E-Readers: Overview, Buying Guide & Comparison

Estimated reading time: 17:06 min.

by Chalid

Even before Kindle launched in Germany, Chalid imported his first eReader from the US in 2007, driven by his passion for the technology. As founder and editor-in-chief of ePaper.tech and YouTube Channel "Chalid Raqami" he has tested over 150 eReaders, eInk tablets and other ePaper tech from various manufacturers since 2010. Learn more Learn more

We’ve been testing eBook readers since 2010. All our recommendations are based on our own hands-on experience with each device. Pictured here: The key models from the 2022 to 2024 model years.

The best eBook reader of 2024

Want to buy an eBook reader and do some research first? You’re in exactly the right place!

To make your choice easier, we’ve highlighted the best eBook readers in various categories below—from budget to premium and from small to large, covering all the big names.

The most significant change this year is the addition of the most important eReaders and tablets with color E Ink screens. Buying one can now make sense, but you should still weigh the decision carefully because of various drawbacks.

Right below, you can use our filterable eBook reader comparison. The table includes numerous models (current and older devices) that you can filter by different criteria.

Best value

When it comes to value for money, there’s still nothing better than the Kindle Paperwhite.

The best all-rounders: Kindle Paperwhite, Tolino Shine 5, PocketBook Verse Pro

It’s more expensive than its predecessor, but it also offers a much improved feature set. The Paperwhite is a hassle-free, future-proof choice you can hardly go wrong with if you simply want to read without worrying about the extras.

Kindle Paperwhite

Kindle Paperwhite 5 auf einem Blick

• 300 ppi Pixeldichte
• Audible-Unterstützung (via Bluetooth)
• Blaulichtreduktion
• Bluetooth
• E-Ink Carta 1200 Display
• Intuitive Bedienung
• Wasserschutz nach IPX8
• Überdurchschnittlich kontrastreiches Display

• Geschlossenes Ökosystem
• Keine Blättertasten
• Keine Speicherkartenerweiterung

€ 139,99Price incl. VAT., Excl. ShippingBuy now

at Amazon.de

Last updated on 5. September 2025 at 00:50. All statements without guarantee.

As the best value pick, the Kindle Paperwhite once again takes the crown in 2024—just like in previous years—and is our recommendation for anyone who wants things simple but still cares about rich features and future-proofing. All told, the Paperwhite gives you a lot for the money: a larger 6.8-inch display, adjustable warm light, waterproofing, and excellent software with audiobook support (via Audible).

The upgrades do literally come at a price: For the first time in a long while, the Paperwhite has gotten more expensive with this generation. The cheapest variant currently costs 150 euros. Even so, the value for money is still outstanding.

As with all Kindles, you have to accept the trade-offs of a closed ecosystem and no ePub support. In other words: Buying eBooks with an Amazon eReader is very convenient, but you’re largely tied to Amazon’s Kindle store.

Bottom line: The Kindle Paperwhite is an excellent reading device that’s hard to go wrong with.

To the specs and review ⟶

Kindle Paperwhite alternative #1: Tolino Shine 5

After a long lull in the Tolino universe, the fifth-generation Tolino Shine arrived in 2024 and, like its predecessor, offers an excellent alternative to the Kindle Paperwhite. It has a smaller 6-inch display and is therefore a bit more compact. It also stands out with great contrast and a uniform front light with adjustable color temperature.

New this time is audiobook support, which the Shine 4 didn’t have. The software and user interface have also been completely redesigned compared to the predecessor. The software now builds on the system of Tolino’s technology partner Rakuten Kobo.

The Tolino Shine 5 is well made, but in hand feel it can’t quite match the more premium Paperwhite due to the slightly cheaper-feeling plastic and the inset display. In return, the Shine 5 is ad-free and supports ePub files.

To the announcement article ⟶

Kindle Paperwhite alternative #2: PocketBook Verse Pro

The PocketBook Verse Pro is the spiritual successor to the very good Touch HD 3. It’s a modernized version that’s even more compact yet still has freely assignable buttons. And of course the typically extensive PocketBook feature set is present on the Verse Pro as well. It offers audio support, a blue light–reduced front light, and built-in waterproofing. The software has the most comprehensive library management, a good text-to-speech function, and the best PDF rendering.

Where it trails the other two contenders is the slightly less uniform front lighting.

To the announcement article ⟶

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Color E Ink devices

2024 is the year of color E Ink eReaders and tablets. There are now numerous color E Ink devices on the market that can also be a good choice. But it mainly comes down to your willingness to compromise, because each of these devices has weaknesses you don’t get with “normal” black-and-white models.

