Kindle Paperwhite vs PocketBook

Last updated: June 28, 2023

The main advantage of Kindle Paperwhite is its seamless integration with the Amazon store and library, user-friendly interface and a wide range of customization options, making it a popular choice for readers who prefer a straightforward and intuitive reading experience. The main advantage of PocketBook is its open ecosystem, which supports a variety of e-book formats including EPUB, PDF, and MOBI, giving users more freedom and flexibility in choosing and accessing e-books from different sources. PocketBook devices also often come with expandable storage, physical buttons for easy navigation, and advanced features like handwriting recognition, making it a preferred choice for users who value versatility and customization options in their e-readers.
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Kindle Paperwhite
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.
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PocketBook
PocketBook - the best choice for reading professional literature, periodicals, work with graphs and tables including PDF and Djvu. PocketBook is perfect for reading both at the workplace and at home. School and college students will appreciate e-reader of such a format.
Kindle Paperwhite vs PocketBook in our news:

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. Pocketbook to add support for AZW ebooks



Pocketbook has recently started incorporating support for the Amazon Kindle AZW ebook format. The Inkpad 3, a Pocketbook e-reader, became the first device to officially offer this functionality following a firmware update on July 20th. Additionally, the official Send to Pocketbook app, available on all Pocketbook e-readers, now allows users to directly send AZW and AZW3 books to their devices. The AZW format, developed by Amazon specifically for their Kindle e-readers, is commonly used for DRM-protected ebooks. It bears similarities to the Mobipocket PRC file format, which does not require DRM protection.


2022. PocketBook launched Era - 7-inch e-reader with 300 PPI



Pocketbook Era is an innovative e-reader that harnesses the cutting-edge E INK Carta 1200 e-paper display panel. This advanced technology brings a 15% increase in image contrast and a 20% improvement in touch screen response time. With its 7-inch diagonal screen, the Pocketbook Era strikes the perfect balance between portability and readability, allowing you to view more text on a single page compared to traditional 6-inch e-readers. Adapt to any lighting environment with ease, thanks to the SMARTlight function, which enables adjustment of brightness and color temperature for a comfortable reading experience. The Pocketbook Era boasts a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen display featuring E INK Carta 1200 technology, offering a resolution of 1264×1680 with a pixel density of 300 PPI. The screen is shielded by a flush, protective layer of glass, ensuring enhanced anti-scratch durability, and making it a reliable companion for even the most active usage. Additionally, this waterproof device is well-suited for reading in the bathroom or outdoor environments.


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.


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. Pocketbook uveiled Basic 4 e-Reader



Pocketbook has given their entry-level e-reader, the Basic 4, a complete redesign, and it is set to be released at the end of this month. In contrast to previous models, this version features page turn buttons located at the bottom of the display, along with a vibrant and cheerful home button. The overall appearance of the device no longer resembles a budget e-reader, as Pocketbook has essentially revamped the entire industrial design. The Pocketbook Basic 4 sports a six-inch E INK Carta HD display with an expected resolution of 1024×758 and 212 PPI. Under the hood, it is equipped with a Freescale 1GZ processor, 256MB of RAM, and 8GB of internal storage, expandable via an SD card slot supporting up to an additional 32GB of storage. With dimensions of 161.3 × 108 × 8 mm and an incredibly lightweight construction weighing only 145g, the Basic 4 offers impressive portability.


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. PocketBook e-readers get new bookstore



Pocketbook has recently released the highly anticipated firmware version 6.0 for its PocketBook InkPad 3 Pro and Pocketbook Touch HD 3 e-readers. With this update, users now have access to a brand new bookstore where they can purchase bestselling ebooks and audiobooks. The main menu and user interface have undergone a complete redesign, offering a refreshed look and feel. Additionally, a new music player has been introduced. These updated e-readers are also compatible with EPUB3 format. Notably, the redesigned main menu now includes a list of recommendations featuring selected books such as the latest novels and bestsellers. Furthermore, users have the ability to personalize their e-reader's Home Screen by adding application icons and enabling or disabling book recommendations, among other customization options.


