ZDNet names Kindle Paperwhite best reading tablet of 2026
ZDNet's expert testing selects the Kindle Paperwhite as the best reading tablet of 2026, highlighting its fast performance, long battery life, and water resistance.
The new Paperwhite, released this fall, features a 7-inch, 300 ppi e-ink display, 16 GB of storage and an IPX8 water-resistance rating. Amazon says it delivers 25% faster page turns and 20% faster overall performance than the previous generation. The device also gets up to 12 weeks of battery life, up from 10 weeks in the older model. ZDNet staff writer Maria Diaz tested the Kindle for two weeks and reported that after daily reading, sometimes for three hours a day, the battery still showed 32%.
ZDNet praised the Paperwhite’s larger and thinner design, making it more comfortable to hold for long reading sessions. The review also noted that the device is waterproof, allowing reading by the pool or in the bath without worry. A $40 Signature Edition adds wireless charging, 32 GB of storage and an auto-adjusting front-light sensor.
However, ZDNet pointed out that the Paperwhite is more of an e-reader than a full tablet. It does not support web browsing or a stylus. For readers who want a dedicated device, the Paperwhite remains a top choice.
ZDNet’s recommendations are based on testing, research and comparison shopping, and the site may earn affiliate commissions from purchases made through its links. The site states that such commissions do not affect its editorial content or influence the prices paid by readers.