Color eReaders: PocketBook InkPad Color 3, Boox Tab Mini C, PocketBook Era Color and Tolino Shine Color

PocketBook InkPad Color 3

The InkPad Color 3 is PocketBook’s fourth E Ink Kaleido eReader and uses the latest Kaleido 3 technology. The key point: The 7.8-inch E Ink panel has the same 300 ppi resolution as most other black-and-white models, while the color layer at 150 ppi is higher than on older Kaleido screens. The higher color resolution makes for a noticeably better experience than the predecessors—both for color content and pure text. Overall, the screen looks much more paper-like than earlier Kaleido generations and is therefore better suited to reading regular eBooks.

With an MSRP of 319 euros, it’s not a bargain, but still a hefty 180 euros cheaper than the Boox Tab Mini C (see below). With the “allesebook” voucher you can also save another 10% on PocketBook.de, widening the price gap to over 210 euros.

The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 also scores for its very rich and intuitive operating system. The faster quad-core processor compared to its predecessors does an excellent job too, delivering snappy response times.

The downsides are the same as for all color E Ink models: Color saturation is more pastel and not as brilliant as an LCD, and the display is relatively dim without the front light due to technical limitations. As a result, using the light indoors is almost a must. That applies to all Kaleido devices.

The InkPad Color 3 is a competitively priced and functionally compelling entry into the color E Ink segment.

To the in-depth review ⟶

Onyx Boox Tab Mini C

The Boox Tab Mini C is an Android 11 tablet with a 7.8-inch color E Ink screen. With its E Ink Kaleido 3 display at 300/150 ppi, color rendering is very similar to the other color models mentioned here. The previously noted downsides of Kaleido 3 (dimmer screen, muted colors) apply here as well. A clear plus point is Android expandability. You can install Android apps via sideloading or the Google Play Store. Despite E Ink, they usually work fine, and thanks to several display modes you can get almost all apps to run. Of course, keep in mind that Android apps aren’t typically designed for E Ink, so you may still have to accept compromises in use.

Another advantage over the competitors mentioned is the note-taking function with the WACOM stylus. It has low latency and feels very natural.

Unfortunately, the Boox Tab Mini C stumbles on user-friendliness, which is somewhat worse than with the Western competition. The weight could also be lower: It’s a full 40 grams heavier than originally stated (now corrected). At 310 grams, it’s quite heavy for a 7.8-inch device.

Using Wireshark, I also found that the tablet establishes connections to Chinese servers even with automatic software updates and other synchronization disabled. It’s unclear for what purpose. There are some discussions online, but they don’t provide answers either. Whether this is problematic under data protection law can’t be determined here. Onyx does have a privacy policy stating compliance with the GDPR. To be fair, many other manufacturers’ devices also phone home.

To the in-depth review ⟶

PocketBook Era Color

The 7-inch PocketBook Era Color is the color version of the regular Era (see the 7-inch section). The shape is identical, so you also get excellent ergonomics and smart design touches with sensibly chamfered edges. As with current PocketBook models, the continually improving user interface is a clear plus here too, and there’s little to criticize in terms of features. With a built-in speaker, waterproofing, Bluetooth, and an optional 32 GB of storage, the Era Color is very well equipped.

Thanks to the same quad-core processor as in the InkPad Color 3, responsiveness is also very good. Unlike previous PocketBook color models, the Era Color has a flush-front display, giving it a more modern look.

However, the front light is a bit less uniform than on the InkPad Color 3, which is why it ranks just behind its bigger sibling. If you’re looking for a more compact color model, though, it’s still well worth a look.

To the announcement article ⟶

Tolino Shine Color

The Tolino Shine Color is the bookseller alliance’s first color E Ink eReader and, with its 6-inch display, also the smallest color model in this comparison. Like the Tolino Shine 5, the Shine Color uses a completely redesigned user interface based on the software of technology partner Rakuten Kobo. The Tolino Shine Color also scores with audiobook support and built-in waterproofing.

As with the Tolino Shine 5, the Shine Color is well built, but the hard plastic body and inset screen can’t quite match the other devices mentioned. On the plus side, the higher display brightness helps offset the inherently dim Kaleido 3 screen a bit better than the competition.

To the announcement article ⟶

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Budget eReader

The Kindle was relaunched in 2022 with improved tech, making it the best choice in the budget eReader segment.

Affordable models: Kindle, PocketBook Verse and Tolino Shine 5

With its combination of high pixel density, crisp text, and extensive software, it stands out from the two competitors.

Kindle (2022)

Happily, there’s still a low-price segment as a counterpoint to the increasingly expensive models, and the Kindle (2022) sits at the very bottom as the most affordable option. You pay for the lower price compared to the Paperwhite with only small compromises in features. You have to forgo adjustable warm light and a larger screen. But at 300 ppi, the display delivers an equally sharp reading experience, i.e., text looks just as crisp as on the more expensive model.

And you don’t sacrifice software compared to pricier Kindle eReaders either, as it uses the same interface—including audiobook support via Audible.

