The Best Tablets for Reading eBooks, Comics, & Manga

The best tablet for reading is one that gives a crisp, easy-to-read screen, feels light in the hand, lasts for days, and supports your favorite ebook and comic apps. Some people want e-ink for less eye strain. 

Others need a color screen for comics and magazines. Battery life and comfort can make a significant difference for someone who reads for hours.

There are many choices from brands like Amazon, Apple, and Samsung. Features like screen size, weight, and app support matter to readers of all kinds. 

This list features the top-recommended tablets for anyone who wants to enjoy reading books, comics, or manga on the go.

Quick Takeaways:

• Quick guide to the best tablet for reading in 2025
• Top tablets for books, comics, and manga
• Features to look for: screen size, battery, eye comfort
• Pros and cons of e-ink vs LCD/OLED screens

Also Read: Why Does My Tablet Keep Freezing? 13 Reasons & Easy Fixes

How to Choose the Best Tablet for Reading

Choosing the right tablet for reading involves examining the screen type, battery life, size, and useful features. Each choice can affect comfort, eye health, and enjoyment during long reading sessions.

E-Ink vs. LCD/OLED – Which Screen Is Best for Reading?

E-Ink screens, found on devices like the Kindle, resemble printed paper. They do not have glare, which makes them easy to read in bright light. These screens consume very little power, allowing the battery to last much longer.

LCD and OLED screens, including liquid retina displays, are found on most standard tablets.

These screens are brighter, handle color images better, and work well for comics or magazines. But they can be harder on the eyes during long reading sessions.

E-Ink advantages:

• Eye-friendly and comfortable in direct sunlight
• Very long battery life
• Less blue light

LCD/OLED advantages:

• Vivid colors, good for comics and graphic novels
• Adjustable backlight for night reading
• Supports video and apps

People who read for many hours may prefer E-Ink for its comfort. Those who want a device for both books and media may opt for an LCD or OLED screen.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Long battery life is essential for individuals who read frequently or travel extensively. Most E-Ink tablets can last weeks between charges. LCD and OLED tablets typically last a day or two, especially when the brightness is set high.

Key points to check:

• Average battery life (in hours or days)
• Fast charging support
• Wireless charging options for easy use
• Power-saving modes to extend battery life

A strong battery means less worry about running out of power in the middle of a book. Those who want fewer charging cables may appreciate wireless charging.

What Size Tablet Is Best for Reading?

The size of a tablet affects both comfort and the reading experience. Small tablets (around 6-7 inches) are easy to hold with one hand and fit in most bags. 

Mid-size screens (8-10 inches) strike a balance between portability and a larger viewing area, making them ideal for reading comics, magazines, or textbooks.

Large tablets (over 10 inches) give more space for double-page spreads and larger text, which works well for comics or technical books. But they are heavier and less portable.

Pick a size based on what will be read the most. Smaller is best for novels. Larger models are better for magazines or big, illustrated books.

Must-Have Features for the Best Tablet for Reading

Good reading tablets have features that help make reading more comfortable and convenient.

• Long battery life so it lasts for days or weeks
• Adjustable brightness to fit any lighting, and a blue light filter to be gentle on the eyes in the evening
• Lightweight design to avoid hand fatigue
• Lots of storage space for a big library
• Comfortable shape and grip so it is easy to hold
• Backlight or front light for night reading
• Quick charging for when the battery is low

These features make reading easier at home or on the go. A simple, well-designed tablet can make a big difference, especially for long reading sessions.

Also Read: 5 Key Differences: Samsung Tablet vs iPad

Best Tablet for Reading – Top Picks for 2025

Choosing a tablet for reading depends on the type of content and features required, such as display quality, battery life, and price. 

In 2025, tablets and e-readers offer unique advantages, including water resistance and stylus support.

Best Overall Tablet for Reading

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition stands out as the best overall tablet for reading. It offers a 6.8-inch glare-free screen with adjustable warm light. Its battery can last up to 10 weeks on a single charge, making it easy to travel with.

This device is waterproof, making it ideal for reading at the beach or by the pool. The interface is simple and focused solely on reading, avoiding the distractions commonly found on regular tablets.

It supports thousands of books from the Kindle Store, as well as audiobooks that can be played through Bluetooth. It is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold with one hand. For most readers, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition covers all the basics and more.

Best Tablet for Reading Comics and Manga

The Apple iPad Mini is the top choice for those who love comics and manga. Its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display shows sharp images and vibrant colors that make illustrations pop.

Key features include:

• Fine color accuracy suitable for detailed comics and manga.
• Lightweight at just 293 grams, making long reading sessions easy.
• Access to large libraries through Amazon Kindle, ComiXology, and Apple Books.
• Fast processor to smoothly flip through pages or zoom in on panels.

The iPad Mini also supports the Apple Pencil, allowing you to annotate or sketch in digital comics. Fans of manga and colorful graphic novels will find that the iPad Mini provides a superior experience compared to standard e-readers.

Best Budget Tablet for Reading

The Amazon Kindle Basic is a strong choice for anyone seeking a high-quality reading tablet at an affordable price. 

It’s simple and focused solely on books, featuring a 6-inch glare-free screen that’s easy on the eyes, even outdoors.

Main benefits:

• Affordable cost, often under $100.
• Built-in adjustable front light.
• Lightweight design under 160 grams.
• Access to a large library through the Kindle Store.
• Long battery life, typically lasting up to a month on a single charge.

The Kindle Basic doesn’t have water resistance or warm lighting like pricier models, but for basic reading needs and student budgets, it’s hard to beat.

