Kindle generations compared: which one should you buy?

Amazon’s Kindle lineup has never been more diverse. Here’s how to pick the right one.

Quick Comparison

FeatureKindle BasicPaperwhiteScribeOasis
Price$109.99$149.99$399.99$279.99
Screen6” 300ppi6.8” 300ppi10.2” 300ppi7” 300ppi
Warm LightNoYesYesYes
WaterproofNoYes (IPX8)NoYes (IPX8)
StylusNoNoYesNo
Battery6 weeks10 weeks12 weeks6 weeks

Kindle Basic (11th Gen)

Best for: Budget buyers

The entry-level Kindle is surprisingly good. 300ppi display (same as Paperwhite), USB-C charging, and 16GB storage. No warm light or waterproofing, but at $109.99 it’s a steal.

Kindle Paperwhite (12th Gen)

Best for: Most people

The sweet spot. Larger 6.8” display, warm light, waterproof, and wireless charging (Signature Edition). If you can only buy one, get this.

Kindle Scribe

Best for: Note-takers and PDF readers

The 10.2” display is perfect for PDFs, textbooks, and handwritten notes. Premium Pen included. Less portable for casual reading.

Kindle Oasis

Best for: Premium feel

Physical page turn buttons and ergonomic design. Aging hardware (2019 release). Only buy if you must have buttons.

Verdict

Paperwhite for most people. Basic for budget. Scribe for PDFs. Oasis only if you love buttons.