Best e-book readers
Looking for an e-book reader? You have more choices than ever before--though the number of models we at CNET can enthusiastically recommend is actually pretty short.
There are two basic class of e-book readers: black-and-white e-ink models that offer much longer battery life and a more "paperlike" reading experience (priced at $79 to $149) and color LCD models that are actually miniature tablets with apps, video, music, games, and more (priced at $199 to $249). And that doesn't include more expensive tablets (Android and Apple iPad models) that can also double as reading devices.
Our favorites (including all of the late 2011 and early 2012 models) are presented below--but many of the competing models are closely matched, so be sure to read the full reviews (and the stories linked below) before making a buying decision.
Looking for the iPad and other more full-featured tablets? See CNET's top tablets
Need help choosing between a tablet and a dedicated e-reader? Kindle vs. Nook vs. iPad: Which e-book reader should you buy?
Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch with GlowLight 
Best e-ink reader overall
The Nook Simple Touch with GlowLight sets the standard for e-ink e-readers going forward and is well worth the extra money if you do a lot of nighttime reading.
Price: $139.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Amazon Kindle Touch (with Special Offers, Wi-Fi)
Best audio-enabled touch-screen e-ink reader
The Kindle Touch is Amazon's best e-reader to date.
Price: $99.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch Reader (Wi-Fi)
Best ad-free e-ink reader you can buy for under $100
The touch-screen Nook Simple Touch is an excellent $99 e-reader that won't pester you with ads.
Price: $99.00 - $179.95 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Amazon Kindle 2011 (with Special Offers, Wi-Fi)
Best e-ink reader under $80
The entry-level Kindle is an ideal choice for anyone seeking an ultraportable and superaffordable no-frills e-ink reader.
Price: $79.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Barnes & Noble Nook Tablet (8GB)
Best entry-level reading tablet with expandable storage
The $199 Nook Tablet (8GB) matches up well to the Kindle Fire in specs and price--and has the added advantage of offering an expansion slot for additional memory.
Price: $199.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Amazon Kindle Fire
Best overall reading and media tablet for under $200
Though it lacks the tech specs found on more-expensive Apple and Android tablets, the $199 Kindle Fire is an outstanding entertainment value that prizes simplicity over techno-wizardry.
Price: $199.00 - $199.95 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
