Getting an e-reader can do wonders for bookworms struggling with library management. (Physical space is a finite and precious resource, as we all found out during the pandemic.) You don’t even have to spend that much either, as today’s entry-level options pack a slew of features. Case in point: Amazon’s $100 Kindle, which will offer a 300 ppi display, front light, and audiobook playback when it begins shipping on October 12th.
Still, moving up to a higher-end model can bring material benefits. That’s especially so when comparing the Kindle against the fancier Kindle Paperwhite ($140 MSRP). A few key differences exist between the two models that can dramatically tip the scales in favor of one over the other, depending on your situation.
To make it easier to decide between the two, we’ve highlighted the main features of each model. We’ve also included a chart at the end of the article that shows the full spec comparison.
For reviews and how-tos, head over to our Kindle product roundup.
Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite
Display
The base Kindle model has a 6-inch, 300-ppi screen with four LEDs. The Kindle Paperwhite upgrades that to a larger, front-flush 6.8-inch, 300-ppi screen with 17 LEDs. The color of front lights on the Paperwhite can also shift from white to amber for more comfortable nighttime reading.
Dimensions & Weight
The Kindle measures 6.2” x 4.3” x 0.32” (157.8 x 108.6 x 8 mm) and weighs 5.56 ounces (158g). It’s smaller and lighter than the Kindle Paperwhite, which comes in at 6.9 x 4.9 x 0.32 inches (174 x 125 x 8.1 mm) and 7.23 ounces (205g) for the standard edition. The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition of the Paperwhite is a little heavier at 7.34 ounces (208g).
Storage
Surprisingly, the Kindle beats the standard edition of the Kindle Paperwhite in storage—you get 16GB (Kindle) versus 8GB (Paperwhite). You can get even more space by stepping up to 32GB Paperwhite Signature Edition.
Battery life
Voracious readers often away from a power outlet will feel the difference between the Kindle and the Kindle Paperwhite. The basic Kindle gets up to six weeks on a full charge, while the Paperwhite gets up to ten weeks on a full charge.
Water resistance
People who read near (or in) water, take note: The Kindle isn’t water resistant. Instead, you’ll want the Kindle Paperwhite, which is IPX8-rated and can survive in up to two meters of fresh water for an hour at a time.
Charging
The entry-level Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite both have USB-C charging ports. The Signature Edition of the Kindle Paperwhite also supports wireless charging, and you can fully charge the device with a compatible 10W Qi charging pad in under 3.5 hours.
Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite: Full specification comparison
PCWorld
Author: Alaina Yee, Senior Editor
Alaina Yee is PCWorld's resident bargain hunter—when she's not covering PC building, computer components, mini-PCs, and more, she's scouring for the best tech deals. Previously her work has appeared in PC Gamer, IGN, Maximum PC, and Official Xbox Magazine. You can find her on Twitter at @morphingball.