Compare Kindle e-reader models

Compare all Amazon Kindle e-readers on specifications and features using our Kindle e-reader model comparison table!

This table contains all Kindle models ever released, starting with the oldest Kindle, the Kindle 1 from 2007, to the newest (12th generation) models released in 2024.

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Want to learn what the Kindle specifications and features mean, so you'll know what to look for? Read the explanation here!

Want to compare two e-readers side-by-side to quickly spot the differences? Click the link below to use the side-by-side comparison tool.

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Name Kindle Scribe 2024 Kindle Scribe
Image Image Image
MSRP $399.99 $339.99
Released 2024 2022
Generation 11th generation 11th generation
Availability Pre-order (Dec 4) Available
Current price Amazon Amazon
Display specifications
Display type E Ink E Ink Carta 1200
Display size (inch) 10.2 10.2
Resolution (pixels W×H) 1860×2480 1860×2480
Color display? No No
Pixel density 300 PPI 300 PPI
Screen light? Yes, (auto-adjusting) Yes, (auto-adjusting)
Adjust color temperature? Yes Yes
Auto-rotate?
Input options & features
Touchscreen
Button controls?
Stylus input
Dark mode
Dropbox & Google Drive?
Audiobooks
Bluetooth
Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi 5 Wi-Fi 5
Cellular network No No
Hardware specifications
Internal storage 16.0 GB | 32 GB | 64 GB 16.0 GB | 32 GB | 64 GB
RAM ? 1000 MB
CPU clock speed ? 1 GHz dual core
Ports & battery
MicroSD card reader?
3.5 mm AUX out?
Battery capacity (3.7V) ? "up to 12 weeks" 3000 mAh
USB (charging) port USB-C USB-C
Physical specifications
Waterproof? No No
Size (cm H×W×D) 23.0×19.6×0.57 23.0×19.6×0.58
Weight (gram) 433 433
Size (inch H×W×D) 9.0×7.7×0.22 9.0×7.7×0.22
Weight (oz): 15.3 oz 15.3 oz
Color options Black (Tungsten), green (jade) Black
Accessories in the box Premium pen Basic pen, or Premium pen (+$30)
More info
Model number ? C4A6T4
User guide / manual Not available User Guide
Official site link Amazon Amazon
Table options
Font size:
Great/yes
Good
Not good
Bad/no
NameImageMSRP ReleasedGenerationAvailability Current price Display typeDisplay size
(inch)
Resolution
(pixels W×H)
Color display?Pixel densityScreen light?Adjust color
temperature?
Auto-rotate?TouchscreenButton controls?Stylus inputDark modeDropbox &
Google Drive?
AudiobooksBluetoothWi-Fi?Cellular networkInternal storageRAMCPU clock speedMicroSD card reader?3.5 mm AUX out?Battery capacity (3.7V)USB (charging) portWaterproof?Size (cm H×W×D)Weight (gram) Size (inch H×W×D)Weight (oz) :Color optionsAccessories in the boxModel numberUser guide / manualOfficial site link
Kindle Scribe 2024kindle-scribe-2024$399.99202411th generationPre-order
(Dec 4)
AmazonE Ink10.21860×2480No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
YesWi-Fi 5No16.0 GB | 32 GB | 64 GB ???
"up to 12 weeks"
USB-CNo23.0×19.6×0.574339.0×7.7×0.2215.3 ozBlack (Tungsten),
green (jade)
Premium pen?Not availableAmazon
Kindle Colorsoft Signature Editionkindle-colorsoft$279.99202412th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Kaleido 371264×1680Yes300 PPI
color: 150 PPI
Yes,
(auto-adjusting)
YesWi-Fi 5No32 GB???
"up to 8 weeks"
USB-C
+ charge wireless
Yes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
17.67×12.76×0.782197.0×5.0×0.37.7 ozBlackSA59CPNot availableAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 6 Signature Editionkindle-paperwhite-6-signature-edition$199.99202412th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Carta 130071264×1680No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
YesWi-Fi 5No32 GB??1900 mAh
"up to 12 weeks"
USB-C
+ charge wireless
Yes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
17.67×12.76×0.782147.0×5.0×0.37.5 ozBlack, green (jade),
pink (raspberry)
SA569PNot availableAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 6kindle-paperwhite-6$179.99202412th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Carta 130071264×1680No300 PPIYesYesWi-Fi 5No16 GB512 MB? GHz dual core1900 mAh
"up to 12 weeks"
USB-CYes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
17.67×12.76×0.782147.0×5.0×0.37.5 ozBlack, green (jade),
pink (raspberry)
SA568BNot availableAmazon
Kindle 2024kindle-11-2024$129.99202411th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink61072×1448No300 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 5No16 GB???
"up to 6 weeks"
USB-CNo15.78×10.86×0.81586.2×4.3×0.325.56 ozBlack, green (matcha)RS23CVNot availableAmazon
Kindle Scribekindle-scribe$339.99202211th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Carta 120010.21860×2480No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
YesWi-Fi 5No16.0 GB | 32 GB | 64 GB 1000 MB1 GHz dual core3000 mAhUSB-CNo23.0×19.6×0.584339.0×7.7×0.2215.3 ozBlackBasic pen, or
Premium pen (+$30)
C4A6T4User GuideAmazon
Kindle 11kindle-11$119.99202211th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Carta61072×1448No300 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 5No16 GB512 MB1 GHz dual core1040 mAhUSB-CNo15.78×10.86×0.81586.2×4.3×0.325.56 ozBlack, blueC2V2L3User GuideAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 5 Signature Editionkindle-paperwhite-signature-edition$189.99202111th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Carta 12006.81236×1648No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
YesWi-Fi 5No32 GB512 MB1 GHz dual core1700 mAhUSB-C
+ charge wireless
Yes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
