• Amazon has rebranded Kindle Unlimited as Kindle+
• The rebrand also comes with additional audiobooks, though many of these are narrated by AI
• The price hasn't changed but some users worry it might go up soon

Kindle Unlimited is no more — instead, you’re now a Kindle+ subscriber, as Amazon has just rebranded its ebook subscription service.

The good news is that the price hasn’t changed, and all the features remain the same too. In fact, you’re actually getting more for your money, because — as reported by ZDNet — there are now significantly more audiobooks included.

The bad news is that many of these new audiobooks are narrated by AI, with Amazon’s Virtual Voice allowing authors to create AI-narrated audio versions of their books at no additional cost.

A worrying change

Aside from that, this is seemingly the same as Kindle Unlimited, but the name change has made some users wary that a price increase could follow.

Over on Reddit, one user said “I don’t love it. It’s a signal that things will change and it’ll most likely start with the price,” while in another thread about the change, comments included the likes of “wouldn’t be surprised if there is a price rise in the near future,” and “I’m just glad they didn’t Kindle plus on the price. I was scanning that email and just waiting for them to say there was a price increase. Or is this a soft launch on that later?”

Certainly, there’s reason to worry, especially with Amazon now being able to argue that you’re getting more with the subscription (even if much of that extra is AI-generated).

This could also potentially pave the way for tiered pricing — after all, ‘Kindle+’ sounds like a less complete service than ‘Kindle Unlimited’ before it, so maybe a pricier additional tier will be rolled out at some point.

But on the other hand, Amazon might simply have wanted to get away from the arguably confusing ‘Unlimited’ name, since there were in fact limits to what books were available and how many you could access at once. So it remains to be seen whether this is a simple rebrand or something more insidious.

Kindles aren't just for reading — Amazon also makes a couple of Kindles that you can scribble notes on. The Kindle Scribe and Kindle Scribe Colorsoft both have a generous, glare-free e-ink screen you can use for reading or writing; they're billed as streamlined, minimalist productivity tools that help you stay focused.

We've been impressed with both e-readers — the Kindle Scribe holds a coveted spot in our best e-readers ranking. However, there are some compromises involved in choosing one of these models rather than a reading-only option. If you're not sure which one to buy, or whether a different Kindle altogether might fit your needs more closely, you're in the right place.

In this guide, I'll provide a handy overview of the Kindle Scribe and Scribe Colorsoft, including how the specs match up and any major downsides for each model, as well as how they compare to the wider Kindle lineup. I'll also round up the different iterations so you can see your options and what they cost. Let's get started...

Kindle Scribe — Overview

The Kindle Scribe is Amazon's black-and-white e-reader with writing support included. We're on our third generation, released in the US in late 2025 and in other territories in early 2026. We awarded it an impressive 4.5 stars in our Kindle Scribe (2025) review.

Probably because it had already had a relatively recent update, the Kindle Scribe wasn't included in the big refresh the rest of the range enjoyed in October 2026 (we now have a classic Kindle 2026, a Kindle Paperwhite 2026 and a Kindle Colorsoft 2026).

The Scribe is basically a Kindle, except that if you want to take notes, you can grab the stylus and scribble down your thoughts. That's probably simplifying it a bit too much — there are a number of writing features to explore, including an adjustable-size Quick Notes pad, various workspace templates, AI-powered handwriting conversion and summary creation tools, and the ability to add notes onto a book (with text wrapping around it) or in a margin column. The newest version also includes Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive connectivity.

The Kindle Scribe is not just a Kindle Paperwhite with writing functionality, though — it diverges in both design and specs from the reading-only models. For a start, it's much bigger. The screen is 11 inches diagonally, while reading Kindles have a 6-inch or 7-inch screen. It's also heavier, clocking in at around double the weight of the Paperwhite and Colorsoft models (with 7-inch screens). Like the cheapest base model, it isn't waterproof, so it's not good for reading or note-taking in the bath.

In reading mode, the battery life is among the longest on any Kindle, but switch to note-taking, and it drops considerably. Amazon estimates around 3 weeks of writing before you'll need to recharge — still a lot longer than your average tablet, mind you. You can choose from different storage capacities, but keep in mind that all the writing features eat up quite a bit of space.

In some territories, you can choose between a model with a frontlight and one without. If you want to read or write in any lighting conditions, you'll need to stump up for the frontlight version. Assuming you have, you'll be able to choose from a range of color temperatures (from blue-toned to yellow-toned) and there's a sensor that'll adjust brightness automatically depending on your surroundings.

Kindle Scribe Colorsoft — Overview

The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is essentially a Kindle Scribe, but with color display support. Most of what I've described in the previous section is also relevant here: there's an 11-inch screen (although the overall proportions are slightly different), no waterproofing, a range of storage capacities, and warm or cool backlighting options (you can't opt out of a backlight here).

Due to the color screen, the battery life has taken a further hit: you can expect around eight weeks of reading or two weeks of writing per charge.

This is the first-generation model, and it launched at the end of 2025. We awarded it four stars in our Kindle Scribe Colorsoft review, but there are some caveats to be aware of if you're thinking of buying one.

First, you can't use the writing and color capabilities in tandem — so you couldn't take notes on a graphic novel, for instance. Our resident e-reader expert believes that color e-ink just isn't quite there yet, which could be a deal-breaker if you're buying it specifically to enjoy graphic novels.

At this price (high), an iPad or Android tablet is a viable alternative and could deliver better value for money if you're seeking an all-round productivity tool with a colorful screen.

US: Kindle Scribe range

⬇️ Hop down to the UK Kindle Scribe range

UK: Kindle Scribe range

⬆️ Hop back to the US Kindle Scribe range

Kindle Scribe vs Scribe Colorsoft: specs

How does it compare to the rest of the lineup?

It might be that neither of the Scribe models will be a good fit for your needs. Here's how the two writing options compare to the rest of the Kindle lineup.

The Kindle Colorsoft is Amazon's cheapest color e-reader, and it just got a 2026 update. The new version is thinner and lighter than its predecessor, the Kindle Colorsoft (2024), and features an edge-to-edge 7-inch color display. It's pricier than the black-and-white Kindle Paperwhite, and the color display shortens battery life, but these compromises are worth it for fans of graphic novels and manga.

If you're wondering if a Kindle Colorsoft is the best e-reader for you, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll cover all the key info worth knowing, including what's changed compared to the 2024 version, how the regular and Signature editions differ, and the key pros and cons of this specific e-reader. I've also rounded up all available versions and their current pricing, so you can easily browse your options. Let's go...

Kindle Colorsoft — overview

The Kindle Colorsoft is essentially the same as the Paperwhite, except it can also display color. The display is 300 ppi for black and white and 150 ppi for color, the same as basically every other e-reader. It comes with a 7-inch display, waterproofing to IPX8, and the option of cool- or warm-toned backlighting.

