
What is the leading e-reader for 2025? I often examine new e-readers and tablets, testing multiple models to remain updated on the top recommendations. If you’re eager to read more books this summer or autumn, I can recommend a model you’ll appreciate.
Among other e-readers we’ve evaluated are the Kindle Paperwhite, Nook GlowLight 4 Plus, and Kindle Scribe. Lately, we’ve assessed the Remarkable PaperPro and Onyx Boox Go 7 for this compilation. After extensive testing, both devices were acceptable but not worthy of inclusion in the list.
When looking for e-readers, Remarkable’s tablets often show up in search results, but acquiring ePUB files for them is tricky. Remarkable allows access to files through Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, but protected ePUB files, such as those from Libby, cannot be accessed. Following our tests, the Remarkable tablet serves better as a document viewer or digital journal than as an e-reader.
The Onyx Boox Go 7 proves to be a superior e-reader compared to the Remarkable. It has a size comparable to the Kobo Libra or Amazon Kindle but features a sluggish processing speed. Accessing ePUB files from Libby necessitated downloading the Adobe Digital Editions app, which was notably slow. While it was less complicated than obtaining library books on a Nook, it still felt cumbersome when compared to Kindle or Kobo’s systems. The Boox Go 7 was slow when loading files, and the page-turning buttons were unresponsive on my unit.
We have not yet tested the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, which launched on Sept. 30, 2025. As of Nov. 2025, it is not available for preorder, but we will refresh this guide following our evaluation.
Concerning the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, it is surprising to see it absent from this list. It’s an excellent device, but there are superior choices available. The Signature Edition is an enhanced version of the Paperwhite, and we have compared the two devices. The brief summary? The Paperwhite delivers better value, even with the SE’s features such as auto-adjusting brightness and 32GB of storage. If you are willing to invest $200 in an e-reader, forgo the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition and opt for the Kobo Libra Colour.
The Barnes & Noble Nook is not featured in this list. I have tested it, and it was previously part of our selections. However, after evaluating more devices, it no longer meets the criteria. When compared to Kindles or the Kobo Libra, the Nook exhibits slow performance, leading to a frustrating experience. Acquiring library books onto the Nook was a nuisance, involving several steps. Its sole positive aspect was the page-turning buttons. Unless you are a devoted Barnes & Noble patron, it is advisable to steer clear of the Nook.
To obtain e-reader books for free, there is no need to spend money. You can fill your e-reader without any expenses by being clever. The most effective method to read nearly any book is through Libby. I have enjoyed hundreds of free books using the Libby app, which links with your library card to borrow items from your local library’s digital collection. Both Kobo and Kindle feature excellent Libby integrations.
Another way to expand your library is via Stuff Your Kindle Day events, 24-hour opportunities hosted by authors offering discounted or free books. For classics or hidden gems, Project Gutenberg boasts over 75,000 public domain books available for download and reading on an e-reader.