Paperwhite or Not? A Guide to the Finest Kindles in Amazon’s Collection


We frequently acknowledge the enchantment of reading — how a book can whisk us away to far-off realms, from the aromatic sands of Arrakis to the refined parlors of the Bennet household. Yet, there’s another type of enchantment that deserves recognition: our reading experience. E-readers have transformed the way we engage with books, enabling us to carry a whole library in a device small enough to fit in our pocket.

Among the plethora of e-readers, Amazon’s Kindle series shines as the most sophisticated and highly regarded. Throughout the internet, Kindle enthusiasts — particularly on platforms like TikTok — share their go-to reading hacks, strategies for snagging markdowns on Kindle books during events like Stuff Your Kindle Day, and inventive methods to optimize their devices. You can even purchase remote page-turning devices now, allowing you to read without lifting a finger.

It’s clear why Kindles are so cherished. They’re lightweight, easy to use, and compatible with Libby, meaning you can borrow e-books from your local library at no cost. If you’re in the market for one, the best bargains usually appear during significant shopping occasions like Prime Day and Black Friday. However, if you’re eager to start your digital reading journey now, there are numerous excellent Kindle options ready for you.

The Latest Kindle Models

Since the debut of the original Kindle in 2007 — just a few months after the launch of the first iPhone — the device has seen substantial changes, albeit with fewer updates than smartphones. As of 2025, we’re on the 12th generation of Kindle devices, with the latest enhancements introduced in October 2024. The entire range — featuring the Paperwhite, Signature Edition, Scribe, and Kids models — received significant upgrades.

One of the most thrilling recent innovations is the launch of Amazon’s first color e-reader, the Kindle Colorsoft, which debuted in late 2024. Although I haven’t had the opportunity to test it yet, I’m eager to see how it stacks up against rivals like the Kobo Clara Colour and Kobo Libra Colour.

Choosing the Right Kindle in 2025

With six updated Kindle models currently available — along with a few older versions still on the market — selecting the right one will depend on your individual requirements and preferences.

First, consider: Do you need a waterproof device? If you love reading in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach, you may want to explore one of the waterproof options: the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, or Paperwhite Kids.

Other important features to ponder include:

– Display size: Kindle screens range from 6 inches to 10.2 inches.
– Storage: Models provide between 16GB and 32GB of storage.
– Battery life: Depending on the model, battery lifespan varies from six to 12 weeks on a single charge.
– Writing capabilities: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that comes with a stylus for jotting notes and sketching.

Every recent Kindle features a high-resolution 300 ppi display with a peak brightness of 94 nits and no glare, making them easy to read in any lighting condition. They also include WiFi connectivity for downloading books and Bluetooth support for listening to audiobooks through Audible.

One of the most significant benefits of using a Kindle is its effortless integration with Libby. Unlike several other e-readers that necessitate manual transfers of library books from your computer, Kindle users can send borrowed e-books directly to their device with just a click — simplifying the process of supporting your local library while enjoying free reading resources.

Whether you’re a dedicated Kindle aficionado or contemplating your first e-reader, there’s never been a more opportune moment to delve into Amazon’s latest offerings. With robust features, elegant designs, and unparalleled convenience, Kindles continue to set the benchmark for digital reading.

SEE ALSO: I read over 50 books a year. Here are my favorite e-readers.