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Did you know the average American reads about 12 books a year? Now, imagine carrying all those (and more) in your pocket without worrying about space or price. That’s the great thing about affordable e-readers! In this list, we are looking at the 7 best budget e-readers of 2025, all costing less than $150. Whether you are a student saving money, a reader who enjoys books for fun, or someone who likes a good deal, you will find something here for you.

If you want to save more, be sure to look at our /category/deals/ section. Here, we follow the newest offers on e-readers and cool tech. Getting a good deal while it lasts is always great!

And if you want to know everything about e-readers, from the cheap ones to the more expensive choices, go to our guide on the Best E-Readers of 2025. Enjoy your reading!

Top 7 Budget-Friendly E-readers Under $150

1. Kindle Basic Model

I’ve been using the Amazon Kindle basic for a few months now, and honestly? It’s been a solid little reading buddy. At around $109.99, it’s an easy, no-fuss way to dive into the e-reader world without spending a fortune.

One of my favorite things? The 6-inch glare-free display. It makes reading outside so much easier, no more awkwardly tilting the screen or squinting under the sun. Plus, with 16GB of storage, I’ve got a mini library in my hands at all times. And let’s talk about the front light, absolute lifesaver for late-night reading without disturbing anyone.

Feature	Specification
Price	$109.99
Display	6″ glare-free 300 ppi
Storage	16GB
Lighting	Adjustable Front light
Waterproof	No

Friendly Tip: Grab a cheap waterproof case for poolside reading!

While it lacks some premium features, this Kindle is perfect for readers who want a no-frills device that simply gets the job done. It’s like having a bookstore in your pocket, minus the fancy cappuccino machine.

2. Kindle Paperwhite 12th Generation (2024)

The Kobo Clara Color brings the joy of reading to life with its vivid color e-ink display. At Price not available, this e-reader offers a premium experience for those who want more than just black-and-white text.

The 6″ Kaleido™ Plus display combines crisp HD resolution with the ability to showcase subtle yet vibrant colors, making it perfect for graphic novels, magazines, and illustrated books. ComfortLight PRO technology ensures your reading experience is gentle on the eyes, while its compact design makes it ideal for on-the-go use.

Feature	Specification
Price	$142.99
Display	6″ Kaleido™ Plus 300 ppi
Storage	16 GB
Lighting	ComfortLight PRO
Waterproof	No

Pro Tip: If you enjoy graphic novels or magazines, the Kaleido™ Plus color display is a game-changer, bringing visuals to life like never before!

The Kobo Clara Color is perfect for readers who value a rich, multimedia reading experience. While it comes at a slightly higher price and lacks waterproofing, its vibrant display and versatile functionality make it a standout choice in its class.

4. Kindle Oasis International

If you’re looking for a premium reading experience, the Kindle Oasis International is the one to beat. It’s sleek, powerful, and packed with high-end features that make reading an absolute pleasure.

The 7” high-resolution display (300 PPI) is gorgeous, text looks incredibly crisp, almost like reading a real book. The ergonomic design is another win, with physical page-turn buttons that make flipping through pages feel effortless. And let’s not forget the auto-adjusting light sensors, which tweak brightness based on your environment so you don’t have to constantly adjust it yourself.

With 32 GB of storage, you’ll never run out of space for your digital library. Plus, the IPX8 waterproof rating means you can read in the bath, by the pool, or even in the rain without worrying about damage. It’s a bit of a splurge, but if you want the best of the best, the Oasis delivers.

Feature	Specification
Price	Price not available
Display	7″ 300ppi
Storage	32GB
Page-turn	Physical buttons
Lighting	25 LEDs with auto-adjusting warmth
Waterproof	IPX8 rated (2 meters, 60 min)

The Kindle Oasis International excels with its premium build quality and advanced features. While it comes at a higher price point, it offers significant advantages for serious readers who want the best possible e-reading experience. The device is particularly well-suited for those who value premium features like the larger screen, auto-adjusting light, and waterproofing, along with access to Amazon’s extensive ebook ecosystem.

