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Kindle Ereader vs Kindle Paperwhite
Last updated: July 09, 2023
The key differences between the Kindle Ereader and the Kindle Paperwhite lie in their display technology, design, and features. First, the display technology sets them apart. The Kindle Ereader features an entry-level E Ink display, which provides a grayscale reading experience similar to ink on paper. This display is highly energy-efficient and offers excellent readability even in bright sunlight. In contrast, the Kindle Paperwhite incorporates a higher-resolution E Ink Carta display with built-in lighting. This display technology provides sharper text and adjustable front lighting, allowing users to read comfortably in various lighting conditions.
Design-wise, the Kindle Ereader has a simple and lightweight design, making it easy to hold and carry. It features physical page-turn buttons for convenient navigation, ideal for users who prefer a traditional book-like experience. The Kindle Paperwhite, on the other hand, has a sleeker design with a flush glass front and a thinner and lighter form factor. It features a touchscreen display for easy navigation, eliminating the need for physical buttons. The Paperwhite's display is also waterproof, adding an extra layer of durability and enabling users to read near water without worry.
When it comes to features, the Kindle Paperwhite offers some additional functionalities compared to the Kindle Ereader. For instance, the Paperwhite has a higher storage capacity, providing more space for users to store their e-books. It also includes built-in adjustable front lighting, allowing readers to customize the brightness for a comfortable reading experience in any lighting condition. Additionally, the Paperwhite supports Kindle's exclusive font, Bookerly, which is designed to enhance readability. These features, combined with its sleek design, make the Kindle Paperwhite an excellent choice for readers seeking enhanced functionality and a more premium reading experience.
Design-wise, the Kindle Ereader has a simple and lightweight design, making it easy to hold and carry. It features physical page-turn buttons for convenient navigation, ideal for users who prefer a traditional book-like experience. The Kindle Paperwhite, on the other hand, has a sleeker design with a flush glass front and a thinner and lighter form factor. It features a touchscreen display for easy navigation, eliminating the need for physical buttons. The Paperwhite's display is also waterproof, adding an extra layer of durability and enabling users to read near water without worry.
When it comes to features, the Kindle Paperwhite offers some additional functionalities compared to the Kindle Ereader. For instance, the Paperwhite has a higher storage capacity, providing more space for users to store their e-books. It also includes built-in adjustable front lighting, allowing readers to customize the brightness for a comfortable reading experience in any lighting condition. Additionally, the Paperwhite supports Kindle's exclusive font, Bookerly, which is designed to enhance readability. These features, combined with its sleek design, make the Kindle Paperwhite an excellent choice for readers seeking enhanced functionality and a more premium reading experience.
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Basic 6-inch Kindle e-reader uses an electronic ink screen that looks and reads like real paper. The matte screen reflects light like ordinary paper and uses no backlighting, so you can read as easily in bright sunlight as in your living room. Unlike tablet screens, Kindle has no glare.
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Kindle Paperwhite's screen has 25% higher contrast. Crisp, dark text against a brilliant white background makes for the perfect read. Paperwhite guides light towards the display from above instead of projecting it out at your eyes like back-lit displays, thereby reducing screen fatigue. You can adjust your screen's brightness to create a perfect reading experience in all lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to bedtime reading.
Kindle Ereader vs Kindle Paperwhite in our news:
2024. Kindle update improves settings adjustment
Amazon has rolled out firmware update 5.16.7 for its modern Kindle e-readers, encompassing models such as the latest Paperwhite, Scribe, and base Kindle. This update primarily focuses on maintenance rather than introducing new features or functionalities, with improvements aimed at performance, bug fixes, and general enhancements listed in the change log. Notably, the previous update brought a slew of new features to the Kindle, including revamped settings for easier navigation and adjustments, the addition of a "Date and time" setting under "Device options" for manual or automatic time setting, and a dedicated folder for storing screenshots. It is likely that the 5.16.7 update addresses lingering bugs from the previous release, with some users reporting extended battery life as a result.
