a big Kindle library; those books won’t open on a Kobo
• Skip the Amazon Kindle if you read in the bath or by the pool; this one isn’t waterproof
• Skip the Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature if you read mostly novels; colour adds nothing and black-and-white text looks slightly less crisp

Buying tips

Kindles are discounted most during Prime Day, Prime Big Deal Days in October and Black Friday. Amazon often bundles Kindle Unlimited trials with new devices. Check whether your public library uses Libby before deciding between Kindle and Kobo.

Our picks

See all our best e-readers in the uk for more options.