The Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite are both e-reader devices produced by Amazon that allow users to read electronic versions of books, magazines, and other documents. The main difference between the two devices is in their design and features. So let’s jump into Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite comparison.
The Kindle is a basic, entry-level e-reader that is thin and lightweight, with a 6-inch display and a front light. It has a simple, black and white design and is made to be portable and easy to use.
The Kindle Paperwhite, on the other hand, has a more advanced design and features. It has a 6-inch display with a higher resolution than the Kindle, and it also has a built-in adjustable front light that allows for reading in low light conditions.
The Paperwhite is slightly thicker and heavier than the Kindle, but it has a more premium feel and a sleek, white design.
In terms of features, the Paperwhite also has more to offer than the Kindle. It has a higher storage capacity, as well as the ability to play audiobooks and connect to the internet over Wi-Fi or cellular data. It also has a longer battery life than its rival.
Overall, the Paperwhite is a more advanced and feature-rich e-reader, while the Kindle is a more basic and affordable option for those who are simply looking for a device to read e-books on.
Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite Pros & Cons
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Kindle pros:
Affordable: The Kindle is a more affordable option compared to the Paperwhite.
Lightweight and portable: The Kindle is thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and hold in the hand for long periods of time.
Kindle cons:
No built-in light: The Kindle does not have a built-in light, so it must be used with external lighting. This may cause eye strain if the lighting is not optimal.
Limited connectivity: It also have only Wi-Fi connectivity, so users will need to be connected to a Wi-Fi network in order to download content or access the internet.
Kindle Paperwhite pros:
Higher resolution display: The Paperwhite has a higher resolution display than the Kindle, which makes text and images appear sharper and more detailed.
Adjustable front light: The Paperwhite has a built-in adjustable front light, which allows users to read in low light conditions and adjust the brightness of the display to their preference.
Cellular connectivity: The Paperwhite has the option of connecting to the internet via cellular data, which allows users to access their content even when they don’t have access to Wi-Fi.
Paperwhite cons:
More expensive: The Kindle Paperwhite is more expensive than the Kindle.
Slightly thicker and heavier: The Paperwhite is slightly thicker and heavier than the Kindle, which may be noticeable if you are planning on using the device for long periods of time or carrying it around with you on a regular basis.
Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite In-Depth comparison

Here is a comparison of the main features of the Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite:
Display: Both have a 6-inch display, but the Paperwhite has a higher resolution and a built-in adjustable front light for reading in low light conditions.
Design: The Kindle has a simple, black and white design and is thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The Paperwhite is slightly thicker and heavier, but has a more premium feel and a sleek, white design.
Storage: The Kindle Paperwhite has a higher storage capacity than the Kindle, allowing users to store more books and documents on the device.
Connectivity: The Paperwhite has the ability to connect to the internet over Wi-Fi or cellular data, while the Kindle only has Wi-Fi connectivity.
Audio: The Kindle Paperwhite can play audiobooks, while the Kindle does not have this feature.
Battery life: The Paperwhite has a longer battery life than the Kindle.
Read also Kindle Paperwhite vs Voyage comparison or compare here Kindle models.
Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite screen & display
Both e-readers have 6-inch e-ink displays, which use electronic ink to display text and images on the screen. This technology is designed to mimic the look of traditional paper, making it easy on the eyes and reducing strain during extended reading sessions.
The main difference between the two devices’ screens is in their resolution and lighting. The Paperwhite has a higher resolution display than the Kindle, which means that text and images will appear sharper and more detailed on the Paperwhite. The Paperwhite also has a built-in adjustable front light, which allows users to read in low light conditions and adjust the brightness of the display to their preference. The Kindle does not have a built-in light and must be used with external lighting.
In terms of screen quality, both ebook readers offer good reading experiences, but the Paperwhite’s higher resolution and adjustable front light make it a more versatile and comfortable option for reading in a variety of lighting conditions.
Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite for reading

both have 6-inch e-ink displays that are easy on the eyes and reduce strain during extended reading sessions.
However, the Kindle Paperwhite has some features that make it a more comfortable and convenient option for reading. Its higher resolution display makes text and images appear sharper and more detailed, and its built-in adjustable front light allows users to read in low light conditions and adjust the brightness of the display to their preference. The Kindle does not have a built-in light and must be used with external lighting.
In terms of overall reading experience, both offer good options, but the Kindle Paperwhite’s higher resolution display and adjustable front light make it a more comfortable and convenient choice for reading in a variety of lighting conditions.
Is Kindle Paperwhite better for your eyes than Kindle?
Both are designed to be easy on the eyes and reduce strain during extended reading sessions. They both have 6-inch e-ink displays that mimic the look of traditional paper, which can help to reduce eye strain compared to reading on backlit screens such as those found on tablets or smartphones.
In terms of reducing eye strain specifically, the Kindle Paperwhite has an advantage over the Kindle due to its built-in adjustable front light. This feature allows users to adjust the brightness of the display to their preference, which can help to reduce eye strain when reading in low light conditions. The Kindle does not have a built-in light and must be used with external lighting, which may cause more eye strain if the lighting is not optimal.
Kindle Paperwhite vs Kindle: Size & weight
Both are lightweight and portable devices that are designed for reading on the go. However, there are some differences in their size and weight.
The Kindle is thinner and lighter than the Paperwhite. It measures approximately 160 mm x 113 mm x 8.7 mm and weighs around 174 grams. This makes it easy to carry around and fits comfortably in the hand.
The Paperwhite is slightly thicker and heavier than the Kindle. It measures approximately 169 mm x 117 mm x 9.1 mm and weighs around 182 grams. While this difference in size and weight is not significant, it may be noticeable if you are planning on using the device for long periods of time or carrying it around with you on a regular basis.
Connectivity
Both have Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows users to connect to the internet to download books, magazines, and other content from the Amazon store.
The Paperwhite also has the option of connecting to the internet via cellular data, which allows users to access their content even when they don’t have access to Wi-Fi. This feature is not available on the Kindle.
In terms of connectivity, the Paperwhite is a more versatile device as it allows users to access their content both over Wi-Fi and cellular data. The Kindle is limited to Wi-Fi connectivity, which means that users will need to be connected to a Wi-Fi network in order to download content or access the internet.
Durability
Both are durable devices that are designed to withstand regular use. They both have e-ink displays that are resistant to scratches and are made to last for many years.
In terms of overall durability, it is difficult to say which device is more durable as it will depend on how well the device is cared for and how it is used. However, both the Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite have a reputation for being reliable and long-lasting devices, and users can expect to get many years of use out of either one.
To ensure the longevity of your devices, it is recommended to handle the device with care, keep it away from water and other liquids, and store it in a protective case when not in use. Regular updates to the device’s software can also help to keep it running smoothly over time.
Which one is better? Verdict
Overall, the Kindle is a more affordable and lightweight option for those who are simply looking for a basic e-reader to read e-books on.
The Kindle Paperwhite is a more advanced and feature-rich device with a higher resolution display and adjustable front light, but it comes at a higher price point.