2023. Amazon improves internet browser on Kindle e-readers
Amazon quietly introduced an improved internet browser for 10th and 11th-generation Kindle e-readers as part of the new 5.16.4 update. Although Amazon didn't officially announce the enhanced browser functionality, they did mention improvements made to Goodreads for better performance on E INK screens. Good e-Reader conducted various tests since Amazon didn't disclose specific details about the browser changes. Notably, the updated browser now loads websites faster, enhances text readability, and allows users to interact with cookie-acceptance popups. Layouts and CSS issues on websites like Wikipedia have been resolved, and users can now access email services like Google Mail. Amazon has also added new bookmarks for social media networks, including X.
2023. Send to Kindle is losing MOBI support
Amazon has initiated the distribution of emails to their customers, issuing a "Final Reminder" regarding the discontinuation of MOBI file format support (.AZW, .MOBI, .PRC) for their Send to Kindle service, which will take effect later this year. Initially, Amazon announced that they would cease MOBI format support in "late 2022," but this deadline was later revised to "early 2023." Despite these initial estimates, Amazon continued to support MOBI formats well into September 2023. According to the updated schedule, Amazon intends to commence the process of "phasing out support" for sending MOBI files to Kindles and Kindle apps via Send to Kindle on November 1st, 2023.
2023. Kindle e-readers get List view option for Collections
The latest firmware update Kindle introduces a new feature within the Collections view – List mode. Previously, the Library section provided options for Grid view and List view, while Collections only supported Grid view for reasons known to Amazon. However, this recent update now offers the List view option for Collections as well. This addition allows users to organize their content according to their preferences. While some may not find this change significant, many users will appreciate the ability to display their e-books in list format within their collections. Interestingly, despite both the Kindle and the Kindle Scribe receiving the update simultaneously, the List view option for Collections remains unavailable on the Kindle Scribe. There is a possibility that Amazon has distinct plans for the Scribe, and it is hopeful that the List view feature for Collections will eventually be introduced to the Scribe along with other Scribe-specific enhancements in the future.
2023. Kindle Paperwhite gets new Kindle Scribe features
Amazon has rolled out a fresh firmware update, labeled as version 5.16.2.1, for the 7th generation Kindle, 11th generation Kindle Paperwhite, and the Signature edition. To obtain and install the update, users can navigate to the settings menu and check for available updates. In case the update is not yet accessible in a particular region, it is expected to be released within the next few weeks. The update incorporates a range of Kindle Scribe features, including drawing, notebook management, and sticky notes. However, these features are presently disabled and non-functional. This deliberate decision by Amazon enables them to maintain a unified code base for both their e-readers and the Kindle Scribe. Consequently, whenever an update is released for one model, it can be applied to all of them simultaneously.
2023. Amazon releases new colors and covers for the Kindle Paperwhite
Amazon has recently introduced two fresh color options, Denim and Agave Green, for their Kindle Paperwhite e-reader. These new colors will be available for both the 16GB Kindle Paperwhite and the 32GB Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition models. Alongside the color variations, Amazon is also launching an Agave Green leather and fabric cover designed to complement the Agave Green device. It's worth noting that last fall, Amazon expanded the Kindle Paperwhite lineup by introducing a 16GB version alongside the existing 8GB model, allowing customers to enjoy increased storage capacity and carry a larger library while on the move. Building upon this success, the Kindle team decided to incorporate some playful color options into this popular e-reader.
2022. Kindle Paperwhite is now available with 16GB of storage
Amazon has introduced a new variant of the Kindle Paperwhite with 16GB of storage, available with or without ads. Priced at $149, the 16GB version carries a $10 premium over the 8GB model. It is worth noting that Amazon has previously increased storage capacity on Kindles without increasing the price, making this seem like an attempt to charge extra for additional storage that many users may not require. Interestingly, the latest basic Kindle now offers 16GB of storage and is priced at only $99. Given this, it seems illogical for Amazon to offer an "upgraded" Paperwhite model with only 8GB of storage for $139, which explains the introduction of the 16GB option.