As with the Kindle Paperwhite, you can hardly go wrong with the base Kindle. It offers the most straightforward and technically mature entry into digital reading.

To the specs and review ⟶

Kindle alternative #1: Tolino Shine 5

The Tolino Shine 5 makes our top list twice, as it not only offers excellent value for money, but as the replacement for the Page 2 is now positioned in the budget segment as well. Like the Kindle, it features a high-resolution 300 ppi display, but it also lets you adjust the color temperature of the front light. It also has built-in waterproofing, which the budget Kindle lacks.

The only reason the Shine 5 doesn’t take first place in this price class is simply the higher price. You’ll have to put 20 euros more on the table which, given the features, is fair—but at the end of the day, it still makes it more expensive. If you want to spend as little as possible, the Kindle is the better choice. If you’re willing to add 20 euros, the Shine 5 ultimately gives you more for your money.

To the announcement article ⟶

Kindle alternative #2: PocketBook Verse

The PocketBook Verse is a slightly pared-back and therefore cheaper version of the Verse Pro. The key change is the display: The Verse comes in at 212 ppi, which is decent, but lower than the 300 ppi competition from Tolino and Amazon. In other words: Text looks a bit less crisp and sharp. Most people will only notice the difference on closer inspection. Like the Shine 5, the Verse has a built-in night light that lets you adjust the front light from cool white to warm orange. A major advantage over both competitors is the generally more open software. However, you do miss out on audiobook support via Bluetooth.

The PocketBook Verse also has an edge with its freely assignable buttons located below the display. The 8 GB of internal storage can be expanded with a microSD card. You also get a higher-quality chassis than with both competitors.

However, with an MSRP of 129 euros you’ll have to dig a bit deeper into your pocket. You can get it cheaper with the “allesebook” voucher on PocketBook.de, but the Shine 5 is then still only slightly more expensive, so it’s worth comparing the two closely.

To the announcement article ⟶

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eReaders from 7 to 10 inches

The PocketBook InkPad 4 is hard to beat in this size segment thanks to its extensive feature set.

Larger eReaders: PocketBook InkPad 4, PocketBook Era and Kindle Oasis

The Kindle Oasis, now being phased out, fails to take the top spot for the first time in years.

PocketBook InkPad 4

The PocketBook InkPad 4 took over from the two popular InkPad 3 models back in 2023 and was refined in the details. With new screen tech (E Ink Carta 1200), a flush 7.8-inch display, and a built-in speaker, the InkPad 4 remains fully up to date in 2024. Waterproofing is now standard as well, which was previously reserved for the Pro model. You do have to forgo a memory card slot, but as a small consolation, OTG support at least lets you access a USB-C stick.

PocketBook used to be considered a bit complicated to use—that’s no longer the case with the InkPad 4 (and other current PocketBook models). Despite the wealth of features, the eReader is easy to operate. Only in terms of responsiveness are Amazon and Tolino a little better.

As usual with PocketBook, you also get freely assignable buttons. The combination of extensive features and a good display makes the PocketBook InkPad 4 the best eReader in this segment right now.

To the in-depth review ⟶

PocketBook InkPad 4 alternative #1: Kindle Oasis

For a long time, the Kindle Oasis earned first place in our eReader comparison, but this year it has to line up behind the InkPad 4. The Oasis is still one of the best models on the market, but in 2024 Amazon began phasing it out in various markets. In the U.S., the 8 GB variant is no longer available, and the Oasis has also been removed from Kindle comparison tables. It is therefore most likely an end-of-life model, although to our knowledge no successor is in the wings.

Even if the Oasis no longer takes the top spot, the device is still worth recommending. The lighting is very uniform despite the asymmetrical build, and the in-hand feel is still the best of all eReaders in this size and price class. Only the Kindle Scribe feels a touch more premium.

Along with the uniform, blue light–reduced lighting, you get page-turn buttons with excellent tactile feedback, waterproofing, and audiobook support via Audible.

A now quite significant drawback is the outdated micro-USB port, which is simply no longer current in 2024. Compared to the Paperwhite, you also have to accept slightly shorter battery life due to the smaller battery.

The asymmetrical design impresses across the board in terms of handling, making the device much more pleasant to use in my view. The Kindle Oasis is Amazon’s most technically sophisticated eBook reader, which is reflected in the price—starting at 230 euros.

To the specs and review ⟶

PocketBook InkPad 4 alternative #2: PocketBook Era

The PocketBook Era is undoubtedly one of the best eBook readers out there. In particular, it stands out for its excellent feel in the hand, with smart design touches that make it especially comfortable to use. Also positive are the broad feature set and the noticeably matured user interface. There’s little to complain about in terms of equipment, either. With a built-in speaker, waterproofing, Bluetooth, and up to 64 GB of storage, the Era is very well equipped.

