Key Points
- EPUB is one of the most popular e-book formats and is supported by almost all e-readers.
- The PocketBook InkPad Lite is ranked as the best overall EPUB reader and supports 18 other e-book formats.
- The Kindle Scribe is the best EPUB reader with a pen for annotating books and writing notes.
- The Moaan inkPalm 5 is a mini EPUB reader with a 5.2-inch screen and Bluetooth and USB import options.
- The Kobo Libra 2 is the best EPUB reader with page turns and has a waterproof design.
- The 2022 Amazon Kindle is a budget-friendly EPUB reader with 16GB of storage and adjustable brightness.
- When choosing an EPUB reader, consider supported content types, comfort, build quality, special features, and affordability.
Folks who consider joining the digital book revolution often find that most of their downloaded e-books are EPUB.
This is one of the most popular e-book formats, and almost all e-readers support it. However, finding the right device from the myriad of options can be challenging.
If you don’t want to waste time comparing specs, check our ranking for the best EPUB readers you can buy today.
- Best Overall: PocketBook InkPad Lite
- Best EPUB Reader with Pen: Kindle Scribe
- Best Mini: Moaan inkPalm 5
- Best with Page Turns: Kobo Libra 2
- Best Budget-Friendly: 2022 Amazon Kindle
#1 Best Overall: PocketBook InkPad Lite
- Large e-ink screen 9.7"
- Glare-free and eye-friendly
- Wi-Fi
- Adjustable SMARTlight
- Micro SD slot
- For kids, adults, and seniors
The PocketBook InkPad Lite is one of the best EPUB readers for those who want expandable memory and cloud storage.
This device has a memory storage capacity of only 8GB, but it includes a microSD slot that allows for easy expansion. You can also save your files on the cloud and only download them when you want to read them. Aside from EPUB, the reader supports other 18 types of e-book formats, two comic book formats, and four graphic formats, including DOC, PDF, and JPEG.
The reader’s anti-glare screen measures 9.7 inches diagonally and is large enough for easy reading. You can adjust the font size, while the SMARTlight feature adjusts the brightness and color temperature automatically, based on the ambient light conditions.
Side buttons enable easy navigation, while a position sensor allows for automatic screen rotation. This feature makes the tablet user-friendly for right- and left-handed users alike.
The reader doesn’t support text-to-speech, and it can’t play audiobooks, but if you don’t need these functions, you can’t go wrong with this option. Connectivity options include USB and Wi-Fi.
Check out the PocketBook InkPad Lite on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The 9.7-inch screen is glare-free and the paper-like surface allows you to read comfortably in bright light. | This reader doesn’t include a text-to-speech function and it cannot play audiobooks. |
| The reader supports EPUB and 18 other e-book formats. | |
| The automatic screen rotation allows left-handed users to flip the reader and use its navigation buttons comfortably. |
Best EPUB Reader with Pen: Kindle Scribe
- 64GB
- Premium pen included
- Fabric folio cover with magnetic attach
- Black
- Power adapter included
Amazon’s latest e-reader, the Kindle Scribe, is ideal for those who want to add sticky notes to their EPUB files.
The device is primarily designed to work with Amazon Kindle formats, but it supports a variety of other e-book types, including EPUB, PDF, DOC, and TXT. Books and personal documents that are not downloaded from the Kindle Store are easy to import via your Send-to-Kindle email.
Designed to hold your entire library, this Kindle Scribe comes with 64GB of internal storage capacity. Once sent to your Kindle account, the documents and files are saved on a cloud, so you can remove the downloads to free up space on the device and re-download them whenever you want without having to import them again.
The writing functions allow you to annotate books, write sticky notes, or review and mark up documents. When done, you can export the files and notes via email. The included premium pen doesn’t need charging, it requires no setup and comes with a convenient eraser.
This reader has a huge 10.2-inch screen and also supports audiobooks, but it doesn’t have a page turn button, and for writing documents, you can only use the device’s pre-loaded templates.