17.4×12.5×0.812086.9×4.9×0.327.3 ozBlack, blue,
green
M2L4EKUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 5kindle-paperwhite-5$159.99202111th generationAvailableAmazonE Ink Carta 12006.81236×1648No300 PPIYesYesWi-Fi 5No8.0 GB | 16 GB 512 MB1 GHz1700 mAhUSB-CYes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
17.4×12.5×0.812056.9×4.9×0.327.2 ozBlack, blue,
green
M2L3EKUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Oasis 3kindle-oasis-3$249.99201910th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta71264×1680No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
Yes✔ Page-turnWi-Fi 44G optional 8.0 GB | 32 GB 512 MB1 GHz dual core1130 mAhMicro-USBYes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
15.9×14.1×0.841886.3×5.6×0.336.6 ozGraphite, goldS8IN4OUser GuideAmazon
Kindle 10kindle-10$109.99201910th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta6600×800No167 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 44G8 GB512 MB1 GHz1040 mAhMicro-USBNo16.0×11.3×0.871746.3×4.5×0.346.1 ozBlack, whiteJ9G29RUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 4kindle-paperwhite-4$129.99201810th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta HD61072×1448No300 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 44G optional 8.0 GB | 32 GB 512 MB1 GHz1500 mAhMicro-USBYes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
16.7×11.6×0.821826.56×4.56×0.326.4 ozBlack, plum,
sage, twilight blue
PQ94WIFUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Oasis 2kindle-oasis-2$249.9920179th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta71264×1680No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
No✔ Page-turnWi-Fi 44G optional8.0 GB | 32 GB 512 MB1 GHz dual core1000 mAhMicro-USBYes - IPX8
(60 mins, 2 meters)
15.9×14.1×0.831946.3×5.6×0.336.8 ozGraphite, goldCW24WIUser GuideAmazon
Kindle 8kindle-8$10020168th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6600×800No167 PPINoNoWi-Fi 43G4 GB512 MB1 GHz890 mAhMicro-USBNo16.0×11.5×0.911616.3×4.5×0.365.7 ozBlack, whiteSY69JLUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Oasiskindle-oasis$30920168th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta61072×1448No300 PPIYesNo✔ Page-turnWi-Fi 43G optional 4 GB512 MB1 GHz1535 mAh Micro-USBNo14.4×12.2×0.851305.6×4.8×0.344.6 ozBlackCharging coverS8IN4OUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 3kindle-paperwhite-3$14020157th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta HD61072×1448No300 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 43G optional 4 GB512 MB1 GHzVia USB adapter1420 mAhMicro-USBNo16.9×11.7×0.912056.65×4.61×0.367.2 ozBlack, whiteDP75SDIUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Voyagekindle-voyage$22020147th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta HD61072×1448No300 PPIYes,
(auto-adjusting)
No✔ Haptic page-turnWi-Fi 43G optional 4 GB512 MB1 GHzVia USB adapter1320 mAhMicro-USBNo16.2×11.5×0.761796.4×4.5×0.306.3 ozBlackNM460SZUser GuideAmazon
Kindle 7kindle-paperwhite-2$10020147th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6600×800No167 PPINoNoWi-Fi 43G4 GB256 MB1 GHz890 mAhMicro-USBNo16.9×11.9×1.021916.7×4.7×0.406.7 ozBlack, whiteWP63GWUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Paperwhite 2kindle-paperwhite-2$14020136th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Carta6758×1024No212 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 43G optional 2.0 GB | 4 GB 256 MB1 GHz1420 mAhMicro-USBNo16.9×11.7×0.912066.7×4.6×0.367.3 ozBlackDP75SDIUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Paperwhitekindle-paperwhite$14020125th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6758×1024No212 PPIYesNoWi-Fi 43G optional 2 GB256 MB0.8 GHz1420 mAhMicro-USBNo16.9×11.7×0.912136.7×4.6×0.367.5 ozBlackEY21User GuideAmazon
Kindle 5kindle-5$9020125th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6600×800No167 PPINoNo✔ Page-turn, D-padWi-Fi 43G2 GB256 MB0.8 GHz890 mAhMicro-USBNo16.6×11.4×0.871706.5×4.5×0.345.98 ozBlackSV98LNUser GuideAmazon
Kindle Touchkindle-touch$14920114th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6600×800No167 PPINoNAWi-Fi 43G optional 4 GB256 MB0.8 GHz1420 mAhMicro-USBNo17.2×12.0×1.012136.8×4.7×0.407.5 ozSilverD01200User GuideAmazon
Kindle 4kindle-4$10920114th generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6600×800No167 PPINoNA✔ Page-turn, D-padWi-Fi 43G2 GB256 MB0.8 GHz890 mAhMicro-USBNo16.6×11.4×0.871706.5×4.5×0.345.98 ozBlack, silverD01100User GuideAmazon
Kindle Keyboardkindle-keyboard$13920103rd generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl6600×800No167 PPINoNA✔ Keyboard, D-padWi-Fi 43G optional 4 GB256 MB0.532 GHz1750 mAhMicro-USBNo19.05×12.19×0.852417.5×4.8×0.3358.5 ozBlack, silverD00901Quick Start GuideAmazon
Kindle DXkindle-dx$48920092nd generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink Pearl9.7824×1200No150 PPINoNA✔ Keyboard, D-padNo3G4 GB128 MB0.532 GHz1530 mAhMicro-USBNo26.4×18.3×1.053610.4×7.2×0.3818.9 ozBlack, whiteD00611User GuideAmazon
Kindle 2kindle-2$29920092nd generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink6600×800No167 PPINoNA✔ Keyboard, D-padNo3G2 GB32 MB0.532 GHz1530 mAhMicro-USBNo20.3×13.5×0.92898.0×5.3×0.3610.2 ozWhiteD00701Quick Start GuideAmazon
Kindle 1kindle-1$39920071st generationDiscontinuedAmazonE Ink6600×800No167 PPINoNA✔ KeyboardNo3G0.256 GB64 MB0.4 GHz
(SD card)
1530 mAhUSB Mini-BNo19.05×13.46×1.782897.5×5.3×0.710.2 ozWhiteD01400User GuideAmazon