5. Kobo Clara BW

The Kobo Clara BW has quickly become my go-to e-reader. It’s the perfect blend of power and portability without any unnecessary bells and whistles.

The first thing that stood out? The 6” HD display. It’s sharp, clear, and just makes reading feel effortless. But what really seals the deal for me is the ComfortLight PRO. Being able to adjust the brightness and color temperature is a game-changer, whether I’m reading outside in bright sunlight or curled up in bed, my eyes never feel strained. Plus, the built-in blue light filter means I can read at night without messing with my sleep.

Storage has also seen an upgrade this year, with 16 GB of space, plenty of room for thousands of books. And if you’re like me and love borrowing from the library, the OverDrive integration makes it super easy to check out ebooks without needing extra devices.

Feature	Specification
Price	$150.28
Display	6″ 212 ppi
Storage	16GB
Lighting	Adjustable front light
Ecosystem	Kobo store
Waterproof	No

Pro Tip: The Kobo store often has great deals on e-books, so keep an eye out for savings to build your library!

The Kobo Clara BW is a fantastic e-reader, offering a solid balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. The larger storage and seamless library integration make it an even better choice for avid readers, while its lightweight design ensures it’s easy to carry and use. If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly e-reader, the Clara BW is hard to beat.

6. PocketBook Basic Lux 4

The PocketBook Basic Lux 4 surprised me in the best way. If you just want a simple, no-frills e-reader that gets the job done, this one’s a gem. It’s affordable, easy to use, and checks all the essential boxes.

The 6” E Ink Carta display is sharp and clear, even in bright sunlight, which is a huge plus if you like reading outdoors. The Smartlight feature is another nice touch, it lets you tweak the screen’s brightness and color temperature depending on the time of day. Whether it’s early morning or late at night, you can adjust it for a comfortable reading experience.

With 8 GB of storage, you might think it’s a little limited, but honestly, that’s more than enough for hundreds of books. And the best part? It supports multiple formats, so whether you’re reading PDFs, EPUBs, or MOBIs, you’re good to go. It’s lightweight, easy to hold, and great for reading on the go.

Feature	Specification
Price	$119.00
Display	6″ E Ink Carta, 800 x 600
Storage	8GB Expandable (MicroSD)
Lighting	Smartlight (adjustable)
File Support	Multi-format
Waterproof	No

The PocketBook Basic Lux 4 is a great option for anyone looking for a no-frills e-reader that delivers reliable performance at a very affordable price. It’s perfect for casual readers or those just starting out with e-books. The customizable lighting, wide format support, and lightweight design make it a solid choice for an entry-level device.

7. Barnes & Noble Nook Glowlight 4e

If you’re after a no-fuss, budget-friendly e-reader, the Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 4e is definitely worth a look. It keeps things simple without skimping on comfort. The 6-inch E Ink display (212 PPI) delivers crisp, easy-to-read text, and the adjustable front light means you can read comfortably whether it’s midday or midnight. One thing I love? The physical page-turn buttons, there’s just something satisfying about clicking to the next page instead of tapping a screen.

Storage-wise, you get 8 GB (5 GB usable), which is enough for a solid collection of books. It supports ePub and PDF formats, so you won’t run into annoying compatibility issues. Plus, it’s lightweight and comfortable to hold, making it a solid choice for anyone who just wants an easy-to-use e-reader without spending a fortune.

Feature	Specification
Price	$129.99
Display	6″ E Ink, 212 PPI
Operating System	Android
Storage	8 GB (approximately 5 GB usable)
Lighting	Adjustable front light
File Support	ePub, PDF
Waterproof	No

Why Go for a Budget-Friendly E-Reader?

Alright, let’s talk e-readers. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent way too much time debating whether you need the fanciest, most high-tech device out there. I used to think I did. Spoiler alert: I absolutely did not.

First up, let’s talk money. I used to drop a ridiculous amount on paperbacks every month. Now? I have an entire library at my fingertips without wrecking my budget. Seriously, these budget-friendly e-readers have been a total game-changer.

