E-readers

Switching to e-books has a lot of potential benefits, like portability, instant access, and sometimes lower prices. E-readers with e-ink screens are especially comfortable for extended reading sessions, as they’re gentle on the eyes and feel more like reading from paper than a backlit screen. You might miss the tactile experience of paper and the feel of physical collections, though. Many people find a good balance by using both—keeping e-books for travel and casual reading, and saving physical copies for special favorites or when they want to fully disconnect.

File formats

There are several common e-book file formats, each with its own pros and cons depending on your reading device. Most e-readers and apps can handle a variety of formats, though you may sometimes need to convert files (with software like Calibre) if you have a device that doesn’t support your preferred format.

EPUB

The most widely used format, compatible with most e-readers (like Kobo, Barnes & Noble Nook, etc.) but not Amazon Kindle. It’s versatile, allowing for font adjustments, reflowable text, and sometimes multimedia content.

Pro	Con
Open-source format Most widely-used format Reflowable Supports some multimedia The two e-books that I already have, are both in this format	Not supported on Amazon Kindle

MOBI and AZW

These are Kindle-specific formats. Amazon's Kindle devices support MOBI and AZW (Amazon’s proprietary format). They’re generally reflowable, but sometimes limited in features compared to EPUB.

Pro	Con
	Proprietary format Owned by Amazon

PDF

Used mostly for documents rather than books because it preserves layout and design across devices. However, PDFs aren’t reflowable, so they can be difficult to read on smaller screens, as the text won’t resize.

Pro	Con
* Open-source (or equivalent)	* Not reflowable

TXT and RTF

Simple text formats that are universal but lack features like images, fonts, and layout.

Pro	Con
Open-source format	Limited formatting capabilities

CBR/CBZ

These are primarily for comics and graphic novels, as they support high-quality images.

HTML

Readers usually support HTML, but it usually isn't their strongest suit. In worst case, the HTML documents should be converted to PDFs or other file formats.

Making notes

Most e-book formats and reading devices offer options for making notes, though the experience can vary. Here’s how the main formats and devices handle notes:

EPUB: E-readers like Kobo, Nook, and apps like Apple Books allow you to highlight text and add notes directly within EPUB files. You can often access these notes later, and some apps even sync them across devices.
Kindle (MOBI/AZW): Amazon Kindle devices have a robust system for highlighting text and adding notes in Kindle books. Kindle notes sync across devices and are accessible online, where you can view, export, or copy them.
PDF: While PDFs allow for notes, the experience may not be as smooth on smaller screens, since PDFs don’t reflow text. However, apps like Adobe Acrobat, Foxit, and others allow margin notes, highlights, and annotations.
Third-Party Apps: Many apps, like Google Play Books, Apple Books, and others, allow you to take notes within any supported format. Notes are often searchable, and some apps let you export them or view them in one place.
Some devices also allow stylus input for freehand notes, though this is more common on tablets like the iPad. Overall, while it’s a bit different from scribbling directly on paper, e-readers and apps have made significant improvements in allowing readers to interact with and annotate digital books.

Brands

Long list of brands of e-book readers, common in Europe:

Archos

Spotted on Marktplaats.nl - 2025.01: [1]

Bookeen

Models: Diva, Diva HD, Saga
Strengths: French manufacturer, EPUB-friendly, lightweight and compact designs
Regions: Popular in France and neighboring countries

Booxtec

Models: BT7, BT10
Strengths: Budget-friendly options with EPUB support and decent screen quality
Regions: Sold primarily online in various European countries

Spotted on Marktplaats.nl (2025.01): Boox Nova Air 2 e-reader tablet: Also usuable for note-taking.