Footnotes

  1. MSRP is for the e-reader without additional accessories, like a stylus or cover. If such an accessory is always included (see column: ‘Accessories in the box’), then it’s also included in the listed price.
  2. If the e-reader is available with different amounts of storage space, the MSRP in the table is for the version with the lowest amount of storage space.
  3. Some Kindles are also sold as an ad-supported version, at a discount (usually $20) on the MSRP’s listed in the table. The listed MSRP’s are for the ad-free version. Ad-supported Kindles will show ads on the lockscreen, meaning the ads will only be visible when you’re not using the device. If you purchase an ad-supported model, you can remove the ads at a later date by paying the difference. You can go here to do so.
  4. Every Kindle comes with an appropriate charging cable. Some might come with an included charger. Most come with a manual or a quick-start-guide. All of this isn’t counted as an accessory in the ‘Accessories in the box’ column.

Also interested in comparing Kindle to Kobo and other brands? Then use the full e-reader comparison table here!

Size comparison

Compare the size of Kindle models. The images show the relative size the e-readers, as well as their dimensions (height, width, depth) in both centimeters and inch. For size reference, a credit card and the iPhone 16 are also shown.

Size comparison of the Kindle models released in 2024. Click to enlarge.

Size comparison of the Kindle lineup after the release of the models in 2022. Click to enlarge.

Kindle specifications & features

Want to know what a mentioned Kindle e-reader specification or feature mentioned in the table means? Find the explanation below!

General information

Name

The name of the device. This is the model name that the e-reader is most commonly known by. Some names might be abbreviated for practicality.

More information about the Kindle generations and naming scheme here.
Image

An image of the Kindle e-reader. Click on the image in the table to view it in full size!

We always try to provide one image that provides the clearest view of the product, on a white background. To make for the best side-to-side comparison, we try to have all of the images in the table show the product from the same perspective; usually a front view, or a perspective view showing three sides of the product.

However, please note that the images aren’t made to a specific scale. This means that products of different sizes will show up as the same size in these images. You can find and compare the size of the products under size (cm) or size (inch).

MSRP

MSRP is an acronym for Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, also known as the ‘list price’ or the ‘sticker price’. This is (usually) also the original price that the e-reader is sold for at launch, without any discount. If the product has been around for a while, you can usually find better (discounted) prices than the MSRP.

So, while the MSRP gives a general idea of how much a product might cost, the actual price could be significantly less, especially if it’s an older model. So, always make sure to check the current price.

If there are different configuration options, the price listed in the table is the MSRP for the base model. So if the same product is available in different configurations; for example with two options for storage space, the MSRP listed in the table is for the option with the lowest amount of storage space. The listed price also does not include any additional accessories that aren’t listed under accessories in the box.

Some Amazon Kindle e-readers are are also available with ads on the lockscreen, usually for a $20 discount on the listed MSRP for the base model without ads. You can remove the ads at a later date by paying the difference later here.
Generation

The release generation of the e-reader. One release generation can contain multiple devices, as multiple devices are sometimes released at once.

The basic Kindle is generally named after and known by it’s release generation. So the basic Kindle from the 11th generation is known as the ‘Kindle 11’. However, other variants, such as the Paperwhite and Oasis, are generally known by their iteration number. For instance, the fifth iteration of the Kindle Paperwhite is mostly known as the ‘Paperwhite 5′, while Amazon lists it as the ’11th generation Kindle Paperwhite’. More information about the Kindle naming scheme here.
Released

The year the Kindle model was released in. Helps you to see how old (or new) the product is.

