New Kindle 2022: High-Resolution Display, Lightweight Design, Expanded Storage, and More Features
After Amazon gave the Kindle Paperwhite a major update last year, this year it’s the regular Kindle entry-level model’s turn.
The changes are just as extensive as those made to the Paperwhite, bridging the gap left by its update.
Prices
Kindle Paperwhite light?
Let’s get straight to the biggest change: The display still measures 6 inches diagonally, but now features a significantly higher resolution of 1,448 x 1,072 pixels. This results in a crisp pixel density of 300 ppi, matching what is referred to as “Retina” resolution.
This term was coined by Apple and describes a high enough pixel density that individual pixels are no longer visible from a normal viewing distance. The Kindle’s resolution is now on par with the higher standard in the e-reading market, in line with both the Paperwhite and Oasis.
As a reminder: The old entry-level model had a resolution of only 800×600 pixels with 167 ppi.
The exact display technology has not yet been specified. However, it is assumed to be one of the newer E-Ink Carta variants, which ensure good contrast values.
Although the “Paperwhite” name is missing, the new entry-level Kindle, like its predecessor, includes a built-in front light. However, unlike the two more expensive Kindle models, you cannot adjust the color temperature. Instead, Amazon highlights the dark mode feature, which inverts the screen colors.
Audiobook Support with More Storage
Audiobook support via Audible has returned, meaning all current Kindle models now offer this feature. Audio output works (as usually) through compatible Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
To avoid the need to constantly free up storage for audiobooks, the storage capacity has been doubled to a non-expandable 16 GB.
With dimensions of 157.8 x 108.6 x 8 mm and a weight of 158 grams, it is also, according to the press release and Amazon’s website, the most compact and lightest Kindle yet. However, this only applies when comparing the basic Kindle models. As a look at the first Kindle Oasis’s datasheet shows, that model was noticeably lighter and, depending on your perspective, also smaller.
Nevertheless, a weight of 158 grams is exceptionally light and makes the e-reader very easy to handle.
New Kindle with built-in lighting and 300 ppi
ePub Support
An interesting note in Amazon’s technical details is the inclusion of file format support. In addition to the familiar Kindle file types, the ePub format is now listed as well.
However, this is probably not native support, as the format is also mentioned for the Paperwhite and Oasis—and on those devices, opening ePub files directly from device storage does not work.
Unless a future update is being hinted at here, it likely refers to the updated Send-to-Kindle functionality. This feature allows you to send an ePub file to your e-reader via email. Some time ago, this option was expanded to support ePub, so your device can now process these files when they are received.
Recycled Materials
After Kobo recently introduced the Clara 2E, highlighting the environmental benefits of recycled plastics, Amazon is now following suit with the new Kindle.
Seventy-five percent of the plastics used in the black model are sourced from recycled consumer waste, while the blue version is made from 30 percent recycled plastic. The magnesium used in the device is 90 percent recycled.
In terms of sustainability, the new USB-C port is also worth mentioning, as it ensures good future-proofing. Starting in fall 2024, USB-C will be mandatory for new mobile devices.
Also a New Kindle Kids Edition
It’s no surprise that Amazon is updating the Kindle Kids Edition alongside the new Kindle.
This bundle includes a child-friendly device cover, a 2-year worry-free guarantee, and a one-year Amazon Kids+ membership.
Kids+ otherwise costs 4.99 euros per month for Prime members or, after the free year, 7.99 euros monthly for non-Prime members. It provides access to child-friendly content in e-book and audiobook formats. Additionally, certain device functions are only available in a limited capacity after appropriate configuration, promoting distraction-free reading.
The included device cover is available in three different designs.
Kindle Kids Covers
By the way, the Kids Edition isn’t just a good choice for children. If you like the design of the covers—which I find all very well done—you get a lot for your money (see below).
Market Launch and Availability
The new Kindle is available starting October 12 and comes in both ad-supported and ad-free versions.
Ads appear in sleep mode and on the lock screen. Since Amazon introduced the new user interface in spring 2022, the ads previously displayed at the bottom of the home screen have been removed, as that space is now taken by the navigation bar.
The price of the new Kindle is slightly higher than that of the previous model, costing 99.99 euros with ads and 10 euros more for the ad-free version. The Kids Edition is available for 119.99 euros and is ad-free.
Given the improved hardware, the higher price is certainly justified. For comparison: the entry-level model from Tolino partners, the Page 2, routinely costs around 90 euros (without ads) but only offers a 212 ppi resolution, half the storage capacity, and lacks audiobook support.