It didn’t take the win in this category because the lighting is a bit less uniform than on the other two models and contrast is also slightly lower.

To the in-depth review ⟶

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eReaders 10 inches and up

The 10-inch segment is now dominated by E Ink tablets and digital notebooks. At heart, the Kindle Scribe is still an eReader and earns our recommendation in this size class thanks to its excellent overall package.

Digital notebooks: Kindle Scribe, Boox Note Air 3 and Kobo Elipsa 2E

But beyond Amazon, the Kobo Elipsa 2E and Onyx Boox Note Air 3 are two interesting alternatives that may even be the better choice depending on your use case.

Kindle Scribe

The Kindle Scribe is Amazon’s first eBook reader that focuses on handwritten notes in addition to reading. It uses WACOM touchscreen tech and the included pen. This saw Amazon enter the digital notebook market a little later than competitor Kobo, vying with Remarkable and Supernote for the favor of writing-happy customers.

As a unique technical selling point, the Kindle Scribe still offers a high-resolution 300 ppi E Ink Carta display with a 10.2-inch diagonal. All other E Ink Carta devices in this size class (that you can buy here without importing) currently top out at 227 ppi. That gives Amazon’s largest Kindle a clear technical advantage.

Like the Paperwhite and Oasis, the Scribe has a built-in front light with a night mode. There’s audiobook support via Audible as well. You do have to forgo waterproofing.

While the Scribe was initially criticized for relatively limited note-taking software, that issue has largely been addressed in the meantime. With several feature updates, the software has been sensibly expanded and the Scribe’s usefulness for note-taking and drawing has improved significantly.

To the in-depth review ⟶

Kindle Scribe alternative #1: Kobo Elipsa 2E

Kobo hasn’t officially sold its eReaders in Germany since joining Tolino. However, you can still get the devices here without much trouble from various European online retailers. The Elipsa 2E stands out with probably the most uniform lighting in this size class. That is without a doubt the device’s biggest plus.

Beyond that, the Kobo Elipsa 2E also offers a very good note-taking function with the matching pen. Pen input latency at around 35 milliseconds is noticeably higher than on the Scribe (~20 ms). The in-hand feel is also a bit worse than on the Scribe. Due to the use of (recycled) plastic, the eReader feels less premium overall. That impression is deceptive, though: Build quality is impeccable, and handling is actually a bit easier thanks to the lower weight.

Kobo generally scores with a minimalist, clean interface that continues to be developed and is available in German, even after the retreat from the German market. So it’s still worth a look.

To the digital notebook comparison ⟶

Kindle Scribe alternative #2: Onyx Boox Note Air 3

The Boox Note Air 3 is the successor to the Chinese company Onyx’s probably most successful digital notebook (Note Air 2/Plus). Unlike the competitors mentioned, it isn’t primarily an eReader but an E Ink tablet. The technical specs are beyond reproach. The especially low stylus latency is a big plus. In terms of software, the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 also makes a very good impression with its E Ink–tuned Android 12 interface.

Its weaknesses lie primarily in user-friendliness, which isn’t as clear a focus compared to Western competitors. The learning curve is steep, and it takes a while to find all the features. The not-always-optimal translation contributes to this difficulty.

The data privacy issue mentioned for the Boox Tab Mini C applies here as well.

To the digital notebook comparison ⟶

eReader Comparison Table

In the table shown below, you have the option to compare eReaders. It includes eReaders from the years 2019 to 2025. You can use the filters to narrow down the selection based on specific criteria such as manufacturer, display technology, lighting, price, weight, and more. The table updates in real time, so you can immediately see which devices match your criteria further down the page.

All 71 e-readers are shown below.

