Summary
For reading text-based novels and non-fiction, your existing Kindle is probably fine.
Fans of comics and graphic novels should consider the Kindle Colorsoft, but may be better off with the speed and vibrancy of an iPad or Android tablet.
The 2024 Kindle Scribe is worthwhile as a first e-ink notetaking tablet, but it's unnecessary if you have the 2022 model.
In a way, it feels a little crazy to be talking about upgrading an e-reader . A book is a book, and reading is actually one of the least demanding tasks for most tablet processors. In many cases, spending another $100 to $400 or more won't radically alter your experience. You'll probably enjoy 1984 or The Fellowship of the Ring just as much on a 2015 device as you will on one from 2025.
Technology is always evolving, though, and it's not just about processor power. Displays, storage, and connectivity are better than ever, and some devices have gone beyond reading to include notetaking and sketching, like the Boox Note Air4 C . If you've got one of Amazon's popular Kindle readers, you may be wondering whether it's worth making the leap to the newest Kindle devices, like the 2024 Paperwhite . The answer to that question depends on a variety of factors, above all your main use case.
iPad Mini Related
The iPad wants to replace your Kindle e-reader - but should it?
The answer is going to depend on how and what you want to read, not to mention your budget.
Avid text readers
Far from the madding crowd
A close-up of the 2024 Kindle Paperwhite.
If you're solely interested in reading text-based novels, stories, and non-fiction, don't be in a rush to upgrade if your existing Kindle is working fine. Text requires very little storage space or processor power, and Kindle batteries have long been able to run weeks between charges. Don't succumb to marketing or peer pressure.
Realistically, text readers shouldn't consider anything more expensive than the Kindle Colorsoft.
As a treat, though, the creature comforts of newer Kindles may be worth it. The base Kindle now has a built-in front light, a sharp 300ppi (pixels per inch) display, and support for Audible books over Bluetooth, all things that were once missing on older models, even some more expensive ones like my 2012-edition Paperwhite. The front light alone might be a game-changer if you're used to having to switch on a lamp in a dim room. No one wants to wake up their partner just to keep reading.
Realistically, text readers shouldn't consider anything more expensive than the $280 Kindle Colorsoft. Its colors are a little muted, and there were quality control issues with the first batch -- but color can make a real difference if a book has photos or illustrations. Even if it doesn't, color cover art makes it easier to identify a book when you're browsing through your library. Just be sure you're buying a new Colorsoft direct from Amazon, since you don't want to end up with a yellow-tinged screen .
kindle-2024-square
Amazon Kindle (2024)
Storage
16GB
Size
6.2 x 4.3 x 0.32-inches
Weight
5.56oz (157g)
Connections
USB-C
kindle-coloursoft-square-thumbnail
Kindle Colorsoft
Storage
32GB
Size
5 x 7 x 0.3-inches
Weight
7.7oz (219g)
Connections
USB-C
Fans of comics, graphic novels, and other visual titles
Consider whether you want a Kindle at all
A Kindle Colorsoft with Moon Knight on it.
If your reading habits are very visually oriented -- say, you'll go from an illustrated travel guide to The Punisher -- the Kindle Colorsoft could be a mandatory upgrade. It's Amazon's first and only color e-reader, which means that until now, Kindles have actually been pretty terrible for material like graphic novels. I wouldn't want to read a Daredevil collection if his signature red costume was reduced to a dark gray every time.
The real question is whether you should be buying a dedicated e-reader at all. You'll get far more vibrant colors from an iPad or an Android tablet, not to mention smoother transitions between comic panels. The Colorsoft's transitions are functional, but slow, which can be chalked up to both e-ink technology and a modest processor. You'll have to wait a second after each swipe. That isn't a deal killer, but it could become irritating if you're not that patient.
The real question is whether you should be buying a dedicated e-reader at all.
Another potential issue is screen size. While 7 inches is fine, and maybe even preferable if you want something compact, that's tiny next to the 8.3 inches of the iPad mini , let alone the 11 inches or more of other multi-purpose tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 . You'll see a lot more image detail, with the bonus of having access to bookstores beyond Amazon's, and easier sideloading of books.
Lesser known ways to save on ebooks header image Related
4 Kindle secrets I use to get books for cheap or free
You can bulk up your Kindle ebook library without selling a kidney in the process - here are some of the best lesser-known methods.
Dipping into notetaking and sketching
Another reason to explore alternatives
The 2024 Amazon Kindle Scribe.
The Kindle Scribe is Amazon's response to an influx of e-ink tablets that go beyond reading to support notetaking, annotation, and light sketch work. You're not going to be drawing a masterpiece on a Scribe, but some people genuinely adore the tablet as a middleground between paper notebooks and distraction-filled Android and iOS devices. Its display is even meant to mimic the texture of paper when you use the included stylus.
If you have a first-generation Scribe from 2022, there are a few improvements in the 2024 model, including that paper-like display and an updated Premium Pen. At least some software changes are available to original Scribe owners, though, so it's probably not worth spending upwards of $400 on new hardware unless you do notetaking and annotation all day, every day.
If you're looking to get into notetaking tablets for the first time, the Scribe should be on your shortlist, particularly if it's important to have access to your Kindle book library.
If you're looking to get into notetaking tablets for the first time, the Scribe should be on your shortlist, particularly if it's still important to have access to your Kindle book library. It has a sharp and responsive 10.2-inch display, so it's actually great for books so long as you don't need color. You'll probably see color the next time the Scribe gets a refresh -- there are already competing color e-ink tablets on the market, most notably the reMarkable Paper Pro .
You should also consider the Boox Note Air4C before buying a Scribe. It's an Android device, which means you can access alternative bookstores, and many other apps available in the Google Play Store. You won't be playing Street Fighter on an e-ink screen, but that's a small price to pay.
kindle-scribe-tag
Kindle Scribe
Your browser does not support the video tag.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra sits in sand. Related
Does smart tech really add that much to your fitness regimen?
The full answer varies from person to person, but here's my gym-buff take.