The practice of reading has most definitely evolved over time. Even though traditional physical copies of books will always bring nostalgia, there’s no denying that eBooks are realistically a more convenient choice. In addition, these books are generally cheaper due to the lesser resources needed compared to paperback and hardcover books. Plus, reducing physical book production is environmentally better due to the decreased paper use and carbon footprint.
With digitalization, we now have what seems like an unlimited archive of literary resources to explore. With this in mind, some may opt for devices made especially for reading. But if you’re not one to splurge on an additional device to read, a more economical and hassle-free method is to use an app instead.
So, are you a bookworm in search of the perfect app for all your reading needs? Then, you’ve come to the right place. With this list of eBook reader apps, you’ll want to spend your free time expending your already prevalent hobby.
1. Amazon Kindle
The infamous Amazon Kindle, you’ve most probably heard of this one. You’re also probably wondering if you need a Kindle device to download this app. But contrary to popular belief, this app is compatible with your device, whether you use an iPhone or an Android phone. However, the app has several limitations in terms of its functions compared to the Kindle device itself.
This app is not only designed for finding good reads but also for uploading your own literary works. However, one thing to note is that Kindle purely supports the MOBI format for uploads and reading. But to make up for that, the app provides a wide selection of free reading materials to explore.
And the cherry on top, the sync feature on Kindle makes it so convenient to alternate between devices. The page you last read, highlighted excerpts, as well as added notes are synced across all devices through the WhisperSync tool. Speaking of highlights, Kindle offers a feature called “popular highlights,” where you can view the book sections that are commonly highlighted among readers.
2. ReadEra
First things first, this app nails down the functionality aspect of online reading. It supports a majority of digital formats, allowing access to a wider library of literature. To avoid straining your eyes, this app goes above and beyond with its customization settings. You can not only change the background color but also adjust the fonts, spacing, and page flip setting according to your preference.
Apart from that, organizing your book collection is easy with the folder feature. The app comprises a “read”, “to read”, and a “favorites” tab just in case because we all have those few comfort books that we save for re-reading. Although you can’t sync the app across your devices, you can restore the backed-up in-app data if you change the devices.
3. eBoox
If you’re searching for an eBook reader app for your Samsung phone, this is a great app. eBoox has a modernistic, pleasant, and smooth interface, but it’s more than just a pretty app. The app fulfills the functionality of an eReader as well. It has an outstanding feature compared to most eReader apps; eBoox can be used for fifteen different formats of digital books. A fun little tidbit is that you can choose the color of your highlighter.
Similar to the Kindle app, your bookmarks, highlights, and notes from your account will be saved and synced on all your devices. But unlike Kindle, the backed-up data is stored in your Google Drive. Apart from that, the app helps keep your reading list clean by separating it into two tabs, “shelf” and “finished”. Additionally, you can categorize your reading materials into customizable folders.
4. Wattpad
Spent most of your teen years scrolling through this website? Well, almost all of us read, if not written and published, fanfiction of our favorite band members at any point. It is no surprise that Wattpad is a great platform to explore various genres of eBooks, but you may have forgotten about this gem.
You can access this app through your phone to fill in the gaps in your commute, and you can also visit the website on your HP laptop if you prefer a bigger screen. Apart from the regular features of an eReader app like categorizing, bookmarking, and syncing, Wattpad pulls focus onto the community aspect of reading and writing. You can curate a library of your favorite books as well as refresh your reading activity by exploring other readers’ libraries. The highlight is you can share your interest and excitement with fellow fans of the books you know and have grown to love.
5. Nook Barnes & Nobles
For starters, the Nook app by Barnes & Nobles has about 75.000 free titles to choose from with amazingly convenient features. On top of that, there are lists curated by booksellers themselves. Apart from that, you can find your favorite authors or browse through the new genres among the sea of millions of books offered. Like the Kindle device, there is a Barnes & Nobles eReader device that you can check out in case you’re interested in looking through more features.
6. Kobo Books
Kobo Books is a fun eReader app to play around with. For instance, you can browse through a huge library of various genres of books as well as make in-app purchases. To use the app, you’re required to set up an account. Similar to the sense of community in Wattpad, Kobo Books uses the “Reading Life” platform as a space to share and discuss reads you find interesting with other users.
Managing your saved and purchased books is also really simple with the app’s categorizing features. You can even use the app offline if you download books beforehand. Other than that, Kobo Books is also popular for its user-friendly audiobook navigation. Moreover, the app accommodates all you night owls out there with its “night mode” feature, designed to be comfortable for the eyes.
It’s always fun to explore interesting and useful apps that may change the way you go about your day. Whether you’re looking to catch up on work-related materials, enlighten yourself on certain topics of interest, or maybe just do some reading to fill up your free time, these apps will do the job. With the apps, you won’t have to carry a stack of books or manually browse through your bookshelf. Just a tap, and you’re all set for your next chapter.
