I tested every Kindle model, and you cant go wrong with any of Amazons e-readers (but I have a favorite)

بقلم Mashable · 23 مايو 2026 · 5 دقيقة قراءة Mashable ↗

Not quite a tablet and much more compact than a book, e-readers are basically a compact, digital library. And having tested a lot of e-readers and tablets for Mashable, I can tell you the Amazon Kindle lineup comes closest to perfecting the devices.

All over the internet, you’ll find TikTok users enthusiastically singing the praises of the Kindle and how to make the most of it. For parents, Kindles are a screen you don’t have to feel guilty about. For avid readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day and Libby let you cross every last item off your annual reading list. You can even buy Kindle accessories like remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you don’t have to hold your Kindle while reading.

Ready to buy? Here’s our guide to the best Kindles.

2026 Kindle updates

As of May 20, 2026, Amazon will no longer lend software updates or provide web services to devices released in 2012 or earlier, essentially bricking them. Users will still be able to read currently downloaded books on the device, but to add new books, they will need to connect the device to a computer. This is a huge hit, especially to Libby users who need web service access to read borrowed books.

The affected Kindles include:

Kindle (1st generation)
Kindle (2nd generation)
Kindle DX
Kindle DX Graphite
Kindle Keyboard
Kindle 4
Kindle Touch
Kindle 5
Kindle Paperwhite (1st generation)

Owners of these Kindle models are obviously upset, as it means they’ll need to purchase a new device to maintain access to all features. While some are considering switching to a different e-reader, like a Kobo, Amazon still makes great e-readers, and it’s a testament to the brand that devices that are at least 14 years old are still going strong.

Which Kindle is right for you?

If you’re concerned about buying the newest tech, that’s not an issue. There are six updated Kindle models for sale, as well as older editions still in stock.

Before you choose a Kindle, you need to ask one question first: Do you want it to be waterproof? If you prefer reading near a body of water — whether in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach — that immediately narrows down your options. Since the Kindle Oasis is no longer available, your waterproof options are the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.

close-up view of the Kindle Paperwhite Signature edition settings screen

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature edition settings screen.
Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Beyond water resistance, here are a few other features to consider:

Display size: The basic Kindle has a 6-inch display, while the largest has a 10.2-inch display.
Storage capacity: Kindles range from 16GB to 32GB of storage capacity.
Battery life: The new Kindles generally have outstanding batteries. On the low end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while others last up to 12 weeks.
Writing capability: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that allows you to write with the included stylus.

The latest Kindles all boast a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution display with zero glare, so you can enjoy sharp text and images at any viewing angle. Kindles are also equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to download all the reading material you could ever want. Plus, you can listen to audiobooks on Audible via the built-in Bluetooth connection.

Not to mention, out of all the e-readers I’ve tested, Kindles have the best compatibility with Libby. I love the digital platform because I can read for free and support my local library. Some other e-readers require you to download your library e-book to a computer and then upload it to an e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent straight to your device with a click.

And if you were a die-hard Kindle Oasis fan and are attached to page-turning buttons, you may need to stray from the Kindle line-up. Now, your best bet will be the Kobo Libra Colour.

How to get free e-books on Kindle

A screenshot of a Libby app being downloaded on Kindle

With just a click, transfer your Libby e-book to your Kindle device.
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

A screenshot of a Libby book being downloaded into the Kindle library.

Your Libby ebook will automatically populate in your Kindle library.
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

The best way to read free e-books on a Kindle is with Libby. Libby allows you to borrow e-books through libraries, and all you need is a library card. Through the Libby app, borrow books and then select the “read with Kindle” option, which allows you to send these e-books to your Kindle library.

Another option for finding free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These are author-driven events that offer limited-time deals on e-books, often making them heavily discounted or totally free.

How to make the most of your Kindle

Through our testing and daily use, we’ve spent a lot of time with Kindles, learning how to make the most of them. We’ve written extensively on all the ways to maximize your Kindle, so be sure to browse through our guides and explainers: