Overall Findings

This article compares iPad 7th generation, iPad mini 5th generation, Kindle 8th generation, Kindle PaperWhite 10th generation, NOOK GlowLight 3, and NOOK Tablet 7" 2018 edition.

Before you buy a device for reading e-books, have a clear idea of what you want in the device and what each product offers. For example, are you looking for:

These devices are available from third-party sellers and the Apple Certified Refurbished site for less than the original launch price.

  • A thin, lightweight device dedicated to reading?A device that offers good visibility even in difficult environments, such as in the dark or in direct sun?A full-featured tablet that offers e-book reading along with web browsing, video streaming, and gaming?A device under $200?

Size and Weight: iPad Leads the Pack

With e-readers, it’s all about where you plan to use the device. If you travel or commute, a small and light device like the Kindle may be the better choice. If you need a device that you can read on and use as a mobile computer, the iPad at nearly 10 x 7 inches and more than a pound may be what you need.

Display: Retina Display Is Impressive

There’s no question that the Apple Retina display is amazingly crisp and clear. The question is, do you need such a display if you only read books? To be fair, the iPad and iPad Mini aren’t e-readers. These devices are tablets on which you can read books. So, before you spend money on a full-featured tablet, make sure it’s what you need.

Cameras: You’ll Need a Tablet for That

Cameras aren’t necessary for an e-reader but are standard on tablets. The iPad and iPad mini feature an 8-megapixel camera capable of panoramas, exposure control, geotagging, image stabilization, and 1080p high-definition (HD) video recording. These also have an HD front-facing camera for FaceTime calls. This front-facing camera takes 1.2-megapixel photos and 720p HD videos (iPad) or 7-megapixel photos and 1080p HD videos (iPad mini).

The NOOK Tablet 7" also has two cameras: a front-facing VGA camera and a rear-facing 2-megapixel camera. So, if you want a camera, look beyond a simple e-reader like Kindle or NOOK GlowLight.

Networking: The Field Narrows

Networking is where the field narrows among all these devices. All of these devices have Wi-Fi capability. The iPad, iPad mini, and Kindle PaperWhite give you the option of 4G LTE connectivity on the go, as well.

Intangibles and Extras: Tablets for the Win

When considering devices, keep these factors in mind:

Final Verdict: It’s All About What You Need

When you’re deciding which e-reader–capable device to buy, consider more than specs and price. After all, a device that does more of what you want and costs a bit more is a better option.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Hit Refresh on Your Tech News

  • About Us

  • Privacy Policy

  • Editorial Guidelines

  • Terms of Use

  • Careers

  • Advertise

  • Contact

  • EU Privacy

  • NEWS

  • HOW TO

  • FEATURES

  • ABOUT US