Availability

The availability status of the Kindle model. Here is an explanation of the possible options:

  • Announced: the product has been announced, but can’t be ordered yet.
  • Pre-order: the product is available for pre-order; if you order the product now, you’ll receive delivery of it at a given date in the future, usually on the official release-date.
  • Available: the product is available, sold as new by the manufacturer, and can be ordered around the world without any waiting period other than the shipping time.
  • Regional: the product is available and sold as new by the manufacturer, but can only be shipped to limited regions. The regions it can be shipped to are mentioned with their two-letter country codes.
  • Discontinued: the manufacturer isn’t making the product anymore, and won’t resupply retailers when their stock sells out. However, retailers might have stock left that they’re selling, or might sell the product as either refurbished or second-hand.
Current price

To check the current price of the e-reader, you’ll find one or two links to the most reliable retailers carrying the device. Click the link to see the current price it’s being sold for. If the manufacturer sells the product themselves, one of the options will always be the manufacturer’s sales page.

Wherever necessary, we provide automatic redirects to the retailer’s closest location, based on your IP’s geolocation. This means you’ll automatically be sent to the closest store, which usually means they’ll be able to ship the product out to you with the shortest possible delivery time.

So for instance; if you’re from the United States, and click on an Amazon link, you’ll be taken to Amazon.com, whereas if you’re from Germany, you’ll be taken to Amazon.de. To try this out: click here!

Display specifications

Display type

The display type used for the main display of the e-reader. Here’s what the different display types mentioned in the table mean, and how they compare:

  • E Ink: the device uses an E Ink display, of an unknown or unspecified type. E Ink displays mimic the appearance of ink on paper. It uses microcapsules filled with black and white particles that rearrange to form text and images. Since the display doesn’t use any light to generate an image itself, the display doesn’t become less visible when in full sunlight. Another advantage of E Ink is low power usage: E Ink displays only use power when changing the image. A disadvantage is that rearranging the particles in the microcapsules takes relatively long, which is why the refresh rate of an E Ink display is relatively low.
  • E Ink Vizplex: the first generation of the E Ink displays, available since 2007.
  • E Ink Pearl: second generation E Ink displays, available since 2010.
  • E Ink Carta: a black & white E Ink display type introduced in 2013, with an improved contrast over E Ink Pearl. Later also renamed to ‘E ink Carta 1000’, but this is rarely used.
  • E Ink Mobius Carta: an E Ink Carta screen with a flexible backplane, which is less prone to breaking.
  • E Ink Carta HD: improved resolution and pixel density over the E Ink Carta, introduced in 2014. Has later also been renamed to ‘E Ink Carta 1100’, but this is rarely used.
  • E Ink Carta 1200: introduced in 2021. It’s a further improvement, with a 20% increase in response time and a 15% improvement in contrast ratio over E Ink Carta (1000) (source).
  • E Ink Carta 1250: introduced in 2021, with another improvement in contrast and response time.
  • E Ink Carta 1300: the latest black and white E Ink screen, introduced in 2023, with yet another improvement in contrast and response time.
  • E Ink Kaleido: an E Ink screen with a color layer on top of the black and white E Ink layer, that can produce 4096 different colors on top of the 16 levels of grayscale. For E Ink Kaleido, the resolution and pixel density in color is one third of the resolution in black & white. So if it has a 300 PPI for black and white, the color image is 100 PPI.
  • E Ink Kaleido Plus: second generation of the Kaleido color E Ink displays, available since 2021. It should have a better color balance and crisper image than the first generation, as the distance between the color and black and white layer has been reduced. Both the resolution and the number of possible colors is the same as the previous generation. Kaleido Plus is also sometimes called ‘E Ink Kaleido 2’.
  • E Ink Kaleido 3: the third generation of the Kaleido color E Ink displays, with a 30% improved color saturation over the second generation (source), as well as a higher color resolution. With Kaleido 3, the color layer has half the resolution of the black & white layer. So if it displays black & white at 300 PPI, it will display color at 150 PPI. The number of possible colors is still 4096.
  • E Ink Gallery 3: a color E Ink display type. It uses microcapsules containing four different color particles: cyan, magenta, yellow, and white. The advantage over Kaleido is the better contrast – as Gallery only needs one layer to create a color image. Colors appear more vividly than with Kaleido, and there are more colors possible: over 50.000. The downside of Gallery is the slower image update time. However, with the third generation of the Gallery displays, the image update time has has been improved by enough to make this display type suitable for E-readers and E-ink tablets. Gallery 1 and 2, with their slower response times, were only suitable for displaying static images – such as in digital art frames. This is also how this display type got the name ‘Gallery’.
  • Reflective LCD: a LCD screen that looks and feels paper-like because it doesn’t use a backlight. Instead, it uses a reflective layer behind the LCD to reflect natural light back out through the LCD layer. An advantage is a much higher refresh rate than E Ink, but a disadvantage is that LCD constantly uses power to produce an image, which means a shorter battery life for the device compared to E Ink.
  • DES Slurry: an e-paper technology by GoodDisplay, using microstructures containing black and white particles that rearrange to form text and images. Color can be produced by a color filter.

