Femi Azeez gave the Royals a first-half lead, one which Daniel Johnson cancelled out with a penalty after an hour.
Within eight minutes though, Reading regained the lead through John Swift.
A late bombardment from North End couldn't bring about an equaliser, substitutes Brad Potts and Ben Whiteman both denied by fine saves from home keeper Rafael Cabral in stoppage-time.
Here are the PNE player ratings from the Championship clash.
5. Sepp van den Berg 6
Decent enough at right wing-back, got himself up the pitch when required. Fine block in the first-half to deny Ethan Bristow. Photo: Camerasport
6. Ryan Ledson 4
Made little impact in the midfield as North End failed to build going forward in the first half. Not himself in first two games. Photo: Camerasport
7. Alan Browne 5
Better second half than the first. His shot led to the penalty then he put a late header into the side netting. Photo: Camerasport
8. Greg Cunningham 5
Found it difficult down the left hand side, not getting forward as he would have liked in the left wing-back role. Photo: Camerasport