As with the Paperwhite, you can choose between a regular or Signature version. The latter has double the storage (32GB) — it's worth prioritizing this if you want to read a lot of graphic novels, as the files will be significantly bigger than standard books. It also boasts a more premium aluminum back, automatic backlight adjustment and wireless charging. It is heavier than the regular version, though.

There's also a Kids version. This one is hooked up to a Parent Dashboard, from which the parent can do things like view reading progress, adjust age filters, set a device bedtime, and add books from their own account. The price includes a 12-month subscription to Amazon Kids+, which provides unlimited access to a library of thousands of books for children aged 3-12.

2024 vs 2026 Kindle Colorsoft: what's new?

All the 2026 Colorsofts are thinner and lighter than their 2024 counterparts. The display has been tweaked to offer 'edge-to-edge color,' and the power button has been shifted to a more convenient spot on the upper right edge, where it's much less likely to be accidentally triggered. The adult versions now come in a new 'Fig' colorway, and the Kids model has new cover options. Here's how all the main specs compare.

Most of the 2024 Kindle Colorsoft range is still available, but if you were thinking of picking up the older model to save a bit of cash, I have bad news.

Not only are the 2024 models no cheaper than their 2026 equivalents, but Amazon has actually bumped up the older models' prices to match the new range's higher list price. Right now, there's no real reason to pick a 2024 model over a 2026 model.

US: Kindle Colorsoft range

2026 models

⬇️ Hop down to the UK Colorsoft options

2024 models

UK: Kindle Colorsoft range

2026 models

⬆️ Hop back to the US Colorsoft options

2024 models

Who should buy a Kindle Colorsoft?

Buy a Kindle Colorsoft if...

✅ You read a lot of graphic novels: For graphic novels or books with lots of images, you really need a color screen. The standard version will hold about 30-50 graphic novels (depending on size), while the Signature version will store 60-100, so it's probably worth stumping up for the latter.

✅ You want color highlights: You can color-code your highlighted text on Colorsoft Kindles, which is useful, for example, if you're studying and want to be able to link themes in your reading material.

Don't buy a Kindle Colorsoft if...

❌ You're just reading text-based books: The Colorsoft is basically the color version of a Paperwhite — aside from the color capabilities and resulting shorter battery life, the design and specs are the same. If you're just reading text-based books, you could save yourself a bit of cash and enjoy longer runtimes by opting for the black-and-white Paperwhite.

❌ You want to use your Kindle for note-taking: The Colorsoft doesn't have stylus support. If you want to be able to scribble down notes on your e-reader, you'll need to opt for one of the larger, pricier Scribe models. If you opt for the regular Kindle Scribe, you won't have a color screen, and if you opt for a Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, note that you won't be able to take notes on graphic novels.

Specs compared

Wondering how the Colorsoft compares to the wider Kindle range? Here are the key specs for the full lineup (newest models only)...

• E Ink has announced the next generation of its color ereader screens
• Dubbed Kaleido 4, this technology promises improved clarity, less graininess, and double the colors
• So far, it's only been announced for a single ereader, but it's sure to come to others

Hot take: I don’t think color ereaders are very good in general. The colors themselves are muted, and typically — such as with E Ink’s Kaleido 3 tech — they make the screen darker and grainier even when just viewing text. They generally cost a premium, too. As such, I’d always pick a black-and-white ereader for standard books, and a tablet (or actual paper) for anything heavy on color.

But E Ink might soon win me over to color ereaders, as it just announced a new Kaleido 4 display that it claims is brighter than Kaleido 3 and delivers “greater clarity, while reducing the perception of screen graininess.”

If that's true, normal text might actually look up to the standards it does on black-and-white e-readers.

Double the colors

Of course, the color element has also been improved here, with E Ink claiming its Kaleido 4 display can produce over 40,000 colors, which is double what the previous generation can manage.

It also has a higher refresh rate, increases white reflectance by 15%, and improves contrast by 50%, while videos can be played at 18fps — though I’d question why anyone would regularly be watching videos on an E Ink screen.

Still, this sounds like a comprehensive upgrade, and one that might make the next generation of Kindle Colorsoft and other color ereaders substantially better. Though since a new Kindle Colorsoft model has only just launched, it might be a while before we see this tech used by Amazon’s ereaders.

For now, Kaleido 4 is only available on Hanvon Technology's M10 C II — a China-only E Ink tablet. But hopefully, some global brands such as Kobo, Boox, and ViWoods will embrace this tech soon.

The Paperwhite sits in the middle of Amazon's Kindle e-reader range, and it's one of the many models to have have been blessed with a 2026 upgrade. This is the Kindle I'd probably recommend to most people. For me, it's worth the extra spend compared to the classic, 6-inch Kindle, thanks to upgrades like a larger screen, waterproofing, and the option to change the color temperature on the backlight. Pricier models offer more advanced features, but they're more niche and won't be necessary for many readers.

If you're thinking of buying a Kindle Paperwhite, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find everything you need to know to figure out if this is the best e-reader for you. I'll cover exactly what's been upgraded from the the previous, 2024 version, and where the strengths and weaknesses are compared to the other options in the Kindle lineup. I'll also round up all the different iterations of the Paperwhite, so you can browse your options and see their current prices. Let's get started...

Kindle Paperwhite — overview

The model up from the classic Kindle is the Kindle Paperwhite. It's still a black-and-white Kindle, but it has a larger screen (7-inches diagonally), and offers several features that are absent from the base model, namely IPX8 waterproofing — which is enough to survive in 2 meters of fresh water for 60 minutes — and the option to switch between warm or cool backlight options. A warm backlight might be a more soothing option if you regularly read on your Kindle when trying to wind down to sleep at night. You can choose between versions with or without homepage adverts.

In the US lineup there are also Signature versions. One major difference between the regular Paperwhite and the Paperwhite Signature is that the latter has double the storage space: 32GB compared to 16GB. For the average reader, this isn't going to be terribly relevant: 16GB of storage equates to around 6,000 books, which is plenty. Graphic novels eat up significantly more space, but if that's your priority, I'd recommend a Colorsoft (which has a color display) rather than a Paperwhite anyway.

The Signature versions also have sensors that enable them to automatically adjust backlight brightness depending on their environment. Brightness is adjustable on the standard Paperwhite, but you'll have to bump it up or down manually. They also offer wireless charging. The Signature Paperwhite is a little heavier than the standard version.

2024 vs 2026 Kindle Paperwhite: what's new?

Compared to the 2024 Paperwhite, the new-gen version is thinner (6.8mm vs 7.8mm) and lighter (204g vs 211g). The power button has also been shifted to the top right, rather than the base, where it was all-too-easy to accidentally press. Here's how all the key specs compare, on both the Signature and standard versions.

There's also a new colorway: Seaglass Green. It's only available on the Signature models — the standard Paperwhite Kindles are only available in graphite. You can take a look at the new model, from all angles, in the gallery below.

There are a number of 2024 Paperwhite e-readers still available to buy. If you were hoping to pick one up at a discounted price, you'll be sorely disappointed — they're exactly the same price as their 2026 equivalents.