Note: response times and contrast ratios also depends on the software used; some e-readers for instance have different speed modes to improve the refresh rate, but usually at the cost of contrast.

Note: not all of these types are used on Kindles. If you’re looking for an e-reader with a screen type not used on any Kindle models, then find it in the e-reader comparison table that compares models from all brands.
Display size (inch)

The display size of the e-reader in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm). The mentioned size is the diagonal measurement of the main display.

Resolution (pixels W×H)

The screen resolution of the e-reader in pixels: width times height. On the same display size, a higher resolution means a sharper image.

Color display

Can the e-reader display color? Yes/no.

Pixel density

The pixel density of the Kindle in PPI: Pixels Per Inch. More pixels on the same area make for a sharper image. So, the higher the PPI, the sharper the image.

Screen light

Whether the e-reader has a built-in screen light, or ‘front-light’.

Since E ink, RLCD, and other types of E-paper displays don’t use backlight to create an image, you can’t see these displays in the dark. So if you want to read in a dark environment, you’ll have to use the front light to illuminate the display.

Adjust color temperature

Whether the e-reader has the option to adjust the color temperature of the screen light; from a cool (white/blue) light to a warmer (amber/orange/red) light.

While a screen light already helps you read in the dark, it’s best to use a warm light if you’re reading in bed before sleeping. The reason is that blue light has a biological response that keeps you awake and alert, and therefore will make it harder to fall asleep once you’re done reading.

Auto-rotate

Whether the e-reader has the auto-rotate function; which means it’ll automatically change the orientation of the content from either portrait or landscape mode depending on how you’re holding the device.

To achieve this, the e-reader needs to contain a G-sensor to sense in what orientation you’re holding it. The auto-rotate function can usually be switched on or off in the software.

Input options & features

Touchscreen

Whether the e-reader has a touchscreen, which means you can either tap or swipe on the screen to control it.

Button controls

Can you control the e-reader with buttons? And what kind of buttons? These are the possible options:

  • Page-turn buttons: two buttons to allow you to turn the pages of the e-book you’re reading: either by going to the next or the previous page. Sometimes, the same buttons can have different functions in other apps.
  • D-pad: A single button that can be pressed in four different directions: up, down, left, and right. Used for navigation in apps, usually on older e-readers that don’t have a touchscreen.
  • Keyboard: the e-reader contains a full physical keyboard to allow you to type.
  • Volume: a button to control the volume of the e-reader. Found on e-readers that allow audio, for instance to listen to audiobooks. Sometimes volume buttons double as page-turn buttons.
  • Home button: a button that, when pressed, takes you back to the homescreen, which allows for faster navigation between different apps.
  • Slider sidebar: a touch-button that is mostly used to scroll in fixed-size documents like PDF’s.
  • Programmable button: a button that you can assign your own function to. For instance; a shortcut to a dictionary app, or make it a ‘next page’ button.

All e-readers also have a power on/off button. If that’s the only function of the button, it isn’t mentioned in the table.

Stylus input

Can you use a stylus to take notes and/or draw on the Kindle?

If so, this doesn’t necessarily mean that a stylus is also included. To see if it is, check if it’s listed under accessories in the box.

Dark mode

Is there a dark mode function on the Kindle? Enabling the dark mode will invert the colors: so that text will appear with white letters, and the background/page will appear in black.

The table only shows if there’s a built-in dark mode feature that works either device-wide, or if such a feature is built into the main reading application.

Dropbox & Google Drive

Does the e-reader have access to Dropbox, Google Drive, or any other cloud storage provider? This allows you to easily transfer files to your e-reader, and/or access and read files you’ve stored online.

Audiobooks

Does the e-reader allow you to listen to audiobooks, by playing audio files? Note that this doesn’t specify how the e-reader allows you to listen to audiobooks. These are the possibilities:

  • By using built-in speaker(s): you can check if the e-reader has built in speakers under other built in hardware)
  • Over bluetooth: by connecting any bluetooth device that can play audio, like bluetooth headphones or earbuds, or a bluetooth speaker. You can check if the e-reader has bluetooth under bluetooth.
  • Over a wired audio connection with headphones or speakers, as some e-readers have a 3.5mm AUX port that allows you to to do so. To check if an e-reader does, see 3.5 mm AUX out port.
Newer Kindle models can only play audiobooks over bluetooth. Older models that support audiobooks can play them over the built-in speaker or over headphones connected to the AUX port.
Bluetooth

Does the Kindle model have bluetooth? Having bluetooth allows you to wirelessly connect with bluetooth headphones, earbuds, or bluetooth speakers.

Having bluetooth means you can listen to any audiobooks on the device over bluetooth, for instance by using bluetooth headphones.
Wi-Fi

Does the Kindle have Wi-Fi, and which Wi-Fi version?

Cellular network

Can the Kindle use a cellular network (3G/4G/5G) for connectivity?

