Choosing a Kindle is just the start. Once you have your Kindle, there's so much you can do to make the most of it. 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.
So, after extensive testing, reading so many books, and attending BookCon, I created this guide to the best Kindles to buy in 2026.
Meet the new 2026 Kindles
On Oct. 1, Amazon announced a redesign of the entire Kindle collection. Before the launch, Mashable's tech editor, Timothy Beck Werth, went hands-on with the devices, seeing their vivid new colors like ube, as well as the new aluminum casings on some of the e-readers. Here are all the new Kindle e-readers:
Kindle (16GB) — $149.99 to $169.99
Kindle, Aluminum (32GB) — $189.99
Kindle Paperwhite (16GB) — $199.99 to $219.99
Kindle Colorsoft (16GB) — $289.99
Kindle Kids (16GB) — $179.99
Kindle Kids Paperwhite (16GB) — $229.99
Kindle Kids Colorsoft (16GB) — $299.99
Kindle Click page turner — $34.99
Kindle Page Turn Cover — $79.99
2026 Kindle price increases
For years, Kindle prices have stayed stable, but in August 2026, they finally got an increase. Every model except the Kindle Scribe received a price increase. We can thank RAMageddon, as an Amazon spokesperson said that the increased prices are a result of "significant increases in memory and storage component costs." Here's a breakdown of all the new Kindle prices
More 2026 Kindle updates
As of May 20, 2026, Amazon 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.
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
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:
How to make the most of your Kindle: 8 features you need to use
What is Stuff Your Kindle Day? The best way to fill your e-reader with free books
I've read hundreds of free Kindle books with Libby. Here's how.
What is Kindle Rewards? Earn free credits when shopping the Kindle store
What is Kindle Unlimited? A library of books at your fingertips for just $12 a month
Where to get free e-books: Load up your e-reader without spending a dime
Prime members can get a free e-book every month with Amazon First Reads