In fact, Amazon bumped up the pricing on its 2024 lineup around the same time it released the new range, so you'll actually be paying more for most of the 2024 model than you would have done a few months ago. There's no real reason to pick a 2024 model, unless you're in the US and particularly like one of the previous colorways.

US: Kindle Paperwhite range

2026 models

⬇️ Hop down to the UK Paperwhite options

2024 models

UK: Kindle Paperwhite range

2026 models

⬆️ Hop back to the US Paperwhite options

2024 models

Who should buy a Kindle Paperwhite?

Buy a Kindle Paperwhite if...

✅ You just want to read text-based novels: There's no color option here, but if you're just reading text, it's not really needed.

✅ You'd like a decent-sized screen: One big reason to upgrade from the classic Kindle is for the extra screen real estate — the Paperwhite is 7-inches diagonally, compared to 6 inches on the base model.

✅ You want to read in the tub or by the pool: Another notable upgrade over the base model is IPX8 waterproofing — the Paperwhite can survive a good dunk in the bathtub.

✅ You like to read before bed: You can set the backlight on a Paperwhite to a warm-toned white, which might be more conducive to winding down for sleep — on the classic Kindle, you're stuck with cool-toned white. Opt for a Signature Paperwhite and the display will also dim or brighten automatically.

Don't buy a Kindle Paperwhite if...

❌ You want to read graphic novels: For graphic novels, it's well worth upgrading to the Colorsoft version, which is essentially a Paperwhite but with color capabilities.

❌ You'd like to be able to note-take: For note-taking, you'll need a Scribe model — the standard Kindle Scribe is the most logical alternative to the Paperwhite.

❌ You want the smallest, lightest Kindle: The classic Kindle is the most compact, lightweight model in the lineup.

Specs compared

Curious about how the Paperwhite compares to the rest of the Kindle lineup? Here are all the key specs to consider (newest version of each model only):

Amazon recently refreshed nearly its entire Kindle lineup, including the 6-inch base model, last upgraded in 2024. If you're in the market for a new Kindle, this might be the one you're drawn to—perhaps because it's the cheapest of the bunch, or for its snazzy new colorways.

This article is here to fill you in on everything you need to know about the classic 6-inch Kindle, so you can make sure it's the right choice for your needs. I'll dig into its features and what it lacks, plus what the 2026 update adds over the 2024 version. I'll also round up all the different models (and their current prices) so you can see all your options in one place.

Before we get started, a quick reminder that Kindle is not the only e-reader around — head to our general best e-reader ranking if you're curious about what other brands are worth considering.

Classic Kindle — overview

Confusingly, the most basic Kindle model is simply called the Kindle. Here, I'll call it the classic Kindle, but that doesn't mean it's an older model — this Kindle has had several upgrades, and a 2026 version exists. It's the only Kindle with a 6-inch screen (measured diagonally, as is standard); the others are 7 inches or larger. For this reason, you'll sometimes see it referred to as the 6-inch Kindle. It's the smallest and lightest of the whole lineup.

The screen has a glare-free finish, the display is black-and-white, it's not waterproof, and it doesn't support writing features. By default, ads will display on the lock screen, but there are some 'no ads' versions available for a slightly higher price. New for 2026 is an aluminum version, with double the storage of the standard model (I'll cover this properly in the following section).

The level up is either the Kindle Paperwhite (black and white) or the Kindle Colorsoft (color). Both have that larger screen, alongside more advanced specs than the classic Kindle.

Alongside the regular Kindle, Amazon also has a Kids version. The hardware is the same as the adult version, but the parent has access to a dashboard that enables them to keep an eye on their child's reading habits and set schedules. A year's subscription to Amazon Kids+ is included, with unlimited access to thousands of children's titles aimed at ages 3-12. This bundle also includes a protective case in a range of fun designs.

2024 vs 2026 Kindle: what's new?

Amazon has introduced a number of small but welcome upgrades with the 2026 classic Kindle. Compared to its 2024 predecessor, it's thinner, lighter, and more responsive (30% faster, according to Amazon).

There are some new colorways in the lineup, and Amazon has moved the power button from its awkward position on the bottom of the Kindle to the upper right side. Here, it's much less easy to press by accident, and it's an upgrade TechRadar's Lance is especially pleased about.

There is also now an aluminum version. As well as having a more premium build quality, this version has double the storage of the standard classic Kindle (32GB compared to 16GB). Understandably, it's heavier than the standard version, but I'm pleased to see it's almost as thin. You can see how all the main specs compare in the table below.

At the time of writing, there are a number of 2024 models still available to buy. You might expect these to be cheaper, since Amazon is trying to clear its old stock. Alas, that is not the case.

In fact, quite the opposite: Amazon has bumped up the prices on its 2024 range to match the 2026 options. The equivalent models now cost the same, so there's little reason to choose a 2024 classic Kindle over the 2026 version.

US: Classic Kindle range

2026 models

⬇️ Hop down to the UK classic Kindle options

2024 models

UK: Classic Kindle range

2026 models

⬆️ Hop back to the US classic Kindle options

2024 models

Who should buy a classic Kindle?

Buy a classic Kindle if...

✅ You want the cheapest Kindle: This is the most basic Kindle, and as such, it comes with the smallest price tag. If you fancy levelling up, the next model by price is the Kindle Paperwhite.

✅ You want the most compact option: With its 6-inch screen, the basic Kindle is the smallest and lightest option in the range. All other Kindles have a 7-inch screen or larger.

✅ You'd like a fun colorway: The base model is available in the widest range of colorways — in fact, most of the other Kindles are only made in black or grey.

Don't buy a classic Kindle if...

❌ You want a warm-toned light option: The backlight here is a blue-toned cool white, whereas all other Kindles offer a warm, yellow-toned backlight option. The latter might be more conducive to winding down when reading before bedtime.

❌ You want to read in the bath: The classic Kindle is the only model (aside from the Scribe options) that is not waterproof to IPX8.

❌ You want to read graphic novels: The classic Kindle doesn't support color reading, the screen is the smallest of the lineup, and there's no 32GB option — all of which mean it's not a great choice for graphic novel fans. Check out the Kindle Colorsoft Signature instead.

❌ You want to be able to make notes: For note-taking capabilities, you need one of the Kindle Scribe models.

Specs compared

Wondering if one of the pricier Kindles might suit you better? Here's a rundown of the key specs across the full lineup (newest generations only):

The Xteink S4 might be the tiny ereader you’ve been waiting for, as unlike other Xteink devices — and rival products like the Boox Picco — this runs Android.

That comes with various upsides, not least the ability to directly access the Kindle and Kobo apps, the absence of which is something I’ve been lamenting about my Xteink X4 Pro, but it also has some downsides.

So should you wait for this currently China-only ereader to get a global release? Or are you better off sticking with the Xteink X4 Classic, the X4 Pro or the even tinier X3? I’ve compared these devices below, to help answer that question.

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: specs comparison

Below you’ll find a closer look at the key features of every available Xteink model, but first here’s how their core specs compare:

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: price and availability

The Xteink X4 Classic, X4 Pro, and X3 are all available directly from Xteink and from some third-party stores like Amazon. They ship to much of the world, and the cheapest is the Xteink X3, which costs $69 / £69 / AU$102.

Then there’s the Xteink X4 Classic for $79 / £79 / AU$116, while the Xteink X4 Pro will cost you $99 / £99 / AU$146.

The Xteink S4 is so far only available in China, but I’d expect it will cost at least as much as the X4 Pro, if not more.

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: design

All of these devices look similar to each other, as they’re all small rectangles and look a bit like a tiny phone — albeit with larger bezels than most modern smartphones.

They all have buttons and charging ports on the sides, but the Xteink X3 and Xteink X4 Classic each also have two long, narrow buttons on the bezel below the display, while the Xteink X4 Pro and Xteink S4 instead have a single circular button, like a much smaller version of the home button on very old iPhones.

The Xteink X4 Classic and X3 are both available in a choice of Space Black or Mist Gray (the latter of which is sometimes referred to as ‘Frost White’ instead), while the X4 Pro is currently only sold in Space Black, but pictures of it exist in a gray shade too, so that will probably launch sooner or later. In China, the Xteink S4 is available in black and white shades, and it’s likely the color options will be the same when it goes global.

So there’s not much difference there either — the main design difference is in their weight and dimensions. The Xteink X3 is the smallest and lightest of the bunch at 97.6 x 63.7 x 5.1mm and 58g. Then there’s the Xteink X4 Classic at 114 x 69 x 4.9mm and 68g — making it slightly slimmer but otherwise larger.

The Xteink X4 Pro is 111 x 69 x 5.95mm and 72g, so it’s not quite as tall as the X4 Classic but is thicker and heavier than both that and the X3. And then there’s the Xteink S4, which we don’t have full dimensions for yet, but which we know is 6.98mm thick and 95g, making it the thickest and heaviest of them all.

All of these devices have built in magnets though, allowing you to attach them to the back of a phone — though they’re quite vulnerable like that, so you might prefer to put them in a case anyway.

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: display

The Xteink S4, X4 Classic, and X4 Pro all have a 4.3-inch screen with 219 pixels per inch, while the Xteink X3 has a smaller 3.7-inch screen with 259 pixels per inch.

So you’re getting a slightly crisper display on the X3, which could make all the difference as personally my X4 Pro isn’t quite as sharp as I’d like — especially when you compare it side-by-side with other devices like the ViWoods AiPaper Reader with its 300ppi display.

On the other hand, you’re also getting a truly tiny screen if you choose the X3, which could be a good or bad thing depending on your preference — it makes this all the more compact, but also means you’ll constantly be turning the page.

Beyond those differences, the Xteink S4 and Xteink X4 Pro have touchscreens — though you can also turn pages with buttons if you prefer — whereas the X3 and X4 Classic are purely reliant on buttons for interactions.

The Xteink S4 and X4 Pro also both have a front light, which the other models lack, meaning these are the only two you can read on without external light sources.

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: performance and software

The Xteink X4 Classic, X4 Pro, and X3 all run a proprietary Linux-based operating system. It’s an operating system that personally I didn’t think much of, and I’m not alone judging by forum comments. But Xteink’s devices can handily be bought with unlocked firmware, making it easy to flash alternative operating systems onto them.

I’m running an open source one called CrossInk, which I’m quite pleased with. But there’s a major limitation with any of the options in that they can’t run the Kindle or Kobo apps (or any other apps), making it harder to get books onto them than with most ereaders — you need to download DRM-free versions or remove the DRM, and then transfer them to the device.

That’s a real pain, and it’s a problem the Xteink S4 solves, as this runs Android 11. And while I can’t yet confirm exactly which apps work with it (since there are sometimes compatibility issues on ereaders), Xteink claims it supports “mainstream reader apps.”

Still, there are two potential problems with this approach as well — one is battery life, which I’ll get into in the next section, and the other is security and support. Android 11 is six years old now, and it could be increasingly vulnerable to bugs and malware, since Google is focused on patching newer releases. Besides which, Android ereaders tend not to receive Android updates anyway, so it may not receive security patches or new Android versions.

Eventually, apps will also stop supporting Android 11, so while Android is likely to give you a slicker experience, having such an old version comes with major drawbacks.

As for storage, the Xteink X4 Pro, X4 Classic, and X3 are all purely reliant on a microSD card — they each come with a 16GB one included, but it’s a low quality one, so you might want to replace it. There’s support for cards of up to 256GB.

The Xteink S4 takes a different approach, with 32GB of built in storage, but Android probably takes up a sizable chunk of that, and there’s seemingly no microSD card slot.

You’re also limited to very few book formats on the Xteink X3, X4 Classic, and X4 Pro, with just EPUB and TXT being supported, alongside JPG and BMP for images (or seemingly just BMP in the case of the Classic). We don’t have a full list of supported formats for the Xteink S4, but the company claims it supports “10+ native formats," so it should have the edge there.

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: battery

The Xteink S4 has a 1,400mAh battery, and while we don’t know exactly how long it lasts, Xteink claims its “generous battery keeps sessions long.”

That’s higher capacity than the other models, with the Xteink 4 Pro having an 1,100mAh battery, the X4 Classic having a 920mAh one, and the X3 having just a 650mAh one.

Xteink only appears to have released battery stats for the X3, which it claims can last up to 10-14 days, based on 1-3 hours of reading per day. It’s likely then that even with their larger screens, the Xteink X4 Classic and X4 Pro will last even longer, given their far higher capacity batteries, and that certainly seems to be the case in my experience of the X4 Pro.

Granted, I’m not running stock firmware, which could affect things, but I seem to be getting months off a single charge, albeit with perhaps more like just 30 minutes of reading a day.

You might assume then that the Xteink S4 will last even longer — and perhaps it will — but I’d be surprised, as Android tends to be far more battery hungry than the lightweight operating systems used by the other models. I suspect, based on my experience with the Android-powered ViWoods AiPaper Reader, that the S4 might actually have the worst life of the bunch, but that remains to be seen.

So that’s the other downside of it running Android, but it does have one advantage on the battery front too, as it has a USB-C port, which makes charging convenient. The other models all use an annoying proprietary charger.

Xteink S4 vs X4 Pro vs X4 Classic vs X3: verdict

There’s no clear winner between these devices. If you simply want the smallest and lightest ereader possible, then you should go for the Xteink X3 — especially as that’s also the cheapest.

If you want something a bit bigger — or you think you’d benefit from a touchscreen or a front light — then consider the Xteink X4 Pro. For all of that plus Android, the only option is the as-yet-unreleased Xteink S4 — though that also comes with downsides when it comes to security and potentially battery life.

