Amazon upgrades base Kindle with sharper display for easier reading

11th gen Kindle 2022

A new and improved version of the entry-level Kindle is coming soon, featuring a significant screen quality upgrade and double the storage.

Now in its 11th generation, the new version of Kindle has a glare-free 300 ppi six-inch screen, a big improvement over the previous model’s 167 ppi, which means sharper text and images. You can see the difference between 167 ppi and 300 ppi in our review of the 10th gen Kindle. It also houses double the storage of its predecessor with a 16 GB capacity, room for thousands of books.

Also new to the updated model is dark mode, which adds to the adjustable front light for customisable reading comfort. Amazon refers to the 11th gen model as its lightest and most compact Kindle, weighing in at only 158 grams – compared to 174 grams for the 10th gen – and shaving several millimetres off each side.

Increased battery life is another benefit of the latest Kindle, with a full charge meant to last up to six weeks, an extra two weeks more than the previous version. It’s worth noting this measurement is based on 30 minutes of reading each day with Wi-Fi disabled and the light setting at 13. USB-C charging means you can replenish the battery in two hours using a 9W USB power adapter.

Available in Black or Denim, the new 11th gen Kindle is a bit more expensive than the 10th gen, retailing at $179 compared to $139. Pre-orders are open now, with the new model launching on 12 October across Amazon, JB Hi-Fi and other retailers. Alongside the launch will be new fabric covers, available in Black, Rose, Denim, and Dark Emerald for $49.95 each. Those new to Kindle will also receive three months of Kindle Unlimited, Amazon’s subscription service offering access to over a million eBooks.

Although the 11th gen Kindle comes at an extra cost when compared to previous models, the added features seem like good value for a high-quality reading experience. Better text clarity, longer battery life, and a dark mode are solid additions in our eyes.

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