E-readers have revolutionized how we consume books, offering convenience, portability, and accessibility for all types of readers. High-end models are packed with premium features that you may or may not need. This means budget-friendly devices have carved their niche. These affordable e-readers combine essential features with solid performance, making them great options for anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of digital reading or simply upgrade without a hefty price tag. Here’s a roundup of the best budget e-readers available in the United States, along with tips to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Amazon Kindle  

The Amazon Kindle continues to shine as one of the most accessible and reliable entry-level e-readers. If you're a seasoned reader or just getting started, this device offers a well-rounded experience that is user-friendly and affordable.

  • Battery Life: With up to six weeks of battery life on a single charge, you’ll rarely have to think about plugging it in. Ideal for those who read on the go.
  • Display Quality: Its 6-inch glare-free display with 300 PPI ensures crisp and clear text, even when you’re reading outside in bright sunlight.
  • Storage Capacity: The Kindle boasts 16GB of internal storage, enough to house thousands of books, meaning you’ll never run out of space for your growing digital library.

Additional Features

Built for convenience, the Kindle integrates seamlessly with Amazon’s extensive store, making finding, purchasing, and downloading titles simple. It also features adjustable front lighting, allowing you to enjoy late-night reading without disturbing others.

Priced at $100, it’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable, straightforward e-reader that doesn’t skimp on quality.

Kobo Libra Colour

If you prefer a non-Amazon option, the Kobo Libra Colour is a solid competitor that delivers flexibility. This e-reader is perfect for fans of ePub format who like to source books outside of restrictive ecosystems.

  • Battery Life: The Kobo Libra offers several weeks of battery life on a single charge, designed for casual readers who don’t want to worry about constantly recharging.
  • Screen Performance: The Nia sports a 7-inch touchscreen display that’s glare-free and waterproof. As the name suggests, the Kobo Libra is also a color reader.  
  • Storage Space: With 32GB of internal storage, the Libra can hold approximately 24,000 eBooks, making it ideal for large digital libraries.

Extra Features

One of its standout features is its support for multiple file formats, including ePub, PDFs, and more. This flexibility allows readers to access books from a variety of sources, giving it an edge over more closed systems.

At $230, it’s a little pricier than the Kindle, but it’s worth it for people who’d rather avoid Amazon or anyone who reads a ton of books. This is also great for anyone who reads comics or graphic novels.

Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 4e

An excellent offering from Barnes & Noble, the Nook GlowLight 4e is perfect for readers who appreciate simplicity paired with decent functionality.

  • Battery Life: Enjoy weeks of consistent use from a single charge, eliminating frequent recharging hassles.
  • Screen Features: This device features a 6-inch Carta HD display. The adjustable warm light adds extra comfort for longer reading sessions, especially during the evening hours.
  • Memory: The Nook GlowLight 4e offers 8GB of storage, effortlessly holding thousands of books.

Additional Perks

The Nook ecosystem is home to millions of eBooks and magazines, giving readers access to a world of content. What makes this reader stand out is the fact it has physical buttons along with finger-swiping for turning pages. Starting at $120, it’s an affordable option for loyal Barnes & Noble customers. Because it’s a Barnes & Noble product, members can save 10% off the reader and accessories that come from the brand.

BOOX Leaf2

For those who want an eReader that functions a bit more like a tablet (without actually getting a tablet), the BOOX Leaf2 offers versatility and customization that are hard to find in its price range.

  • Battery Power: Featuring a 2000mAh battery, it can last for weeks of light to moderate use.
  • Display & Functionality: Its 7-inch E Ink display provides extra screen space while maintaining a lightweight design. Unlike most e-readers, the Leaf 2 runs on Android, allowing users to install apps like Kindle, Kobo, Libby, or Scribd.
  • Storage Options: With 32GB of onboard storage and additional cloud options, it’s a spacious option that’ll allow you to download tens of thousands of books with ease.

Extra Perks

Although priced at $200, this e-reader’s expanded functionality can make it worth the investment for power users. This reader is specifically designed to allow access to a variety of file extensions, including ePub, MOBI, TXT, and CBR. This makes it the most versatile on the list.

How to Choose the Best E-Reader

With so many options at varying price points, selecting the perfect e-reader can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to narrow your search and make the best choice for your needs:

  • Budget: Determine your budget upfront. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before exploring options.
  • Screen Quality: Each screen is comparable, but there are two huge considerations. One question to ask yourself is if color is essential for your e-reader. The screen size may also be a deciding factor, as some of these tablets are smaller than others.  
  • Battery Life: Someone who spends a lot of time traveling may need an e-reader that needs minimal charging, while others want one that’s not heavy. How long can you go between charges?
  • Storage Capacity: Assess how many books or audiobooks you plan to store. Most digital book readers will find 8GB-16GB acceptable. Audiobook listeners will need much more space, so 32GB provides enough without worrying about running out anytime soon.
  • Purchasing Flexibility: Decide if you want to buy books from a single marketplace (like Amazon or Barnes & Noble) or prefer an e-reader like Kobo or Boox that supports more file types. Consider looking through your digital library before purchasing.  
  • Extra Features: Waterproofing, audiobook support, Bluetooth, and adjustable lighting can enhance your overall experience.
  • Accessory Options: Depending on the e-reader you get, accessories might be harder to find. Niche tablets will have fewer options than very commonly used ones. Research available accessories before making the big decision.