The best Kindles you can buy in 2025

If you're an avid reader, a reading tablet is a handy device to have in your literary arsenal. Instead of trying to lug around that 700-page novel, an Amazon Kindle is a lightweight, portable companion with a long-lasting battery charge. 

Kindles have been around for almost 20 years, and today there's a device for almost everyone. For example, the Kindle Scribe makes annotating a breeze, and the Kindle Colorsoft offers a full-color tablet. Whether you want a premium experience with the Kindle Paperwhite or the budget-friendly base model device, we'll help you choose the tablet that best suits your needs.

What is the best Kindle right now? 

We've tested the best Kindle reading tablets on the market, exploring their features, customer feedback, and affordability. Even with more advanced devices available, Amazon's base model Kindle remains our favorite. 

The $110 base model Kindle is the best overall for its excellent battery life, easy readability, and faster page-turning speed. Read on for a full breakdown of the best Kindle reading tablets

The best Kindle readers of 2025

The Kindle base model is the perfect device to house all of your favorite books. The latest version of the tablet offers a new color, Matcha Green, as well as improved page turning rates. Even with the upgrades, the Kindle remains the most affordable in the product family at $110.

The convenient and accessible 6-inch tablet is perfect for a reader on-the-go. In addition, the battery life lasts about six weeks. You can also choose to tack on a 3-month free trial of Kindle Unlimited for even more digital books. 

Review: Amazon Kindle (12th-generation)

After I went hands-on with this Kindle, I'd without a doubt recommend it to anyone. It has all the features you'd need in a respectable e-reader -- a vivid, glare-free display, reactive and quick speeds, and a great battery life at a reasonable price.

Amazon Kindle specs: Screen size: 6 inches | Storage: 16GB, Amazon Cloud | Battery life: Up to six weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: Yes, removable with fee | microSD card support: No

• Faster turning speeds
• New color
• Portable

• Shortest battery life
• No microSD card support

The Kindle base model is the perfect device to house all of your favorite books. The latest version of the tablet offers a new color, Matcha Green, as well as improved page turning rates. Even with the upgrades, the Kindle remains the most affordable in the product family at $110.

The convenient and accessible 6-inch tablet is perfect for a reader on-the-go. In addition, the battery life lasts about six weeks. You can also choose to tack on a 3-month free trial of Kindle Unlimited for even more digital books. 

Review: Amazon Kindle (12th-generation)

After I went hands-on with this Kindle, I'd without a doubt recommend it to anyone. It has all the features you'd need in a respectable e-reader -- a vivid, glare-free display, reactive and quick speeds, and a great battery life at a reasonable price.

Amazon Kindle specs: Screen size: 6 inches | Storage: 16GB, Amazon Cloud | Battery life: Up to six weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: Yes, removable with fee | microSD card support: No

The Kindle Paperwhite, which Amazon boasts as its "fastest Kindle ever," is an upgraded version of the base model Kindle. While still 16GB, the 7-inch, glare-free screen has a higher contrast ratio and faster page-turning speed. 

Maria Diaz, a ZDNET writer, went hands-on with the device and preferred it over her current e-reader daily driver. While it's not full color, it has an automatically adjusting front light to go easy on your eyeballs. The battery life also boasts impressive performance with up to 12 weeks of charge. 

Review: Amazon Paperwhite (2024)

"After two weeks of daily reading on a single charge, some days for up to three hours a day, my Kindle Paperwhite's battery is still at 32%. According to Amazon, the Kindle Paperwhite could last about 42 hours of reading with the brightness at 13," Diaz said in her review.

Charlie Osborne, another ZDNET contributor, always has her Paperwhite on hand when she travels. Osborne said she prefers the Kindle display to using the app on her smartphone.

Kindle Paperwhite specs: Screen size: 7 inches | Storage: 16GB | Battery life: Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: Yes, remove with a fee | microSD card support: No

• Lightweight
• Long battery life
• Faster page-turning

• Expensive
• Black and white

The Kindle Paperwhite, which Amazon boasts as its "fastest Kindle ever," is an upgraded version of the base model Kindle. While still 16GB, the 7-inch, glare-free screen has a higher contrast ratio and faster page-turning speed. 