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.


2017. Pocketbook launched Basic Lux and Basic 3 models



Pocketbook has recently unveiled two upcoming e-readers that are scheduled to be shipped in the coming months. The Basic Lux and Basic 3 models are both entry-level devices, offering competitive alternatives to the Kindle Basic and Kobo Touch 2.0. The PocketBook Basic 3 is an entry-level e-reader equipped with a 6-inch E Ink screen boasting a resolution of 800×600 pixels, along with an integrated Wi-Fi module. On the other hand, the Pocketbook Basic Lux features a 6-inch E-Ink Carta display with a resolution of 1024×768 pixels, providing a pixel density of 212 PPI. Notably, it also includes a front-lit display for reading in low-light conditions and physical page turn buttons, providing an alternative to relying solely on the touchscreen for navigation.


2017. Pocketbook announced Aqua 2 e-Reader



Pocketbook has introduced their second generation waterproof e-reader, the Aqua 2, priced at $141. This advanced device showcases a six-inch E-Ink Carta display boasting a resolution of 1024×768 with 212 PPI. With 8GB of internal storage, it can accommodate an extensive collection of e-books. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy audiobooks. The Aqua 2 comes with a built-in front-light for reading in low-light conditions and possesses IP57 standard waterproof and dustproof capabilities. Utilizing WIFI, it enables internet connectivity. E-books can be conveniently sent directly to the device via the Dropbox connection and the Send-to-PocketBook service. Furthermore, for those reading foreign-language e-books, the Aqua 2 comes equipped with a range of preinstalled Abbyy-Lingvo dictionaries.


2016. Amazon released Kindle Paperwhite USB Audio Bundle



Amazon has introduced a new USB audio bundle designed to enhance the accessibility features of Kindle e-Readers. This bundle enables users to receive audio prompts when interacting with menus and utilizes text-to-speech functionality for listening to e-books. The VoiceView for Kindle feature employs Amazon's natural language text-to-speech voices, providing visually impaired customers with the ability to enjoy Kindle books. By connecting the USB audio dongle to headphones or speakers, users can not only listen to books but also navigate the user interface using audio cues. Currently, the adapter is only compatible with the latest generation Kindle Paperwhite, but Amazon has plans to expand its availability to other models, such as the Kindle Voyage and Kindle Oasis, in the future.


2015. New $119 Kindle Paperwhite will be easy on your eyes



Amazon has unveiled its latest offering, the new Kindle Paperwhite e-reader, priced at $119. This upgraded device features a 6-inch display with an impressive 300ppi resolution, providing a high-quality reading experience. Alongside the enhanced display, Amazon has introduced a new font and book layout system, specifically designed to make reading books like "The Martian" more enjoyable, especially during summer vacation. The Kindle Paperwhite is currently available for pre-order and is set to be shipped on June 30. While the overall design of the device remains unchanged, featuring a sleek black plastic exterior with a glare-free screen, this updated model boasts twice the number of pixels compared to its predecessor, resulting in laser-quality text. Font enthusiasts will also appreciate the introduction of a new typeface called Bookerly, carefully crafted by Amazon to offer improved readability. Additionally, a new typesetting engine has been incorporated, ensuring superior book layout, even when using larger font sizes.


2014. Kindle Update for e-readers lets enables sharing books with your family



Amazon has released an update for Kindle e-readers, bringing new e-reading features previously exclusive to the Kindle Voyage to older Kindle models. The update introduces several enhancements, including Family Library, which enables users with linked Amazon accounts to access and read books previously downloaded by family members. Additionally, the Word Wise feature automatically displays definitions for challenging words above them, aiding comprehension. The Enhanced search function now provides results from not only your library but also Goodreads and the Kindle Store. Lastly, the About This Book feature offers valuable information such as author biographies and other titles in the series as you commence reading. The update is compatible with the Paperwhite 2nd generation, Kindle Voyage, and the most recent low-end Kindles.