I am someone who believes that there is something profound and special about a physical book. My favorite part about a book is its smell. It's not wrong to describe the smell of walking into a Barnes & Noble as pure euphoria. New books smell like potential, beginnings, and the possibility of something grand. Old books smell like legends, ancient wisdom, or forgotten secrets. Books have a weight to them as well. It's reassuring to know that this book you're holding is real — it takes up physical space in the world and this makes it undeniable. It's as if the power of the stories and ideas within are so strong that they have materialized into matter out of the aether. It's hard for me to hold, say, a Bible without a sense of reverence and awe. Even today when I walk into a large library I can't help but feel like I have walked into a holy place — a place of worship. Being surrounded by books has the same effect on me that a Xanex has on others. Books have an impact on me. I love them.
This is why, when I started reading on a Kindle over a year ago, it felt like I was committing adultery. This nasty little plastic screen inspired none of the feelings that books gave me. It took the magic of books and sacrificed it on the altar of consumer electronics. Despite these feelings, I continued to use it.
Now I have read a little over fifty books using my Kindle. I still believe that the Kindle kills the magic that physical books have, and it does. But for the first time in a year, I decided to pick up a book in paperback and read it. This experience of going back to real books has made me realize a few things about the Kindle and myself.
First off, I realized with horror that I am addicted to my Kindle and its features. The people who designed the Kindle did so with intent. The Kindle's sole purpose is to read books — there are no other apps on it, there are no intrusive ads, and there is nothing to distract you from reading. Honestly, the device is relatively primitive compared to other consumer electronics, but that is a design choice and not a flaw. I would argue it is even easier to get lost in a book using the Kindle than it is with a physical book.
And then there are the features — the glorious features. My favorite feature by far is the built-in dictionary. When reading a physical book and coming across a word I didn't know the meaning of, assuming I couldn't intuit the meaning from context, I would have to mark my place in the book, put it to the side, pull out my phone, and Google the word. This is tedious. It also breaks my train of thought and forces me to use my dreadful phone with all of its notifications and apps and stuff that sends me into a panic and introduces into my reading time the potential to sidetrack myself. I hate that. With my Kindle, all I have to do is touch the word and a popup with the definition appears and is dismissed just as easily, and then I'm off reading again — an interruption that is barely even noticed and my attention remains intact. Even better is the fact that my Kindle keeps a list of all these words that I've looked up over time, and I can review them anytime. I look at it occasionally and quiz myself — this is my idea of 'fun'.
Now I'm a big fan of writing in my books — I underline, highlight, and write in the margins constantly. If I ever need inspiration or if I'm trying to remember something I've read, I will thumb through the book I found it in until I eventually find it. Sometimes when I get bored I will sit in front of my bookshelf and go through the books I've read looking at all the passages I highlighted to refresh my memory on all those inspiring things that I read in years past. It's a little tedious but not too bad. This habit of highlighting is not lost to me while reading on my Kindle. You simply press and drag your finger across the passage which will highlight it. But that's not the best part: Kindle will keep up with everything I have highlighted and organize it all for me by the book it was found in. So at any given time, I can see all of my highlights in any of the books I have read, and I can even share them to my Goodreads profile! This gets me visibly excited.
The last feature I want to talk about is the backlit screen. If you do any of your reading in bed then you probably have a bedside lamp or a flashlight or some other novel light source designed for books. Maybe it's just me but I find it difficult to get comfortable in bed and read a paperback at the same time. Either my spouse is annoyed by the light while she is trying to sleep or I can't find the perfect position that makes it both comfortable and easy to read. The Kindle has a backlit screen with adjustable lighting and a "warm" light setting. This means all other light sources in the room can be extinguished and I can still get my reading done. No book-light required. The Kindle is so lightweight that I can lay or recline in any position comfortably. No more fighting with those books whose binding is stiff and unyielding.
So now we come to the point of this post. A confession. It's a confession to myself and the world. As much as this pains me to say: The Kindle offers a far superior reading experience over books. I said it. I don't like it any more than you do, but it is simply true. The onboard dictionary, the highlights, the backlit screen, the insane battery life (I charge this thing once a month), all of it together creates the most consuming and productive reading experience available. I still feel subtle pangs of guilt when I look at my bookshelf. I don't think that will ever go away for anyone who truly loves books. But now my bookshelf has become a kind of "greatest hits" display. I still buy all the best books I read, and I now consider my bookshelf as a place of honor for all the greatest books. But I think of my Kindle as another appendage on my body — I never go anywhere without it.