Maria Diaz, a ZDNET writer, went hands-on with the device and preferred it over her current e-reader daily driver. While it's not full color, it has an automatically adjusting front light to go easy on your eyeballs. The battery life also boasts impressive performance with up to 12 weeks of charge. 

Review: Amazon Paperwhite (2024)

"After two weeks of daily reading on a single charge, some days for up to three hours a day, my Kindle Paperwhite's battery is still at 32%. According to Amazon, the Kindle Paperwhite could last about 42 hours of reading with the brightness at 13," Diaz said in her review.

Charlie Osborne, another ZDNET contributor, always has her Paperwhite on hand when she travels. Osborne said she prefers the Kindle display to using the app on her smartphone.

Kindle Paperwhite specs: Screen size: 7 inches | Storage: 16GB | Battery life: Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: Yes, remove with a fee | microSD card support: No

If you want a few more bells and whistles on your Kindle Paperwhite, you can check out the Paperwhite Signature Edition. Though more expensive, the Signature Edition comes with 32GB of storage.

In addition, the glare-free 7-inch screen has a higher contrast and a faster page-turn rate as well as an adjustable warm light and wireless charging. Unfortunately, the $23  is sold separately. 

According to Amazon, a single charge via USB-C lasts up to 12 weeks. This adds up to about 30 minutes per day at a light setting of 13, according to the device specs. Audiobook streaming through the Amazon Audible app will also drain the battery faster.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition also sports a waterproof rating of rating of IPX8. 

The Signature Edition comes in the same colors as the original Paperwhite, but with a metallic finish.  

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition specs: Screen size: 7 inches | Storage: 32GB | Battery life: Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: No | microSD card support: No

• More storage
• Wireless charging capability
• Warm light feature

• More expensive
• Wireless charging dock sold separately

If you want a few more bells and whistles on your Kindle Paperwhite, you can check out the Paperwhite Signature Edition. Though more expensive, the Signature Edition comes with 32GB of storage.

In addition, the glare-free 7-inch screen has a higher contrast and a faster page-turn rate as well as an adjustable warm light and wireless charging. Unfortunately, the $23  is sold separately. 

According to Amazon, a single charge via USB-C lasts up to 12 weeks. This adds up to about 30 minutes per day at a light setting of 13, according to the device specs. Audiobook streaming through the Amazon Audible app will also drain the battery faster.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition also sports a waterproof rating of rating of IPX8. 

The Signature Edition comes in the same colors as the original Paperwhite, but with a metallic finish.  

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition specs: Screen size: 7 inches | Storage: 32GB | Battery life: Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: No | microSD card support: No

The $340 Kindle Scribe combines a digital library with a digital notebook. You can use the Basic Pen to create notes either through an app or on the book you're reading. This is so convenient if you're studying for a test, like to annotate a novel, or want more organization while reading.  The Basic Pen comes with the tablet but, you can upgrade to the Kindle Scribe 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 worrying about finding the nearest plug for charging. 

Review: Amazon Kindle Scribe

When Matthew Miller reviewed the Scribe last year, he called it his on-the-go note-taking tablet of choice. "My desire to find something that doesn't waste paper and also provides the ability to preserve and share my notes has been met with the Amazon Kindle Scribe," Miller said. He adds that the writing and erasing capabilities are top tier -- further bolstered with the add-on Premium Pen. 

Also: Best tablets for school in 2025

There is certainly room for improvement. Currently, you can export notes to a PDF and email them. However, sending notes to other programs like Microsoft Word would be ideal, as it will be part of a future software update. Additionally, we found that organizing your notes on the Kindle Scribe is impossible. 

Overall, it's an excellent foray into the digital note-taking market, but future software updates will help refine the product.

Kindle Scribe specs: Screen size: 10.2 inches | Storage: 16, 32, or 64GB | Battery life: Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: Yes, removable with fee | microSD card support: No

• Sign documents, take notes, and draw
• Large screen
• Battery life for days

• It's expensive
• Limited note-taking capabilities

The $340 Kindle Scribe combines a digital library with a digital notebook. You can use the Basic Pen to create notes either through an app or on the book you're reading. This is so convenient if you're studying for a test, like to annotate a novel, or want more organization while reading.  The Basic Pen comes with the tablet but, you can upgrade to the Kindle Scribe 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 worrying about finding the nearest plug for charging. 

