Cheapest Kindle: Budget-Friendly E-Reader Insights

We have researched 11 Kindles for you.

In the world of digital reading, finding a device that fits both your reading habits and your budget can be a challenge. With a myriad of options available, it's crucial to hunt for a balance of features and affordability.

This guide is designed to take you through the most cost-effective Kindle devices on the market. Catering to those who devour books but want to do so without breaking the bank, we've compiled a list that ensures you can find the perfect companion for your literary journeys.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.

What to Look for in Cheapest Kindles

Important criteria

  • Cost
  • Portability
  • Battery life
  • Screen readability
  • Compatibility with e-book formats
  • Storage capacity

1.) Display Quality

When purchasing the cheapest Kindle, consider the display's resolution and lighting. A higher resolution will ensure that text is sharp and easy to read, which is crucial for long reading sessions. While the cheapest Kindle may not have the advanced display features of pricier models, it should still offer a comfortable reading experience with minimal glare. Make sure it has a built-in adjustable light to facilitate reading in different lighting conditions, as not all entry-level models come with a backlight.

2.) Battery Life

Battery life is paramount when selecting the cheapest Kindle, as one of the main advantages of e-readers is their ability to last weeks on a single charge. Check the advertised battery life and compare it with user reviews for real-world insights. While budget models may compromise on certain features, the battery life should not be one of them. Long battery life will allow for uninterrupted reading, especially while traveling or when away from power sources.

3.) Storage Capacity

Even the most affordable Kindle should offer sufficient storage for a vast collection of books. Assess the built-in storage space and understand whether it is enough for your needs, bearing in mind that e-books do not require a lot of space. However, if you plan to store audiobooks or a large volume of reading material, ensure that the device has ample space, as the cheapest models may not support external memory expansion.

4.) Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another aspect to consider, especially if you plan to download books frequently. The entry-level Kindle may offer only Wi-Fi connectivity, which is suitable for most users. However, check if the device allows you to easily access online book stores and download content. If you anticipate needing internet access on-the-go, consider if a model with cellular connectivity is necessary and within your budget.