2022. New basic Kindle offers premium Paperwhite features for under $100
Amazon has introduced a new 6-inch Kindle that is hailed as its "lightest and most compact" e-reader yet. Although it joins Amazon's regular Kindle lineup, its specifications align more closely with the $139.99 Paperwhite model. It incorporates several features from the premium lineup, including a high-resolution display of 300ppi for sharp text and graphics, a dark mode, and USB-C charging. Notable improvements include a battery life lasting up to six weeks per charge, 16GB of storage (twice the capacity of its 2019 predecessor), and the return of the adjustable front light. Impressively, this new Kindle is priced at just $99.99, a mere $10 increase from the previous generation, making it an enticing option for those seeking an upgrade from older models that lost the ability to browse, borrow, or purchase books directly from the Kindle Store last month.
2021. Kindle update brings new navigation options
Amazon has rolled out a new software update, version 5.14.1, for Kindle ereaders, introducing further modifications to the navigation system while reading ebooks. This update follows the previous 5.13.7 version that brought significant changes to the user interface but also resulted in the removal of the back button, causing some issues. To address this, Amazon has introduced a new feature: a go back box that now appears at the bottom of the screen whenever navigating to a different section of a book. This addition aims to improve the user experience and alleviate the problems caused by the previous update.
2021. Amazon launches Kindle Paperwhite for kids
Amazon has introduced the Kindle Paperwhite Kids, a version of the Kindle Paperwhite specifically designed for children. This kid-friendly e-reader includes software enhancements to ensure a safe reading experience. Notably, it possesses an IPx8 rating, indicating its ability to withstand accidental water exposure, an important feature for a device aimed at children. Additionally, the Paperwhite Kids offers tools like Vocabulary Builder and Word Wise to aid children in improving their English language skills. It also supports the Open Dyslexic font, benefiting those with dyslexia. To further enrich the reading experience, the Paperwhite Kids comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, granting access to a vast library of over a thousand eBooks and Audible audiobooks tailored for kids.
2021. Kindle Special Offers no longer show ads on the home screen
The Special Offers program has been implemented on various Kindle models, offering a discounted price of around $25 to $30 in exchange for displaying advertisements on the lock screen and home screen. However, Amazon has recently released the 5.13.7 firmware update, which introduced significant changes to the home screen. One notable improvement is the complete removal of ads from the home screen, leaving them only visible when the Kindle is in sleep mode. The new home screen design presents the current book being read along with the reading progress. It also showcases cover art images of a few other books and provides text-based information. Additionally, the recommended reads section offers suggestions based on previously purchased books. The user interface now lacks sufficient space to accommodate advertisements, leading to their omission from the home screen.
2021. Kindle 3G internet will no longer work since 2022
In 2017, Amazon introduced the original Kindle, which offered 3G internet access. This feature allowed Kindle users to connect to the nearest cellphone tower providing 3G data, enabling them to access the bookstore and Wikipedia. However, starting from next year, this capability will become obsolete. Network telecommunication companies worldwide are beginning to shut down their 3G networks and repurpose the frequencies for 4G/LTE and 5G technologies.
2021. Kindle can now display book covers on the lock screen
Amazon has released a firmware update enabling Paperwhite, Oasis, and the entry-level Kindle to showcase ebook cover art on the lock screen while the e-reader is in sleep mode. This highly requested feature has been sought after for over a decade and has even prompted Kindle users to resort to jailbreaking their devices. The update displays the cover of the ebook you are presently reading, as reported early on. It supports both Amazon-purchased content and sideloaded ebooks, providing a versatile experience for users.
2020. Amazon issues new update for Kindle Paperwhite 3
The long-awaited update has finally arrived for the Kindle Paperwhite 3, bringing along a host of new features that were previously missing. This particular model had not received a firmware update since December and there were even rumors of its discontinuation. One of the notable additions is an enhanced search experience, allowing users to effortlessly navigate through search results within the book without losing track of the page they were reading. To begin, simply search for a term in the book and tap on a search result. Furthermore, the Page Flip feature has been updated to display recently read pages as dots on the progress bar, including the most recent page read from another device. For those with a Freetime Unlimited subscription, children will now enjoy a revamped layout, improved search functionality, book details, and Audible support. In select markets, children with access to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited will find recommended age-appropriate eBook and Audible content conveniently displayed in rows.