Review: Amazon Kindle Scribe

When Matthew Miller reviewed the Scribe last year, he called it his on-the-go note-taking tablet of choice. "My desire to find something that doesn't waste paper and also provides the ability to preserve and share my notes has been met with the Amazon Kindle Scribe," Miller said. He adds that the writing and erasing capabilities are top tier -- further bolstered with the add-on Premium Pen. 

Also: Best tablets for school in 2025

There is certainly room for improvement. Currently, you can export notes to a PDF and email them. However, sending notes to other programs like Microsoft Word would be ideal, as it will be part of a future software update. Additionally, we found that organizing your notes on the Kindle Scribe is impossible. 

Overall, it's an excellent foray into the digital note-taking market, but future software updates will help refine the product.

Kindle Scribe specs: Screen size: 10.2 inches | Storage: 16, 32, or 64GB | Battery life: Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: Yes, removable with fee | microSD card support: No

The Kindle Colorsoft finally gives users what they've wanted for years: a full-color Kindle option. Compared to similar e-readers other companies have released, Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft offers the smoothest experience. If you like graphic novels, this Kindle would be perfect to take in the art as the artist intended.

When ZDNET's Allison Murray tested the tablet, she had no issues reading in the sunlight. It's also water-resistant -- a perfect companion for a sunny day at the pool.

Review: Kindle Colorsoft

"I have virtually no complaints with this Kindle except perhaps its small size. The size itself is easy and comfortable to hold, but reading color books or magazines, a bigger size like that of the Boox Note Air C 3's 10.3-inch display makes a greater impact, and you can really see and appreciate the color images better when seeing the entire page," Murray said in her review. 

Like the Paperwhite Signature Edition, the Colorsoft has wireless charging capabilities, but the dock is sold separately. In addition, the battery life is only eight weeks, compared to the 12 weeks other Kindles offer. 

If you need a colorful e-reader, look no further than the new Kindle Colorsoft. 

Kindle Paperwhite specs: Screen size: 7 inches | Storage: 16 or 32 GB | Battery life: Up to 8 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: No | microSD card support: No

• Full color
• Waterproof
• Wireless charging

• Expensive
• Shorter battery life
• Wireless charging dock sold separately

The Kindle Colorsoft finally gives users what they've wanted for years: a full-color Kindle option. Compared to similar e-readers other companies have released, Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft offers the smoothest experience. If you like graphic novels, this Kindle would be perfect to take in the art as the artist intended.

When ZDNET's Allison Murray tested the tablet, she had no issues reading in the sunlight. It's also water-resistant -- a perfect companion for a sunny day at the pool.

Review: Kindle Colorsoft

"I have virtually no complaints with this Kindle except perhaps its small size. The size itself is easy and comfortable to hold, but reading color books or magazines, a bigger size like that of the Boox Note Air C 3's 10.3-inch display makes a greater impact, and you can really see and appreciate the color images better when seeing the entire page," Murray said in her review. 

Like the Paperwhite Signature Edition, the Colorsoft has wireless charging capabilities, but the dock is sold separately. In addition, the battery life is only eight weeks, compared to the 12 weeks other Kindles offer. 

If you need a colorful e-reader, look no further than the new Kindle Colorsoft. 

Kindle Paperwhite specs: Screen size: 7 inches | Storage: 16 or 32 GB | Battery life: Up to 8 weeks at 30 minutes per day | Lock screen ads: No | microSD card support: No

The best Kindles, compared

*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

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 need for your digital bookshelf. 

Both the basic Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite have 16GB of storage. The Paperwhite Signature Edition has 32GB of storage, but it's more expensive. The Colorsoft also has 32GB of storage, but a shorter battery life. In addition, if you're not planning to take notes while reading, the Scribe probably isn't for you. 

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

Factors to consider when choosing a Kindle

• Price: Kindles are generally affordable, but with more features, like drawing capabilities, strong battery life, and ample storage, you will pay a higher price. 
• Storage capacity: The point of a device like a Kindle is to store as many books in one compact device as possible. We looked at Kindles with vast storage capacities that can hold thousands of titles. 
• Environmental factors: Lots of models offer water resistance, so you can read inside and outside. However, remember that Kindles are still electronic devices, so they should not be exposed to extreme conditions.
• Display: Kindles come with a variety of display sizes. Do want a tablet about the same size as the average novel, or a larger screen?
• Kids: If you intend to allow your children to use a Kindle, you might want to opt for a model designed with kid safety and security in mind. At least invest in a case.
• Color: It's a minor consideration, but colors might be limited in the model you ultimately select. 
• Battery life: The e-readers on this list should ideally last a few weeks before recharging. Turning off Wi-Fi when not in use can drastically improve your Kindle's battery life. Turning on airplane mode and lowering the brightness setting can also keep you reading longer.