I love books. I love my Kindle. To my fellow book lovers out there who are still opposed to the idea of a Kindle, I say that you can love both. It will be okay. The Kindle isn't evil after all.
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Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
Carbon impact
Carbon emissions from the lifecycle of this product were reduced compared to similar products or previous models.
As certified by
Reducing CO2 The Reducing CO2 label applies to products certified by the Carbon Trust, that are lowering their carbon emissions year after year for the full lifecycle of the product. The Carbon Trust was formed in 2001 and introduced the world’s first carbon label in 2007. It produces its certifications to global leading and independently verified standards. The Carbon Trust has a mission to accelerate the move to a sustainable, low carbon economy.
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Climate Pledge FriendlyProducts with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn morePRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
Reducing CO2 products reduce their carbon footprint year after year. Certified by the Carbon Trust.
Climate Pledge FriendlyProducts with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn morePRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
Reducing CO2 products reduce their carbon footprint year after year. Certified by the Carbon Trust.
Climate Pledge FriendlyProducts with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn morePRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
Reducing CO2 products reduce their carbon footprint year after year. Certified by the Carbon Trust.
Climate Pledge FriendlyProducts with trusted sustainability certification(s). Learn morePRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
Reducing CO2 products reduce their carbon footprint year after year. Certified by the Carbon Trust.
Lose yourself in a book—
wherever, whenever
Kindle Paperwhite is thin, lightweight, and travels easily so you can enjoy your favorite books at any time. With our signature 300 ppi glare-free Paperwhite display—now 10% brighter at its max setting—you can read in any light. And now, a single battery charge via USB-C lasts up to 10 weeks. Battery life may vary depending on use.
Make a splash
With the waterproof Kindle Paperwhite, you’re free to read and relax in more places—from the beach to the bath. Kindle Paperwhite is IPX8 rated to protect against accidental immersion in up to two meters of fresh water for up to 60 minutes, and up to 0.25 meters of seawater for up to 3 minutes. Learn more about waterproof features.
Better together
Our covers are designed by Amazon to perfectly fit your Kindle, thin and lightweight design allows for hours of comfortable reading. They automatically put your Kindle to sleep when closed and wake upon opening, making it easy to get back to your story. Shop Kindle accessories.
FABRIC COVER
Designed by Amazon to perfectly fit your Kindle, these slim, form-fitting covers attach securely and fold back for one-handed reading. Shop fabric covers
GLASS SCREEN PROTECTOR
Ultra-clear and scratch resistant glass provides protection without compromising the display.
Shop glass screen protector
LEATHER COVER
Textured natural leather cover with microfiber interior protects your display from scratches. Cover folds back for easy one-handed reading. Shop leather covers
Every day is an earth day
You don’t have to be an environmental scientist to make sustainable choices. We considered sustainability in the design of this Kindle device. Here’s how:
Materials
60% post-consumer recycled plastics in device
70% recycled magnesium in device
Device Packaging
95% of this device’s packaging is made of wood fiber-based materials from responsibly managed forests or recycled sources.
Part With Purpose
There may come a time when you want to trade in or recycle your device. Explore options with Amazon Second Chance.