The only one that’s harder to make a case for is the Xteink X4 Classic. This slots between the X3 and the X4 Pro with a bigger screen than the X3 but no touchscreen or light. Those features I feel are important enough that if you want a bigger screen you should choose the Pro over the Classic unless money is really tight.

Personally, I’m happy with my Xteink X4 Pro, and wouldn’t choose any of the other models over it. Other than the S4 it’s the most full-featured, but the compromises that come with the Xteink S4’s Android version make it unappealing to me. What I really want is a model running Android 17, but even then, if that meant significantly worse battery life I might think twice.

The only things I’m certain I want that the X4 Pro lacks are a sharper screen and USB-C, so hopefully a device that ticks all those boxes is in the works.

Amazon Prime Day, of course, means discounts on various Kindles, but they’re not the only ereaders that are going cheap — you can also get a tiny Xteink X4 Pro, X4 Classic, or X3 at a reduced price.

• Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale

These ereaders each have screens of between 3.7 and 4.3 inches, so they’re truly tiny compared to the 6-inch+ Amazon Kindle options. But while you might think you want a book-sized ereader, there’s something to be said for a smaller size — and the temptingly low prices that go with it; the Xteink X3, for example, costs just $58.65 / £62.25 (down from $69 / £79).

In fact, I’m a full-on convert, with my Kindle Colorsoft collecting dust while I read on smaller devices. I’ll explain why below, but first, here’s a look at the current Xteink deals:

Today's best Xteink deals in the US

• Xteink X4 Pro: was $99 now $89.99
• Xteink X4 Classic: was $89 now $69.99
• Xteink X3: was $69 now $58.65

Today's best Xteink deals in the UK

• Xteink X4 Pro: was £99 now £84.14
• Xteink X4 Classic: was £89 now £69.99
• Xteink X3: was £79 now £62.25

Why I love Xteinks, and which I’d buy

I’m the proud owner of an Xteink X4 Pro, and I’ve written before about my love of this device, but if anything, the more I use it, the more I like it. At just 72g, it’s so light as to feel like almost nothing at all in your hand, so you won’t feel like you’re getting a workout if you hold it up for an extended reading session.

It’s also tiny (111 x 69 x 5.95mm), so you can easily slip it into a small pocket — or, thanks to its magnetic back, attach it to the rear of your phone, giving you a second screen there to read ebooks on.

Either way, that makes it easy to carry with you everywhere, and I’ve found that means I get a lot more reading done.

All that, coupled with impressive battery life and key ereader features like a front light, makes this a device that’s never far from me.

And sure, it is harder to get books onto the Xteink X4 Pro than a Kindle, as you have to sideload them, but that’s my only major complaint with it.

Since buying the Xteink X4 Pro, the Xteink X4 Classic has launched, which has the same 4.3-inch screen, but it’s not a touchscreen, which it is on the Pro, and there’s no front light. Those compromises make it a less appealing device to me — and yes, it’s cheaper, but by ereader standards, none of these models are particularly expensive.

So, my pick would still be the Xteink X4 Pro — or the even smaller 3.7-inch Xteink X3, which also lacks a touchscreen and a light, but could appeal if you want the tiniest ereader possible.

More Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire Sticks & Echo from $18
• Amazon Haul: viral gadgets, tech & appliances from $1.36
• Apple: MacBooks, AirPods & AirTags from $28
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs from $69.99
• Headphones: 50% off Beats, Bose & Samsung
• Laptops: Apple, HP & Dell from $199
• Mattresses: Sealy, Serta & more from $89
• Smartwatches: up to 36% off Garmin & Apple
• Vacuums: Dyson, Shark & Bissell from $49

More Prime Day deals in the UK

• Amazon Prime: get a 30-day free trial
• Amazon Devices: up to 67% off Fire, Ring & Blink
• Amazon Haul: extra 15% off for Prime members
• Appliances: up to 40% off Ninja & De'Longhi
• Beauty: up to 60% off Philips & Oral-B
• Essentials: cleaning & groceries from £2
• Fashion: up to 50% off
• Gaming: record-low Nintendo Switch 2
• Headphones: up to 50% off Anker & Sony
• Laptops: up to £800 off Microsoft & Asus
• Tablets: up to 50% off Fire tablets
• TVs: from £129.99
• Vacuums: up to 50% off Shark & Dyson
• Wearables: Samsung & Oura from £31

• This clever hack turns a Kindle into a handy desk assistant
• It features to do lists, app shortcuts, timers, and more
• The developer says the source code will be made available

A few days ago, we were treated to some brand new Kindle models for 2026, but one clever Kindle owner has come up with a way of repurposing their 2013 6th-gen Paperwhite model — and the hack has added an impressive number of new features.

As you can see over on Reddit (via XDA Developers), the hack was achieved by jailbreaking the 13-year-old device and adding some custom software on top. It now works as a to do list manager, a Stream Deck-like app launcher, and a Pomodoro timer.

"It stands sideways on my desk next to my laptop, and it's honestly become one of my favourite things on there," writes Redditor Witespace, under a demo video (below). "Just need a proper stand for it now instead of leaning it against something."

One of the more impressive aspects of this bit of DIY engineering is that the Kindle syncs with both a MacBook and a PC, via a Cloudflare web account, and it can switch between the two systems automatically or via a manual button push.

Source code coming soon

Completed to do tasks slide off screen automatically, and thanks to a calendar sync, the Kindle can provide alerts five minutes ahead of any scheduled meeting. It even provides a button for joining the call with a single tap.

Also of note are a weather app, a dark mode, and a screensaver clock — though it seems the custom Paperwhite software can also disable the screensaver if needed and stay on indefinitely (with the occasional battery recharge where needed).

There are improvements on the way as well: the Redditor has plans to create new shortcuts that link to specific Spotify playlists and Slack channels, while the ability to control lights is also in the pipeline.

The reactions on Reddit are all positive — "great", "cool", and "awesome" are the main superlatives used — and the developer has said they're planning to release the source code on GitHub so anyone can install it on their own ancient Kindle.

• PocketBook has announced the Verta and Verta Color
• These six-inch ereaders have changeable back plates
• They're shipping in November at competitive prices

Just a few days ago Amazon launched a new wave of Kindles, and now PocketBook is launching some new competing ereaders of its own — and these have some colorful customization options that Amazon’s don’t.

The ereaders in question are the PocketBook Verta and the PocketBook Verta Color, and while they’re each only sold in one color — Obsidian Black for the Verta and Dark Brown for the Verta Color — you can also buy a selection of five interchangeable back panels in different shades. So you can change the color of your ereader whenever you want.

That aside, these both have 6-inch 1072 x 1448 touchscreens, a front light, a 1,500mAh battery (offering up to two months of life on a single charge), 16GB of storage, 1GB of RAM, and an IPX4 rating for splash resistance. They also both support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, text-to-speech, and numerous book file formats.

And while they run a proprietary operating system, you can use Libby to borrow ebooks, or purchase books through “the world’s most comprehensive English-language UK digital eBook library, with its user-friendly LCP DRM-protected content of 4.5 million eBooks and 90,000 audiobooks.”

