Books are fantastic, no doubt about it. However, they can also be quite the space hogs—just ask the stacks of books cluttering my apartment that no longer fit on my already overflowing bookshelf. If you're fortunate enough to have the room for a dedicated home library, consider yourself lucky! But if space is an issue, doing yourself a favor by getting a reading tablet can be a game-changer. While you might miss the tactile pleasure of flipping through paper pages, tablets make building a personal library far more manageable and less messy. Plus, you can access a plethora of books for free without stepping outside your door. We've scoured the market to bring you some of the best tablets to enhance your reading experience, no matter where you are.
TL;DR - These Are the Best Tablets to Read on:
Our Top Pick### Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
0See it at Amazon
### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)
0See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best Buy
### AppleiPad Pro (2024, M4)
0See it at AmazonSee it at Apple
### OnePlus Pad 2
0See it at OnePlus
### Kobo Libra Colour
0See it at AmazonReading tablets offer a range of capabilities. E-readers, like our top pick, the Kindle Paperwhite, are designed specifically for book formats, often featuring screens that emulate the look and feel of actual pages. These devices are more limited in functionality—don't expect to use them for social media scrolling or video streaming. On the other hand, more versatile tablets, like the iPad Mini, offer a wider range of uses, though their displays might strain your eyes and drain the battery faster. Note-taking features, such as those found on the Kobo Libra Colour, are invaluable for students or anyone who enjoys annotating their reading material. Choosing the right one depends on your personal needs and preferences.
Kindle Paperwhite
The Best Kindle and Best Reading Tablet
Our Top Pick### Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
0The Kindle Paperwhite offers a reading experience akin to that of a real book, but with the added convenience of a backlight and a host of useful features. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size7" E InkScreen resolution300ppiFront light19 LEDsStorage16GBBattery12 weeksDimensions5" x 7" x 0.3"Weight211gPROSGreat battery lifeWater-resistantCONSPlastic buildIf your sole purpose is to read, the Kindle Paperwhite stands out as the premier tablet for the job. This e-reader keeps things straightforward, so don't expect vibrant screens, stylus support, or access to emails, apps, and notifications. Instead, it focuses on eliminating distractions with a clear, easy-to-read display that reduces eye strain and conserves battery life.
The latest Kindle Paperwhite boasts a slightly larger 7-inch e-ink display with a 300ppi resolution to minimize blue light and glare. It also features an enhanced thin-film transistor for better contrast. Coupled with 19 LEDs surrounding the screen, it offers comfortable reading in virtually any lighting condition, from beachside to a dimly lit tent. Adjusting the warm backlight in darker settings is a breeze, but for automatic adjustments and additional enhancements, consider the Kindle Paperwhite Signature.
The new Kindle Paperwhite offers a 20% performance boost over its predecessor, ensuring quick page turns and smooth navigation through your library. Its 16GB of storage might seem modest compared to other tablets, yet it's ample for storing thousands of books. While audiobooks consume more space, cloud storage is readily available if you ever run low. Other features include customizable text and font sizes, quick dictionary access, and compatibility with Libby users who can send borrowed books to their Kindle from the Libby app on another device.
The Kindle Paperwhite's plastic build keeps it thin and lightweight compared to traditional hardcover books, minimizing arm and wrist fatigue. Despite its seemingly delicate design, it's robust and waterproof. With dimensions that don't compromise on compactness, this e-reader delivers an impressive 12-week battery life on a mere 2.5-hour charge. It's easy to understand why this is our favorite Kindle model.
iPad Mini (7th Gen)
Best iPad for Reading
### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)
0The compact iPad Mini weighs just over half a pound and features a vibrant 8.3-inch display, making it an excellent handheld reading device. See it at AmazonSee it at AppleSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen size8.3” Liquid Retina IPSScreen resolution326 ppiFront lightN/AStorage128GB, 256GB, 512GBBattery10 hoursDimensions7.69” x 5.3” x 0.25”Weight293gPROSFantastic displayCompact and portableCONSScreen glare due to glossy screenMost of Apple's iPads come with displays larger than 10 inches, which can be cumbersome for avid readers. Conversely, iPhone screens are often too small. The iPad Mini bridges this gap perfectly. With an 8.3-inch screen, it's about the size of a paperback and weighs just 10.4oz, making it easy to carry around and comfortable to hold with one hand, even when lounging. Moreover, it retains all the capabilities of top iPad models.
