Upon receiving Amazon’s new Kindle Paperwhite (2024), my first instinct was to compare it to my previous generation Kindle Paperwhite (2021) to see how much of an improvement had been made. Despite three years passing since the last update, E Ink e-readers tend to have minimal changes from generation to generation due to technology plateauing. The upgrades to the Paperwhite (2024) are indeed modest, but noticeable.
The new Paperwhite features a slightly larger 7-inch screen, 25% faster page turns, and slightly higher contrast. It is also waterproof. However, it lacks dedicated page-turn buttons and is slightly more expensive than the previous model. Additionally, removing ads costs an extra $20.
The device itself is thinner and lighter than the previous model, with a faster processor for improved performance. The new Paperwhite has a higher contrast ratio and the text and images appear clearer. The 7-inch screen provides more space for text, and the overall zippiness of the device is evident when navigating through the interface.
For those who enjoyed the physical page-turn buttons on the now-discontinued Kindle Oasis, the new Paperwhite may be lacking. The power button placement at the bottom of the device is also a point of contention for some users.
The Paperwhite (2024) is also available in a Signature Edition with additional features such as 32GB of storage, wireless charging, and an auto-adjusting front light. The ad-free Signature Edition comes at a higher price point.
While the improvements in the new Paperwhite are not groundbreaking, the slightly faster performance, improved contrast, and larger screen may be enticing for those looking to upgrade from an older model. Ultimately, the decision to switch to the new Paperwhite will depend on individual preferences and priorities.