If you’re looking for an ereader, the decision usually comes down to two names: Kindle and Nook. These two devices are at the top of the ebook reader game and have been around for years. Both make it easy to carry an entire library in a small package, but they take very different approaches in terms of features, ecosystem, file support, and reading experience.
Amazon’s Kindle ereaders are known for their seamless integration with the massive Kindle Store and features like Audible audiobook support. Barnes & Noble’s Nook series emphasises a classic booklike reading feel and straightforward sideloading, which appeals to many readers who want more control. So, the question comes up: Which ereader is the better choice for you?
This guide will break down the most important differences between Kindle and Nook, including hardware, reading experience, apps, file formats, and which is best depending on your needs. I’ll also share my own experiences to help you choose more confidently.
Overview of Kindle and Nook
What is Kindle?
Kindle is Amazon’s ebook platform. It includes several ereader models, a huge digital bookstore, and a popular reading app. Kindles sync your books, progress, and highlights across devices, so you can pick up where you left off on your phone or tablet. I’ve found the ecosystem to be really convenient, especially if I read everywhere. Plus, Kindle Unlimited is an option if you want a subscription for a massive range of books at a flat monthly rate, which can save avid readers a lot of money.
What is Nook?
Nook is Barnes & Noble’s dedicated ereader brand. It focuses on delivering a comfortable, booklike reading experience and supports sideloading of books through USB and microSD cards. Nook devices connect to the Nook Store, where you’ll find a big selection of books and magazines. One thing I’ve enjoyed is being able to walk into a Barnes & Noble store to get direct help with my device or just browse ebooks onsite for free. Nook is also one of the few mainstream options that gives you expandable storage, making it appealing if you like to keep thousands of ebooks locally.
Who is Kindle Good For?
- Readers who want an easy-to-use device with access to millions of books
- Anyone who listens to audiobooks with Audible
- People who want to keep their books synced across phone, tablet, and Kindle
- Those who want a library borrowing setup that works quickly
- If you plan to share books among family members, Kindle’s Family Library feature lets you do that seamlessly.
Who is Nook Good For?
- Readers who prefer an experience similar to a real book
- People who want to sideload ebooks easily, including EPUB files
- Shoppers who like getting in-person service in actual stores
- Anyone who values a less locked-in ecosystem and wants broader file support
- Those who want to customise fonts and margins, and really control the reading layout
Kindle Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Very large ebook and audiobook selection
- Automatic sync across all your devices
- Supports Audible audiobooks
- Easy library setup with most major libraries
- Sideloading is possible once you know the steps
- Regular software updates and strong Amazon customer support
Cons:
- Mostly limited to Amazon’s store
- Doesn’t support direct EPUB reading without conversion (here’s how to handle EPUB vs MOBI)
- More restrictive with outside content
- Some ad-supported Kindles display sponsored screensavers unless you pay to remove them
Nook Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Feels very similar to reading a real book
- Supports EPUB files and sideloading without much hassle
- Personal in-store support at participating Barnes & Noble locations
- Expandable storage on some models
- A less cluttered and ad-free reading environment by default
Cons:
- Book selection isn’t as big as Amazon’s
- Fewer audiobook options
- Not all features sync across devices as smoothly
- Some models have chunkier builds and are not water-resistant
Comparing Features: Kindle vs Nook
- Book Selection & Store Access
Amazon’s Kindle Store has the largest ebook market by far. Most new books, bestsellers, and exclusives appear here first. Nook has a big store too, but you won’t always find lesser-known or indie titles. I notice more variety and daily deals in the Kindle store, but both cover most major releases. - Reading Experience
Both offer glare-free screens and adjustable lights. Nook screens tend to have a warmer glow for nighttime. Page turn buttons are still found on some Nook models, which I like for longer reading sessions. Kindle models load pages faster, and the text is crisp across every device. If you care about reading comfort, either can work, but Nook leans closer to a physical book in feel, and its textured backs provide a non-slip grip for longer reads. - Apps & Sync
Kindle’s sync works well across nearly any device, even on iOS, Android, and the web. Your position, notes, and highlights always sync perfectly for me. Nook’s apps have improved, but sometimes miss the last page or don’t sync highlights as reliably. With Kindle, even comic books, manga, and magazines are well organised on the app. - File Support
Kindle supports MOBI, AZW, and now limited EPUB support (often requiring conversion; see this guide). Sideloading is possible but takes a few extra steps. Nook accepts EPUB, PDFs, and other formats directly through USB or microSD. I find sideloading less stressful on a Nook, and it’s good for people with big existing libraries from non-Amazon stores. - Audiobook Features
Kindle stands out with full Audible support. You can buy or borrow audiobooks and listen with Bluetooth headphones. Nook only offers limited audiobook support and has a much smaller selection at the moment. So, if listening is key, Kindle gives you more options and smoother playback. - Library Borrowing
Kindle’s connection with library apps like Libby or OverDrive is fast and user-friendly. I can send most borrowed books directly to my Kindle. Nook also supports library borrowing, but may involve downloading and sideloading files manually, which some find tedious. - Build & Battery
Both devices last for weeks on a single charge. Nook models sometimes feel a little chunkier or less premium, but they’re durable. Kindle Oasis and Paperwhite are especially slim and water-resistant. I haven’t had trouble with battery life on either device, even with daily use. - Pricing & Value
Prices are pretty similar for base models. Kindle Paperwhite and Nook GlowLight 4 are close in price. Amazon sometimes bundles exclusive sales or offers with Kindle Unlimited; see my Kindle Unlimited review for those details. Nook doesn’t have a direct subscription equivalent, but you can catch big sales during holidays.
