Books are wonderful, but they can take up a lot of space. If you're fortunate enough to have room for a home library, congratulations! For the rest of us, a reading tablet is a fantastic solution. While you might miss the tactile experience of flipping through pages, a tablet makes managing a personal library much easier and less cluttered. Plus, you can access free books without leaving your home. Here are some of the best tablets to enhance your reading experience wherever you are.
TL;DR - These Are the Best Tablets to Read on:
Our Top Pick### Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
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### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)
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### Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)
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### OnePlus Pad 2
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### Kobo Libra Colour
0See it at AmazonReading tablets offer a range of features to suit different needs. E-readers like our top pick, the Kindle Paperwhite, are designed primarily for reading with screens that mimic the look of paper. These devices are more limited in functionality, so don't expect to browse social media or stream videos during breaks. On the other hand, general-purpose tablets like the iPad Mini offer more versatility but may cause eye strain and drain batteries faster. Tablets like the Kobo Libra Colour, which support note-taking, are ideal for students or anyone who likes to annotate their reading material. Choosing the right tablet depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Kindle Paperwhite
The Best Kindle and Best Reading Tablet
Our Top Pick### Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
0The Kindle Paperwhite offers a reading experience close to that of a physical book, enhanced by a backlight and numerous 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 primary goal is to read, the Kindle Paperwhite is the best tablet for the job. It keeps things simple, focusing on a clear, easy-to-read display that minimizes eye strain and conserves battery life. You won't find a colorful screen, stylus support, or access to emails and apps here—just a distraction-free reading experience.
The latest Kindle Paperwhite features a slightly larger 7-inch e-ink display with a 300ppi resolution to reduce blue light and glare. A new thin-film transistor improves contrast, and the 19 LEDs surrounding the screen ensure readability in any lighting condition, from bright beaches to dimly lit camping tents. Adjusting the warm backlight for darker environments is straightforward, and for those seeking automatic adjustments and other enhancements, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature is an excellent choice.
This model offers a 20% performance increase over its predecessor, enabling quick page turns and smooth library navigation. With 16GB of storage, you can store thousands of books, though audiobooks will take up more space; cloud storage is available if needed. Additional features include customizable text and font settings, a built-in dictionary, and compatibility with the Libby app for borrowing books, albeit indirectly.
The Kindle Paperwhite's plastic build keeps it slim and lightweight, reducing fatigue during extended reading sessions. Despite the material, it's sturdy and waterproof. With a remarkable 12-week battery life on a single 2.5-hour charge, it's easy to see why this is our favorite Kindle model.
iPad Mini (7th Gen)
Best iPad for Reading
### Apple iPad Mini (7th Gen)
0This compact iPad weighs just over half a pound and features a vibrant 8.3-inch display, making it an excellent choice for handheld reading. 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 feature displays larger than 10 inches, which can be cumbersome for avid readers, while iPhone screens might be too small. The iPad Mini, with its 8.3-inch screen, strikes the perfect balance, resembling a paperback in size and weighing just 10.4oz. It's easy to take anywhere and comfortable to hold with one hand, yet it retains all the capabilities of Apple's top iPad models.
The iPad Mini's Liquid Retina display, with adjustable brightness and True Tone technology, ensures a comfortable viewing experience in various environments, though it can suffer from glare due to its glossy finish. The Apple Pencil adds a layer of functionality for annotations. However, the colorful screen consumes battery faster than the e-ink displays found on devices like the Kindle Paperwhite, lasting around 10 hours.
Powered by the A17 Pro chip, the same found in the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPad Mini offers robust performance and supports Apple Intelligence. It handles top reading apps like Apple Books, Amazon Kindle, comiXology, Libby, and Scribd effortlessly. Beyond reading, it's perfect for social media, streaming, and everyday tasks, thanks to its speedy performance.
iPad Pro 2024 – Photos
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3. Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)
Best Tablet for Reading Comics and Manga
### Apple iPad Pro (2024, M4)
0The iPad Pro, equipped with an Apple M4 processor and an OLED display, is the most premium Apple tablet available. 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 usersIf you're into comics or manga, the iPad Pro is your best bet. Its large 11-inch or 13-inch display remains impressively thin and lightweight, making it perfect for immersive reading.
