I’ve been a book reader for a long time, but never got into eBooks. I want to try it out next, but don’t want to use any privacy vilotating devices or software. So, those “10 best” lists I found while searching are out, all of the Amazon crap is out.

What’s left? What’s a good device to buy so I can self-host my own eBook library and get into eReading. I would prefer suggestions for devices which just read books and comics and such. I don’t need access to the app stores on it, I think.

Thanks for any ideas.

ETA: I have a Linux PC and an Android phone, if those things matter.

ETA2: Thank you all for these replies. You’ve given me a lot to think about and I appreciate the help!

  • Yingwu@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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    2 days ago

    Buy a Kobo, never connect it to WiFi. Or flash KOReader on it. Either way much better than the alternatives.

    • Oneser@lemm.ee
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      1 day ago

      I have a Clara 2E. It was some time ago, so I cannot remember all the fine details, but I couldn’t get mine to start without some internet connection. I gave a throwaway email and allowed it to update before I switched off WiFi and could freely move books with Calibre.

      To it’s credit, in 3 years since purchase it has not asked for internet since switching it on the first time.

      • GlenRambo@jlai.lu
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        1 day ago

        Got a libre2 recently as a gift. My first ereader. I was able to plug it into the PC. Change a line of code and reboot.

        Thst made the email prompt go away.

        Then installed koreader and syncthing on it. I DL books on Android and it syncs over to Kobo. I can even read via koreader app on andrpid and it syncs progression.