Name	Display	Technology / Illumination	Touchscreen	Weight	Price
Bookeen Diva HD (2019)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	240 g	140 EUR
Bookeen Notéa (2021)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	460 g	400 EUR
Boyue Likebook Alita (2019)	10.3 inch 1872 x 1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	395 g
Boyue Likebook Mimas (2019)	10.3 inch 1872 x 1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	430 g	459 EUR
Huawei MatePad Paper (2022)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	360 g	499 EUR
InkBook Calypso Plus (2021)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	155 g	125 EUR
InkBook Focus (2021)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	251 g	230 EUR
Kindle (2019) (2019)	6 inch 800×600 px 167 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	174 g	79.99 EUR
Kindle (2022) (2022)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	158 g	99.99 EUR
Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (2024)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	219 g
Kindle Oasis 3 (2019)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	188 g	229.99 EUR
Kindle Paperwhite 5 (2021)	6.8 inch 1648×1236 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	205 g	129.99 EUR
Kindle Paperwhite 5 Signature Edition (2021)	6.8 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	207 g	189.99 EUR
Kindle Scribe (2022)	10.2 inch 2480×1860 px 304 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	433 g	370 EUR
Kobo Clara 2E (2022)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	171 g	175 EUR
Kobo Elipsa (2021)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + USI	383 g	400 EUR
Kobo Elipsa 2E (2023)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + USI	390 g	399.99 EUR
Kobo Libra 2 (2021)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	215 g	180 EUR
Kobo Libra H2O (2019)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	192 g
Kobo Nia (2020)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	172 g	110 EUR
Kobo Sage (2021)	8 inch 1920×1440 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + USI	241 g	290 EUR
Onyx Boox Caesar 3 (2019)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	182 g
Onyx Boox Darwin 6 (2019)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	182 g
Onyx Boox Euclid (2019)	9.7 inch 1200×825 px 150 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	410 g
Onyx Boox Leaf (2021)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	170 g	310 EUR
Onyx Boox Leaf 2 (2022)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	185 g	239 EUR
Onyx Boox Max Lumi (2020)	13.3 inch 2200×1650 px 207 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	570 g	900 EUR
Onyx Boox Max Lumi2 (2021)	13.3 inch 2200×1650 px 207 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	570 g	900 EUR
Onyx Boox Note Air (2020)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	420 g	440 EUR
Onyx Boox Note Air 3 (2023)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	450 g	449 EUR
Onyx Boox Note Air 3C (2023)	10.3 inch 2480×1860 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	430 g
Onyx Boox Note Air2 Plus (2022)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	445 g	530 EUR
Onyx Boox Nova Air (2021)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	235 g	350 EUR
Onyx Boox Nova Air C (2022)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 / 100 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido Plus Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	235 g	450 EUR
Onyx Boox Nova3 Color (2021)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 / 100 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido Plus Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	265 g	320 EUR
Onyx Boox Page (2023)	7 inch 1680 x 1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	1095 g
Onyx Boox Palma (2023)	6.13 inch 1648×824 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	170 g	299.9 EUR
Onyx Boox Poke3 (2021)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	150 g	180 EUR
Onyx Boox Poke4 Lite (2022)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	150 g	150 EUR
Onyx Boox Tab Mini C (2023)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	310 g	499 EUR
Onyx Boox Tab Ultra (2022)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	480 g	650 EUR
Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C (2023)	10.3 inch 2480 x 1860 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	480 g
Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C Pro (2023)	10.3 inch 2480 x 1860 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	450 g	700 EUR
PocketBook Basic Lux 3 (2022)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ No	155 g	100 EUR
PocketBook Color (2020)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 / 100 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	160 g
PocketBook Era (2022)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	228 g	199 EUR
PocketBook Era Color (2024)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	235 g	259 EUR
PocketBook InkPad 3 Pro (2019)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	225 g	269 EUR
PocketBook InkPad 4 (2023)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	265 g	289 EUR
PocketBook InkPad Color (2021)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido Plus Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	225 g	299 EUR
PocketBook InkPad Color 2 (2023)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 / 100 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido Plus Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	267 g	319 EUR
PocketBook InkPad Color 3 (2023)	7.8 inch 1872×1404 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	270 g	319 EUR
PocketBook InkPad Eo (2024)	10.3 inch 2480×1860 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	470 g	569 EUR
PocketBook InkPad Lite (2021)	9.7 inch 1200×825 px 150 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	369 g	259 EUR
PocketBook InkPad X (2019)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	300 g	420 EUR
PocketBook InkPad X Pro (2023)	10.3 inch 1872×1404 px 227 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive + EMR	350 g	419 EUR
PocketBook Touch Lux 5 (2020)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	155 g	119 EUR
PocketBook Verse (2023)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	182 g	129 EUR
PocketBook Verse Lite (2025)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	170 g
PocketBook Verse Pro (2023)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	186 g	169 EUR
PocketBook Verse Pro Color (2024)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	182 g	169 EUR
PocketBook Viva (2023)	8 inch 1920×1440 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Gallery 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	300 g	599 EUR
Tolino Epos 2 (2019)	8 inch 1920×1440 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	195 g	299 EUR
Tolino Epos 3 (2022)	8 inch 1920×1440 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	232 g	279 EUR
Tolino Page 2 (2019)	6 inch 1024×758 px 212 ppi	E-Ink Carta Yes, single-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	179 g	89 EUR
Tolino Shine 4 (2022)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	172 g	139 EUR
Tolino Shine 5 (2024)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1300 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	173 g	119 EUR
Tolino Shine Color (2024)	6 inch 1448×1072 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	173 g	149 EUR
Tolino Vision 5 (2019)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	195 g	179 EUR
Tolino Vision 6 (2021)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Carta 1200 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	215 g	169 EUR
Tolino Vision Color (2024)	7 inch 1680×1264 px 300 / 150 ppi 👁️	E-Ink Kaleido 3 Yes, dual-tone frontlight 💡	✅ Yes, capacitive	200 g	199 EUR

Amazon, Tolino or PocketBook?

