Kindle Paperwhite (2021): Luxurious updates raise the bar—and the price
The last time Amazon updated the Kindle Paperwhite, the changes were dramatic. Our review of the fourth-generation model called them a “raft of innovations,” with waterproofing and twice the amount of storage among the more standout upgrades.
The enhancements in the new fifth-generation Kindle Paperwhite are less revolutionary. Outside of the larger 6.8-inch screen, they’re refinements—ones that make the digital reading experience more comfortable…and expensive.
SPECS, FEATURES, PRICE
Storage: 8GB standard version or 32GB Signature Edition
Display: 6.8-inch, 300ppi, 16-level grayscale
Front light: 17 LEDs with adjustable color temperature (white/amber)
Dimensions: 6.9x4.9x0.32 inches (175.2x124.6x8.1 mm)
Weight: 7.23 ounces (205g) for 8GB version; 7.34 ounces (208g) for 32GB Signature Edition
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth
Battery life: Up to 10 weeks on a single charge
Charging: Via USB-C port (both versions), or optional 10W Qi-certified wireless pad (Signature Edition)
Special offers: Ad-free versions are $20 extra; same cost to remove ads later on
Price: $140 (ad-supported), $190 (ad-supported Signature Edition)
Skim over the 2021 Paperwhite’s specs, as well as a deluxe upgrade from Amazon’s entry-level Kindle (last updated in 2019). This mid-tier e-reader continues to incorporate features once reserved for higher-end Kindles, like auto adjustment of screen brightness, while adding fresh improvements such as a larger screen and front-light LEDs capable of both cool and warm color tones.