They differ in one major way though — the PocketBook Verta Color has a color E Ink Kaleido 3 screen, while the PocketBook Verta has a grayscale E Ink Carta 1300 display.

Color or grayscale at a great price

If you like the sound of these, you’ll be able to grab them from November, with the PocketBook Verta costing $185 / £159 (roughly AU$300), while the Verta Color is $195 / £169 (around AU$320).

That puts the Verta at a similar price to the standard Amazon Kindle 2026, and the Verta Color at a far lower price than the latest Kindle Colorsoft. So the Verta Color could be a bit of a bargain.

That said, color ereader screens tend to be darker than black and white ones, and while viewing color content they’re also lower resolution (with the Verta Color dropping to just 536 × 724 when displaying color).

So if you don’t overly care about a color screen, the standard Verta might still be the better choice.

Looking to buy a new black-and-white Kindle? You have plenty of options to choose from. In fact, perhaps too many, given that they all look roughly the same and it can be tricky to figure out the differences between them all. To help you out, I've put together this handy guide to your options.

There are a handful of key differentiators to know about before we start. The standard black-and-white Kindle has a 6-inch screen; the bigger version is the Paperwhite, which has a 7-inch screen. Opt for a Signature Edition and you'll get twice as much storage (32GB rather than 16GB). Right now, you can choose between the 2024 models and the brand-new-out 2026 models. There are options with homepage ads or you can pay a little more for a version without ads. Finally, there are different colors and materials to choose from. Not all combinations are available in all places, but I've rounded up all the options for the US and the UK below.

• Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale

To keep things (relatively) simple, I've focused only on the black-and-white options here. Kindle also makes a range of color ereaders, called the Kindle Colorsoft, as well as ereaders you can make notes on, called the Scribe. Learn more about the full Kindle range here.

Want guidance on which black-and-white Kindle to pick? Hop down past the product cards for my tips on which model(s) will suit different customers. Oh, and today's an especially good time to shop, because it's Amazon Prime Day and there are deals on quite a few Kindles — you'll see the lowest prices below.

US Kindle range

Jump down to the UK Kindle range

6-inch Kindle (2026)

6-inch Kindle (2024)

7-inch Kindle Paperwhite (2026)

7-inch Kindle Paperwhite (2024)

UK Kindle range

6-inch Kindle (2026)

6-inch Kindle (2024)

Kindle Paperwhite (7-inch)

Which black and white Kindle should I buy?

I want the biggest screen

There are only two screen size options in the black-and-white Kindle range: 6 inches for the standard Kindle, or 7 inches for the Kindle Paperwhite. As usual with tech, this is measured diagonally, from corner to corner. If you want the biggest screen, opt for any of the Kindle Paperwhite models.

I want a cool design

If you mean colors, you want to shop for a 6-inch Kindle, and the 2026 range in particular. The latest-gen versions are available in a range of tasty shades, including Ube (a soft purple), Seaglass Green and Alpine Sky (a grey blue). Those last two have an aluminum casing, too.

You can also pick up the Kindle Paperwhite (2024) in a metallic jade or raspberry finishes (in the US only), and the 2024 standard Kindles are available in a fetching Matcha. Otherwise, you're stuck with gray or black.

I want the cheapest option

In the US, most of the 2024 Kindles are all included in the Prime Day sale, with strong discounts across the board. That includes the 6-inch Kindle, 7-inch Paperwhite and Paperwhite Signature — but the slight kicker is that the deals are only available on the ad-supported versions. If you're after the cheapest option, it'd be the 2024 6-inch Kindle.

In the UK, the only discounts are on the 2024 6-inch Kindles, but both the ad-supported and no-ads versions are included. The discounts are big, and they're significantly cheaper than any other option. I assume these older versions won't be sticking around for too long, so bargain-hunters should probably pick one up now.

I want the most storage

You need a Kindle 6-inch (2026), aluminum, or — if you're in the US — any of the Paperwhite Signature models. These are the only options available with 32GB of storage. In contrast, the rest of the range is limited to 16GB of storage. I say 'limited', but if you're just reading regular books, a 16GB Kindle should hold around 6,000-8,000 books — surely enough for anyone.

Comic books and audiobooks take up more storage, but I wouldn't recommend a black-and-white Kindle for either of those, anyway. A color ereader is a better choice for comics and manga, and I'd use my phone for audiobooks.

I want the most convenient option

The 2026 Kindle range (regular and Paperwhite) has had one notable usability upgrade: the power button has shifted from the bottom to the top right, solving an issue that has irked many (including our Editor-at-large) for some time. The problem with having the power button on the base of the ereader is that it's all-too-easy to accidentally press when the Kindle is propped up for reading; the new position is happily tucked out of the way.

Those who like to prop their Kindle up to read on will appreciate another new addition to the Kindle ecosystem: the Kindle Click, a Bluetooth powered page-turn remote that can be held in the hand or laid down away from the ereader. It can also be used to adjust brightness and send the Kindle to sleep. This is sold separately, is compatible with Kindles from 2024 and later, and is available for preorder now.

• US: pre-order the Kindle Click for $34.99
• UK: pre-order the Kindle Click for £31.99

More Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire Sticks & Echo from $18
• Amazon Haul: viral gadgets, tech & appliances from $1.36
• Apple: MacBooks, AirPods & AirTags from $28
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs from $69.99
• Headphones: 50% off Beats, Bose & Samsung
• Laptops: Apple, HP & Dell from $199
• Mattresses: Sealy, Serta & more from $89
• Smartwatches: up to 36% off Garmin & Apple
• Vacuums: Dyson, Shark & Bissell from $49

More Prime Day deals in the UK

• Amazon Prime: get a 30-day free trial
• Amazon Devices: up to 67% off Fire, Ring & Blink
• Amazon Haul: extra 15% off for Prime members
• Appliances: up to 40% off Ninja & De'Longhi
• Beauty: up to 60% off Philips & Oral-B
• Essentials: cleaning & groceries from £2
• Fashion: up to 50% off
• Gaming: record-low Nintendo Switch 2
• Headphones: up to 50% off Anker & Sony
• Laptops: up to £800 off Microsoft & Asus
• Tablets: up to 50% off Fire tablets
• TVs: from £129.99
• Vacuums: up to 50% off Shark & Dyson
• Wearables: Samsung & Oura from £31

Thinking of picking up a new color ereader? Now's a good time to shop: there's an Amazon Prime Day event coming up very soon (6-7 October), which means Kindle deals are more than likely. Amazon makes a number of color Kindles these days, and — of course — Kindle isn't the only color ereader option on the market.

In this guide, I'll run you through all the key color ereader options, including Kindles, Kobo ereaders (the main competitor), and a couple more alternatives. You can see all the current prices directly below, followed by a rundown of what you need to know about each model and if you should hang around for a Prime Day deal or not. Finally, there's a specs table to help you compare the models directly.

