Amazon’s Kindle is the definitive leader in the U.S. e-book reader market. Practically synonymous with the word “e-reader,” Kindles have forever changed how we read. Not only do they allow us to carry our whole library around, but they offer practical features like highlighting and note-taking, Goodreads integration, and easy e-book transfer. Audiobook support also makes these e-readers preferable to some of their competitors.
Investing in this device can thus be a game-changer for both a voracious and a casual reader.
That said, Kindles comes in several models, covering a wide price range. These devices have come a long way since their debut in 2007, so you will find that the different generations offer varying features. Read on to find out what the newest Kindles out now are and what they all offer.
The Latest Kindles
Kindles have evolved through more than 10 generations as of 2022. The newest models available right now belong to the 10th and 11th generations. Both entry-level and premium models are constantly updated and upgraded by Amazon so that you can find an up-to-date model regardless of your budget.
Even the most basic models offer a much better reading experience than their earlier versions. Currently, the four newest Kindle models Amazon offers include the following:
Kindle Paperwhite (Fifth Generation)
The Kindle model that recently received an update is the Kindle Paperwhite. The fifth generation of this mid-range model came out in October 2021.
The most noticeable difference between the newest Paperwhite and its older 2018 version is its size. From the standard 6-inch display, the Paperwhite received an upgrade to 6.8 inches. While the PPI density of the screen remained unchanged (300 DPI), the enlarged screen surface and the slimmer border give this model a sleeker look.
Another significant display modification that elevates the Paperwhite 5 is the introduction of color temperature. Since the ninth generation, the front lighting has been a feature of all Kindle models. However, color temperature adjustment had been limited to the higher-end Oasis model until 2021.
While a Kindle is perfectly usable in most situations, even without front lighting, this option makes it even more versatile. The e-ink technology, in combination with front lighting, causes less eye fatigue than a backlit screen. However, many are still concerned about the effect of blue light the LEDs emit. Therefore, if you like to read in low-light settings, color temperature adjustment makes the Kindle Paperwhite 5 a preferable choice.
The fifth generation of Paperwhite also boasts an impressive 10-week battery life and charges through a USB-C port. It’s waterproof and connects to Wi-Fi so that you can browse the integrated Amazon store. The Paperwhite 4 had a 3G connection and Wi-Fi, but you won’t really miss the 3G with the Paperwhite 5.
On the other hand, what you might find a bit limiting is the Paperwhite 5’s storage space. With only an 8GB option, you probably won’t carry hundreds of audiobooks at once. If you prefer reading text, 8GB of space is plenty enough.
Kindle Paperwhite (Signature Edition)
The Paperwhite 5 came in two versions; the basic edition described above and the more premium Signature Edition. While the basic Paperwhite has limited downsides and would satisfy most people’s reading needs, the Signature Edition offers a few perks for a more premium experience. But what makes the Signature Edition more expensive?
The Paperwhite Signature Edition has the same display and battery as the Paperwhite 5. They look identical at first glance. However, the first difference lies in its storage capacity. As we said, the Paperwhite 5 only offers 8GB of storage. Those who need more may consider the Signature Edition, which provides four times as much: 32GB. It’s the largest capacity available on a Kindle device to date.
The second important feature that some users will appreciate is wireless charging. The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is the first Kindle to use this technology. Instead of a USB-C or a Micro-USB cable, you can now charge your device using a Qi charging pad.
Finally, the Signature Edition is also equipped with smart light sensors to make your reading experience more streamlined. You won’t have to stop in your tracks to adjust the lighting of your device, as the Signature Edition will do it for you. Both the brightness and the color temperature will be automatically adjusted based on the lighting conditions.
While the Signature Edition has a few nice perks, it’s not significantly better than the Paperwhite 5 when it comes to its primary functions. The most significant difference is the storage space of the device.
Kindle Oasis (Third Generation)
Kindle’s most expensive model is the Kindle Oasis. The newest Kindle Oasis is the third generation of this model, released in July 2019.
The Kindle Oasis 3 is the widest of the currently available Kindle models. With a 7-inch 300 PPI display, its screen is just a tad larger than the Paperwhite 5. However, it has a unique configuration that makes it more ergonomic. The asymmetric design makes holding this device more comfortable.