By now, three eBook reader manufacturers or eBook providers have firmly established themselves in the German market and can be considered “mainstream”: Amazon with the “Kindle” brand, the German retail chains with the “Tolino” brand, and the Swiss company “PocketBook”.

For a long time, Kindle was the dominant player in the eBook market. Over the past few years, Tolino’s alliance has slowly but surely chipped away at Amazon’s dominance. Today, the German eBook provider is an indispensable part of the market. PocketBook, as an independent manufacturer, has a tougher time in terms of market share, but thanks to its long history, most digital reading fans still know the name. Kobo, on the other hand, hasn’t offered devices under its own brand in Germany since partnering with Tolino. There are also a few smaller manufacturers like Onyx or InkBook, though they’re largely niche providers.

So for most buyers, the question is: Kindle, Tolino, or PocketBook? Below is a brief breakdown of the pros and cons of each option and platform.

Kindle advantages

• Large indie selection: While most eBook stores now offer nearly the same range of titles from major publishers, Amazon remains the leader when it comes to eBooks from indie authors. So avid readers will find plenty of affordable titles to discover.
• eBook subscription: Speaking of avid readers—if you’re constantly reading, Kindle Unlimited is worth a look. For just 9.99 euros per month, you can choose from more than 1 million eBooks. Most come from self-published authors, but there are also popular titles from major publishers.
• Extensive software features: Amazon’s early start in the market still shows. The eBook reader software is more mature and offers handy extras you won’t (yet) find elsewhere (e.g. a vocabulary builder).
• Better-integrated ecosystem: As a customer of the online giant, you also benefit from the way its digital services connect under the Prime membership umbrella. If you use Amazon regularly, Prime is a sensible investment that includes free premium shipping, video streaming, and other services.

Kindle disadvantage

• Closed ecosystem: Amazon aims to keep customers within its ecosystem. The upside is that all parts of the Kindle system are perfectly tuned to one another, making it very easy to use—even for beginners. The downside is that buying from other stores involves more hurdles.

Tolino advantages

• Open system: If you don’t want to tie yourself to a single provider, Tolino eBook readers support ePub and let you use other stores. You can’t change the built-in store, but you still have more freedom when buying eBooks than with Amazon.
• Your own apps via Android rooting: While not an official feature, rooting the Android system can be particularly useful for tinkerers. You can install alternative reading apps or use the Skoobe eBook subscription. But beware: after updates, the process might not be possible anymore. It shouldn’t be a decisive buying factor—think of it as a bonus.
• In-store service: You can buy Amazon devices in electronics stores, but Tolino devices are sold in local bookshops. Since the big chains are both retailers and content providers, the in-store support is naturally more robust.
• Tolino Select: For around 10 euros per month, you can choose 4 titles from 40 handpicked eBooks by well-known publishers and authors. It’s an interesting option for avid readers, even if Tolino Select doesn’t match Kindle Unlimited in scope.
• Tolino Cloud: Like the competition, Tolino offers its own cloud backup for eBooks. In the Tolino Cloud, titles are saved immediately after purchase and can be downloaded again later—even if you’ve already deleted them from your device.
• Onleihe compatible: Thanks to ePub support, you can also use the Onleihe eBook lending service and access your local library’s catalog.

Tolino disadvantage

• Fewer software features: Even though a lot of work has clearly gone into Tolino devices, a direct comparison with Kindle and PocketBook shows that, overall, the feature set is smaller.

PocketBook advantages

• Open system and platform independence: Like Tolino, PocketBook models offer an open system. If you buy the device directly from the manufacturer, it’s essentially platform-agnostic and not tied to any store. You can also disable usage data collection in the device settings.
• The most extensive software features: Without a doubt, PocketBook gives you the most for your money in terms of software. No other system offers as many options, for instance for managing your eLibrary or viewing PDFs.
• Simple, clear interface: Over the past few years, PocketBook has addressed key criticisms about the interface sometimes being too complex. As a result, the system is now among the best on the market not only in terms of features but also usability.
• In-store service and community engagement: PocketBook doesn’t have as large a network of bookstore partners as the Tolino alliance, but its devices are still available from various booksellers, so you can get solid in-person advice here too. Also noteworthy is PocketBook’s community engagement, which lets you submit feedback and requests directly (though this is a voluntary service that could end at any time).
• PocketBook Cloud: PocketBook also holds its own on the service front—if you buy a device at a bookstore, you get 5 GB of online storage for free. Purchased eBooks are automatically added so you can access them anytime.
• Onleihe compatible: The popular eBook lending service works on all PocketBook models, of course.
• Wide range of models: PocketBook has proven very experimental with new models, repeatedly filling niches the other two don’t—such as extra-large eReaders or devices with color E Ink displays.