US color ereader links

UK color ereader links

Amazon Kindle Colorsoft

The Kindle Colorsoft is Amazon's standard color ereader — essentially, the color version of the Paperwhite. All Kindle Colorcofts have a 7-inch screen, battery life og around 12 weeks, and waterproofing to IPX8. None have writing capabilities.

There are a few Kindle Colorsoft options — the regular (with 16GB of storage) and Signature versions (32GB), both in 2024 and all-new 2026 versions. I'm not sure how long the 2024 versions will be sticking around. The 2026 versions are thinner and lighter, and the power button has been shifted so it's on the side rather than at the bottom. Some options are also available with or without ads.

Will there be a deal?

The announcement of the updated lineup at the start of October has confused things rather. Just prior to the appearance of the new models, Amazon discounted most of the previous range in the UK. These deals are still available, and they're good: up to 44% off. I'm not expecting prices to drop further on these models during Prime Day itself.

In the US, there were no deals to speak of on the now-old Kindle Colorsofts, and that's still the case at time of writing (2 Oct). I am hopeful that they will get a discount during the official Prime Day event.

As for the 2026 models — I'm not sure. A discount so soon after launch feels a little strange, but then again, Amazon almost always drops its Kindle prices during Prime Day events. I'll be watching closely to see what happens.

Kindle Scribe Colorsoft

The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is a kind of blend of the Kindle Scribe and the Kindle Colorsoft, in that it's a color ereader with writing support. It has a generous 11-inch screen (the largest of any model here), and a price tag that's so lofty you could buy a Colorsoft and a Scribe individually and still get a bit of change from how much you'd spend on a Scribe Colorsoft. It's available in 32GB and 64GB versions, and it hasn't been updated for 2026 — but then, it did only launch in December 2025.

Will there be a deal?

Almost certainly. This ereader was included in the June Prime Day event, and because it's not brand new, there's no reason it wouldn't be included this time round too.

In fact, both the 32GB and 64GB versions are already on sale in the UK, each with 30% off — down to £399 and £439.99 respectively. For comparison, the 64GB version only fell to £492.99 in June, so this is a much better deal.

The US deals aren't live yet, but I am expecting them to appear at some point, although perhaps not until Prime Day itself. During the June event, the 64GB version dropped to $519.99 (was $679.99).

However, even with those discounts it's a very pricey tablet. In that bracket, it's worth weighing up whether a BOOX Go Color 7 Gen II, which is also a color ereader with writing support, and in fact operates like a full e-ink tablet, is a better buy.

Kobo Clara / Libra Colour

Kobo is probably the main Kindle alternative. The Clara is the ereader-only version, with a relatively small 6-inch screen, while the Libra can also be used for writing (stylus sold separately), and has a 7-inch screen. We have an article covering the differences between Kindle vs Kobo, but overall we rate this brand really highly. In fact, it's the Kobo Libra Colour that holds the top spot in our best ereader ranking.

Will there be a deal?

Perhaps. Over the most recent Prime Day, the Libra Colour ereader was discounted to $229.99 (was $259.99) in the US. In the UK it stayed at full price (£209.99), though. The Clara Colour didn't get a discount in the US or the UK. At time of writing, both are full price on Amazon.

PocketBook Verse Pro Color

The Verse Pro Colour from PocketBook has a 6-inch screen and 16GB of storage. The battery life is shorter than all the others here (aside, possibly, from the Boox Go Color 7 Gen II, which doesn't provide a runtime) although you'll still get around a month of reading per charge. There are no writing features.

Will there be a deal?

Possibly not. This is a smaller player in the ereader world, and not necessarily a model Amazon would focus on for discounts. We didn't see a deal in the US over Prime Day in June (unfortunately, I don't have the information for the UK).

BOOX Go Color 7 Gen II

BOOX, from parent company Onyx, is more of an e-ink tablet than an ereader specifically. Because these tablets run a full version of Android, you can use them for a variety of tasks, of which reading is just one. As a result, the Go Color 7 Gen II is a relatively pricey color ereader option. It packs 64GB of storage, supports writing functionality, and is not waterproof — so it's no good for reading in the tub.

In our Boox Go Color 7 Gen II review, we weren't too impressed with the display quality on this model. A benefit if you're a current Kindle owner looking to switch is that it's possible to download the Kindle app onto a BOOX, meaning you'd still have access to your current library of books. You'll find more information in my BOOX vs Kobo explainer.

Will there be a deal?

Perhaps not. We didn't see any deals in the US or UK during the most recent Prime Day event.

Specs compared

• Amazon has overhauled its entire Kindle ereader line
• They have new materials and a repositioned power button
• There are also new accessories, some of which will turn heads

Yes, Amazon has an all-new line of 13th-generation Kindle ereaders. Sure, they're marginally lighter and thinner than ever, with scant display upgrades, newly smooth, flush faces, and some with stamped aluminum unibodies that come in brilliant and quite trendy colors. But can we talk about buttons? Or, rather, one very specific one, the power/sleep button?

Every once in a while, a tech company makes me feel seen, or at least heard. I've been complaining for years about the placement of the Amazon Kindle e-reader's power/sleep button. It sits on the bottom edge, where it's too easy to trip when, say, I prop the Kindle Paperwhite up on a hard surface, or even on my lap or chest while reading.

When I asked Amazon's Kindle hardware lead Kevin Keith about the issue in 2024, he told me there was a need to put the button as close to the ereader's light guide as possible. I accepted that explanation, and grumpily moved on.

Turns out, though, that's not the full story. As I held the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2026 edition in my hands, and marveled at the newly repositioned power button (it's on the right side!) Amazon VP of Design Chris Green told me the reason for the original placement was to keep costs down.

"The reason why it was at the bottom originally was because it's the lowest-cost location. The main logic board was down at the bottom with the USB....We were trying our hardest to have the lowest carbon footprint, the lowest cost price, to push it all to the benefit of the customer," said Green, who told me he joined Amazon 19 years ago on the day the original Kindle launched. Since then, Green has designed every Amazon hardware product, including these new Kindles.

After I wrote the piece linked above, airing my frustration about the original button placement, readers dragged me for making a mountain out of a molehill. I ended up thinking I was alone in my take. Turns out, Green has been fielding similar complaints for quite some time.

"The amount of people that complained about it with [using it] on treadmills, while sitting, and putting it on the tummy, and all those kinds of things...the worst case is a treadmill, because if you don't tap it, you stab it. And so people were stabbing this display, and the button was moving," said Green.

Amazon's attempts to address the issue without moving the button, by recessing it, shifting it slightly, failed. "The long and short of it is, it's got to go on the side," said Green.

Now every new Kindle in the refreshed lineup has a power/sleep button, on the right side, relatively close to the top edge of the device.

Those new ereaders are:

• Kindle e-reader 6-inch entry-level
• Kindle e-reader 6-inch Aluminum
• Kindle Paperwhite 7-inch
• Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition 7-inch
• Kindle Kids
• Kindle Colorsoft
• Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition

Across the line, Amazon introduces new colors (Graphite, Alpine Sky, Seaglass Green, Ube), thinner, lighter designs, and new materials. With the exception of the base model Kindle (140g, which is 13% lighter and 6.8mm thick), the lighter and thinner frames can usually be measured by a millimeter here and a gram or two there.