You can find the Kindle Scribe on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You can use this e-reader for reading EPUB books or taking notes. | The reader doesn’t allow you to import or create your own writing templates. |
| Up to 64GB of internal memory and cloud storage allow you to import and download a full library. | |
| Importing files from your computer or mobile devices is easy. |
Best Mini: Moaan inkPalm 5
- 5.2" e-ink screen
- Wi-Fi
- Adjustable brightness
- For adults, kids, and seniors
- Grey
The Moaan inkPalm 5 is about the size of a mobile phone, and it is your best choice if you need an EPUB reader that can fit in your pocket.
Its screen measures 5.2 inches diagonally, making the device perfect for reading on the go. It is also ideal for children and folks who can hold a larger or heavier device for a long time.
Despite its small size, this model comes with all the features expected from a good EPUB reader. You get an anti-glare E-Ink screen that mimics paper, 24 levels of cool and warm reading light, and adjustable font size. This portable electronic library features 32GB of storage and allows you to import books and files via Bluetooth and USB.
This EPUB reader is based on Android and also allows you to install third-party apps. The only downsides are the processing speed and the fact that most preinstalled apps are Chinese, so setting it up can take some time.
Have a look at the Moaan inkPalm 5 on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The 5.2-inch reader fits seamlessly in a pocket. | Most of the preinstalled apps are Chinese, but you can download and install other third-party apps. |
| You can store over 10,000 books on this reader. | |
| The E-Ink screen and adjustable brightness and light temperature make it easy to read in bright light. |
Best with Page Turns: Kobo Libra 2
- 7" glare-free touchscreen
- Waterproof
- Adjustable brightness and color temperature
- Blue light reduction
- Wi-Fi
- 32GB storage
- Carta E-ink technology
The Kobo Libra 2 is one of the best EPUB readers that offers you the possibility to use page turns and read in portrait and landscape mode.
The landscape mode is ideal for left-handed users, as the buttons could be difficult to reach otherwise. Despite this inconvenience, the reader comes with loads of awesome features.
One of the main highlights is the waterproof design. You can read anywhere, including in a tub. The IPX8 rating allows you to keep the reader immersed in six feet of water for up to an hour. The 32GB of storage is enough to download a full library, including audiobooks that you can listen to if you pair the reader with a Bluetooth speaker or headphones.
Size-wise, the 7-inch screen is large enough to ensure easy reading while keeping the device compact enough for easy transport. We also like the brightness and color temperature adjustments, as well as the Dark Mode, which can help you rest your eyes when reading in low light.
The main downside is that it doesn’t sync very well with Kobo’s PC or mobile apps, especially if the books were not purchased from the Kobo Store. It also lacks accessories (such as covers and the like) compared to other brands.
Check out the Kobo Libra 2 on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This is one of the few EPUB readers that can be immersed in water. | Kobo offers mobile and PC reading apps in addition to its reader, but the device has synchronization issues. |
| You can read in portrait or landscape mode and use the page turns to move back and forth through the book. | |
| The Dark Mode and blue light filter prevent eye strain. |
Best Budget-Friendly: 2022 Amazon Kindle (with Ads)
- 300 PPI display (glare-free, paper-like)
- A single charge via USB-C lasts up to 6 weeks
- 16GB of storage
- Access to Kindle Unlimited with over 2 million titles
If you need an EPUB reader but don’t want to spend a lot, the 2022 Amazon Kindle is your best bet.
This device supports the same formats as the Kindle Scribe, so you can use it to read EPUB, PDF, and DOC files. You won’t be able to write annotations or create sticky notes, but this reader costs a fraction of the price of most other options.
Capacity-wise, the 16GB of internal storage gives you enough space for downloading lots of e-books. Alternatively, you can save your downloaded files in the cloud. Like all Kindle readers, this model syncs with the Kindle app so you can access your books from your PC or a mobile device.
Measuring 6 inches diagonally, this reader fits easily in a bag or larger pocket. The screen isn’t paper-like, but it’s glare-free and you can adjust the color temperature and brightness. Other highlights include Audible support via Bluetooth and parental control features.
The device is offered with or without Lockscreen ads (the option with ads is more expensive). We don’t like that it doesn’t come with a charger and the interface isn’t the most user-friendly, but it’s a good choice if you want to save a buck.