User Experiences & Reputation
- Kindle: Reviewers and friends often point to Amazon’s seamless syncing and the amount of content available. Some find the Amazon ecosystem too closed, but they like the long-term reliability.
- Nook: Users who prefer simple sideloading and fewer restrictions on file types choose Nook. In-person support at Barnes & Noble stores is a bonus. Some newer users report confusion around syncing, but love the warm lighting and overall comfort.
Overall, both Kindle and Nook have passionate fans. Your choice really comes down to personal preference about where you buy your books, what file types you need, and how much you value extras like audiobooks or syncing.
FAQ: Kindle vs Nook
Is Nook still worth it in 2025?
Nook devices still offer a really pleasant, booklike reading experience and are actively supported by Barnes & Noble. Newer models get regular updates, so it’s still a solid choice in 2025, especially if you want to sideload EPUB books easily or you want to avoid Amazon’s closed ecosystem.
Can I use Libby or OverDrive on both?
Yes, but the process is simpler on Kindle, thanks to direct library integration. On Nook, you usually need to use Adobe Digital Editions to transfer library ebooks by USB. More details are available in my guide on how to read ebooks on your phone.
Do both support EPUB?
Nook directly supports EPUB files, while Kindle now allows EPUB uploads but usually converts the file to its own format. If you have a big EPUB library, Nook is easier to work with. You can see my EPUB vs MOBI guide for more info.
Which is better for PDFs?
Nooks generally handle PDFs more smoothly, letting you zoom and move around easily. Kindles can open PDFs but sometimes reflow them in a way that makes them harder to read, especially on smaller screens.
Which is better for kids?
Kindle offers Kids’ editions and robust parental controls. You’ll also find more kid-friendly content and programs, like Amazon’s FreeTime. Nook has decent content for children, but Kindle is more robust if you want easy monitoring and kid-specific features.
Which is better for audiobook listeners?
Kindle is a better pick for audiobooks. Audible integration is reliable, and the wireless headphone support makes it convenient to switch between reading and listening.
Can I read without an account?
Both require accounts to access the main stores and sync, but you can sideload books (especially on Nook) and read offline without being logged into an account after the initial setup.
Does either work well outside the US?
Kindle books and features are available in most countries, though some books and services may be restricted. Nook is mainly US-based, and some services and features could be limited or unavailable abroad.
Should You Choose Kindle or Nook?
Kindle is the right choice if you want a huge selection, smooth syncing, audiobooks, and worry-free library borrowing. It’s the device I end up recommending most often for families and anyone who likes reading on multiple devices. Amazon’s regular updates also help keep Kindles running smoothly for years.
Nook is better for readers who want easy sideloading, less file restriction, a gentler reading light, or those who prefer getting support and recommendations from real people at Barnes & Noble stores. It’s also unbeatable if you have a large collection of EPUB files or want to avoid ads that are sometimes shown on Kindles.
Your lifestyle and where you buy your books really drive the decision. If your library is mostly Amazon purchases or you want Audible, Kindle shines. If you’re more independent and value compatibility, or you want to support Barnes & Noble, Nook makes sense.
Want to read on your phone instead? My guide to reading ebooks on your phone explains all the apps and tricks you can use. Still choosing a format? The EPUB vs MOBI guide covers every file type you’ll come across.