The Paperwhite Signature Edition and Colorsoft, notably, get accelerometers which will recognize if you've turned the reader upside down and will automatically rotate the text. The reader will also support reading in landscape mode, which might be kind of cool for graphic novels.

On the face of its most affordable Kindle, the 6-inch model, Amazon took away the raised bezel for a perfectly flat and smooth all-glass face, which matches the look of all the other Kindles in the new lineup. But Amazon has gone a step further by introducing matching colors to the bezels of the entire Kindle line. So a Ube (purple) Kindle's color will wrap from the back all the way to the front and quite close to the E Ink display.

There was, it turns out, a reason these bezels surrounding the E Ink screen have traditionally been black. That light-absorbing color ensures that the front lights don't bounce off a colored cover and obstruct or weirdly bedazzle your e-reader display.

The solution for this, Keith explained, was first used on Kindle Scribe devices.

"We invented a new edge color technology that does a black mask on the back and, in this case, Ube on the front, and so you're able to get the absorption of the light, but you're also able to get this beautiful color."

Some of the new e-readers (both entry-level and Paperwhite) feature a chassis material not seen on a Kindle since the discontinued Kindle Oasis: aluminum.

It's a rigid but strong and lightweight stamped aluminum unibody with a 6mm back and 1mm sides; however, it's how Amazon is making it that's interesting.

Where most tech companies are choosing to mill out their aluminum chassis with CNC machines, Green told me Amazon went with stamping. The benefit is that while CNC milling can take 30 minutes, the stamping process takes seconds.

"It's a three-stage process: when we start with a flat sheet, and you stamp it, and then you take this piece, and then you put it into a forge, and you press it... Then you do a light CNC to clean it up. Now what this means is you're literally wasting 60% less material, and you're also wasting 60% less energy," explained Green.

Amazon hasn't really upgraded the software or E Ink displays in any noticeable way, but when I asked Green about the E Ink partnership and how their close association impacts any design and development decisions, he said, "They are obviously a very important partner to us. We have looked at other types of technology. For these types of displays, they're just the best, and we have to work with them."

Green paused for a second and smiled almost wistfully, "Do I wish there were other people out there? Well, let's just say they're the only ones out there."

Amazon, by the way, has gone a little wild with physical buttons in this round of Kindles, or rather with this round of Kindle accessories.

For the new aluminum-backed (and magnetically ready) Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition and Colorsoft models, both of which feature a series of connector pins on the back, there's now a cover that adds physical page-turn buttons: the Page-Turn Cover ($79.99).

That's right, Amazon is going full-on retro with a perhaps unintentional nod to the original Kindles, which featured a lot of physical buttons.

The Page-Turn Cover snaps onto the back of the Kindle, nestling a bar featuring forward and back page-turn buttons tightly against the right edge of the reader. The case also features a copy of the right-side power button on the outer edge of the case bar.

I gave the case a little test drive, rapidly pressing the forward and back buttons as I watched the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition quickly refresh and turn pages (it's reportedly 30% faster).

Amazon, though, isn't done with buttons. There is yet another accessory, and it takes page turning off the Kindle and puts it in the palm of your hand. It's called the Kindle Click ($34.99) and is, as the name implies, like a remote control for your Kindle.

Looking like a pale, undersized TV remote, it features two large, thumb-pressable buttons on the face for forward and back page turns. There are also two thinner and smaller buttons on the side for brightness control.

While I struggled to understand why anyone would need a remote for a device that's often just 10 inches from their face, Keith explained the thinking behind this unusual accessory.

With BookTok inspiring more and more young readers who are creating elaborate setups for reading (sometimes under the covers with special stands for the e-readers), Keith sees a need for gesture-free page turning and brightness control.

"My use case is I work out on an Elliptical, and I used to have to swipe, and now you can just turn the pages," he said, adding that it could be a game changer if you're flying on an airplane and just want to prop up the Kindle and sit back and casually turn pages by pressing the remote. If I start using it while reading on my Kindle, I'm sure to fall asleep reading that much faster; after all, raising my hand to swipe pages is usually all that's keeping me awake.

The 6-inch Kindles, in Ube and Graphite, arrive today (October 1) and are still $149 / £149.99 / AU$279 for the 16GB model. "We really were trying to bring innovation to the lineup and be able to absorb as much of the memory costs as we could to be able to keep our prices affordable," said Keith. The new aluminum chassis Kindle, in Alpine Sky and Seaglass Green, starts with 32GB of storage for $189.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.

The updated 7-inch Kindle Paperwhite (starting at $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$369), Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition ($249.99 / £229.99 / AU$399), and the 32GB Kindle Colorsoft, which starts at $289.99 / £259.99 / AU$449 ($319.99 / £289.99 / AU$499for the 32GB aluminum Signature Edition), arrive October 28.

• The next basic Amazon Kindle has seemingly leaked
• It looks to have some small design changes from the previous model
• But it's a shame there's no sign of a new smaller size

It looks like Amazon is gearing up to launch a new Kindle, as images of a new model — which you can see above and below — have been leaked by WinFuture. This is the Amazon Kindle 12th Gen, so it’s the basic model — not a Kindle Paperwhite or Kindle Colorsoft.

From the shared images, it seems this new device will have more rounded corners than the Amazon Kindle (2024), and the power button will be moved from the bottom to the top. The site has also shared that we can expect this Kindle to come in black, green, light blue, and purple shades, and that, interestingly, there might be two versions — one with a recessed screen and one where the display is flush.

Alongside this, Amazon is apparently planning a new Kindle for Kids, though no major changes are expected here, with it apparently being essentially the same as the current device, just shipping with a different cover included.

A smaller device could be a big hit

It remains to be seen whether the new 12th-generation Kindle will bring many spec upgrades, but regardless, it’s not the device I want. Lately I’ve fallen in love with compact ereaders like the ViWoods AiPaper Reader and the even smaller Xteink X4 Pro, and I'm spending more time reading on them than my Kindle Colorsoft — but Amazon doesn’t offer anything in these sizes.

So, that’s what I really want to see — especially something truly tiny like the Xteink devices, since one of their main issues is the difficulty in getting books onto them, which presumably isn’t a problem you’d have with a tiny Kindle.

And I’m not alone in this desire — a Reddit thread about this new Kindle leak included comments like “I was kind of hoping for a mini Kindle announcement,” and “I thought I would want a bigger size… until I got a smaller one and practically never touched my Paperwhite again.”

And while these tiny ereaders seem like they should be niche devices, they’re presumably selling well, given that an increasing number of brands like Onyx Boox and Honor have started getting in on them too.

So, hopefully we’ll see a tiny Kindle eventually, but for now, it seems you’ll have to make do with the standard sizes.