Find the 2022 Kindle on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This is one of the best EPUB readers under $100. | You must purchase the charger separately, and the ads can be annoying. |
| The 6-inch glare-free screen has adjustable brightness and color temperature. | |
| If you don’t mind spending a bit more, you can purchase the device without Lockscreen ads. |
©New Africa/Shutterstock.com
How to Pick the Best EPUB Reader: Step-by-Step
When buying an EPUB reader, there are five main considerations for most users.
- Supported content types
- Comfort
- Build quality
- Special features
- Affordability
Let’s see how each of these factors can affect your decision-making.
Supported Content Types
Unless you’re using Amazon Kindle, most new e-book readers download their books in EPUB format. Almost all e-readers on the market support this file format, but chances are you’ll want to use the device to read other file types as well.
A few crucial formats your reader should support, aside from EPUB, include PDF, DOC, and TXT. Some readers also support the now outdated MOBI files, but if you want to open AZW files (and other Amazon formats), you have to settle for a Kindle device.
If you mostly read comic books or like listening to audiobooks, make sure the model you want supports these file types.
Comfort
Two of the most crucial factors to consider when assessing comfort is the size and weight of the device. Smaller readers are obviously easier to hold, especially if you have small hands.
People suffering from hand pain or wrist issues should opt for a lightweight reader, or holding the device for extended periods can become difficult. If the reader has page-turner buttons, you should also consider their placement.
Left-handed people should also consider whether the image flips so that they can use the buttons with their dominant hand.
Build Quality
Before settling on an EPUB reader, consider its overall build quality. Pick a reader with an anti-glare and preferably paper-like display. The brightness and light temperature should be adjustable, and you should also consider whether you need a Dark Mode. The buttons should feel solidly built and easy to press, and the user interface should be easy to navigate. If the brand offers PC and mobile reading apps in addition to readers, make sure the device syncs easily with the apps.
Special Features
Some e-readers come with special features, such as a waterproof design or writing features. A waterproof design is ideal for those who like to read in the bathtub or at the beach. If you like to annotate books, you should consider a reader that allows you to take notes or write documents.
Affordability
E-reader prices can vary from under $100 to over $300. If you’re on a tight budget, a simple reader that supports EPUB files can save you some money. Special features such as waterproofness or note-taking increase the costs, but you generally also get more internal storage, better performance, and sometimes even accessories.
What to Know Before Buying an EPUB Reader
Before you go and grab an EPUB reader, you should consider the screen size, weight, display quality, battery life, and storage. Cheaper e-readers usually have 8GB to 16GB of storage and a good but not exceptional display.
Readers with e-ink print simulation technology (such as the Kindle Paperwhite and similar models) are the best option if you read a lot. These screens are similar to printed paper in terms of eye fatigue and they allow you to further reduce eye strain by adjusting the brightness and light temperature. Some of the best EPUB readers also have Dark Modes and blue light filters, which are great for reading at night.
Before buying an EPUB reader, you should also consider whether the brand offers separate reading apps and where you can download e-books from.
Amazon, for instance, offers the Kindle app that you can use on mobile devices and the PC. The app syncs automatically across all platforms (including your Kindle device, as long as you’re signed into your account), so you can easily switch from the app to the Kindle device and vice versa.
Kobo also offers mobile and PC apps, but the e-reader might fail to sync. Kobo also prevents you from borrowing e-books from your library if the title is not found in the Kobo Store. Amazon only allows you to buy e-books from the Kindle Store, or you can borrow them through Kindle Unlimited or Amazon Prime, but you can send any book or supported file to your account via email.
Using an EPUB Reader: What It’s Like
An EPUB reader is a game-changer if you’re into e-books but have always used reading apps on your smartphone or tablet. The reader’s anti-glare screen makes it easy to read in bright light without straining your eyes. Devices with an e-ink display take things a step further, providing about the same reading experience as a traditional book.
Internal storage and cloud features allow you to store an entire library on a single device. Without a doubt, investing in a reader is worthwhile if you want to keep all of your books accessible wherever you are.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Erlo Brown/Shutterstock.com.