Hardware specifications

Internal storage

The amount of internal storage available in the e-reader. If the e-reader is available with different amounts of internal storage, all options are listed.

If you want to know if the e-reader has enough storage space for your purposes, here are some rules of thumb on how much space different types of files take up (on average):

  • Formatted E-book: about 3-5 MB
  • Audiobook: an average audiobook is about 10 hours in playtime, which takes up around 280 MB in standard quality audio, or 560 MB in high quality.
  • Apps: a basic app (simple tool) typically takes up about 5-20 MB, whereas a typical social media app, messaging app, and basic game apps can take up about 20-100 MB each.

Note that: 1 GB = 1000 MB.

This means that a 8 GB e-reader can store well over 1000 full books, but less than 40 standard quality audiobooks.

Also note that some of the spaces is already used up by the operating system and pre-installed apps on the device, so not all of the internal storage space is available for storing files.

If you need a lot of storage space, look into e-readers that allow you to expand the storage space by placing a microSD card, which is listed under MicroSD card reader.

RAM

RAM stands for Random Access Memory, often referred to as the ‘working memory’ of a device.

RAM is an extremely fast type of memory, used to temporarily store and quickly access data that the e-reader is currently using in applications. This allows for smooth and efficient performance when running applications or processing tasks.

Note that nothing in stored permanently in RAM.

More RAM in e-readers helps with the overall performance and responsiveness, particularly when navigating through menus, opening books and audiobooks, or using features like dictionary lookup and annotations.
CPU clock speed

The CPU, Central Processing Unit, or just ‘processor’ for short, is the brain of the e-reader. It handles all the instructions from the software and performs the necessary calculations to run applications smoothly.

Every e-reader has a CPU, but how fast it is depends on the CPU clock speed, and the amount of processing cores.

The maximum clock speed of the CPU, is expressed in GHz. The higher the clock speed, the more instructions can be processed in the same amount of time.

The number of processing cores is also listed. In multi-core processors however, usually not all cores can run at the listed maximum clock speed. However, more cores mean multiple processes can be ran simultaneously, which improves speed – especially in multitasking.

Number of cores mentioned in the table:

  • None mentioned: 1 core (single core) or unknown.
  • Dual core: 2 cores
  • Quad core: 4 cores
  • Octa core: 8 cores

For basic reading, you don’t need that fast of a CPU. However, having a fast CPU makes more noticeable difference when running more complex apps.

Note that the refresh rate of an E Ink display is usually limited by the screen itself – a faster CPU can’t make it refresh faster beyond a certain point.

Ports & battery

MicroSD card reader

Whether the e-reader contains a MicroSD card reader. By placing a MicroSD card in the card reader, you can expand the useable storage space of the device – by a lot.

So if you want to be able to use more space than there is available as internal storage, make sure to check if the e-reader has a MicroSD card reader.

Note: Chinese manufacturers often refer to MicroSD as ‘TF’. So, a TF reader is a MicroSD card reader, and a TF Card is synonymous to a MicroSD card.

3.5 mm AUX out port

Whether the Kindle has a 3.5 mm AUX out audio port available, which means you can connect wired earbuds or headphones.

Battery capacity (3.7V)

The battery capacity of the Kindle, in milliampère-hour, at a 3.7 V potential.

The higher the capacity, the bigger the battery. However, battery life also depends on the amount of power used – which will differ between Kindles, as well as by how they’re used.

USB (charging) port

The type of USB (charging) port found on the Kindle used for charging and transferring files.

USB-C is the newest type of USB port, and also the one also found on most smartphones. An e-reader having a USB-C port means you can use the same USB (charging) cable you’re already using for your smartphone and most other recent devices, meaning you don’t constantly have to switch cables to either charge your e-reader or to transfer files.

Physical specifications

Waterproof

Whether the e-reader is waterproof, and in what capacity. If available, the Ingress Protection code (IP-code) of the e-reader is shown.

Size (cm H×W×D)

The size of the Kindle in centimeters (cm): Height × Width × Depth (thickness).

Weight (gram)

The weight of the Kindle in grams. This is the weight of the product without any accessories.

Size (inch H×W×D)

The size of the Kindle in inches (in): Height × Width × Depth (thickness).

Weight (oz)

The weight of the Kindle in ounces. This is the weight of the product without any accessories.

Color options

The colors that the e-reader is available in for purchase.

Accessories in the box

Accessories that come with the e-reader in the box, if any. If the e-reader is sold in different sets; some with and some without accessories, it’s listed as such, including the difference in price (MSRP) for the set that comes with accessories.

Note that charging cables, manuals, user guides, or quick-start-guides are NOT listed in this column.

More info

Model number

The model number of the Kindle, which can differ from the model name. This allows you to look up more information on the exact device. This is also helpful to figure out which exact Kindle you have, or what exact device is being sold when looking for Ebay listings.

Note that the same Kindle may be available with multiple model numbers for different color versions or hardware configurations (if any).

User guide / manual

If available, a link to the full user guide or manual of the listed e-reader, so you can see how it works, or find other details not covered in the comparison table.

Official site link

If available, a link to the official product page on the website of the manufacturer.