PocketBook disadvantage

• Occasionally a bit slow to respond: Compared to Kindle and Tolino, the PocketBook interface can sometimes feel a little sluggish. Not enough to be a real problem, but noticeable in a direct comparison.

In addition to the advantages mentioned above, it’s worth noting that thanks to their mobile apps, all three providers let you keep reading on your smartphone or tablet:

• Kindle App: Android, iOS
• Tolino App: Android, iOS
• PocketBook Reader App: Android, iOS

Questions before you buy

If you want to buy a dedicated reading device, there are a few questions to answer before you do. First, we’ll cover eReaders in general, then we’ll dig deeper with each subsequent point.

What exactly is an eBook reader

An “eBook reader” (also: eReader) is a device for reading electronic books. Strictly speaking, that definition also applies to PCs, smartphones, and tablets, which are increasingly used for reading digital books. Specifically, however, it refers to devices designed primarily for reading eBooks.

Dedicated reading devices are defined mainly by special screens that are easy on the eyes and offer battery life measured in weeks. These are called E Paper or E Ink displays. At present, E-Ink Holdings effectively has a quasi-monopoly, so almost all major manufacturers use panels from this company (a subsidiary of Prime View International [PVI]).

One hallmark of E Ink is that, after the image has been rendered, it requires no power. Once displayed, an image can remain on screen indefinitely—even if the device’s battery runs out.

The look of an E Paper display resembles a printed page, though typically a bit grayer or darker and with low glare—making it suitable even for those sensitive to reflections.

E Ink doesn’t just look similar to paper to the naked eye—it does under the microscope too. That’s why it reads like paper.

Low weight is another advantage of eBook readers. For devices with a 6-inch screen (e.g. Kindle, PocketBook Touch HD 3, Tolino Shine 3, etc.) it’s usually between 150 and 220 grams, roughly the same as a typical paperback. In addition to the 6-inch format, there are occasional smaller 5-inch models (e.g. PocketBook Mini) and increasingly 7- to 8-inch models (e.g. Kindle Oasis, PocketBook Era, PocketBook InkPad 3 Pro), as well as 6.8-inch devices (e.g. Kindle Paperwhite).

For a long time, the lack of screen lighting was seen as the biggest drawback of dedicated eReaders. E Ink is a reflective display technology (meaning it’s not backlit from behind), so you need external light to read—just like a paper book. The display tech therefore doesn’t allow for integrated backlighting, as with traditional screens and monitors (LCDs, AMOLED, etc.).

In 2012, all the major manufacturers (except Sony) addressed this criticism—and by now, front lights are essentially standard, letting you read at dusk and in the dark while maintaining the paperback-like display quality.

Several LEDs sit in the reader’s frame and shine into an ultra-thin plastic layer from the side. This layer distributes the light evenly across the screen. It also improves readability in daylight, which is why, if in doubt, you should always opt for a reader with a light.

Since 2016, more and more eReaders have offered optional blue-light-reduced illumination. This is meant to create a more pleasant reading experience in the evening and not negatively affect your sleep cycle. At least subjectively, the yellowish-orange light is indeed more comfortable. The term “blue light filter” is often used, but in the eReader space that’s not technically correct. It’s not a filter; it’s always additional LEDs with reduced blue light. You can find more information about blue light here.

A drawback is the relatively slow response time of this display technology—but given the specialized use case, it’s not a major issue. Fast image changes and animations are only possible with noticeable quality loss. The monochrome display reduces the usefulness of color-dependent magazines and media, which is why a number of companies are researching power-saving or energy-efficient alternative technologies. Various concepts (Mirasol, Liquavista, IRX Technologies [now insolvent]) exist but, despite tentative attempts to establish them, haven’t gained traction so far.

Especially handy: with built-in lighting you can read beautifully even in complete darkness

Beyond the hardware, the software also elevates the reading experience. A big advantage is the ability to customize the typography. You don’t have to settle for the relatively small font sizes typical of paperbacks—you can adjust the size step by step to suit your preferences and needs. In terms of accessibility, an eBook reader can be particularly helpful for people with visual impairments.

Displaying text in landscape can be useful here, as can a text-to-speech feature.

On many eReaders you can also adjust line spacing and margins, change text alignment, or choose a different font. The range of options varies by manufacturer, so it’s worth checking our eBook reader reviews, where we describe each feature in detail.

Pros and cons of eReaders

Why spend money on a dedicated device when you already have books? Why add another electronic gadget that needs to be charged regularly? Why deal with DRM on eBooks when you can lend or resell a regular book at will? And there’s the emotional side too: the feel of reading a hardcover and displaying it neatly on a bookshelf.

