Here’s a roundup of inexpensive E Ink ereaders for under $100.
When you consider refurbished units and older models there’s a surprising amount of choices when it comes to getting a dedicated ebook reader for cheap.
Previous generation Kindles and Nooks go for as little as $59.
Or you can get a brand new Kobo Glo for $69 (the original, not the HD).
There are quite a few options for under $100, and that’s not counting the Kobo Touch 2.0 that is currently out-of-stock so it wasn’t included on the list.
Cheap eReaders List
Kindle Paperwhite 3 – Currently priced at $92.99, the certified refurbished Kindle Paperwhite 3 is the best option for a cheap ereader under $100. It’s the current model with a full set of software features and it has frontlight and 300 ppi E Ink screen.
Onyx Boox C67ML – Currently priced at $99, this is a good choice for the person who wants an inexpensive ereader with an open OS that can install a variety of apps. The C67ML runs Android 4.2 and it has a 212 ppi E Ink screen with a frontlight. It also supports audio and it has a memory card slot.
Nook GlowLight Plus – This is the latest Nook and it sells for only $79 refurbished. That’s a pretty good price considering it’s waterproof, dustproof, it has a 300 ppi E Ink screen, and it’s made from aluminum instead of cheap plastic.
InkBook Classic 2 – Another ebook reader with an open Android operating system, the inkBook Classic 2 sells for $89 new. It has page buttons plus a touchscreen, which can be turned off to avoid accidental presses, and it has a memory card slot, but no frontlight.
Kindle – The current entry-level Kindle starts at $79 so naturally it makes this list. The main difference between it and the Paperwhite is it lacks a frontlight and the high resolution screen. There’s also the Kids Kindle bundle for $99, which is the same Kindle model but it comes with a cover, a 2-year warranty, and no ads.
Kobo Glo – The original Kobo Glo can be had for $69 new. It has a touchscreen, frontlight, and memory card slot.
Kindle 5 – The 5th generation Kindle was the last model to have buttons only and no touchscreen. It also lacks a frontlight. Refurbished units go for $59.
Nook Glowlight – The previous generation Nook is still available for $59 refurbished. It has a lower resolution screen and it isn’t waterproof like the newer one so it’s not as good of a value but it is cheap. Some of the even older Nooks like the Simple Touch still sell for $59 too.
Rob says
Are there any e-ink readers that have the google play store? More specifically, allow use of Google Play books??? I’ve been searching for one for ages.
Nathan says
Sometimes the Onyx models come with Google Play but sometimes not. Either way it can be added to most of the Android ereaders with a little technical work but I’m not sure how well the Play Books app works on E Ink as it’s been a couple years since I tried it.
JMirko says
My favourite cheap ereader is the Wexler Flex One, a 6-inch reader with a curved plastic screen. No Android, no touchscreen, but super light and durable, with great battery life. You can get on Aliexpress for around 50 USD/EUR shipped.
Quantus says
Thanks! Nice list. Great selection if you want to get a backup e-reader, or gift one.
Nico Manthey says
Swiss company ‘Pocketbooks’ also has some models < 100ยง