What Are The Best E-Ink Phones For Reading Long Novels?

I've been searching for the perfect e-ink phone to dive into my favorite novels without straining my eyes, and I found the Hisense A9 to be a game-changer. The 6.1-inch e-ink display is crisp and easy on the eyes, even after hours of reading. It's lightweight, fits comfortably in my hand, and the battery lasts forever—perfect for binge-reading 'The Lord of the Rings' or 'Dune'. The only downside is the lack of Google Play, but I sideloaded my favorite reading apps like Kindle and Moon+ Reader, and it works like a charm. For manga lovers, the monochrome screen might feel limiting, but for pure novel reading, it's a dream.

As someone who reads at least three books a week, I need an e-ink phone that balances functionality and comfort. The Hisense A7 CC is my top pick because of its color e-ink screen, which adds a nice touch when reading illustrated novels or comics. The 7.8-inch display is spacious, and the adjustable warm light makes late-night reading sessions cozy. I’ve loaded it with apps like Libby for library books and Pocket for articles, and the performance is smooth for an e-ink device.

Another standout is the Onyx Boox Nova Air. It’s more expensive, but the stylus support is great for highlighting passages or jotting down thoughts while reading dense classics like 'War and Peace'. The Android 11 OS means full access to the Play Store, so I can switch between Kindle, Kobo, and even niche apps like Serial Reader. The battery isn’t as impressive as the Hisense, but it’s a trade-off I’m willing to make for versatility.

For budget-conscious readers, the Xiaomi InkPalm 5 is a tiny powerhouse. The 5.2-inch screen is pocket-friendly, and the $150 price tag makes it accessible. It’s perfect for lightweight novels or fanfiction, though the lack of a backlight is a dealbreaker for some.

I’m a night owl who loves curling up with a good fantasy novel, so an e-ink phone with a warm backlight is non-negotiable. The Hisense Touch fits the bill—it’s compact, has a 6-inch HD e-ink screen, and the front light adjusts from cool to warm tones. I’ve spent countless nights lost in 'The Name of the Wind' without eye strain. The built-in music player is a bonus for ambient reading soundtracks.

For heavier readers, the Onyx Boox Poke 3 offers a 6-inch screen with faster page turns and expandable storage. I use it for epic series like 'The Wheel of Time', where quick navigation between chapters matters. The lack of color isn’t an issue for novels, and the Android 10 OS means I can sync my progress across devices. It’s not the cheapest option, but the durability justifies the cost.