Kindle readers are popular tablets among book enthusiasts, since they allow users to download and store thousands of comics, novels, and audiobooks. But they're also a great choice for students -- and especially helpful for English majors juggling heaps of reading assignments. A Kindle device with 32GB of internal storage can hold almost 14,000 titles, which means you can read one new book per week for 269 years before repeating. 

While most Kindle tablets have a fixed amount of internal storage, many support Amazon Cloud backup or microSD cards for expanded onboard storage. Moreover, many Kindle readers are waterproof up to 2 meters, meaning you can take your e-reader to the beach or pool and not have to worry about splashes and sprays ruining your tablet. With anti-glare screens and auto-adjusting backlights, it's easier than ever to read your favorite books in direct sunlight.

Also: The best iPad models you can buy

So, which Kindle is right for you? I have gathered a list of the best Kindle readers available to buy right now, with the best Kindle reader overall beingAmazon's Kindle Paperwhite . I have broken down their features and price points to help you decide which is the best fit for both your reading needs and budget. Keep reading below to find the perfect Kindle for you.

The best Kindle readers of 2023

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Best Kindle reader overall

Amazon/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Post-consumer materials
• Excellent battery life
• Waterproof up to 2 meters
• Easy to use

Cons

• Audible requires separate app
• Noheadphone jack
• NomicroSD card support

More Details

Amazon Kindle Paperwhitespecs: Screen size:6.8 inchesStorage:8GB, Amazon CloudBattery life:Up to Six weeks at 30 minutes per dayLock screen ads:Yes, removable with feemicroSD card support:No

The Kindle Paperwhiteis a simple, no-fuss e-reader that allows you to download and store thousands of comics, novels, and audiobooks to enjoy at home or on the go. The 6.8-inch display provides 300 points per inch for crystal-clear text, and the glare-free coating makes reading easier by a direct lamp or in sunlight. The integrated battery can last up to ten weeks on a full charge, letting you read for almost two months straight before needing to plug in. And when you do need to recharge, it uses a USB-C cable, so you don't have to worry about keeping a special charging cable handy.

Also: The Kindle Paperwhite gets a new look

Furthermore, the Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof up to 2 meters for 1 hour in freshwater or .25 meters for three minutes in saltwater. This means you won't have to worry about spills and splashes while reading at the beach, by the pool, or at the dinner table. Additionally, with the Kindle Unlimited app, you can browse hundreds of thousands of titles, including Kindle exclusives. If you prefer your e-reader to be eco-friendly, the Kindle Paperwhite is made of 60 percent post-consumer materials, including magnesium, to keep electronic and plastic waste out of landfills and oceans.

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Amazon Fire HD 8

Best non-Kindle e-reader

Amazon Pros & Cons Pros

• $100
• Up to 1TBmicroSD card support
• Good battery life
• Alexa built-in

Cons

• On the heavy side
• Noheadphone jack

More Details

Amazon Fire HD 8 specs: Screen size:8 inchesStorage:32GB or 64GBBattery life:13 hoursLock screen ads:Yes, removable with feemicroSD card support:Up to 1TB

Since an e-reader like the Kindle is usually a single-purpose device, it may not always make sense to spend a ton of money on one. Fortunately, the Amazon Fire 8 is an exceptionally affordable Kindle-capable tablet. For just$100, you can get an 8-inch tablet with 32GB of internal storage, which you can expand with up to a 1TB microSD card. The internal battery lasts up to 13 hours, allowing you to listen to audiobooks or read all day before needing to plug in. Moreover, since the Fire 8 is closer to a typical tablet, you can download apps like YouTube to turn it into an entertainment hub for both kids and adults.

With Alexa built-in, you can use voice commands to launch apps, play music, and even make video calls to friends and family. This is an excellent way to keep in touch with your book club or reading circle in a post-COVID world. Alternatively, you can switch Alexa off to prevent any misuse of your Fire 8's camera and microphones to gather information about you and your family.

Although doesn't have a review for this particular model just yet, our experts reviewed other Fire models with similar features that can also aid your buying decisions. 

