In the realm where tablets and books converge, our favorite e-readers shine. They are sleek and portable like a tablet, yet free from internet interruptions. The leading Kindles and e-readers can hold thousands of books, functioning as a complete library in their compact form.

After evaluating several e-readers for Mashable, I can assert that Amazon’s Kindle series nearly perfects these devices. Across social media, TikTok users are enthusiastically endorsing the Kindle. For parents, Kindles offer a guilt-free screen alternative. For passionate readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day helps expand your summer reading list. You can acquire remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you can read hands-free. Even committed book collectors have adapted to the Kindle way of life.

Introducing the latest generation of Kindle e-readers

Unsure whether to choose the Kindle or Kindle Paperwhite? We’ve compared them side by side.

Much has evolved since the Kindle was launched in 2007. Launched just months after the inaugural iPhone, the Amazon Kindle has experienced fewer iterations. By 2025, we will be on the 12th generation of Kindles, with the latest version debuting in October 2024. All models — the basic Kindle, Paperwhite, Signature Edition, Scribe, and Kids editions — have seen enhancements. Regrettably, the Kindle Oasis, a waterproof version featuring page-turn buttons, has been phased out.

Kindle’s inaugural color e-reader also made its debut in late 2024, and by July 2025, the Colorsoft series will boast three models. The Colorsoft represents the second most expensive Kindle choice, and after testing one, we’ve included it in this guide.

The newest Kindles are lightweight, user-friendly, and compatible with Libby, enabling you to support your local library and access free books. Essentially, making the wrong choice in this category is difficult. So, which Kindle suits you best? Let me assist you in your decision.

Which Kindle is ideal for you?

If being up-to-date with the latest technology concerns you, there’s no issue. Six refreshed Kindle models are on offer, along with earlier versions still available.

Before selecting a Kindle, ponder this question: Is waterproofing important to you? If you love reading by water — whether in the bath, around the pool, or at the beach — this consideration will help reduce your choices. With the Kindle Oasis no longer available, you still have alternatives. Your waterproof selections consist of the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.

In addition to water resistance, think about these features:

– Display dimensions: The basic Kindle offers a 6-inch display, whereas the largest features a 10.2-inch display.
– Storage options: Kindles provide storage capacities ranging from 16GB to 32GB.
– Battery longevity: New Kindles typically have outstanding battery life. On the lower end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while some can last as long as 12 weeks.
– Writing function: The Kindle Scribe is unique among models for its ability to allow writing with the included stylus.

The latest Kindles come with a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution screen that eliminates glare, ensuring clear text and images from any viewing angle. They also possess WiFi connectivity, facilitating the download of all the reading material you desire. Additionally, you can enjoy audiobooks from Audible through the integrated Bluetooth feature.

Of all the e-readers I’ve assessed, Kindles offer the most seamless integration with Libby. I appreciate this digital service as it lets me read for free while backing my local library. Some other e-readers necessitate downloading your library e-book to a computer and subsequently transferring it to the e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent directly to your device in an instant.

If you were a staunch fan of the Kindle Oasis and cherished the page-turn buttons, you may need to look beyond the Kindle series. Your top alternative currently is the Kobo Libra Colour.

How to access free e-books on Kindle

The optimal method to enjoy free e-books on a Kindle is through Libby. Libby permits you to borrow e-books via libraries, needing only a library card. Using the Libby app, you can borrow books and select the “read with Kindle” option to transfer these e-books to your Kindle library.

Another avenue for discovering free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These author-led initiatives provide limited-time promotions on e-books, often making them significantly marked down or entirely free.

How to maximize your Kindle experience

Through our testing and routine use, we’ve dedicated much time to Kindles, discovering ways to unlock their full potential. We’ve extensively documented methods to enhance your Kindle experience, so check out our guides and explainers:

– The finest Kindle accessories for luxurious reading
– What is Stuff Your Kindle Day? The ultimate way to stock your e-reader with free books
– I’ve browsed hundreds of