Also: How to buy books on Kindle

How did we choose these Kindle readers?

ZDNET only recommends products we have used and can speak to. We do this by spending a few weeks constantly using the products and evaluating them for performance, battery life, usability, special features, and more. 

We focus on the average consumer's needs as well as the most important factors in choosing a Kindle. This may include display size, readability, and storage.

We write product spotlights or reviews and in addition to best lists. Each month, we evaluate which products still deserve a spot on this list and switch out older models or those out of stock with newer ones. 

Kindle FAQs

What's the point of a Kindle?

A Kindle will save you shelf space, but some readers love an in-home library. Carrying a book with you is extra weight, but Kindles are small, slim, and lightweight.

You don't have to choose a side, and you don't need a Kindle tablet to access Kindle's library. You can download the app on your phone to read digital books and magazines, but a Kindle tablet's sole purpose is to function as an e-reader is distraction-free. 

In short, it's all in your preference. 

Can I bring my Kindle to the beach?

Yes. Kindles are generally water-resistant and sport glare-free displays, making reading in strong sunlight a comfortable experience. 

A thin Kindle could be a splendid alternative if your beach bag is too heavy for a thick book. Plus, you don't have to choose between two or three books to read -- you can bring them all on your tablet. 

How long will my Kindle last?

A Kindle is a sturdy device if you take proper care of it. I had a look at the r/kindle Reddit page and found lots of people boasting that their Kindles have lasted them over a decade long. 

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. 

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. Image-heavy graphic novels might also take up more space. Generally, plain-text files like novels, nonfiction titles, and even school textbooks have fairly small sizes. Your 32GB tablet could plausibly house up to 13,500 books.

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

What's the difference between the Kindle Paperwhite and a regular Kindle?

The Kindle Paperwhite boasts a more prominent display, a warm light adjustment feature, longer battery life, and an improved waterproof build. These features make the device more expensive as well. 

Do Kindles offer audiobooks?

All Kindles offer text-to-voice narration through Alexa. If you want to buy an audiobook specifically, you'll have to use Amazon's Audible. Audible is integrated into all newer Kindle models, and you can often take advantage of free trials or discount subscriptions during sales events. 

In addition, like the Kindle app itself, you don't need a tablet to use the Audible app.

Does a Kindle need Wi-Fi?

Kindles need Wi-Fi to download a book and access the internet. Once you download the book, you can read it without a Wi-Fi connection. 

I take my Kindle on the subway, where there's no Wi-Fi connection, and have no problem reading my favorite titles. For other ZDNET authors, including Charlie Osborne, a Kindle is a must on airplanes. Keeping a Kindle on airplane mode will also improve its battery life.

Are Kindles better than books?

There is no objective answer to this. Like reading on your smartphone, a Kindle simply offers an alternative and a way to digitally store your book collection. Arguably, the most important thing is enjoying your reading time. 

Do I need a Kindle to read Kindle books?

No. Whether you have an iOS or an Android, you can download the Kindle and Audible apps from the App Store or Google Play store and start reading on it. This allows you to buy and download digital and audiobooks to your phone or tablet.

Also: The best tablets you can buy: Apple, Samsung, and Amazon compared

Can I get Kindle books for free?

Yes, you can get Kindle books for free. Lots of classic literature is in the public domain, or no longer protected by copyright laws, and can be provided for free. You can also visit Amazon and search "free Kindle books." 

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

You also can find thousands of titles for very low prices, sometimes as low as $0.99. However, these are often self-published works. You can also keep an eye out for "Stuff Your Kindle Day" to grab a few free e-books.

Alternatives to Kindles

Meet the experts

ZDNET sourced external industry experts for this article. Here is more information about them:

Ayman Chaudhary: Digital creator (@aymansbooks) on TikTok with over 900,000 followers. She creates content and memes about novels and recommends the books she reads on the platform. 

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