The Cheapest Kindles of our Choice

Our Pick
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32 GB)
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32 GB)
Model: M2L4EK Type/Color: Denim
  • Signature Edition with wireless charging, auto-adjusting front light, and 32 GB storage.
  • Purpose-built for reading with flush-front design and 300 ppi glare-free display.
  • Up to 10 weeks of reading time with USB-C or compatible Qi wireless charger.
  • Adjustable warm light and auto-adjusting front light for personalized reading experience.
  • Store thousands of titles and take them all with you.
  • Kindle Unlimited offers unlimited access to over 2 million titles and audiobooks.
  • Go hands-free with Audible subscription and Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
$ 189.99 *
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2
Amazon Certified Refurbished Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
Amazon Certified Refurbished Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
Model: M2L3EK Type/Color: Denim
  • Certified Refurbished Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
  • Refurbished, tested, certified to look like new
  • Same limited warranty as a new device
  • Kindle Paperwhite - 6.8” display, thinner borders
  • Adjustable warm light, 10 weeks battery life
  • 20% faster page turns
  • Flush-front design, 300 ppi glare-free display
  • Store thousands of titles, take them all with you
  • Single USB-C charge lasts weeks
  • Adjustable warm light shifts screen shade
  • Waterproof, withstands accidental immersion in water
  • Unlimited access to 2 million titles with Kindle Unlimited
  • Pair with Audible subscription and Bluetooth headphones
$ 134.99 *
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3
Amazon Kindle – The lightest and most compact Kindle
Amazon Kindle – The lightest and most compact Kindle
Model: C2V2L3 Type/Color: Black
  • Lightest and most compact Kindle with high-resolution display.
  • Read comfortably with glare-free, paper-like display and adjustable front light.
  • Distraction-free device specifically made for reading.
  • Extended battery life – Up to 6 weeks on a single charge.
  • 16 GB storage capacity – Double the previous generation.
  • Kindle Unlimited offers unlimited access to over 2 million titles.
  • Sustainable design using recycled plastics and magnesium.
$ 99.99 *
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Price Pick
Amazon Kindle (2019 release)
Amazon Kindle (2019 release)
Model: J9G29R Type/Color: BLACK
  • 167 ppi glare-free display for comfortable reading.
  • Adjustable brightness for reading in any environment.
  • Long battery life that lasts weeks, not hours.
  • 8 GB storage holds thousands of titles in compact size.
  • Distraction-free reading with highlighting, definitions, translations.
  • Kindle Unlimited provides access to millions of titles.
  • Seamlessly switch between reading and listening with Audible.
$ 63.92 *
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5
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids – kids read
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids – kids read
Model: M2L3EK Type/Color: Emerald Forest
  • Great value - Includes a Kindle Paperwhite (11th generation) 16 GB, a kid-friendly cover, and a 2-year worry-free guarantee.
  • Reading done right - Kindle Paperwhite Kids is purpose-built for reading with a black & white 6.8” 300 ppi glare-free display and long battery life.
  • Includes a 1 year subscription of Amazon Kids+: ad-free books, games, videos, apps and Alexa skills from popular brands.
  • No distractions - Kindle Paperwhite Kids is designed for reading, no apps, videos, or games.
  • Waterproof and worry-free - Take it to the pool or beach, tested for accidental immersion in water with a 2-year worry-free guarantee.
  • Anytime reading - Adjustable warm light for reading indoors and outdoors.
  • Tools for readers - Vocabulary Builder and Word Wise to help young readers.
$ 169.99 *
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6
Amazon International Version – Kindle Oasis
Amazon International Version – Kindle Oasis
Model: S8IN4O Type/Color: Graphite
  • 7" 300ppi flush-front Paperwhite display
  • Adjustable warm light for shifting screen shade
  • Waterproof (IPX8) for reading in water
  • Thin and light ergonomic design with page turn buttons
  • Fast page turns with latest e-ink technology
  • Instant access to millions of books and newspapers
$ 135.00 *
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7
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Essentials
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Essentials
Type/Color: Cork Dark
  • Signature Edition with wireless charging and more storage
  • Flush-front design with glare-free display
  • Long battery life lasts up to 10 weeks
  • Adjustable warm light for personalized reading experience
  • Store thousands of titles and take them with you
  • Get unlimited access to over 2 million titles
  • Pair with Audible and Bluetooth for hands-free listening
$ 252.97 *
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on Amazon
8
Amazon International Version – AT&T –
Amazon International Version – AT&T –
Model: S8IN4N Type/Color: Graphite
  • 7", 300ppi flush-front Paperwhite display
  • Adjustable warm light to shift screen shade
  • Waterproof (IPX8) for reading in water
  • Thin and light ergonomic design with buttons
  • Real paper-like reading with fast page turns
  • Instant access to millions of books and newspapers
$ 175.00 *
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9
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) –
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) –
Model: M2L3EK Type/Color: Denim
  • 6.8” display with thinner borders
  • Adjustable warm light
  • Up to 10 weeks battery life
  • 20% faster page turns
  • Flush-front design with 300 ppi display
  • Glare-free in bright sunlight
  • Store and take thousands of titles
  • Weeks of use on single USB-C charge
  • Adjustable warm light for screen shade
  • Waterproof for accidental water immersion
  • Access to over 2 million titles
  • Thousands of audiobooks available
  • Pair with Audible subscription and Bluetooth
$ 149.99 *
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on Ebay
10
Amazon Kindle Scribe (16 GB)
Amazon Kindle Scribe (16 GB)
Model: C4A6T4 Type/Color: Tungsten Size: 16 GB
  • Kindle with digital notebook and pen
  • Explore Kindle notebooks for writing
  • Convert handwritten notes to text
  • Read and write naturally on paper-like display
  • Take notes while reading millions of titles
  • Import and mark up documents
  • Long battery life for reading and writing
$ 369.99 *
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11
Amazon Kindle Kids (2022 release) – If
Amazon Kindle Kids (2022 release) – If
Model: C2V2L3 Type/Color: Space Whale
  • Upgraded high-resolution display, 2x the storage, longer battery life
  • Includes cover, 1 year of Amazon Kids+, 2-year warranty
  • Amazon Kids+ has books and audiobooks for unlimited access
  • Kids read more than an hour a day on Kindle
  • Kindle Kids is designed for reading, not a toy
  • 300 ppi high-resolution, glare-free display
  • Adjustable front light and dark mode for reading comfort
  • Up to 6 weeks battery life on a single charge
  • Compact, lightweight design for one-handed reading
  • 16 GB of storage holds thousands of books
  • Parent Dashboard for adding books, viewing progress, adjusting filters
$ 119.99 *
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* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.

Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Kindle Options

Budget-Conscious Bookworms
Find a Kindle that aligns with your love for reading without breaking the bank. Ideal for those who prioritize savings and functionality. Indulge in your literary passion with a wallet-friendly e-reader.
First-Time E-Reader Buyers
Looking for your first adventure into the world of digital books? Pick an affordable Kindle to embark on a seamless transition from paper to pixels. Get started without a hefty investment.
Tech-Savvy Savers
Stay ahead in the tech game without overspending. Select a Kindle that balances modern features with cost-effectiveness. Enjoy the perks of technology with a budget-conscious approach.
Parents on a Budget
Cultivate your child's love of reading with an affordable Kindle that won't fear a few bumps. Get them a durable and cost-efficient e-reader to take anywhere. Encourage reading with a device that withstands the energy of youth.

Questions You Might Ask

As of the last update, Amazon offers several models of Kindle, including the basic Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite, Kindle Oasis, and Kindle Kids Edition. Each model comes with different features and at various price points to match reading preferences and budgets.
Consider your reading environment and frequency. For avid readers, a Kindle Paperwhite or Oasis with higher resolution and waterproof design might be ideal. For casual readers, the basic Kindle may suffice. If you often read in the dark, choose a model with a built-in light. For young readers, the Kindle Kids Edition with parental controls might be the best option.
Yes, apart from downloading books from the Amazon Kindle Store, you can also read books from other sources. You can use 'Send to Kindle' applications to send personal documents or books in compatible formats (like MOBI and PDF) to your Kindle device.
Yes, select Kindle models, such as the Kindle Oasis and Kindle Paperwhite, support Audible audiobooks via Bluetooth headphones or speakers. However, the basic Kindle does not support audiobook playback.
Kindles offer portability and can store thousands of books, saving physical space. The e-ink display provides a paper-like reading experience, which is easier on the eyes and readable in direct sunlight. The battery life also lasts for weeks, and features like adjustable font size, instant dictionary lookup, and note-taking make for a convenient reading experience.

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How to Choose the Cheapest Kindle: A Buyer's Guide

Hey there, bookworm! Are you ready to dive into the digital world of reading without breaking the bank? This guide will walk you through the essentials of picking the most wallet-friendly Kindle to enhance your reading experience. Whether you're a casual reader or a literature enthusiast, we'll help you find the perfect Kindle that doesn't skimp on features while still being kind to your pocket.

Understanding Kindle Basics

Before you begin, let's get to grips with what a Kindle is. A Kindle is an e-reader designed by Amazon to provide a convenient and portable way to consume books. It's like having a library in your hands, but with less weight and more titles. Kindles are perfect for those who love to read on the go or prefer a clutter-free space without piles of books.
A key feature of Kindles is their e-ink technology. Unlike tablets that use backlit screens, the e-ink displays offer a paper-like reading experience that's easier on the eyes. Moreover, Kindles boast incredibly long battery life, often lasting weeks on a single charge, making them reliable companions for avid readers.
Multiple Kindle models are available, each with its own set of features and price points. The 'cheapest Kindle' typically refers to the entry-level model, which has basic functionality suitable for those who primarily want to read without extra frills like waterproofing or high-resolution screens.