BQ Cervantes

Models: Cervantes 4
Strengths: Spanish manufacturer, EPUB support, minimalist design
Regions: Popular in Spain and some Southern European countries

Boyue

Models: Boyue T80s, Boyue Ares Note
Strengths: EPUB support, Android-based flexibility
Regions: Available online in Europe, primarily through niche retailers

Cybook (by Bookeen)

Models: Cybook Odyssey, Cybook Muse Light
Strengths: Compact, EPUB-compatible, simple interface for casual readers
Regions: Focused on the French market but available elsewhere

Energy Sistem

Models: Energy eReader Pro, Slim HD
Strengths: Affordable, supports EPUB, lightweight designs
Regions: Common in Spain and Southern Europe

Hanvon

Spotted on Marktplaats.nl, 2025.01: [2].

Icarus

Spotted on Marktplaats.nl, 2025.01: [3].

InkBook (Arta Tech)

Models: InkBook Calypso Plus, InkBook Prime HD
Strengths: Affordable and lightweight, EPUB support, Android-based for flexibility
Regions: Popular in Poland and Central Europe.

Spotted an InkBook in Media Market in Lublin - Jan. 2025. This was probably this model [4]:

InkBook Calypso Plus Black
6"
1024x768
16GB
549 PLN <> € 128

iRiver

Spotted in this advertisement on Marktplaats.nl - 2025.01.

Likebook (Boyue)

Models: Likebook Mars, Likebook P10, Likebook Ares
Strengths: EPUB-compatible, Android OS, larger screen sizes for note-taking and professional use
Regions: Available in select online stores in Europe.

Kobo (Rakuten Kobo)

Models: Kobo Nia, Clara 2E, Libra 2, Sage, Elipsa
Strengths: Wide EPUB support, library integration via OverDrive, waterproof models, open ecosystem
Regions: Available across Europe, especially popular in Western Europe

Nook (Barnes & Noble)

Spotted in Marktplaats.nl advertisement - 2025.01: [5]
Runs a modified Android OS, with limited app support and a focus on EPUB.

Onyx Boox

Models: Boox Leaf, Nova Air 2, Note Air 2, Tab Ultra, Poke 5
Strengths: Advanced models with EPUB support, Android OS for additional apps, note-taking capabilities, large screen options
Regions: Gaining popularity across Europe, especially among tech enthusiasts

PocketBook

Models: PocketBook Basic Lux 3, Touch HD 3, InkPad Color, InkPad 4, Era
Strengths: Supports a wide range of formats (EPUB, PDF, MOBI, etc.), color screen options, audiobooks, and Dropbox integration
Regions: Strong in Central and Eastern Europe (e.g., Poland, Czechia, Hungary)

Spotted on Marktplaats.nl: [6]

ReMarkable (Limited EPUB Support)

Models: ReMarkable 2
Strengths: Known for digital note-taking but supports EPUB for eBooks
Regions: Gaining traction in Western Europe, especially among creatives

Would be interesting to have one device for reading and digital note-taking.

Sony (Legacy Models)

Models: Sony PRS series (e.g., PRS-T3)
Strengths: Known for EPUB support but mostly discontinued. Still sought after in second-hand markets
Regions: Previously popular across Europe

Tolino

Models: Tolino Shine 4, Page 2, Vision 6, Epos 3
Strengths: Focuses on EPUB, integration with German-language bookstores, user-friendly interface, waterproofing
Regions: Popular in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, with a growing presence in other parts of Europe

Vivlio

Models: Vivlio Touch Lux 5, InkPad 3
Strengths: Focus on EPUB support, eco-friendly design, and strong ties to French bookstores
Regions: Primarily available in France and surrounding regions.

Screens

Aspect ratio

Most e-readers use a 4:3 or 3:2 aspect ratio, which mimics traditional paper sizes.

