Choosing the right e-reader for 2026
If productivity matters in the new year, hardware choices should matter too. We look at four ebook readers that prioritise focus, comfort and long-form reading
For many of us, the new year begins with ambition — we will get productive this year, we will read dozens of books, we will conquer the world. But only a handful can reach the goal.
Our screens distract us. Paperbacks pile up half-read on bedside tables.
One simple change can help in this regard; a good ebook reader removes friction. It keeps books close by, reduces eye strain, and makes reading easier to return to after a long day. For some readers, it becomes the nudge that turns intention into habit.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Ebook readers are no longer novelty gadgets. They are tools, shaped for versatile groups of readers. Some love ebook readers for their simplicity, while others enjoy the portability. Below are four of the strongest contenders you can consider going into the new year.
Kindle (2024)
The standard Kindle remains the most affordable way into dedicated e-reading. The 2024 model changes little from its predecessor, but it does not need to. It has a compact six-inch screen, sharp text, and a design that slips easily into a bag or coat pocket. The display is brighter than before and evenly lit, which helps when reading in mixed lighting.
This Kindle is best for readers who want something straightforward. It does not have waterproofing or warm lighting. Page turns are slower than on more expensive models. That said, it is light, reliable, and easy to live with. Battery life stretches to weeks rather than days.
Amazon's ecosystem is both its strength and its limit. Buying books is effortless and often inexpensive, especially during sales. Library borrowing works well with Libby. Reading files from other stores is possible, but it requires extra steps. If you want a simple device that does one job well, this Kindle still makes sense.
The device starts at around Tk17,000 for the base 16 GB storage variant.
Kindle Paperwhite (2024)
The Kindle Paperwhite is the point where convenience meets comfort. The larger seven-inch display gives text more room to breathe. The adjustable warm light reduces glare in the evening. Waterproofing makes it suitable for carefree reading by the water.
The latest version is faster and sharper than before. Text contrast is excellent. Battery life is among the best in its class. There is also a Signature Edition with wireless charging and automatic brightness control, though many readers will not need those extras.
The Paperwhite suits readers already invested in Amazon's store. Kindle deals are frequent. Prime Reading adds value. The drawback remains format support. Reading books bought elsewhere is not seamless. The device is also slightly large for one-handed use. Even so, for most Kindle buyers, this is the best balance of features and price.
The base 16 GB variant of the Kindle Paperwhite is available at around Tk25,000.
Kobo Libra Colour
The Kobo Libra Colour is the most versatile reader on this list. It offers a colour E Ink display, physical page turn buttons, and broad file support. Book covers, illustrations, and comics benefit from gentle colour, even if it remains muted compared to a tablet.
Kobo avoids lock screen adverts and supports open formats such as Epub. Borrowing from libraries through Overdrive is easier than on Kindle. The device also works with a stylus, sold separately, allowing notes and highlights in colour. This turns the Libra Colour into a light reading notebook, though the screen is small for extended writing.
It definitely costs more than a Paperwhite, but it is reasonable considering its edge over the Paperwhite. Readers who value openness, buttons, and colour will find it rewarding.
You can get the Kobo Libra Colour's 32 GB variant for an approximate price of Tk35,000.
Boox Palma 2
The Boox Palma 2 takes a different approach. It is shaped like a smartphone but uses an E Ink screen. It runs Android, which means it can install reading apps from multiple stores.
This flexibility comes at a steep price though. The Palma 2 is expensive for its size, and despite coming with Android, typing and navigation are slower than on a phone. It is best used as a reading companion rather than a general device. Where it shines is in moments between tasks. Reading a few pages while waiting or commuting feels natural on a device that fits in one hand.
This is a niche option, but a compelling one for readers who value portability above all else and want access to several platforms without carrying a larger reader.
The base model, with 6GB RAM and 128 GB storage, is priced at around Tk31,000.
