Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Review - Is It Worth It?

The Evolution of E-Readers: A Look at the New Kindle Paperwhite

It’s a scenario I hadn’t anticipated: disconnecting my iPhone from its Qi charger and then reaching for the latest Kindle. This highlights a reality – the advancement of e-reader technology hasn't matched the rapid pace seen in other areas of the consumer electronics market.

A significant factor contributing to this slower development is the reduction in competition. Companies like Sony have exited the e-reader market, and while Barnes & Noble continues with the Nook, its prominence has diminished considerably.

Amazon's Dominance in the E-Reader Landscape

Effectively, the e-reader market is now largely defined by Amazon and, to a lesser extent, Kobo. Amazon’s substantial market share, particularly within the United States, is bolstered by its strong position in the publishing industry and its highly visible online platform.

This dominance has resulted in a lack of intense competition among manufacturers. We are unlikely to witness a similar "arms race" to that of the smartphone industry, or even the level of rivalry seen in this category a decade ago.

The Appeal of a New Kindle Release

Therefore, each new Kindle release feels noteworthy, suggesting that the category still possesses potential. Kindle development has often taken a backseat to other Amazon products like the Echo and Fire TV, with typically only one new model released annually.

The recently announced Paperwhite introduces features that bridge the gap between it and the higher-end Oasis model, alongside some unexpected improvements. Wireless charging – exclusive to the “Signature Edition” at an additional $50 – and the inclusion of USB-C are prime examples.

The transition to USB-C is particularly significant, marking a departure from the microUSB port used in previous generations. This simplifies cable management for travelers, as the Kindle no longer requires a unique cable.

Charging and Battery Life Improvements

USB-C also enables faster charging, fully replenishing the device in approximately two and a half hours (3.5 hours wirelessly). However, the extended battery life remains a key advantage. The new Paperwhite boasts up to 10 weeks of battery life with wireless disabled and moderate reading.

This is a substantial improvement over the previous six weeks, and remains exceptional compared to most consumer electronics. The longevity of the battery is a defining characteristic of Kindle devices, even as new features like audiobook support via Bluetooth increase power consumption.

Design and Display Enhancements

Visually, the new Paperwhite closely resembles its predecessors, adopting the flush bezel and display design previously seen on the Oasis. While the build quality is solid, it doesn’t quite match the premium feel of the $250 Oasis, which features a metal backing and dedicated page-turn buttons.

The screen resolution remains at 300 ppi, significantly higher than the standard Kindle’s 167 ppi. The new model offers a slight size increase from 6.6 to 6.8 inches, just below the Oasis’ seven-inch display. Both models retain IPX8 waterproofing.

The Oasis still provides superior front lighting, with 25 levels compared to the Paperwhite’s 17. However, the Paperwhite’s lighting is uniform and effective for reading in low-light conditions. Both models include adjustable color temperature to minimize blue light exposure, and the Signature Edition adds an ambient light sensor for automatic brightness adjustment.

Paperwhite vs. Signature Edition: Key Differences

Internal storage is another key differentiator, with the Signature Edition offering 32GB compared to the standard Paperwhite’s 8GB. Wireless charging and increased storage are the primary advantages of the Signature Edition.

For many users, wireless charging is not essential, and the price difference between the $140 Paperwhite and the $190 Signature Edition isn’t justified. The optional $30 charging dock further diminishes the value proposition of the Signature Edition.

Final Thoughts

The new Kindle Paperwhite incorporates several welcome improvements. If you own a 2018 Paperwhite, an upgrade may not be necessary. However, for those seeking a well-rounded e-reader, this model is an excellent choice.

The new features narrow the gap between the Paperwhite and the premium Oasis. While the Oasis offers a more luxurious experience, the new Paperwhite provides a compelling balance of features and affordability for the majority of readers.