And it’s not just about saving cash. Ever tried reading on a regular tablet? It’s like trying to focus in the middle of a theme park, notifications, social media, a million distractions. A dedicated e-reader? Just you and your book. No buzzing, no pop-ups, no “just one more scroll” moments. Your attention span will thank you.

Now, here’s the kicker, these affordable e-readers aren’t the clunky, slow devices they used to be. The tech has leveled up big time. Crisp text, adjustable lighting, and battery life that lasts for weeks (yes, weeks). You get all the must-have features without the “why did I just spend my rent money on this?” regret.

Oh, and let’s not forget the sheer joy of free and discounted e-books. It’s basically a treasure hunt. I’ve snagged bestsellers for pocket change and discovered hidden gems without feeling guilty about my book-buying addiction.

Pro Tip: Look for e-readers with E Ink technology. It’s way easier on the eyes for long reading sessions and works like a charm in bright sunlight.

Want to level up your reading game even more? Check out E-Reader Accessories Every Reader Needs in 2025. Trust me, a good case and a clip-on light can make all the difference.

Now, I won’t lie, you might miss how a real book feels. The smell of new pages and the satisfaction of turning them… I understand that. But for the ease, the savings, and the number of books you can carry at one time? It’s a choice I’ll gladly make.

Bottom line, if you love reading but don’t want to spend a fortune (or if you’re just trying to declutter your space), a budget-friendly e-reader is 100% worth it in 2025. It’s basically like having a personal library in your pocket, minus the overdue fees. Your wallet, and your overflowing bookshelves, will thank you.

Key Features to Look for in Budget-Friendly E-readers

Alright, fellow bookworms, let’s talk about budget-friendly e-readers, because let’s be real, not all of us are ready to drop serious cash on a Kindle Oasis. After testing out a few (some good, some… not so much), I’ve figured out what actually matters when picking a solid e-reader without blowing your budget.

Screen Type & Size: Go for E Ink

First thing’s first, screen type. If you’ve ever tried reading on an LCD screen for hours, you know the struggle. I remember squinting at one like I was trying to decipher a secret code. Not fun. E Ink, on the other hand, mimics real paper and doesn’t blast blue light into your eyeballs. Definitely a must.

As for size, a 6-inch screen is the sweet spot for portability while still being easy on the eyes. If you like a bigger display, some budget models go up to 7 or 8 inches, but expect to pay a little extra.

Resolution: Clarity Matters

Ever tried reading through a foggy window? That’s what a low-res screen feels like. Aim for at least 167 PPI (pixels per inch), but if you can score 300 PPI without breaking the bank, your eyes will thank you.

Built-in Lighting: A Game Changer

Remember those clunky clip-on book lights? Yeah, me too. Built-in front lights make night reading so much easier without annoying anyone sleeping next to you. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Storage: More Than You Think

Most budget e-readers come with 8GB, which is honestly plenty unless you’re hoarding a whole library. But if you love comics, PDFs, or image-heavy books, consider 16GB or more, those files take up way more space.

Battery Life: Weeks, Not Hours

One of the best things about e-readers? The insane battery life. I once forgot my charger on a two-week trip and still had juice left when I got home. Look for something that lasts at least 4 weeks per charge.

Quick Feature Comparison:

Feature	Good	Better	Best
Screen	6″ E Ink	6-7″ E Ink	7-8″ E Ink
Resolution	167 PPI	212 PPI	300 PPI
Storage	4GB	8GB	16GB+
Battery	2 weeks	4 weeks	6+ weeks

File Support: Don’t Get Locked In

Some e-readers keep you stuck with their system (like Kindle), so look for support for EPUB, PDF, and MOBI formats. This way, you can get books from different places.

Pro Tip: If the e-reader has Wi-Fi, it’s a game-changer for downloading books instantly or syncing progress across devices.

Build Quality: Cheap Doesn’t Have to Feel Cheap

Just because it’s budget-friendly doesn’t mean it should feel flimsy. Look for something with a solid grip and responsive page-turn buttons (or at least a smooth touchscreen).