Best Android Tablet for Reading

For those who prefer Android, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 is an excellent pick. It has an 8.7-inch display with good brightness and sharpness, making it suitable for both ebooks and magazines.

Highlights:

• Supports Google Play Books, Kindle, and other ebook apps.
• Lightweight and portable for travel or commuting.
• Offers split-screen features for multitasking, allowing users to read while taking notes.
• Expandable storage through microSD card.

The Galaxy Tab A9 is also more versatile than standard e-readers, as it can run various types of apps while remaining affordable and easy to use.

Best Tablet for Reading and Drawing

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE excels for readers who want a device for both reading and drawing. It features a vivid 10.9-inch display, ensuring text and images are clear and sharp.

Top features:

• S Pen included for easy note-taking, highlighting, or drawing.
• High-resolution screen for smooth reading across ebooks, PDFs, and comics.
• Good battery life, lasting up to 12 hours of continuous reading.
• Access to all major reading apps on Android, plus creative apps for sketching.

This tablet is thin, light, and water-resistant, making it versatile for students, artists, and heavy readers who need more than just an e-reader. 

The S9 FE is a solid choice for anyone seeking a versatile device with high-quality reading and drawing capabilities.

Protect Your Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE with These Keyboard Case

Pro Tips for a Better Reading Experience

Simple changes in how someone uses a tablet can make reading more comfortable. Picking the correct device, control options, and reading settings can help reduce eye strain and save battery life. 

Using the best apps and features can also make it easier to enjoy books, comics, or manga.

Kindle Scribe and Writing Capabilities

The Kindle Scribe is a standout for those who want to read and take notes. It features a large screen and enables direct writing on eBooks and PDFs using a stylus. 

This can be useful for marking up documents, adding annotations, or keeping a reading journal.

Key Features:

• Large, glare-free display great for long reading sessions
• Built-in stylus for digital handwriting tasks
• Handy for both personal reading and study needs

The device supports handwritten sticky notes and exporting notes. This helps organize thoughts and track important details. 

For readers who like to interact with their books, the Kindle Scribe’s writing capabilities are a unique advantage.

Page-Turn Buttons and Physical Controls

Physical buttons for turning pages can improve comfort during long reading sessions. Devices like the Kindle Oasis include dedicated page-turn buttons, making it easier to change pages with one hand.

Benefits of physical controls:

• Less finger fatigue compared to swiping on the screen
• Useful for reading while holding the tablet in different positions
• Helpful for those with hand pain or limited mobility

Some tablets also offer haptic feedback for a more tactile experience. These physical controls make tablets a more accessible and enjoyable option for many users.

Comparison: Amazon Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite

The standard Amazon Kindle and the Kindle Paperwhite are two of the most popular e-readers. The Kindle is lightweight and budget-friendly. The Paperwhite offers a sharper screen with higher resolution and extra features.

The Paperwhite’s warm light and waterproof design make it better for reading at night or near water. Both work well with apps like Libby for library eBooks or can be used for manga with tools like Tachiyomi. Choosing between the two depends on the user’s reading habits and preferred features.

Also Read: What Is the Best Samsung Tablet for You? Buyer’s Guide

Final Thoughts

Choosing a reading tablet depends on each person's individual needs and the type of reading they do most often. 

For those who love eBooks, the Kindle Paperwhite stands out with a sharp screen and easy access to Amazon’s store. Its battery lasts for weeks, and it is gentle on the eyes.

Readers who enjoy comics or manga may prefer the iPad Mini 6. This tablet offers a vivid color display, smooth page turning, and compatibility with apps for comics, graphic novels, or PDFs. It also allows users to draw or take notes with the Apple Pencil.

Each device has its own strengths. Readers need to align their habits and preferences with the features available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Different tablets offer features that can enhance the reading experience, including screen type, app selection, and comfort during extended sessions. Many people also want to know about eye health, comic book compatibility, file formats, and which apps work on specific devices.

What kind of tablet is best for reading books?

Tablets with e-ink screens, like the Kindle Paperwhite or Kobo Clara, are often best for reading books. These screens reduce glare and eye strain. Regular tablets such as the iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab offer color displays and can run many reading apps, making them good if you want more than just book reading.

Is an iPad good for reading?

The iPad can be a strong choice for reading, especially when using apps like Apple Books, Kindle, or Libby. Its bright, clear screen and fast performance let people read e-books, PDFs, and comics. However, its LCD screen may cause more eye strain over long reading sessions compared to e-ink readers.

Can I read comics and manga on a Kindle?

Most Kindle e-ink models support black-and-white comic and manga files, but color is not available. If you want full-color comics and manga, tablets like the iPad, Amazon Fire, or Samsung Galaxy Tab work better because they use color LCD or OLED screens and support a wide range of comic reading apps.

Do tablets strain your eyes when you read for hours?

Reading for extended periods on tablets with LCD or OLED screens can cause eye strain or discomfort, particularly in bright light. E-ink screens, found in e-readers, are gentler on the eyes and are better suited for people who read for extended periods. Lowering screen brightness and using night mode can also help.

Which tablets are best for reading PDFs?

The iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab S series are excellent for reading PDFs, thanks to their large screens and smooth performance. E-ink devices like the Kindle Scribe or Kobo Elipsa are also good, as their screens reduce glare and are comfortable for reading longer documents.

Can I use Google Play Books on any tablet?

Google Play Books runs on any Android tablet and on iPads through the App Store. It cannot be used on most Kindle e-readers, but it works on Kindle Fire tablets because they run a version of Android. Users can buy or upload their own books using the app.