These retailers are best if you own their specific hardware, though they all offer mobile apps for cross-device reading.
If you want to own your files outright without digital rights management (DRM) restrictions, these stores are the gold standard. where to buy ebooks
Buying ebooks in 2026 is about choosing between "walled gardens" for convenience or open retailers for flexibility. While remains the largest player with roughly 67% market share, new updates now allow purchasers of DRM-free Kindle books (published after late 2025) to download them as standard EPUB or PDF files. The Big Three: Ecosystem Leaders These retailers are best if you own their
: The undisputed giant for selection. Its Kindle Unlimited subscription ($11.99/mo) provides access to over 4 million titles, primarily from indie authors and back catalogs of major publishers. While remains the largest player with roughly 67%
: The top choice for those avoiding Amazon. It offers a massive selection of 6+ million titles and Kobo Plus , a subscription service ($7.99/mo) that is widely praised for its international reach and lack of exclusivity requirements for authors.
: Ideal for U.S.-based readers who want a simple, competitive storefront. Its flat 70% royalty model for authors ensures a healthy pipeline of indie and mainstream titles. Independent & DRM-Free Alternatives