Amazon, with its vast selection of titles, is undeniably one of the largest sellers of ebooks, boasting an impressive array of Kindle books. However, it's not the only game in town when it comes to purchasing digital books. There are many other ebook retailers, indie booksellers, and platforms to consider. Here are some top alternatives where you can buy ebooks and enjoy new books and bestsellers:
1. Speechify Audiobooks
Speechify audiobooks is the newest audiobook app that brings eBooks to its vast library. With cutting edge features and a very user friendly design it is already a favorite.
2. Barnes and Noble
Barnes and Noble, the parent company of the Nook e-reader, also maintains an extensive ebook store. They offer a wide range of titles, from indie gems to bestsellers and non-fiction. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
3. Kobo
Kobo is not just a provider of high-quality e-readers. They also operate an online book store with a selection that rivals Amazon, including many new releases. Kobo supports the popular EPUB and MOBI ebook formats.
4. Apple Books
Apple Books, previously known as iBooks, is a robust platform for iOS and Mac users. It provides a seamless reading experience on your iPad, Mac, or iPhone and has a wide array of titles, including thrillers and non-fiction.
5. Google Play Books
For Android users, Google Play Books is a convenient option. It offers a broad selection of ebooks and is integrated directly into the Android operating system.
6. eBooks.com
eBooks.com is an independent online store that hosts a massive library of books across genres. The platform supports various formats, including EPUB, PDF, and Adobe's proprietary DRM technology for protected content.
7. Smashwords
Smashwords is an excellent platform for indie and self-publishing authors. It is also a distributor, supplying a vast number of smaller, niche, and local bookstores with ebooks.
For kids, websites like "A Million" offer a large variety of children's books in various formats.
Many of these retailers also sell audiobooks. For example, Libro.fm is an audiobook platform that partners with local bookstores, while Scribd and Audible offer subscription services for audiobooks.
Getting Free Ebooks
There are various platforms to get free ebooks. Project Gutenberg is a volunteer effort to digitize and archive cultural works and hosts over 60,000 free ebooks. Libby, an app by OverDrive, lets you borrow ebooks from your local library digitally.
E-Readers
When it comes to e-readers, the Amazon Kindle devices are popular choices. However, alternatives like the Kobo and Barnes and Noble's Nook offer excellent reading experiences. Additionally, many tablets like the iPad and Android devices support ebook reading apps.
Who sells most ebooks?
Amazon is currently the largest retailer of ebooks, especially through their Kindle Store.
Where can I get good ebooks?
Good ebooks can be found on numerous platforms, including Amazon's Kindle Store, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Apple Books, Google Play Books, and eBooks.com. Indie books can be found on Smashwords.
Can you buy Kindle books without Amazon Prime?
Yes, you can purchase Kindle books without an Amazon Prime subscription. Kindle books are available to all Amazon customers.
Is it cheaper to buy books or ebooks?
In general, ebooks tend to be cheaper than their physical counterparts, due to the lack of printing and distribution costs. However, prices can vary depending on the retailer, the book’s popularity, and other factors.
What are some good ebook websites?
Some popular ebook websites include Amazon's Kindle Store, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Apple Books, Google Play Books, eBooks.com, and Smashwords. For free ebooks, check out Project Gutenberg and Libby.
What are the best e-book readers?
Popular e-readers include Amazon's Kindle devices, Barnes and Noble's Nook, and the Kobo reader. If you're reading on a tablet or smartphone, apps like Apple Books, Google Play Books, and the Kindle app are excellent choices.
What is the best place to get free ebooks?
Project Gutenberg offers a vast collection of free ebooks, mainly of older works for which copyright has expired. Libby, an app by OverDrive, allows you to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library for free.
Why do people download ebooks?
People download ebooks for the convenience, portability, and versatility they offer. Ebooks can be read on various devices, adjusted for font and brightness, and carried in large quantities without physical weight.
What is the best place to buy ebooks for kids?
Amazon's Kindle Store, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo have extensive collections of children's ebooks. A dedicated children's platform, such as Epic!, is also a good option.
How do I get free ebooks?
You can get free ebooks from websites like Project Gutenberg, Open Library, and Libby. Many online libraries also offer free ebook rentals.
What are some websites to buy ebooks besides Amazon?
Websites to buy ebooks apart from Amazon include Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Apple Books, Google Play Books, eBooks.com, and Smashwords.
Best Apps fo eBooks
- Speechify Audiobooks: Speechify audiobooks is the newest audiobook app that brings eBooks to its vast library. With cutting edge features and a very user friendly design it is already a favorite.
- Calibre: A powerful, open-source e-book management tool that supports a wide range of ebook formats.
- Adobe Digital Editions: Ideal for reading DRM-protected ebooks and PDFs.
- Goodreads: An online community for book lovers. It helps discover new books, track reading, and connect with other readers.
- Libby: An app by OverDrive, it allows you to borrow and read ebooks from your local library.
- Bookshelf: A versatile ebook reader app that allows reading across multiple devices.
- Google Play Books: An Android app that serves as an e-reader and an online store.
- Apple Books: An iOS app for reading ebooks and listening to audiobooks purchased from Apple's bookstore.
- Amazon Kindle App: Allows you to read Kindle books without a Kindle device or Amazon Prime.
The world of ebooks extends beyond Amazon, with numerous websites and apps offering a rich and varied reading experience. Whether you're seeking a particular format, looking to support indie authors, or interested in finding the best deals, there's an alternative out there for everyone.