Stay up-to-date with newly added products & tables!


Questions or feedback? Leave a comment!

Have any questions about our Kindle e-reader comparison table? Want to see a (new) product added, spotted an error, or have any other feedback? Or do you want to show your appreciation, or just say 'hi'?

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Leave a Comment

32 thoughts on “Compare Kindle e-reader models”

  1. This is a great table!
    What table plugin do you use to create it?
    I’d love to do something simple in my own website (wine related. Not electronics).

    Reply
    • Thanks Nick! I’m using this WordPress plugin (Pro version) for the main comparison table. I’ve done some custom coding on top of that, but for something simple, that plugin alone will probably do. The side-by-side comparison tables like these are completely coded from scratch. Good luck with your site!

      Reply
  2. Excellent tool and impressive that you have already updated the latest Kindle releases. Thank you. I just made a direct donation. I highly recommend everyone that has used this tool and appreciates the ease and time savings this table provides, to also support Guido. Here is his link https://ko-fi.com/guidoshowtos. Also, share his link with your book friends and spread the word. Pay if forward and put a smile on someone’s face.

    Reply
      • You’re welcome. Now I am on a mission to get you more. I will do my best to promote you.

        I will also remember when I purchase a new Kindle… might wait for holiday sale… but by year-end, to use your link.

        Reply
  3. The new 12th generation Kindle devices are available now! Main landing page for the new Kindles can be found here.

    I’ve just added all of the new devices, but I’m still piecing together some information that seems to be missing right now. Amazon doesn’t seem to mention the exact E Ink screen types, the amount of RAM, the CPU type, or the battery capacity in mAh. I’m also unable to find the model numbers.

    Here are some interesting comparisons:

    Minor changes compared to the previous models overall. It also seems that Amazon also doesn’t consider the new Kindle Scribe and basic Kindle to be of a new generation.

    Since the Scribe and basic Kindle are more of a ‘refresh’ rather than a new generation, I’ve opted to name the new Kindle Scribe the ‘Scribe 2024‘ in the table (rather than the ‘Kindle Scribe 2’), and the new basic Kindle the ‘Kindle 2024‘ (rather than the ‘Kindle 12’ – Amazon says it’s still part of the 11th generation).

    The most interesting release by far is the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition with the color screen.

    Reply
    • The display type logically has to be based on Kaleido 3, as that’s the only color E Ink display available in 7 inch with a 300 PPI resolution.

      The Paperwhite 6 and 6 Signature Edition are reported (1, 2) to be E Ink Carta 1300, which I’ve added to the table now.

      Still looking for the other information (RAM, CPU, battery capacity in mAh), please let me know if you’re able to find it!

      PS. I’ve just added a new size comparison image for the 2024 Kindle releases.

      Reply
        • Best Buy Canada has revealed some more specs on the new Kindle Paperwhite 6 (12th generation) and Kindle Paperwhite 6 Signature Edition (12th generation): they both have a 1900 mAh battery (1, 2).

          Best Buy also mentions the model number for the Paperwhite Signature Edition 12th gen: SA569P.

          Reply
    • What an amazing resource – thanks for putting this together and sharing. Really simple and easy to use too.

      Also appreciate the quick updates with the new 2024 Kindles!

      Reply
  4. New Kindle models are coming soon, including a Kindle with a color screen – the Kindle Colorsoft. I wrote a quick blog post with some details here, and will update the comparison table to include the new models as soon as the full specifications are available.

    Reply
  5. My “Device Info” says that I have Kindle Paperwhite (6th Generation). I’m confused why that is not on your list that goes from 5th to 7th gen. ?? I’m not necessarily looking to get a new or different one, I was just curious where mine is in terms of newer models and upgrades. if I can see what the differences are, I might go for a newer version. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Hi Carol,

      Sounds like you have what is listed as the Kindle Paperwhite 2 – which is the name it’s most commonly known by.

      The Kindle naming scheme is a bit confusing. I’ve tried explaining it a bit more in this comment.

      The ‘generations’ you’ll find being mentioned are release generations. You can see the timeline of that in this Wikipedia article.

      Not every release generation contained a base Kindle device (also known as Kindle Basic). Every base Kindle device is most commonly known by the number of it’s release generation; so the 5th release generation base Kindle device is generally referred to as the ‘Kindle 5’. The fifth release generation also contained the first ever Kindle Paperwhite device, which is commonly known as the ‘Kindle Paperwhite 1’, but also referred to as the ‘Kindle Paperwhite 5th generation’ – as it’s part of the fifth release generation.

      The sixth release generation only consisted of a second iteration of the Kindle Paperwhite, which is commonly known as the ‘Kindle Paperwhite 2’, but since it’s the sixth release generation, also referred to as the ‘Kindle Paperwhite 6th generation’. Since the sixth release generation didn’t contain a base Kindle model, there’s no ‘Kindle 6’.

      So in short: base level Kindle models are most commonly referred to and numbered by their release generation, while the Paperwhite and Oasis models are most commonly referred to and numbered by their iteration. So that’s also how I’ve named the devices in this comparison table.

      I hope that clears it up! If you have any further questions, let me know!