Key Features to Consider

When hunting for the most cost-effective Kindle, consider what features matter to you. The most affordable Kindle might have a slightly lower resolution screen and less storage capacity, but if you're mainly reading text-based books, these aspects may not significantly affect your experience.
Another feature to examine is the built-in lighting. The cheapest Kindle might not have the same adjustable warm light as premium models, but as long as it has a front light, you're good for night-time reading. Additionally, think about the device's weight and ergonomics. Comfort is key, especially during those marathon reading sessions!
Connectivity options are also important. Entry-level Kindles typically provide Wi-Fi connectivity, which is sufficient for downloading books anywhere with an internet connection. However, if you want the freedom to download books without Wi-Fi, look for a model with cellular connectivity – though this will bump up the price.

Budgeting and Price Considerations

Determine your budget before jumping in. The cheapest Kindle will provide the essential e-reader experience but remember that prices fluctuate due to sales, refurbished options, and the release of newer models. Keep an eye out for discounts, especially during events like Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day.
It's also wise to consider the cost of e-books and whether you want to subscribe to Kindle Unlimited, Amazon's reading subscription service. Your total investment includes the device and the content, so factor these into your decision. Some people save more in the long run by getting the cheapest Kindle and using public library e-books through services like OverDrive or Libby.

Where to Buy

You can purchase Kindles directly from Amazon, which is often the best place to find deals and refurbished models. Additionally, electronics retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar stores, may carry Kindles and sometimes offer exclusive deals or bundles.
Don't overlook the second-hand market. Websites like eBay or your local classifieds can be goldmines for affordable Kindles. Just be sure to check the condition and that the device is deregistered from its previous owner's Amazon account before buying.

Making Your Decision

Once you've considered all these factors, it's time to make your choice. Remember that the best Kindle for you is one that fits your needs and budget. Ponder on your reading habits, the features you can't live without, and how much you're willing to spend.
The cheapest Kindle may have fewer features than its high-end counterparts, but it still delivers a fantastic reading experience that can get you through countless stories, all while being easy on your wallet. Go ahead, make your pick, and start your next reading adventure with a Kindle that's just right for you!

Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards

In this section, we have carefully compiled a list of the most valuable resources regarding the most affordable Kindle options. To assist you in making an informed decision, we have grouped these resources into four distinct categories: expert reviews, forum discussions, Reddit threads, and video content. These have been chosen for their relevance and the quality of the insights they provide about the cheapest Kindle models.
The latest entry-level Kindle has enough appealing new features to make you think twice before paying up for a Paperwhite.
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Here are the best Kindles and e-readers on the market right now, based on our hands-on testing and reviews.
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The Amazon Kindle (2022) gets an upgraded 300 ppi display and USB-C charging while staying below $100. While it’d be nice if it was waterproof, this is now the e-reader most people should cho...
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The Scribe lives up to being an e-reader you can use for taking notes, sketching and marking up docs, but it's not a total slam dunk.
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Also cheap right now: Questlove's cookbook Something to Food About ($1.99 ), and Hot Bread Kitchen ($2.99, hope you have better luck with the...
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I paid $129.99 for Signature Edition during the Black Friday sale last year. That's the lowest it's ever been. It's been on sale for $ 139.99 or...
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Guess who found a working Gen 4 kindle at the thrift store for $ 1.60? r/kindle - Guess who found a working Gen 4 kindle at the thrift store.
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I would personally buy the new basic, it's a hundred bucks. it's cheap enough to be worth it buying it new instead of used, ...
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All-New Amazon Kindle (2022) Review - YouTube
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Reviewing Amazon's All-New Kindle 2022, the budget -friendly eReader costing under £100 in the UK. This 6-inch model is more compact vs the...

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