What exactly are e-ink devices, and do you need one?

If you spend your workdays staring at a 32-inch monitor, only to come home and relax by scrolling on your phone, your eyes are probably screaming for a break.

You've likely seen or used a Kindle before, and they're a fantastic alternative for reading. But the reality is, e-ink devices have evolved into a versatile ecosystem of tablets, notepads, phones, and even smart home dashboards.

If you're interested in turning away from your phone screens and back to e-ink, read on as we explain what it is and what's worth investing in.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

What exactly are e-ink devices?

Before we dive into the gear, it is worth understanding how the tech works. Unlike the screen on your iPhone, e-ink (electronic ink) uses tiny capsules filled with black and white particles.

When a positive or negative charge is applied, these particles flip and move to the surface to create text or images.

Because the screen reflects light rather than emitting its own, it makes it readable in the sun and uses zero power to maintain a static image. It only really uses battery when you turn the page, update the page or use the front light found in some devices.

Amazon Kindle

Was $199.99, now $158

Everyone knows what a Kindle is. It offers effortless reading with a 6-inch display and up to 16GB of storage to hold thousands of books. The battery life on these devices is fantastic, so you can expect up to six weeks of usage on a single charge!

Amazon Kindle Colorsoft

Was $399, now $298

If you're someone who values a bigger screen and high-contrast colours as you read, the Kindle Colorsoft offers that latest innovation on its e-ink reader. The battery also lasts up to eight weeks, and the Kindle itself is waterproof and features an adjustable display to help you read no matter the surrounding light.

reMarkable Paper Pure

Pre-order now for $629

Nobody likes misplacing their diary, journal, or any important notes. If you're prone to losing things, then the newly released reMarkable Paper Pure will be a handy device for you. It's designed for pure focus with a 10.3-inch black-and-white display, plus you can order a folio cover in mist green, ocean blue or desert pink to keep your e-ink tablet safe.

reMarkable Paper Pro Move

Shop from $779

If you're someone who prefers carrying around a smaller diary, then this portable e-ink notebook is the perfect solution for you. It offers a 7.3-inch coloured canvas screen with up to two weeks of battery life. After testing it out and feeling how tactile and paper-like the writing is, we're obsessed!

READ MORE: Why the reMarkable Paper Pro Move feels perfect and pointless

Boox Palma Pro 2

Now $577.15

If you're obsessed with reading on your phone, then the Boox Palma Pro 2 offers a coloured e-ink solution. It offers a 6.13-inch compact, phone-like display running on Android 15, so you can even browse and access different apps like your traditional phone. It also has a power button with fingerprint recognition, volume and page turn buttons, and a SIM tray for strictly data plans only.

Kobo Libra Colour

Now $399.95

If you're after a hybrid note taker and a colour e-ink reader, the Kobo Libra Colour is a well-regarded alternative. It lets you read books, comics, and graphic novels on a 7-inch display for up to weeks of battery life. Plus, you can even borrow eBooks directly from your local library using OverDrive and Libby integration.

Kobo Clara BW

Now $269.95

Kobo's classic black-and-white reader is now on sale and rivals the Kindle with its glare-free 6-inch display. It features weeks of battery life, a customisable experience and, like the Kobo Colour, has eBook borrowing capabilities.

Remarkable Paper Pro 2

From $929

The reMarkable Paper Pro 2 offers, dare I say, a remarkable alternative to your daily note-taking and laptop needs. It is a full-size 11.8-inch colour display that offers built-in productivity tools much like the Paper Pro, with mobile and laptop file syncing, folders, and many other useful tools to use.

Are e-ink devices worth it?

These devices have transformed reading and digital note-taking in a way that feels typically less distracting from the usual phone or computer, all the while being practical and a satisfying experience.

Some products are quite expensive, but if you're determined to transition to e-ink, in the long run, they can be quite valuable. The worth will likely be valued by its use-case and long-term use.

READ MORE: The convenient gadget that cured my bedside clutter