It is not usual for Amazon to announce an entirely new Kindle product. But they did this year with the upcoming Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, the first Kindle device with a color display. How does this model compare with the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2024) also announced? It’s time to find out.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft vs Kindle Paperwhite: Specifications
| Amazon Kindle Colorsoft (2024)
1st Generation |
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2024)
12th Generation |
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft vs Kindle Paperwhite: Design and Durability
The design of Amazon Kindle Colorsoft and Kindle Paperwhite is similar. They have the same dimensions, almost identical weights, and are both waterproof. This is not a bad thing though. After all, Amazon won when it arrived at the current Kindle design, so why change something that works well? There’s not much to write about, as both devices are plastic bodies surrounding a large E Ink screen. It may not be aesthetically pleasing, but it is lightweight, durable (water-resistant to start with), and provides an excellent and easy reading experience.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft vs Kindle Paperwhite: Display
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft is the first Kindle e-reader with a color screen. This 7-inch screen features Colorsoft technology, a new color e-paper display using E Ink Kaleido. By adding a color filter layer to the traditional black and white e-paper screen, Colorsoft provides a more vibrant reading experience, especially for content with images and graphics. The color component of the screen has a resolution of 150 pixels per inch (PPI), while the black and white section has a higher resolution of 300 PPI for clear text.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft vs Kindle Paperwhite: Performance, Battery Life, and Charging
While traditional e-ink devices like Kindle Paperwhite prioritize energy efficiency over processing speed, the color display in Kindle Colorsoft may change that dynamic. It is logical to assume that generating color requires more processing power, which may affect performance. Unfortunately, without access to the devices or their internal information, we can only speculate on performance differences.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft vs Kindle Paperwhite: Software and Special Features
Both devices offer the same software features, including popular Kindle functions like Whispersync, X-Ray, and Vocabulary Builder. Whispersync allows you to sync reading progress, bookmarks, and notes across multiple devices and apps seamlessly. X-Ray provides detailed information about characters, locations, and terms mentioned in the book, giving you a deeper insight into the content. Vocabulary Builder automatically adds unfamiliar words to your vocabulary list, creating flashcards to help you learn these new words.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft vs Kindle Paperwhite: Price
The Kindle Colorsoft device has a premium price of $280 for the device alone. However, you can opt for a bundle with a cover and wireless charging dock for an additional $80. The standard Kindle Paperwhite device is more budget-friendly at $160, while the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition falls between $200.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both devices will provide years of enjoyment. The standard Kindle Paperwhite is the best choice if you’re a regular reader and don’t need a color screen. However, if you plan on storing many books on your device and want the convenience of wireless charging, the decision becomes more complex.
