With Amazon discontinuing support for older Kindle models, many readers are looking for the best e-reader replacements. After testing the top devices on the market, the standard Kindle from 2024 emerges as the best choice for most people, offering a crisp 300 ppi display and a 25 per cent brighter backlight at under £100.
For those willing to spend more, the Kindle Paperwhite provides a premium experience with a larger 7in display, warm light for comfortable reading in low light, and faster page turns. It is also waterproof, making it suitable for poolside reading, though it is less pocket-friendly than the basic Kindle.
An alternative for readers who struggle to put down their phones is the Onyx Boox Palma 2 Pro, which combines e-reader functionality with a smartphone-like form factor. This device runs on Android, allowing access to multiple e-book stores and apps.
Other top contenders include the Kobo Libra Colour, which features a colour E Ink display and physical page-turn buttons, and the PocketBook Era, known for its robust build and support for numerous file formats. Each device excels in different areas, so buyers should consider factors like display clarity, backlight, responsiveness, and ecosystem before purchasing.
As an avid reader and tech reviewer with over 15 years of experience, I recommend the standard Kindle as the best entry-level option, while the Kindle Paperwhite is ideal for those seeking a more luxurious reading experience. For those outside Amazon's ecosystem, the Kobo and PocketBook models offer strong alternatives.
