Best overall: Kindle Paperwhite

The world’s bestselling e-reader boasts not only light portability (7.3 oz) and a high-contrast e-ink display, but also innovative built-in light and dictionaries, as well as impressive battery life. With built-in Wi-Fi, you can shop e-books directly on Amazon, the best e-book store in the business.

US$119 ($148) without 3G / US$189  ($236) with 3G on Amazon

Runner-up: Nook Glowlight

Barnes & Noble’s latest six-inch e-reader, the Nook Glowlight is lighter (6.2 oz) and has slightly better lighting than the Kindle, but is noticeably slower. Still, it’s a really good choice.

US$119  ($148) from Barnes & Noble.

Best for a tight budget: Kindle 5

Kindle 5 is basically the Paperwhite minus touch screen and built-in light display, but everything else is the same. If you only need a great readable device, without much else, Kindle 5 is the pick for you.

US$69 ($86) on Amazon.

Best portability: Kobo Mini

If small size is a big deal, then the Kobo Mini is your thing. While you can't actually pick one up in Singapore (yet) you can buy one on your next trip to Hong Kong. With a 5-inch screen and weighing 4.7 oz, this is the smallest and lightest e-reader on the market. The Kobo Mini also offers touch screen, adjustable fonts and built-in Wi-Fi.

US$59 ($73), available at Swindon Books Hong Kong.