Best Kindle Alternatives for Non Amazon Users

If you're tired of being locked into Amazon's ecosystem but still crave that perfect e-reading experience, you're not alone. As a long-time digital reading enthusiast and tech reviewer, I've tested nearly every e-reader on the market—and let me tell you, there are some seriously strong Kindle alternatives out there that fly under the radar.

The biggest pain point? Amazon’s tight control over content, formatting, and library access. If you value freedom—like using open formats (hello, EPUB!), sideloading books without DRM drama, or syncing across non-Amazon apps—then it’s time to explore beyond the Kindle.

Top 3 Kindle Alternatives That Actually Deliver

After months of real-world testing, here are the top devices that stand out for performance, compatibility, and user freedom:

Let’s break them down.

1. Kobo Clara 2E – The Everyday Champion

This is my go-to recommendation for most people. Why? It supports EPUB natively, integrates with public libraries via OverDrive, and has a warm front light for night reading. Plus, it’s waterproof—perfect for bath-time bookworms. At $129, it’s priced competitively against Kindle’s basic model, but gives you way more freedom.

2. Onyx Boox Note Air 3 – For Power Users

If you’re into annotating textbooks, reading research papers, or want Android app support (yes, really), this one’s a beast. It runs Android 11, so you can install Libby, Google Play Books, or even Kindle app. The 10.3-inch Carta screen is crisp, though the price tag stings a little.

3. Remarkable 2 – Minimalist Perfection

No ads, no apps, no distractions. Just pure reading and note-taking. It feels like paper, syncs wirelessly, and if you’re all about mindfulness and focus, this is the closest thing to a physical notebook with superpowers. Not ideal for casual fiction readers, but a dream for students and professionals.

Why Go Beyond Amazon?

Amazon locks you into MOBI/AZW formats and pushes its own bookstore. But e-readers for non-Amazon users embrace open standards. According to a 2023 survey by Good e-Reader, 68% of Kobo users reported higher satisfaction with library borrowing versus Kindle owners.

Bottom line: If you want control over your digital library, better format support, and a breath of fresh air from Amazon’s walled garden, these Kindle alternatives are worth every penny.