The iPad Mini's stunning Liquid Retina display, equipped with adjustable brightness and True Tone technology, ensures a delightful reading experience in various environments. However, be mindful of potential screen glare. Pairing it with an Apple Pencil enables easy annotations. While its vibrant screen is a plus, it does drain the battery faster than the e-ink display on the Kindle Paperwhite, offering up to 10 hours of usage.
Powered by the A17 Pro chip, the same as in the iPhone 15 Pro, the latest iPad Mini has ample power for its size and supports Apple Intelligence. It effortlessly handles top reading apps like Apple Books, Amazon Kindle, comiXology, Libby, and Scribd. When you need a break from reading, it's equally adept at social media scrolling, streaming, and everyday tasks.
iPad Pro 2024 – Photos
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3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)
Best Tablet for Reading Comics and Manga
### AppleiPad Pro (2024, M4)
0The iPad Pro, powered by the Apple M4 processor and featuring an OLED display, is Apple's most premium tablet to date. See it at AmazonSee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen size11-inch, 13-inchScreen resolution264 ppiFront lightN/AStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TBBattery10 hoursDimensions9.74" x 7.02" x 0.23", 11.09" x 8.48" x 0.20" Weight444g, 582gPROSStunning OLED displayPowerful Apple M4 processorCONSOverkill for some usersFor those looking to dive into the vibrant world of comics or even create their own, Apple's flagship tablet, the iPad Pro, is the ideal choice. Despite its large 11-inch or 13-inch display, the device remains thin and lightweight.
The iPad Pro's OLED display is a first for iPads and is truly captivating. Once you experience its vivid colors and excellent contrast, returning to other screens may be challenging. In IGN's review of the iPad Pro, Jackie Thomas was particularly impressed with the display while reading Star Wars: The High Republic comics.
Such a high-quality display demands substantial processing power, which the iPad Pro's M4 silicon provides in abundance. It can handle demanding tasks like gaming or design with ease, thanks to its 8GB GPU. Creatives will find it an exceptional tool for crafting comics or graphic novels.
The iPad Pro's compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro can elevate your artistic endeavors, while adding a keyboard transforms it into a capable laptop replacement. Just be aware that additional accessories can quickly increase the overall cost of this already expensive device.
OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos
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4. OnePlus Pad 2
Best Android Tablet for Reading
### OnePlus Pad 2
0The OnePlus Pad 2 delivers excellent performance, an elegant and smooth display, and overall high-quality build. See it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen size12.1”Screen resolution303ppiFront lightN/AStorage256GBBattery12 hoursDimensions10.6" x 7.7" x 0.26"Weight584gPROSAmple storage80W fast charging supportCONSHeavier than other tabletsApple isn't the only brand offering top-notch reading tablets. OnePlus, known for our favorite smartphones, presents an outstanding option with the OnePlus Pad 2. It features a spectacular 12.1-inch, 3K display with 10-bit color depth and HDR support. The screen's clarity and vibrancy are impressive, and as noted in our hands-on review of the OnePlus Pad 2, it's easily viewable outdoors even in morning sunlight.
Running on a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor with 12GB of RAM, the OnePlus Pad 2 competes with the best Android tablets. It ensures swift page turns and seamless navigation through reading apps. With 256GB of storage, it's ample space for novels, comics, audiobooks, and more. The included AI toolbox can summarize articles or assist with writing, and stylus support facilitates easy annotations.
