### A Detailed Examination of the Amazon Kindle (2024)
Amazon’s Kindle selection is broader than you might think. When the [Amazon Kindle](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-kindles) is mentioned, people typically have in mind one of the company’s acclaimed [e-readers](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-e-readers). A quick online search reveals four unique Kindle models available. Although the [Kindle Paperwhite](https://mashable.com/review/kindle-paperwhite-2024) often garners the most attention, our focus today is on the original Kindle—the foundational model that initiated it all.
The standard Kindle doesn’t boast a catchy name like the Paperwhite or Scribe, making it more challenging to differentiate within the range. Nevertheless, this original e-reader remains Amazon’s most compact and economical option. While it might not include many of the sophisticated features offered by its counterparts, the basic Kindle still stands out as a dependable and impressive gadget.
—
### Cost and Features
Here’s a summary of the Amazon Kindle’s cost and primary features:
– **Price**: $109.99 for the version with ads (a $10 increase from the last model) or $129.99 for the ad-free version.
– **Display**: 6-inch screen with 300 ppi resolution and up to 94 nits brightness.
– **Battery Life**: Lasts up to six weeks on one charge.
– **Storage**: 16GB, sufficient for thousands of books.
– **Charging**: USB-C port for quicker and more convenient charging.
– **Colors**: Offered in black and matcha green.
—
### The Ideally Sized E-Reader
Having experimented with e-readers of various dimensions—from the square-shaped [Kobo Libra Colour](https://mashable.com/review/kobo-libra-colour) to the large [Kindle Scribe](https://mashable.com/review/amazon-kindle-scribe-review)—I feel confident in stating that the 6-inch Kindle is my top pick regarding size.
Its compact format allows for easy transport in a small bag or purse, and its lightweight design ensures that you can hold it for extended periods without wrist strain. Although the screen is smaller, I didn’t feel deprived in any way. There’s plenty of room for text, and the convenience of portability is unparalleled.
However, the Kindle does have one design shortcoming: the power button being situated at the bottom of the device leads to frequent unintentional presses. Unfortunately, this issue is not exclusive to the basic Kindle, as the Paperwhite experiences the same problem.
—
### Enhanced Speed and Display
Choosing the most economical Kindle doesn’t equate to giving up on performance. Amazon asserts a 25% enhancement in processing speed over the prior generation. While we aren’t able to independently confirm that figure, the Kindle does indeed feel agile, with rapid page turns and smooth navigation among books.
The display has also undergone a noteworthy improvement. It retains the matte, paper-like texture but now offers higher contrast, rendering text and images crisper and more comfortable for reading. Though it doesn’t feature the adjustable warm light option available in the Paperwhite, I didn’t find this to be a significant drawback.
—
### Compromises for Budget-Friendliness
As the most wallet-friendly Kindle, this model does present some compromises.
1. **Build Quality**: The Kindle’s plastic exterior gives it a less premium feel compared to the Paperwhite or Scribe. However, this aspect also contributes to its lightweight nature, which many users (myself included) find appealing. Additionally, the new matcha green color is a standout attribute.
2. **Battery Life**: With a duration of six weeks, the Kindle performs commendably against most devices. However, it lags behind the Paperwhite and Paperwhite Signature Edition, which feature an impressive 12-week battery lifespan.
3. **Water Resistance**: Unlike the Paperwhite, the basic Kindle isn’t water-resistant. If you enjoy reading while soaking in the bathtub or lounging at the beach, you might want to think about upgrading to the [Paperwhite](https://mashable.com/review/kindle-paperwhite-2024) or [Paperwhite Signature Edition](https://mashable.com/review/kindle-paperwhite-signature-edition-2024).
—
### Is the Kindle a Good Investment?
For slightly over $100, the Amazon Kindle provides incredible value. It offers swift performance, a clear display, and enough storage for thousands of books. While it lacks waterproof capabilities and the long-lasting battery of the Paperwhite, it remains an outstanding option for anyone in search of a lightweight, straightforward e-reader.
If advanced features are not a priority and you simply want a trustworthy device for reading, the basic Kindle is a superb choice. However, if you’re open to