Resolution

Resolution: At least 300 PPI (pixels per inch). This results in different numbers of pixels for different screen sizes (and aspect ratios):

Screen size	Resolution (pixels)
5-6"	1448 x 1072
7-8"	1680 x 1264
10"+	1872 x 1404

Small Screens (5 to 6 inches)

Typical Use: Highly portable, great for casual reading on the go
Examples:
- Amazon Kindle (basic models)
- Kobo Nia
- PocketBook Touch Lux
Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons: Limited screen space for text and visuals

Medium Screens (7 to 8 inches)

Typical Use: Balanced option for most users, offering portability with a slightly larger reading area
Examples:
- Kobo Libra 2 (7 inches)
- Kindle Oasis (7 inches)
- PocketBook Era (7 inches)
- Kobo Sage (8 inches)
Pros: Larger font sizes and better text layout without sacrificing too much portability
Cons: Slightly less compact than smaller screens

Large Screens (10 inches and above)

Typical Use: Ideal for professionals, students, and users who read large-format content like PDFs or comics
Examples:
- Kobo Elipsa (10.3 inches)
- Onyx Boox Note Air (10.3 inches)
- Remarkable 2 (10.3 inches)
Pros: Excellent for annotating, multitasking, and detailed content
Cons: Heavier and less portable; more expensive

Niche Sizes

5 inches: Found in some older or budget models like the InkBook Classic
9 inches: Rare but useful for more immersive reading or academic content

Operating systems

OS	Brands/Devices	Openness	App support	Proprietary cloud-free options
Android	Onyx, Likebook	Highly open	Yes	Yes
Linux (Kobo)	Kobo	Semi-closed	No	Yes (USB, Dropbox)
Linux (Tolino)	Tolino	Semi-open	No	Yes
Linux (PocketBook)	PocketBook	Open	No	Yes
Proprietary (ReMarkable)	ReMarkable	Closed	No	Limited

Kobo OS

Kobo e-readers run on a Linux-based operating system that is specifically designed and optimized for their e-reading functionality:

Linux Kernel: Kobo's firmware is built on a lightweight Linux kernel, ensuring stability and efficiency for E Ink displays.
Custom Interface: The user interface is proprietary, created by Kobo to prioritize ease of use for reading and navigation.
Closed Source: While based on Linux, the Kobo operating system is closed-source and does not allow user customization or app installations like Android-based e-readers.

Features

EPUB Support: Native support for open file formats like EPUB, EPUB3, and PDF.
OverDrive Integration: Built-in library lending for borrowing eBooks.
Customizability: Limited to font sizes, styles, and lighting options; no third-party app installation.
Syncing: Tied to the Kobo Cloud for syncing purchased books, bookmarks, and annotations, though manual file transfers are also supported.

However, data (e.g., handwritten notes) can also be transfered using a USB cable or possibly Dropbox - You're not forced to use Kobo Cloud.

Limitations

Does not support Android apps or third-party integrations (other than OverDrive, Dropbox, or Pocket in specific models).
Users cannot modify or add functionality to the OS
Syncing is primarly done through Kobo's Kobo Cloud, but this can be avoided - See above.

Alternative Options

If you value openness and app flexibility, consider an Android-based e-reader like Onyx Boox. However, Kobo excels in simplicity and ease of use for dedicated reading.

ReMarkable OS

Concerning file transfers (e.g., notes), depends heavily on having a ReMarkable account and using their propriety account.

This can all be avoided, but it seems quite a bit of work, like when using manual transfers using USB or SSH, or using community tools.

Criteria

Category	Criterion	Notes
Must-have	EPUB	This is by far the most common file format The couple of e-books I already have, are in this format and it works fine Especially: No extensive DRM that makes stuff complicated and/or takes over my devices.
Must-have	Integrates with Linux	Critical: Being able to exchange stuff from my Linux workstion Without the need for having an account with the reseller Without the need for using a proprietary app from the reseller.
Must-have	Resolution: at least 300 PPI	See elsewhere for details
Must-have	At least 7" screen size	My phone (Samsung Note9) has a screen size of 6.4 inch, and I found that on the small side. On the other hand, the aspect ratio of about 2:1, is different from what is usual for e-readers, so maybe this isn't very comparible The 6" e-book reader I saw on 2025.01 at Media Markt, seemd too small.
Nice-to-have	USB-C	Preferably, I only use USB-C for charging and/or data exchange
Nice-to-have	Support for additional file formats: PDF HTML.
Nice-to-have	Note-taking capabilities	I would love to be able to take notes on the device That would probably require a stylus. Writing with finger doesn't work
Nice-to-have	More than 10" screen size	The bigger the better, I think On the other hand: I found a tablet usually less useful than a phone, because of it's size I would transport it in my backpack, so format doesn't play much of a role I think that when reading in the train or at home, weight and handling aren't as important as for mobile phones
Not relevant	Color	I don't think I need a color display - Surely not when I first try out e-readers for the first time
Not relevant	Waterproof	I won't be reading in the rain or in a swimming pool
Not relevant	Physical page turn buttons