All that doesn’t necessarily speak in favor of eBooks and eReaders, but on the other hand there are plenty of advantages:

• Thanks to their compact size and low weight, eBook readers can go almost anywhere, anytime. This is especially handy when traveling or if you’re short on space at home, since you can carry an entire library in a tiny footprint—and stay flexible about what to read on the go.
• One of the biggest advantages of eBook readers is the ability to customize the text. You can quickly and easily adjust font size and often the font itself. Depending on your needs, that lets you read with or without glasses, and tailor the typography to your personal taste.
• With a paper book, you have to flip through page by page to find a passage. eBooks let you search for keywords or entire phrases.
• Built-in dictionaries make foreign-language texts more accessible. You can translate individual words into German directly.
• You can buy eBooks 24/7, and they’re available immediately—no need to leave the house or wait for the delivery person.
• New releases are usually 20–30% cheaper as eBooks than as hardcovers. Besides paid eBooks, there are also tens of thousands of classic titles available to download for free.
• Turning pages on an eReader is extremely comfortable. Without changing your grip, you can turn the page with a button press (or optionally by swiping the touchscreen).

All in all, we think the advantages outweigh the downsides. The added flexibility argues for buying one, and since eBooks are usually cheaper than print, over time it can pay for itself. What’s more, eReaders with E Ink technology use so little power that battery life isn’t much of a drawback in everyday reading. In the end, only two questions remain to answer for yourself:

• Is DRM—and the resulting limits on passing on or reselling purchased eBooks—a dealbreaker?
• Can you let go of the familiar feeling of paper and trade printed pages for electronic ink?

eBook reader vs. tablet

One of the most important questions upfront is which type of device to choose: a dedicated eReader (like the Kindle Paperwhite) or a tablet (like an Apple iPad)? What’s the difference?

The E Ink screen (right) offers a paper-like display. Under the microscope, the “Retina” LCD (left) looks less appealing to paper purists.

In simple terms: An eBook reader is used almost exclusively for reading novels, and its display looks like a printed page because it generally isn’t backlit. Most eBook readers use an E Ink display. In contrast, a tablet is designed for versatile multimedia use—video, music, photos, and games. Tablets typically have a traditional LCD, which can be more tiring on the eyes.

There are two main reasons LCD screens can be harder on the eyes:

• Screens with low pixel density—i.e. where the individual pixels are farther apart—render less sharply. The closer the screen is to your eyes, the more you may notice tiny gaps as black specks. Lower resolution can also make text look jagged, which might hinder reading flow. This issue has eased considerably in recent years, as HD and Full HD screens are now common and provide razor-sharp images.
• The bigger issue is often how the LCD’s backlight is driven. For cost reasons, it’s usually controlled via so-called pulse-width modulation (PWM). This can cause slight flickering. Normally the effect isn’t visible to the human eye, but there are repeated reports of people getting dry or watery eyes or headaches from such screens. Unfortunately, manufacturers don’t disclose their backlight control methods, so you need to do your homework beforehand.

Open or closed system?

For many existing eReader owners, this point is old news. Even so, the matter of the “ecosystem” deserves mention.

We’re not talking about a natural ecosystem, but the provider’s entire offering.

One of the pioneers of the eBook market is the U.S. online retailer Amazon. Its system runs under the name “Kindle” and is a closed ecosystem. Amazon uses its own file format and copy protection. The company’s devices don’t support the common formats (ePub and Adobe DRM). That means you generally have to buy eBooks for an Amazon eReader from Amazon. Other stores rarely offer the right file format.

To Amazon or not—that is the question

For customers, this can be both a pro and a con. The upside is that buying is very straightforward. As a Kindle user, you basically just turn on the eReader the first time and you’re ready to go. Only a few setup steps are required, which makes it extremely easy for less tech-savvy people.

However, buying a Kindle makes it harder to switch to another manufacturer later. eBooks you’ve already purchased with copy protection can’t easily be used on other eReaders.

An open ecosystem means you’re not tied to a single provider. There’s a store integrated into the device, but the eReader is essentially usable without it. You can buy from any other ePub store. Example: You buy a PocketBook Era but purchase your digital books from Thalia or Hugendubel. In that case, you have a free choice.

There’s a downside here too. The widespread use of Adobe’s copy protection often turns initial setup into a hurdle for beginners. Getting started is thus (unnecessarily) more complicated. Fortunately, more and more German publishers offer files with soft DRM as well.

In short: An open system makes you more flexible when buying eBooks later on and if you ever want to switch providers. A closed system makes buying eBooks simpler and frees you from having to think about copy protection. Ultimately, it’s a matter of taste which ecosystem you choose. There aren’t any price differences for eBooks anyway due to fixed book pricing.

Manufacturers

• Amazon
• Bookeen
• Boyue
• Icarus
• InkBook
• Kobo
• Onyx Boox
• PocketBook
• Sony
• Tolino
• Trekstor