Reviews: 

• Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus review: Primed for Amazon superfans
• Amazon Fire 7 review: Good enough for the basics

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Kindle Oasis

Best splurge Kindle

Amazon/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Auto-adjusting front light
• Waterproof up to 2 meters
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Page-turning buttons

Cons

• Nocover or stylus included
• No microSD card support

More Details

Kindle Oasis specs: Screen size:7 inchesStorage:8GB or 32GB, Amazon CloudBattery life:Up to six weeks at 30 minutes per dayLock screen ads:Yes, removable with feemicroSD card support:No

For customers who are willing to spend a bit more to get more features, the Kindle Oasisis an excellent option. The chassis features an ergonomic design that is more comfortable to hold and easier to use with its integrated page-turning buttons. The screen has an adjustable warm backlight for reading in both dim rooms and direct sunlight to reduce eye strain. It also uses built-in sensors to automatically adjust screen brightness and light temperature depending on your environment. Alternatively, you can schedule screen lighting changes based on typical use times for different members of your family.

Moreover, the chassis is waterproof, able to be submerged up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) for up to 1 hour in freshwater or .25 meters for three minutes in saltwater. Although it doesn't have a regular headphone jack, the Kindle Oasissupports Bluetooth connectivity. You can use wireless headphones and speakers to listen to audiobooks or the screen reader function. Furthermore, if you need to download a few last-minute titles in the airport lounge while waiting for your flight, the Kindle Oasis supports WEP and WPA2 WiFi security to protect your connection.

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Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

Best Kindle reader for travel

Amazon/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Wireless charging capable
• Water resistant
• Cloud storage backup
• Accessibility options

Cons

• No microSD card support
• A bit on the heavy side
• Only available in black

More Details

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Editionspecs:Screen size:6.8 inchesStorage:32GB, Amazon CloudBattery life:Up to 10 weeksat 30 minutes per dayLock screen ads:Yes, removable with feemicroSD card support:No

The best part of having an e-reader is being able to take dozens, if not hundreds, of books with you while you travel for work, family gatherings, or vacations. The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Editionis built with travel in mind. It supports both USB-C and Qi wireless charging, so you don't have to keep a special charging cable for a single device. Additionally, the internal battery can last up to 10 weeks on a full charge, allowing you to enjoy your summer reading on the beach even if you forget your charging cable.

Also: How to loan a Kindle book

The screen features an anti-glare coating for better visibility in direct lamplight or sunlight, as well as an auto-adjusting backlight to suit dim rooms. With 32GB of internal storage, you can store tens of thousands of titles on the tablet. However, if you need even more space, you can utilize Amazon Cloud storage to free up room on the Paperwhite Signature Edition for new books. The tablet is water-resistant, which is great for reading by the pool, on the beach, or anywhere accidental spills may happen.

Additionally, it has a screen reader function for blind and visually impaired users and supports Bluetooth headsets for audiobooks.

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Kindle Scribe

Best Kindle for note taking

Amazon/ Pros & Cons Pros

• You're able to sign documents, take notes, and draw
• Robust 10.2-inch screen
• Battery live for literal days

Cons

• It's expensive
• Doesn't offer compatibility with Microsoft Word yet

More Details

Kindle Scribespecs:Screen size:10.2 inchesStorage:16, 32, or 64GBBattery life:Up to 6 weeksat 30 minutes per dayLock screen ads:Yes, removable with feemicroSD card support:No

The Kindle Scribecombines a digital library with a digital notebook. For the first time, you can use the basic pen to create notes either through an app or on the book you're reading, making it convenient if you're studying for a test and want to organize what you're reading and your notes in one place. Additionally, you can upgrade to the Kindle Scribe Premium Pen to easily erase notes.

The display is remarkable, with a high-resolution 10.2-inch screen. You'll also have access to ample storage options, and the battery life will let you read the next bestseller without having to worry about finding the nearest plug for charging.

Review: Amazon Kindle Scribe: 7 ways it could be even more remarkable

On the other hand, there is room for improvement. Currently, you can export notes to a PDF and email them. However, it would be ideal to send notes to other programs like Microsoft Word, which will be part of a future software update. Additionally, we found that you have the inability to organize your notes on the Kindle Scribe. Overall, it's a great foray into the digital note-taking market, and with future software updates, it should become one of the more popular models in the Kindle lineup.

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What is the best Kindle?

The best Kindle e-reader is the Kindle Paperwhite. You can choose between 8 or 32GB of internal storage to download thousands of comics, novels, and audiobooks. Additionally, you can opt for cloud storage syncing for near-infinite storage space for your digital library. The screen features an anti-glare coating for better visibility in sunlight and flush bezels for better handling. Furthermore, the integrated battery can last up to six weeks on a full charge, allowing you to read as much as you want, worry-free.