Long list

Last updated: 2025.02:

Device	Screen Size	Resolution (PPI)	OS	Formats	Note-Taking	Physical buttons	Waterproof	Interfaces	Price
Kobo Aura One (2016) Kobo Aura One (model N709, 2016)	7.8"	300	Linux-based	EPUB, etc. No audio	No	Yes	IPX8	Micro-USB Touch WiFi No Bluetooth No audio	€ 160
Kobo Aura HD	6.8"	265	Linux-based	EPUB, etc.	No	No	No	Micro-USB	€ 75
Kobo Elipsa 2E	10"	227	Linux-based	EPUB, PDF	With stylus	No	No	USB-C	€ 349
Kobo Libra 2 (2023)	7"	300	Linux-based	EPUB, etc. Audiobooks no general audio	No	Page-turn buttons	IPX8	USB-C Touch Bluetooth WiFi Backlight No speakers No audio jack	€ 200
Kobo Forma (2018)	8"	300	Linux-based	EPUB, etc.	No	Page-turn buttons	IPX8	Micro-USB Touch WiFi No BT No audio	€ 225
Kobo Libra H2O	7"	300	Linux-based	EPUB, etc.	No	Yes	IPX8	Micro-USB	€ 130
Kobo Libra Color	7"	300 (b&w) 150 (color)	Linux-based	EPUB, etc.	With stylus	Yes	IPX8	USB-C	€ 199
Kobo Sage	8"	300	Linux-based	EPUB, PDF	With stylus	Yes	IPX8	USB-C	€ 319
Meebook P78 Pro	7.8"	300	Android	EPUB, PDF, more via apps	With stylus	No	No	USB-C	€ 299
Onyx Boox Max Lumi (2020)	13.3"	207	Android 10	EPUB, etc. Images Audio	With stylus Handwriting recognition Annotation	No	No	USB-C Touch BT WiFi Dual speakers Microphone Front light	€ 880
Onyx Boox Nova Air 2	7.8"	300	Android	EPUB, PDF, more via apps	With stylus	Yes	No	USB-C	€ 419
Onyx Boox Note Air 2	10.3"	227	Android	EPUB, PDF, more via apps	With stylus	No	No	USB-C	€ 549
Onyx Boox Note Air 3 (2023)	10.3"	227	Android 12 Including Google Play store (with limitations)	EPUB, etc. Image formats Audio	With BOOX Pen Plus Stylus	No	No	USB-C Touch BT WiFi Dual speakers Microphone Fingerprint scanner	€ 400
PocketBook InkPad Color	7.8"	300	Linux-based	EPUB, PDF	With stylus	Yes	IPX8	USB-C	€ 229
PocketBook InkPad Color 3	7.8"	300 (b&w) 150 (color)	Linux-based	EPUB, etc. Various audio formats Various audiobook formats	No	Page-turn buttons	IPX8	USB-C Touch BT WiFi Audio	€ 330
reMarkable 2	10.3"	226	Proprietary	PDF, ePub	With stylus	No	No	USB-C	€ 499

Short list

Onyx Boox Max Lumi
Onyx Boox Note Air 2 - 10.3"
Onyx Boox Note Air 3 - 10.3"