Amazon Kindle 2024 Review: The Best Affordable E-Reader?
The Amazon Kindle 2024 is the newest iteration of Amazon's most affordable e-reader. While it may lack some of the premium features seen in higher-end models like the Paperwhite or Colorsoft, it remains a solid choice for those who want a reliable, distraction-free reading experience. Let's dive into the details to see if this budget-friendly Kindle is the right choice for you.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- New Matcha Color: A fresh and stylish new color option.
- Brighter Screen: Matches the brightness level of the Kindle Paperwhite for easier reading in various lighting conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: The most portable Kindle, perfect for on-the-go reading.
Cons:
- No Warm Light: Missing the adjustable warm light feature available in the Paperwhite.
- No Waterproofing: Not suitable for reading by the pool or in the bath.
Key Features
Fresh Color Choice
The new Matcha color option is a standout, giving the Kindle a more modern and stylish look. If you’re tired of the standard black, this new hue is a refreshing change.
Brighter Screen
The 6-inch e-ink display is now brighter, matching the levels of the pricier Kindle Paperwhite. This makes reading in various environments, from dimly lit rooms to bright outdoor settings, much easier.
Pricing
The Kindle 2024 starts at £94.99/$109.99 for the ad-supported version. If you find the ads distracting, you can opt for the ad-free version at £104.99/$129.99. There’s also a Kids Edition available for £114.99, which includes a protective case and other child-friendly features.
Compared to other Kindle models, this is the most affordable option. For reference, the Kindle Paperwhite (2024) starts at £159.99/$159.99, and the Kindle Colorsoft is priced at £269.99/$279.99.
Display and Reading Experience
The 6-inch greyscale e-ink display is sharp with a 300 PPI resolution, making the text look crisp and clear, almost like printed paper. The screen is also glare-free, reducing eye strain even during long reading sessions.
However, one downside is the lack of a warm light option, which is available on the Kindle Paperwhite and Kindle Colorsoft. The absence of this feature might make reading in low light environments less comfortable for some users.
Design and Build
The Kindle 2024 is the most compact Kindle in Amazon’s lineup, with a 6-inch screen that makes it incredibly portable. Weighing just 158g, it’s perfect for long reading sessions without causing hand fatigue. Additionally, the new Matcha color option gives it a unique, stylish look.
However, the Kindle 2024 lacks waterproofing, making it less ideal for reading by the pool or in the bath. If you need a waterproof option, you should consider the Kindle Paperwhite.
Battery Life
Amazon claims the Kindle 2024 can last up to six weeks on a single charge, assuming 30 minutes of reading per day with the brightness set to around 50%. In my testing, the battery life held up well, losing only about 5% after four days of moderate use.
While this is impressive, the Kindle Paperwhite offers even better battery life, lasting up to 12 weeks per charge.
Features
The Kindle 2024 is a straightforward device focused solely on reading. It lacks some of the premium features found in higher-end models, such as wireless charging and automatic brightness adjustment. However, it still offers Bluetooth for connecting to speakers or earbuds to listen to Audible audiobooks.
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Kindle is access to Amazon’s vast ebook store, which offers a wide range of titles at competitive prices. Additionally, Amazon offers Kindle Unlimited and Prime Reading, giving you access to thousands of books for a monthly fee or as part of your Prime membership.
Final Thoughts
The Amazon Kindle 2024 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a basic, affordable e-reader. It’s compact, lightweight, and offers a sharp, bright display that makes reading a pleasure. While it lacks some of the premium features found in the Kindle Paperwhite or Kindle Colorsoft, it’s still a fantastic option for most readers.
If you’re looking for a more feature-rich experience, you might want to consider upgrading to the Kindle Paperwhite. However, if you’re simply looking for a great way to read books without distractions, the Kindle 2024 is the perfect choice.
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FAQs
Does the Kindle 2024 come with a charger?
No, the Kindle 2024 does not come with a charger, but it does include a USB-C cable for charging.
Is the Kindle 2024 waterproof?
No, the Kindle 2024 is not waterproof. If you need a waterproof device, consider the Kindle Paperwhite.
How much storage does the Kindle 2024 have?
The Kindle 2024 comes with 16GB of storage, which is enough for thousands of ebooks and a few audiobooks.
The Amazon Kindle 2024 is a fantastic, no-frills e-reader that gets the job done. Whether you're a casual reader or someone who devours books regularly, this Kindle offers excellent value for money.