Best Kindle reader	Price	Screen size	Battery life	microSD card support
Kindle Paperwhite	$140	6.8 inches	6 weeks	No
Amazon Fire 8 HD	$100	8 inches	13 hours	Up to 1TB
Kindle Oasis	$250	7 inches	6 weeks	No
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition	$190	6.8 inches	10 weeks	No
Kindle Scribe	$340	10.2 inches	Several weeks	No

Which is the right Kindle for you?

When shopping for a new Kindle reader, aside from price, you should also consider how much storage space you'll want or need for your digital bookshelf. The Kindle Paperwhite has 8GB of storage, which is enough for hundreds of books, audiobooks, PDF files, and graphic novels. On the other hand, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition has 32GB of storage, which allows your digital bookshelf to store almost 14,000 titles. Furthermore, no matter which model of Kindle reader you use, many support either microSD cards up to 1TB or cloud syncing for near-infinite storage.

Below is a table that outlines which Kindle corresponds to specific needs:

Choose this Kindle reader...	If you need...
Kindle Paperwhite	The best overall due to its outstanding battery life, waterproof body, and ease of use. It also has a 6-week battery life.
Amazon Fire 8 HD	A budget-friendly option with a large, 8-inch screen and Alexa voice assistant built-in. It also allows you to stream videos and music for more entertainment options.
Kindle Oasis	A top-of-the-line Kindle reader with a large screen and Bluetooth connectivity. It also has an auto-adjusting front light.
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition	A travel companion with wireless charging, water resistance, and cloud storage. This version of the Kindle is great for taking on vacations and work trips.
Kindle Scribe	A notetaking powerhouse with a 10.2-inch screen, ample storage, and the ability to transfer notes to PDF. This makes it a great option for students as well as professionals.

How did I choose these Kindles?

I chose Kindle readers that have relatively affordable price points for budget-minded shoppers as well as customers who are willing to spend a bit more to get all of the features they want. I also chose models that support microSD cards for expanded storage to allow for truly huge digital libraries.

I also selected an option designed for kids, so they can read their favorite books and discover new ones on their own device.

Also: How to buy books on Kindle

Moreover, we also chose a high-end model for those wanting a large, waterproof screen with Bluetooth connectivity.

How many books will 32GB hold?

It all depends on what kinds of books you want to download, as different media files have different sizes. For example, a single comic book issue file can be as small as 650MB, while a graphic novel can be up to 1.5GB. On the other hand, plain-text files like novels, nonfiction titles, and even school textbooks have fairly small sizes, allowing you to have up to 13,500 books in your digital library with 32GB of storage space.

However, longer titles like War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy will have a larger file size than something like F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. If you like longer reads, you'll probably store fewer books, though you should still be able to download and store thousands of titles.

You can even download audiobooks from the Kindle app, though the audio files are quite large. This means that a 32GB Kindle will only hold about 150 audiobooks, depending on the length of the recording.

Can I read Kindle books on an iPad?

Absolutely! If you have an iPad, you can download the Kindle app from the iOS App Store. This allows you to buy and download digital books to your iPad, turning it into a true multimedia entertainment device and eliminating the need for a single-purpose tablet.

Moreover, it's not just iPads. Samsung, Lenovo, and other tablet makers allow you to download the Kindle app so you can take your digital library with you.

Are Kindle books free?

They can be. Whether you're looking to fill out your library or to finally get around to reading those classics that were assigned back in your high school English class, it's pretty easy to find free Kindle books. Lots of classic literature is in the public domain, which just means that they are no longer protected by copyright laws and can be provided for free. If you're looking for new titles, you don't have to spend a fortune.

Also: How to get (great) free books on Kindle

You also can find thousands of titles for very low prices, sometimes as low as 99 cents. However, these are often self-published works. And while self-publishing is a great way for writers to get their work in the hands of readers without going through literary agents and publishing houses, it also means that sometimes the work isn't entirely up to snuff. So if you're tempted to buy that ultra low-priced title, make sure you read reviews first so you don't end up buying something you won't like.

Are there alternatives to the Kindle worth considering?

If you don't like the idea of a single-purpose tablet taking up space in your home, but still want the ease and portability of a digital library, you're able to download the Kindle app to just about any tablet on the market. Here is a short list of Kindle alternatives that I thought were great:

BEST PRICE

Amazon Fire HD 10

A polished Kindle reader with a 10.1-inch, 1080p, HD display, 4GB of RAM and wireless charging capabilities.

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BEST PRICE

iPad Air (5th Gen)

A fantastic reader if you want 5G connectivity, fast performance, and good battery life.

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BEST PRICE

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

A perfect option if you want the functionality of note-taking with the S-Pen coupled with a vibrant display.

View at Amazon

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