In addition, the Oasis 3 also has an automatic page rotation feature, which allows you to switch hands with ease. Hold your Kindle Oasis 3 however you want—this is the only model that offers this option.
You will also see two buttons next to the screen. These are used for turning pages. Complaints about touchscreen Kindle models often mention the buttonless design. Turning pages by tapping or swiping the screen can be uncomfortable at times.
The Kindle Oasis 3 is thus a great choice if you still prefer some tactility in your reading.
This model was the first one to introduce color temperature adjustment in Kindles. It boasts automatic light adjustment, too. The Oasis 3 can connect both through Wi-Fi and Amazon’s mobile network.
However, remember that this 2019 model is becoming relatively outdated. It has a weaker battery than the new Paperwhite 5 and will last six weeks at most on a charge. In addition, it still charges through a Micro-USB port.
Nevertheless, the Oasis 3 offers 8GB and 32GB storage space options, providing a pleasant reading experience overall.
The Kindle Oasis 3 offers similar features as the Signature Edition Paperwhite, but it costs significantly more. Therefore, in 2022, the Paperwhite may be a better bang for your buck unless you strongly prefer the asymmetric design of the Oasis 3.
Kindle (10th Generation)
Kindle’s most basic entry-level model got its latest update in April 2019. The 10th generation of this e-reader may be simpler than the previously described models, but it’s still a force to reckon with. This affordable model will also do the job for someone who just wants to read and doesn’t care about fancy features.
The 10th generation Amazon Kindle is the smallest of the bunch.
With a 6-inch display and smaller dimensions overall, it’s also the lightest current Kindle, weighing just 170 grams. It can easily fit into your pocket and won’t tire your hand even when holding it for a long time.
The smaller display, unfortunately, also comes with a lower PPI density. The Amazon Kindle 10 has a PPI density of 167, which means a less crisp image. The device also comes with a front-lighting option, but color temperature adjustment is unavailable.
This basic model comes with a weaker battery—it will last about four weeks before you need to charge it—and 8GB of space for your e-books. Unlike the Paperwhite and the Oasis, it’s not waterproof either.
However, the biggest selling point of this model is its price. It comes in two versions, ad-free and ad-supported. Ad-supported Kindles will cost even less than their regular version. If you find them distracting, you can remove ads later by paying a small fee.
Previous Models
The current Kindle models all introduced significant upgrades to their previous versions. However, you may come across earlier Kindle models during your search and wonder if they are still worth the money. Here are some of the previous models so that you’re aware of what you’re getting.
Kindle Paperwhite (Fourth Generation)
Introduced in November 2018, the fourth generation of the Paperwhite may still be available at a lower price. It has a smaller screen than the current Paperwhite but a higher PPI density than the current Kindle 10. In addition, it offers a 32GB option, which is missing from the current Paperwhite’s repertoire unless you’re ready to upgrade to the Signature Edition.
The Paperwhite 4 trumps the Kindle 10 for battery capacity and protection. Like its premium siblings, it’s also waterproof. While this model still misses the color temperature option, it can still compete today.
Kindle Oasis (Second Generation)
Although it looks near-identical to the Oasis 3, the previous generation of this model released in 2017 still has some differences. For example, it falls short in terms of lighting. With no color temperature control, it’s less comfortable to read in low light than the Oasis 3.
Its battery is also weaker. Therefore, it might not be worth picking over the current third-generation model.
Kindle (Eighth Generation)
The basic Amazon Kindle’s older version from 2016 also comes in ad-supported and ad-free versions. However, with merely 4 GB of storage, you’ll need to be selective with what you store on your device. With no front lighting, its use is also more limited.
Read More With a Kindle
There is a Kindle for everyone, with four current models on the market.
Go for a simplistic 10th generation Kindle if you just need the basics, and you’ll still have a great reading experience. Pick the mid-range Paperwhite 5 for a few more convenient features or the Signature Edition for added storage if your budget allows.
For a truly premium experience, consider the third generation Oasis with its wide design and page-turn buttons. Even an older model like the Paperwhite 4 may work well with few drawbacks for its price. All of these devices will serve you for years to come, so you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Are you already an e-reader user, or are you looking for your first Kindle? Which model do you find the best choice overall? Let us know your opinion down in the comments.
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