So you’ve heard the word “Kindle” being thrown around and are wondering what it is? If all the talk of Kindles has left you wondering “What is a Kindle?”, then here is everything you need to know!
What Is a Kindle?
What is an Amazon Kindle? A Kindle is an e-reader created and sold by Amazon, that allows users to read e-books, magazines, newspapers, and more from one handy device.
There are several types of Kindles to choose between, but they all have the same function of making reading the focus of this tablet-like device. You can browse for ebooks on a Kindle, buy them through Amazon, download, and read them all in one place!
It’s an especially handy device to have if you don’t have much space for physical books, need to save space in your luggage when going on a trip, or if you want to be able to increase font size and read outside easily without glare on your e-reader screen. These and many other scenarios make having a Kindle e-reader a fantastic idea!
The Different Types of Kindles
There are three main models of Kindles that offer different features, depending on your needs and on how much you’re willing to pay. Here’s what you should know about these different Kindle devices!
Basic Kindle
The basic Kindle is Amazon’s entry-level Kindle e-reader, and some of its key features include a glare-free display that is easy to read even in direct sunlight, adjustable brightness for the screen, and a battery charge that lasts for weeks.
It also allows you to highlight passages in the ebooks you read, look up definitions, translate words, adjust text size, and more…and you can also pair it with Bluetooth headphones or speakers to listen to audiobooks with Audible!
Kindle Paperwhite
Next in Amazon’s e-reader lineup is the Kindle Paperwhite, which is the most popular model of Kindle that Amazon sells.
The key features of this Kindle build upon the basic features with a better screen resolution that is still glare free and reads like real paper. It also has a 6.8″ display with thinner borders, up to 10 weeks of battery life, and faster page turns. Like the basic Kindle, you can adjust the brightness, highlight passages, look up definitions, etc…and you can also pair it with Bluetooth for Audible listening.
However, the biggest features that set this apart from the basic model are that it is waterproof and that it has adjustable warm light. The waterproof feature is especially handy if you’re planning to take it places with you or if you want to read at the beach, in the pool, etc. And the adjustable warm light makes reading easier on your eyes, especially at night!
Kindle Oasis
And the third Kindle version is the Kindle Oasis, which is Amazon’s top-of-the-line model for e-readers.
This Kindle comes with all of the features of the Kindle Paperwhite plus a high-resolution 7″ screen. But it also features a thin and light ergonomic design with page turn buttons, which makes it super easy for one-handed reading…and can also be better for those who struggle with holding devices (or have chronic pain and find it difficult to read physical books).
Which Is the Best Kindle?
Now that you know what a Kindle is and know about the three Kindle models Amazon offers, you might be wondering: what is the best Kindle? Or what Kindle should I buy?
It depends on your situation and your needs, but in general I recommend buying the Kindle Paperwhite. This is because some of the features of the Paperwhite are a HUGE improvement from the basic Kindle (especially the waterproof feature and adjustable warm light). And the price difference is only around $30 between the two!
And while the Oasis is nice, unless you really need or want the page-turning buttons, it’s quite expensive to get this model…especially when the Kindle has all the other features at a fraction of the price.
So unless you’re needing to really pinch pennies and go with the basic model or really need the more ergonomic design of the Oasis, I recommend going with the Paperwhite as it combines the best of both worlds at a reasonable price!
Kindle E-Reader FAQ
Here are a few other frequently asked questions about Kindles! But if you still have questions of your own that aren’t answered here, feel free to leave them in the comments!
1. Is a Kindle different from a Kindle book?
Yes! A Kindle is an e-reader that allows you to read ebooks and other digital content. Meanwhile a Kindle book is an ebook that you can read using a Kindle device or on your phone using the free Kindle app from Amazon.
2. Is a Kindle different from a Kindle Fire?
Some people refer to the Kindle Fire as simply a Kindle, but despite the similarity in name there is a difference between these.
The Kindle e-readers (basic, Paperwhite, and Oasis) are all e-reader specific devices. This means they were designed and created specifically with reading in mind, have a screen that only displays in black and white, cannot add apps, and have limited other features. However, the Kindle Fire is Amazon’s version of a traditional tablet/iPad and allows you to read ebooks, play games, watch movies, browse the internet, and more in full color.