An e-reader fits in a pocket, holds thousands of books and reads like paper, without tiring the eyes. But they differ in the display, features and supported formats. Let us go in detail through what to look at when choosing.

Why an e-reader and not a tablet

The main difference is the display. An e-reader has e-ink (electronic ink), which looks like printed paper, does not shine into your eyes and reads excellently even in direct sunlight. It also has huge battery life, lasting weeks on a charge, not hours like a tablet. So it is far more pleasant for reading.

The e-ink display

  • Resolution and sharpness of the text, higher is more pleasant for the eyes.
  • Display size. 6 inches is a pocket compact, 7 inches and more is more comfortable for reading and PDFs.
  • Color e-ink exists, but is more expensive and less sharp, for most people classic black and white is enough.

Backlight

A good e-reader has a built-in backlight, so you can read in the dark without a lamp. Better models can also change the light temperature to warmer tones for evening reading, which is gentler on the eyes and sleep.

Supported formats

This is important and often forgotten. Check what book formats the e-reader supports (for example EPUB, PDF, MOBI). Some ecosystems are more closed and tie you to their own store, others are more open and read books from anywhere. If you have books from various sources, choose a more open e-reader.

Battery life and memory

  • Battery life with e-readers is counted in weeks, not days.
  • Memory for thousands of books is on even basic models, for audiobooks and comics more is handy.

Water resistance and more

  • Water resistance is appreciated when reading in the bath or by the pool.
  • Physical buttons for turning pages are more comfortable for some than touch.
  • Audiobooks and Bluetooth on higher models, related to headphones.

What for whom

  • Ordinary reading: a basic e-reader with a backlight and 6 inches.
  • Lots of PDFs and larger text: a bigger 7 or 8 inch display.
  • Reading outdoors and in the bath: a model with water resistance and adjustable light.

Choosing an e-reader or need advice on formats and transferring books? Get in touch, we will advise based on how and what you read.