Compare Kindle e-readers
| Price | From: $79.99 | From: $114.99 | From: $189.99 | From: - | From: $159.99 |
| Ratings | (18,172) | (54,238) | (25,940) | (19,424) | (3,134) |
| Display Size | 6" glare-free | 6.8" glare-free | 6.8" glare-free | 7" glare-free | 6.8" glare-free |
| Storage | 16 GB | 16 GB | 32 GB | 8 GB or 32 GB | 8 GB |
| Resolution | 300 ppi | 300 ppi | 300 ppi | 300 ppi | 300 ppi |
| Front light | 4 LEDs | 17 LEDs | 17 LEDs | 25 LEDs | 17 LEDs |
| Weeks of battery life |
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| 1-year Amazon Kids+ subscription | Sold separately starting at $4.99/month | Sold separately starting at $4.99/month | Sold separately starting at $4.99/month | Sold separately starting at $4.99/month |
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| Cover | Sold separately | Sold separately | Sold separately | Sold separately |
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| Flush-front design |
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| Wifi Connectivity | Wifi | Wifi | Wifi | Wifi + Free Cellular Connectivity | Wifi |
| Color | Black or Denim | Black | Black | Graphite or Champagne Gold | Black Kindle with Black, Emerald Forest, or Robot Dreams Cover |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 2-year worry-free guarantee |
Technical Details
Kindle Paperwhite
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Display |
Amazon's 6.8” Paperwhite display technology with built-in light, 300 ppi, optimized font technology, 16-level gray scale. |
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Size |
6.9” x 4.9” x .32” (174.2 x 124.6 x 8.1 mm). |
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Weight |
7.23 oz (205 g). Actual size and weight may vary by configuration and manufacturing process. |
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System Requirements |
None; fully wireless and doesn't require a computer to download content. |
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On-Device Storage |
8 GB or 16 GB; holds thousands of books. |
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Cloud Storage |
Free cloud storage for all Amazon content. |
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Battery Life |
A single charge lasts up to ten (10) weeks, based on a half hour of reading per day with wireless off and the light setting at 13. Battery life may vary depending on use. Audible audiobook streaming over Bluetooth will reduce battery life. |
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Charge Time |
Fully charges in approximately 5 hours from a computer via USB cable; Fully charges in less than 2.5 hours with a 9W USB power adapter. |
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Wi-Fi Connectivity |
Supports 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz networks with support for WEP, WPA and WPA2 security using password authentication or Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). Does not support connecting to ad-hoc (or peer-to-peer) Wi-Fi networks. |
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Accessibility Features |
VoiceView screen reader, available over Bluetooth audio, provides spoken feedback allowing you to navigate your device and read books with text-to-speech (available in English only). Kindle Paperwhite also includes the ability to invert Black and White, adjust font size, font face, line spacing and margins. Learn more about Accessibility for Kindle. |
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Content Formats Supported |
Kindle Format 8 (AZW3), Kindle (AZW), TXT, PDF, unprotected MOBI, PRC natively; HTML DOC, DOCX, JPEG, GIF, PNG, PMP through conversion; Audible audio format (AAX). |
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Documentation |
Learn more about Kindle devices with our Quick Start Guide and Kindle User Guide. |
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Warranty and Service |
1-year limited warranty and service included. Optional 1-year, 2-year or 3-year Extended Warranty available for U.S customers sold separately. Use of Kindle is subject to the terms found here. |
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Included in the Box |
Kindle Paperwhite, USB-C charging cable and Quick Start Guide. |
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Waterproofing |
Waterproof (IPX8), tested to withstand immersion in 2 meters of fresh water for 60 minutes. Learn more about the waterproof Kindle Paperwhite. |
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Available Colors |
Black |
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Generation |
Kindle Paperwhite (11th Generation) - 2021 release. |
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Software Security Updates |
This device receives guaranteed software security updates until at least four years after the device is last available for purchase as a new unit on our websites. Learn more about these software security updates. If you already own a Kindle, visit Manage Your Content and Devices for information specific to your device. |
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
Carbon impact
Carbon emissions from the lifecycle of this product were reduced compared to similar products or previous models.
As certified by
Reducing CO2 The Reducing CO2 label applies to products certified by the Carbon Trust, that are lowering their carbon emissions year after year for the full lifecycle of the product. The Carbon Trust was formed in 2001 and introduced the world’s first carbon label in 2007. It produces its certifications to global leading and independently verified standards. The Carbon Trust has a mission to accelerate the move to a sustainable, low carbon economy.