At the end of the day, picking the right e-reader is like finding the perfect book, it takes a little searching, but once you find “the one,” it’s totally worth it. Happy reading!

Getting the Most Out of Your Budget-Friendly E-reader

So, you finally got yourself a budget-friendly e-reader, nice move! Now, let’s make sure you’re squeezing every last drop of value out of that digital bookshelf.

Hunting Down Free & Discounted E-books

Finding great books without spending a fortune? It’s basically a treasure hunt, and lucky for you, I’ve got the map. First stop: Project Gutenberg, a goldmine for classics. Then there’s BookBub, which sends daily deals straight to your inbox (don’t sleep on it). Amazon and Kobo run sales all the time, I’ve snagged bestsellers for less than the price of a latte.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Resource	Type of Books	Price Range
Project Gutenberg	Classics	Free
BookBub	Various	Free – Discounted
Amazon/Kobo Sales	Bestsellers	Discounted
Library Services	Various	Free (with membership)

Battery Life: Keep the Juice Flowing

Nothing kills the vibe like your e-reader dying mid-chapter. (Ask me how I know.) Biggest battery drain? Wi-Fi. Turn it off when you’re not downloading books. Also, dim that brightness, your battery (and your eyeballs) will thank you.

Pro Tip: Most e-readers have an airplane mode. Use it to stretch battery life even further!

Protect Your Precious E-reader

Look, I once dropped mine without a case, and let’s just say it was a tragic day. A sturdy cover? Worth every penny. Screen protectors are a solid backup too, way cheaper than replacing a cracked screen.

Borrow Books for Free (Yep, Free!)

You’d be shocked how many books you can read without spending a dime. Services like OverDrive and Libby let you borrow e-books from your local library. All you need is a library card and a little patience for those popular titles.

Unlock Hidden Features

Your e-reader can do more than you may realize. It has built-in dictionaries. That’s really useful. You can take notes, too, which is great for marking your favorite quotes. You can also change fonts and layouts. This can improve your reading experience. Try different settings. You may find something that makes reading even better.

Final Thought

Just because your e-reader was a cheap purchase doesn’t mean your reading experience has to be low. With these tips, you can enjoy books like a king, even if you’re on a tight budget. Happy reading!

Budget-Friendly E-Readers vs. Tablets: Which One’s for You?

Are you trying to choose between a cheap e-reader and a tablet? Your decision should depend on the type of reading experience you want. Let’s look at both options to find out which one is better for you.

Reading Experience

E-readers? Absolute champions when it comes to reading comfort. Thanks to their E-Ink displays, they feel like reading on paper, no glare, no eye strain, just crisp, easy-to-read text. Ever tried reading a book on a tablet in bright sunlight? Yeah, not fun. Squinting, adjusting brightness, giving up, it’s a whole thing. But with an e-reader, you can read comfortably even at the beach.

Tablets, on the other hand, give you full-color, backlit screens, which are great for magazines, comics, and anything with visuals. But if you’re just diving into a novel? E-readers win, hands down.

Quick Comparison

Feature	E-Reader	Tablet
Display	E-Ink (easy on the eyes)	LCD/LED (bright, but can strain eyes)
Sunlight Readability	Excellent	Poor to fair
Color	Mostly black & white	Full color
Eye Strain	Low	Higher

Battery Life

E-readers are the battery life kings. We’re talking weeks on a single charge. Tablets? If you’re lucky, a full day with heavy use. If you’re mostly reading, do you really want to be tethered to an outlet?

Multitasking

Tablets are the best all-in-one device. You can read a book, check emails, watch a show, and scroll social media, all in one spot. But let’s be honest, sometimes all these distractions make it hard to focus. E-readers, however, are like a cozy reading nook. They are made just for books and have no distractions.

Price

• E-readers: Budget-friendly options range from $80–$150.
• Tablets: Budget models start at $50, but if you want decent performance, expect to pay upwards of $200.

The Verdict

So, which one should you get? If you want a pure reading experience with amazing battery life, grab an e-reader. If you need something more versatile and don’t mind charging it more often, a tablet’s your best bet.

Whichever way you go, happy reading!