Which Kindle should I buy?

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Introduction

Now that you’ve learned why you totally need a Kindle, it’s time to figure out which Kindle you should buy. Whether you read only on vacation or devour a book (or more) a week, there’s a Kindle to suit your reading style.

After you settle on your perfect device, remember to grab a custom Kindle case to go with it. A Kindle cover from wit + wisdom co. protects your device, extends battery life (love that magnetic closure), and lets you show off a bit of personality.

Types of Kindle devices

Kindle (base model)

If you’re new to e-readers, or want something simple and affordable, the basic Amazon Kindle e-reader is a solid choice. It’s the lightest and most compact Kindle (6” display), yet it offers all the essentials, including adjustable lighting, a glare-free display, 16 GB of storage, and up to six weeks of battery life. The newest model comes in two colors, Black or Matcha, and has the lowest price point of around $110. The only downside? It’s not water resistant like other models.

Shop the new Kindle >

Kindle Paperwhite

I own an older Kindle Paperwhite and love it, though I may have to upgrade to the new generation since it comes in two new colors, Jade and Raspberry. The Paperwhite has the same 16 GB storage as the basic Kindle but has a slightly larger 7” display. It’s also the speediest Kindle, boasting 25% quicker page turns, which means you can chip away at your TBR list even faster. And with a waterproof design and up to 12 weeks of battery life, you can take the entire Stormlight Archive series with you on your next tropical vacay. No surprise the Kindle Paperwhite is a top seller at around $160.

Shop the new Kindle Paperwhite >

Kindle Colorsoft (new)

The new Kindle Colorsoft boasts 32 GB of storage, but that’s not what has the Kindle community all abuzz. It’s the 7” high-contrast color display, making it a game changer for readers who love illustrated books, comics, and graphic novels. The Colorsoft also has an auto-adjusting front light and a waterproof design, though the battery life is a bit shorter at eight weeks on a single charge. This e-reader has only a 2.9 rating on Amazon (you can read the reviews here), so if you’re leaning towards this device, maybe hold off until they work out the glitches, especially with the $280 price tag.

Shop the new Kindle Colorsoft >

Kindle Scribe

Heads up, notetakers and annotate-ers. The Kindle Scribe is designed with you in mind. This Kindle and notebook in one features a 10.2” glare-free, front-lit display and Premium Pen—write directly on the page, create meeting notes and to-do lists, or journal about your latest read (or friend-group drama). The Kindle Scribe is a good fit for students, professionals, or anyone who enjoys jotting down deep thoughts as they read, but it’s the most expensive of the group at around $400.

Shop the new Kindle Scribe >

Compare Kindle models at a glance

Here’s a quick comparison of the Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite, Kindle Colorsoft, and Kindle Scribe e-readers.

Tips for choosing the right Kindle

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a Kindle device.

 

• Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to invest. Each model offers something different, and added features often come with a higher price.
• Reading habits: Think about where, what, and how much you read. Prefer graphic novels? Reach for the Colorsoft. Want to read in the bath or at the beach? Try the waterproof Paperwhite. More into professional texts or marking up your pages? Go for the Scribe.
• Storage and size: If you’d like to carry your entire TBR list in your tote, the 32 GB Colorsoft could be the way to go. If you’re good with just a few reads at a time and want your e-reader to take up the least possible space, try the tinier classic Kindle.

 

Still not sure which one’s right for you? I’m no professional profiler, but if I had to link a Kindle device with a common profile, I’d go with:

• Budget-friendly: classic Kindle
• Frequent traveler: Kindle Paperwhite
• Tech enthusiast: Kindle Scribe
• Visual content lover: Kindle Colorsoft

Protect and personalize your new Kindle with a custom case

As soon as I get a new phone, I buy a case. Sure, I’m terrified of dropping the thing, but I’m also all about adding a touch of personality (and a phone grip so I don’t drop the thing). The same holds true for a Kindle.

A Kindle case safeguards your device from scratches and bumps and can extend the life of your battery if it has a magnetic closure like the ones from wit + wisdom co. That means the only reason you’d need to get up from that poolside lounge chair is for a cold beverage.

Check out wit + wisdom co. for Kindle cases that feature unique designs and that handy little magnetic closure. Whether you prefer checkered prints, florals, or something seasonal, you’re sure to find a case that fits your style—and your device. You can also add a Kindle hand strap or the aforementioned phone grip for an extra secure hold on your reads.

Conclusion

No matter which Kindle device you choose, you’ll find yourself on a grand new adventure—a choose-your-own adventure, if you will. There’s nothing like having an entire library at your literal fingertips.

With a model to suit every reader’s needs, there’s never been a better time to get digitally bookish. Find the Kindle that fits your lifestyle. And once you have your device, make it truly yours with a custom Kindle case that combines protection and personality. Throw in a few must-have Kindle accessories to take your e-reading to an entirely new level. 

Question: Which Kindle device do you have? What's your favorite feature?