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🟢 Real Reviews with Hannah
Reviews with images
Worth it for those who love the experience of reading
I touted on for ages how I was a "true" reader who wanted a physical book in my hand, the smell of the paper, turning pages, yada yada -- and I do still enjoy all of those factors to physical reading! But after actually experiencing using an e-reader I can say with certainty that I prefer reading with my kindle over a paper book now. Are you reading because you love stories or are you reading because you like the idea of being a reader? There's the key.First and foremost, using my kindle is so much more comfortable in every aspect. I do most of my reading before bed and having the screen backlit with adjustable brightness and warmth is a game changer, and the screen really does view/read the same as paper. (I tried reading off my tablet before dishing out the money for a kindle and the eye strain is nonexistent compared to a tablet. There's also no screen glare which is something super annoying about reading on a tablet in the sunlight.) That alone makes it a win compared to trying to balance a little clip-on light on my books.I also read a lot of fantasy and romance, and the books just seem to keep getting longer. Hefting around a 500+ page book is annoying. It's heavy to hold and bulky. Trying to hold your page can be irritating, it's nearly impossible to prop up a bigger book and read if you're not using your hands. A kindle changes all of that. It's crazy lightweight and thin. You can prop it on a stand if you're eating. You can carry thousands of books for a tiny fraction of the space and weight of a paper book. Your whole library can be at your disposal at any time, so if you catch yourself bored with what you're reading or finishing your current read, you can instantly start on the next without planning ahead.And there's just the ease of acquiring your books. Did your book end on a cliffhanger and you're ravenous to know what happens next? Two minutes later that baby's downloaded and you're ready to read again. E-books are also typically less money than the physical counterparts. If you use the included kindle unlimited you're even better off. The fact of the matter is I pick up a lot of trashy books that I'm happy don't take up room in my home and that I didn't pay much, if any, for.I think the bonuses of a kindle that I wasn't even expecting are the actual abilities. I never used to notate my physical books. I know a lot of people do, but I have always been someone who wants them to stay in as good a shape as possible, and I also don't need people reading my intimate feelings and thoughts when they want to borrow my copy of something. The kindle allows you to highlight passages, bookmark pages, make notes. Now I have my own system of appreciating books in a way I never allowed myself before, as well as easily finding passages I loved or want to refer to again. There are also dictionary and translation functions if you don't know the context of something, which is such a simple but appreciated feature I didn't know I needed. And of course you can customize font, size, and layout to fit your personal preferences.The kindle is waterproof which will be wonderful for poolside or bathtub reading, as well as just general clumsiness. And while I don't believe the battery is quite as good as they claim, it does last an impressive amount of time, even with regular daily reading. This is especially nice because I like to carry it with me in my purse and have yet to worry about it dying before I want it to.My one complaint and the reason for four stars is I do feel like they're pricey for what they are, and only suggest buying on sale (they happen often enough on amazon it should never be a long wait). The processing system is irritatingly slow sometimes. When you're trying to scroll through the store the lag can be an eye twitch, and every now and then it'll jump multiple pages. You can buy a tablet for the same price if not cheaper and have more function and a faster output. But I really believe if you're an avid reader there's no denying what a kindle offers you compared to a tablet. A kindle is truly meant for reading; I'd buy another if this one went kaput tomorrow. If you're only an occasional reader? You enjoy a best-selling novel here and there but mainly prefer tv or whatever else to fill your downtime? Maybe not worth the money for you! That's your own financial consideration.Last but not least, some tips when you're buying. DO get the version with ads. I don't even know if I'd consider them ads, they only show up when you're not using the device, and they're literally just like a pic of a book and maybe a quote. It's not like an irritating pop up you'd see online. It's totally noninvasive, to the point where I wouldn't even be bothered to try and get rid of them for free... I barely even realize they're there. Also take advantage of the included kindle unlimited! There are a ton of great reads on there if you're willing to look. If you want to cancel after the trial go for it, but it's worth perusing while it's offered. Three months included is a good deal. Honestly I also think it's worth it if you are someone who goes through phases with really specific niche tropes... power through seven mafia romance novels+ for the price of what you'd pay for one, LOL.I know this is a ridiculously long review, but I'm emotionally attached to my kindle in a way I did not expect. It goes everywhere with me and provides me all the convenience and comfort I need as a reader. If you want to go on about the pleasures of paper pages, by all means! But if you're curious about the kindle and why someone would want it, here we are. I used to think part of the romance of reading was the book itself... you never know better 'til you know better.
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Reviewed in the United States on September 1, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on April 1, 2024
Option: Without Kindle UnlimitedDigital Storage Capacity: 16 GBOffer Type: Lockscreen Ad-SupportedColor: DenimVerified Purchase
