Which Kindle should I buy?

Amazon's Kindle is the big name in ebook readers. But how do you choose between the several Kindle models available? And is the most expensive Kindle the best? 

All of Amazon's Kindle ebook readers and tablets can be used to read ebooks, and most can be used to browse the web. But beyond that, there's a world of difference between the devices, from screen sizes and internal storage to price point. 

The Kindle range starts at £85 for the basic model, going up to £330 for the Kindle Scribe. Read on to learn about the key differences between each of the main Kindle releases and find the right one for you.

Just want to know which models perform the best in our tough tests? Head straight to our pick of the best ebook readers.

Amazon Kindle reviews

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How do Kindle ebook readers work?

Kindle ebook readers use e-ink screens designed to closely imitate the look of printed text in a paperback.

E-ink requires very little battery power to display text, which means that the average battery life of an ebook reader is much longer than a tablet. Some ebook readers can run for weeks at a time without a charge, although using the built-in light available on the Oasis and Paperwhite models will reduce this somewhat.

Kindles, and all other E Ink-based devices, are limited to greyscale, meaning they'll only display white and various shades of grey. Obviously, this means that illustrations won’t display in colour – and nor will websites. 

E-ink screens don’t support video playback, either because they refresh too slowly.

Find out more about Amazon's Kindle range - see all of our Kindle reviews.

What formats can a Kindle open?

Previously, Kindles could only open ebooks in Amazon's exclusive AZW format. This meant only books bought from Amazon could be read on a Kindle, unlike other ebook readers, such as those made by Kobo, that can open Epub files, which is an open standard and can be used for buying books from third-party stores as well as 'borrowing' titles from your local library using Overdrive.

But as of 2022 Amazon supports ePub only via conversion. This means customers must use Send-to-Kindle for Web or on iOS and Android to transfer ePub files on to the device.

Do I need a 4G Kindle?

The Kindle Paperwhite and Kindle Oasis models are are available in two different versions: a wi-fi-only model or a variation with access to wi-fi and 4G internet. The latter is usually around £60 more expensive, but prices vary.

Getting an ebook reader with 4G access will allow you to download books wherever you are, and there’s no additional monthly cost as Amazon pays for its own 4G connection. 4G connectivity is only truly worth it if you know you'll buy lots of books when you’re on the move, or if you don't have wi-fi in your home.

Can I listen to music or audio on a Kindle?

Yes, both the Paperwhite and Oasis support audiobooks from Audible. If you switch from reading to listening, your progress will be synchronised so you can seamlessly carry on from where you left off. 

However, both devices only support wireless headphones; there's no headphone jack on either device. Both devices also support text-to-speech if no audiobook is available.

What is Amazon Kindle unlimited?

Amazon Kindle Unlimited is a subscription service that gives you access to over one million book titles, thousands of audiobooks and select magazine subscriptions. You can access it on any device, whether it's a Kindle, tablet or smartphone. 

Amazon Kindle Unlimited costs £9.49 per month, and you can cancel at any time. You can sign up for a 30-day free trial to see if you like it before parting with your cash. But note that the subscription will automatically renew after the free trail - charging you £9.49 per month if you don't cancel.

So is Amazon Kindle Unlimited worth it? If you find yourself reading at least one book per month, it's likely to work out to be the cheaper option. During your 30-day trial, explore which titles are available too to make sure the types of books you want are included. Click to go to Kindle Unlimited.

Can I just get an app for my phone or tablet instead?

You might be tempted to opt for an ebook app to use on your phone or tablet, rather than forking out for a separate device.

Tablets and phones aren't as comfortable to use for long periods of time as an ebook reader, as they're heavier and have glaring LED screens. However, they should still be fine for shorter stints. 

Both Amazon and Kobo have apps so you can access your library from any device. Google Play and Apple iBooks also offer their own book stores, adding yet more choice for reading on your phone.

Read best ebook stores for price to find out which ebook stores give you the best value for money.

What about Amazon Fire tablets?

Amazon Fire tablets use full-colour, high-resolution LCD touchscreens. This means you can watch videos, play games, send emails and browse websites exactly as you would on another type of tablet. 

The downside is that LCD screens aren’t as comfortable to use for reading as an ebook reader’s e-ink display, especially for longer periods. Reading on a sunny day might be particularly difficult because of on-screen glare.

Battery life can be another issue, with tablets requiring a recharge long before ebook readers. Ultimately, it’s a trade-off, with Kindle Fire tablets offering many more functions, but being slightly harder to read from.

Now you know more about Kindles, find out how they perform in our tough tests alongside their rivals. See our expert ebook reader reviews.