      Reply
  6. This is very helpful, & thanks for making it available. I’m about the purchase a Paperwhite (not sure what model). Where do I find the model #?

    Reply
    • Hi Bob,

      The product listings on Amazon itself don’t actually show the model numbers as of now. If you’re looking to buy one used, see if there’s a picture showing the backside of the Kindle. The model numbers are printed in a tiny font on the back of the Kindle itself. Here’s an example of my Kindle Paperwhite (1st iteration, from 2012):

      Kindle Model number example

      If you want to, I could help you identify a model if you give me a link to the listing. The listings on Amazon do mention the generation of the device. There’s more information on identifying the Kindle model by generation here. Also, the Amazon links in the table should automatically take you to the exact device mentioned – if available.

      Let me know if you need any further help!

      Reply
  7. It’s Amazon Prime day today and tomorrow (July 16th and 17th 2024), which means you can find deals on Kindles!

    As I can see it right now, the Amazon.com Prime Day deals are as follows (Kindle model name + Amazon link, list price -> price now):

    Kindle 11th gen: $99 -> $84.99
    Kindle 11th gen without lock-screen ads: $119.99 -> $99.99
    Kindle Paperwhite 5th gen 16 GB: $149.99 -> $134.99
    Kindle Paperwhite 5th gen 16 GB without lock-screen ads: $169.99 -> $144.50
    Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition: $189.99 -> $179.99
    Kindle Scribe 16 GB with basic pen: $339.99 -> $234.99
    Kindle Scribe 16 GB with premium pen: $369.99 -> $259.99
    Kindle Scribe 16 GB Essentials bundle (premium pen, folio cover & power adapter): $469.97 -> $289.97
    Kindle Scribe 32 GB: $389.99 -> $389.99 (not discounted)
    Kindle Scribe 32 GB Essentials bundle (Folio cover & power adapter): $489.97 -> $314.97
    Kindle Scribe 64 GB: $419.99 -> $419.99 (not discounted)
    Kindle Scribe 64 GB Essentials bundle (Folio cover & power adapter): $529.97 -> $334.97

    The Oasis 3 International version, which doesn’t ship to the US, is also heavily discounted (but isn’t marked as a Prime Day deal):
    Kindle Oasis 3 8 GB: $269.99 -> $135
    Kindle Oasis 3 32 GB: $349.99 -> $175

    Make sure to check the prices for yourself as deals might be limited or can change at any moment.

    Reply
  8. Some clarification on the Kindle model names, as it might be a bit confusing.

    The first thing to address is that Amazon just lists the newest devices as the ‘Kindle’, ‘Kindle Paperwhite’ and ‘Kindle Oasis’, without listing the generation of the device.

    To make it easier to distinguish and compare, the devices are more commonly known by adding their generation. I’ve done so in the comparison table as well.

    However, others also go with the release year. Then there’s also some that will call the cheapest Kindle device of every generation the ‘Kindle Basic’.

    To clarify, here’s a list of all devices that are known by multiple names:

    Kindle 11 = ‘Kindle 11th generation’, ‘Kindle 2022’, ‘Kindle Basic 4’, or ‘Kindle Basic 2022’
    Kindle 10 = ‘Kindle 10th generation’, ‘Kindle 2019, ‘Kindle Basic 3’, or ‘Kindle Basic 2019’
    Kindle 8 = ‘Kindle 8th generation’, ‘Kindle 2016’, ‘Kindle Basic 2’, or ‘Kindle Basic 2016’
    Kindle 7 = ‘Kindle 7th generation’, ‘Kindle 2014’, ‘Kindle Basic 1’, ‘Kindle Basic 2014’

    Kindle Paperwhite 5 = ‘Paperwhite 5th generation’ (as it’s the 5th generation of the ‘Paperwhite’ device), ‘Paperwhite 2021′, or ’11th generation Kindle Paperwhite’ (as it’s the 11th overall Kindle e-reader release generation)
    Kindle Paperwhite 4 = ‘Paperwhite 4th generation’, ‘Paperwhite 2019′, ’10th generation Kindle Paperwhite’
    Kindle Paperwhite 3 = ‘Kindle Paperwhite 3rd generation’, ‘Paperwhite 2015’, ‘7th generation Kindle Paperwhite’
    Kindle Paperwhite 2 = ‘Kindle Paperwhite 2nd generation’, ‘Paperwhite 2013’, ‘6th generation Kindle Paperwhite’
    Kindle Paperwhite = ‘First generation Kindle Paperwhite’, ‘Paperwhite 2012’

    Kindle Oasis 3 = ‘Oasis 3rd generation’, ‘Oasis 2019′, ’10th generation Oasis’
    Kindle Oasis 2 = ‘Oasis 2nd generation’, ‘Oasis 2017’, ‘9th generation Oasis’
    Kindle Oasis = ‘Oasis first generation’, Oasis 2016′, ‘8th generation Oasis’

    If you want to know which model you have, or are looking at in a listing, make sure to also check the model number and compare it with the model numbers listed in the table. You can find the model numbers on the backside of your device, in small lettering, near the bottom.

    Reply