2020. Amazon has ended support for the Kindle Paperwhite 3
Amazon has recently discontinued support for the Kindle Paperwhite 3, meaning that this e-reader will not receive any future firmware updates unless Amazon introduces a new version of TLS in their Kindle Whispersync program and Kindle Store. The 7th generation Kindle Paperwhite 3, which was launched in 2015 and enjoyed significant success, had been actively promoted for four years before being replaced by the Kindle Paperwhite 4 in late 2018. The most recent firmware update received by the Paperwhite 3 was in 2019, currently running version 5.12.2, while the other modern Kindle models are running version 5.13.1.
2020. You can now delete Kindle Books directly from Kindle
Previously, the only method to delete an ebook from your Kindle e-reader was by accessing your Amazon account via the website and removing the book from there. However, with the introduction of the 5.12.5 firmware update, you now have the ability to completely delete an ebook from your entire Amazon account directly on your Kindle device. Simply navigate to My Library and locate the title you wish to remove. Press and hold on the cover art for approximately two seconds, triggering a prompt that asks for confirmation of the deletion process. Once the removal is confirmed, the ebook will be entirely eradicated from your Amazon account, and you will no longer see it listed in the cloud section. It's important to note that if you accidentally delete the wrong book, you will need to repurchase it.
2020. Kindle ereaders get new font menu system
Amazon has released a new firmware update (5.12.4) for modern Kindle devices, introducing a revamped Aa menu that enhances users' reading experience by providing greater flexibility and control. The update primarily reorganizes the menu, consolidating additional settings into a single section instead of navigating through multiple menus and sub-menus. Upon accessing the Aa menu, users will find several sections, including themes, font, and layout options. The themes section allows users to create personalized themes or choose from various presets such as standard, compact, and large. In the font menu, users can select different fonts from a dropdown menu and adjust font boldness and size using slider bars. With fewer font options displayed on the screen, more text becomes visible in the book being read, allowing users to gauge the appearance of font settings as they make adjustments.
2019. Amazon heavily discounts the Kindle Paperwhite 4
Amazon has recently reduced the price of the Kindle Paperwhite 4 by $30, offering customers a chance to purchase the base model with 8GB storage for $99, or the 32GB WiFi version for $129. For those seeking an e-reader with 4G/LTE internet access, Amazon has discounted this model by $40, making it available for $209. However, it's important to note that this deal is exclusively available to customers in the United States. The Kindle Paperwhite 4 is not only waterproof but also includes access to the Audible audiobook store, allowing users to enjoy audio titles through wireless headphones or portable speakers. With its bezel-flush screen design, turning pages with swipes and gestures becomes even easier and more convenient.
2018. The new Kindle Paperwhite is thinner and waterproof
Kindle Paperwhite has recently received several upgrades, enhancing the overall user experience while maintaining its affordable starting price of $130. One of the most exciting upgrades is the addition of waterproofing, boasting an impressive IPX8 rating. This means that the device can be submerged in water up to two meters deep for up to an hour without any damage. Similar to its predecessor, the Oasis, the Kindle Paperwhite now features a flush front design, eliminating the raised bezels found in older and more economical models. This change not only enhances the device's premium feel but also provides added protection against water infiltration. Additionally, this upgrade contributes to making the Paperwhite the thinnest and lightest version to date. Another noteworthy improvement is the increase in the number of LEDs from four to five. Although seemingly minor, this enhancement significantly improves the uniformity of the front lighting, eliminating the patchy consistency observed in previous models.
2018. Kindle adds new search features
A firmware update has been rolled out by Amazon for all Kindles manufactured within the last five years. Notable additions include an enhancement to the in-book search feature, which now incorporates results from your personal notes and highlights. Furthermore, a clock has been introduced at the top of the screen while reading a book, but if desired, this feature can be disabled through the settings menu. The update, known as 5.9.4, is expected to be distributed to all Kindles over the next few days, automatically installing while the device is in sleep mode. Upon using the Kindle after the update, users can anticipate a noticeable reboot, accompanied by a notification window that provides details on the recent changes.