The iPad Pro's OLED display is a first for iPads and offers vivid, accurate colors and exceptional contrast, making every image pop. In IGN's review of the iPad Pro, Jackie Thomas praised the display while reading Star Wars: The High Republic comics.
The M4 processor handles heavy workloads effortlessly, including gaming and design, thanks to its 8GB GPU. Creatives will find it ideal for making comics or graphic novels, as it's designed for such tasks. The Apple Pencil Pro enhances artistic capabilities, and adding a keyboard turns the iPad Pro into a laptop alternative, though additional accessories can increase the cost.
OnePlus Pad 2 – Photos
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4. OnePlus Pad 2
Best Android Tablet for Reading
### OnePlus Pad 2
0The OnePlus Pad 2 offers excellent performance, a smooth and elegant display, and overall great quality. 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 tabletsOnePlus, known for its impressive smartphones, also offers a top-notch reading tablet. The OnePlus Pad 2 features a 12.1-inch, 3K display with 10-bit color depth and HDR support, delivering crisp, vibrant visuals. In our hands-on review of the OnePlus Pad 2, we found the screen easily viewable in morning sunlight due to increased brightness.
Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 12GB of RAM, the OnePlus Pad 2 matches the performance of the best Android tablets. Page turns are instantaneous, and switching between reading apps is seamless. With 256GB of storage, you can store numerous books, comics, and audiobooks. The included AI toolbox can summarize articles or assist with writing, while stylus support allows for easy annotations.
Though its size and premium build make it heavier, the OnePlus Pad 2's 9,510mAh battery lasts up to 12 hours. When the battery runs low, 80W charging can fully recharge it in under 75 minutes.
Kobo Libra Colour
Best Reading and Writing Tablet
### Kobo Libra Colour
0This colorful, lightweight e-reader is easy to read and supports stylus use for note-taking. 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 strong competitor to Amazon's Kindle lineup. Its 7-inch display is perfect for reading, with ample margin space. The wider bezels and lightweight design make it easy to hold one-handed, and two buttons simplify page turning, though touchscreen navigation is also an option.
The E-Ink Kaleido 3 display offers a 300ppi resolution in black and white and 150ppi in color. While the colors are more subdued than those on traditional tablets, they enhance the reading experience for comics and graphic novels, reducing glare in bright sunlight. The ComfortLight Pro feature ensures comfortable reading in darker settings and reduces blue light exposure.
A dual-core 2.0GHz processor ensures responsive performance for page turns and navigation, and note-taking is smooth. Integration with the OverDrive library adds to its appeal. However, the Kobo Libra Colour is strictly for reading and writing, without the ability to browse social media or check emails.
The Kobo Libra Colour supports writing with the Kobo Stylus 2, allowing you to annotate books and highlight text. Kobo also offers various notebooks for note-taking and sketching, with some capable of converting handwriting to text. For those needing a larger display for note-taking, the Kobo Elipsa 2E is an excellent grayscale alternative.
How to Choose the Best Reading Tablet
Selecting the best reading tablet involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs, whether you're a fiction enthusiast, a student, or a professional handling PDFs. The display quality is crucial, as it's where you'll spend most of your time. Features like blue light reduction or e-ink technology can minimize eye strain, with e-ink screens being gentler on the eyes, while LCDs offer more versatility.
Battery life is vital for uninterrupted reading, especially on the go. Tablets with long battery life allow you to enjoy your reading materials without worrying about the next power outlet. Finally, consider the size and weight, as these affect comfort during extended reading sessions. Larger screens provide a more immersive experience but should not compromise 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?
Reddit users on the r/androidtablets subreddit often recommend the Aldocube 50 Mini and Mini Pro for their lightweight design and good screens, ideal for reading. Others suggest the Barnes & Noble Nook, praised for its e-paper technology that mimics the feel of a physical book.
Are tablets good for reading books?
Yes, tablets are excellent for reading books, though LCD screens may cause more eye strain compared to e-ink models. Also, consider that standard tablets typically have shorter battery life than devices like the Kindle due to their more demanding hardware.
What is the best tablet for reading outside?
For reading outdoors, the Kindle Paperwhite is ideal. Its e-ink display resembles printed paper, reducing glare, brightness, eye strain, and conserving battery life compared to LCD screens. Additionally, it's IPX8 water-resistant, making it suitable for poolside or rainy conditions.