Despite its premium build and larger size, the OnePlus Pad 2 is a bit heavy, making prolonged one-handed use uncomfortable. However, its 9,510mAh battery lasts up to 12 hours. And, with support for 80W charging, it can be fully recharged in under 75 minutes.
Kobo Libra Colour
Best Reading and Writing Tablet
### Kobo Libra Colour
0The Kobo Libra Colour offers a colorful, lightweight e-reader with easy viewing and stylus support. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size7” E-Ink Kaleido 3Screen resolution300ppi (black and white), 150ppi (color)Front lightYesStorage32GBBattery40 daysDimensions6.34 x 5.69 x 0.33Weight201gPROSColorful e-Ink display for easy viewingStylus support for note-takingCONSOnly good for reading and writingThe Kobo Libra Colour is a formidable competitor to Amazon's Kindle lineup. Its 7-inch display strikes the perfect balance for reading, with ample margin space. The wider bezels on one side and lightweight design facilitate one-handed use, while two buttons offer simple page turns, supplemented by touchscreen navigation.
The E-Ink Kaleido 3 display offers a 300ppi resolution in black and white and 150ppi in color. While the colors are more subdued compared to traditional tablets, reminiscent of newspaper print, they add life to graphics novels and comics, with minimal glare in bright sunlight. The ComfortLight Pro enhances readability in darker settings and reduces blue light exposure.
Powered by a dual-core 2.0GHz processor, the Kobo Libra Colour ensures responsiveness for most tasks, including smooth page turns and navigation. Note-taking is fluid and intuitive. The integration with the OverDrive library is a notable advantage. However, this e-reader is designed exclusively for reading and writing, lacking the versatility for social media or email.
The Kobo Libra Colour supports writing with the Kobo Stylus 2, allowing annotations on any Kobo book and colorful highlighting with your finger. Kobo also provides various notebooks for jotting down notes and sketching, some of which can convert handwriting to text. For those seeking a larger display for note-taking, the Kobo Elipsa 2E is a strong grayscale alternative.
How to Choose the Best Reading Tablet
Selecting the perfect reading tablet involves considering several key factors to ensure it aligns with your specific needs. Whether you're an avid reader of fiction, a student poring over textbooks, or a professional managing a flood of PDFs from your boss, the right tablet can greatly enhance your reading experience.
The quality of the display is paramount since your eyes will be focused on it for extended periods. Eye comfort is crucial, especially during long reading sessions. Tablets with blue light reduction features or e-ink technology, which mimics the appearance of paper, can significantly reduce eye strain. While e-ink screens are gentler on the eyes, LCD screens offer greater versatility for multiple uses.
Battery life is another vital consideration for uninterrupted reading, particularly when you're on the go. Opt for tablets with robust battery life to ensure you can enjoy your reading materials without constantly seeking a power outlet.
Lastly, consider the size and weight of the tablet, as they impact comfort during long reading sessions. Larger screens can offer a more immersive experience but shouldn't compromise the device's portability. A lightweight, slim design makes it easier to carry and hold with one hand.
Best Tablets for Reading FAQ
What is the best tablet for reading according to Reddit?
If you're seeking advice from Reddit on the best tablet for reading, users in the r/androidtablets subreddit have highlighted some favorites. The top commenter praises the Aldocube 50 Mini and Mini Pro for their lightweight design and good screens, ideal for reading. Other users recommend Barnes & Noble's Nook for its e-paper technology, which closely mimics the experience of reading a physical book.
Are tablets good for reading books?
Absolutely, but you'll find that standard LCD screens can tire your eyes much faster than e-ink models. Battery life is another factor to consider, as most conventional tablets don't last as long as a Kindle due to their more demanding hardware.
What is the best tablet for reading outside?
For outdoor reading, whether at the beach or in a park, the Kindle Paperwhite is the ideal choice. Its e-ink display resembles printed paper, reducing glare, brightness issues, eye strain, and conserving battery life more effectively than LCD screens. Additionally, its IPX8 water resistance makes it resilient to splashes or rain, unlike many other tablets.
