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Your phone’s screen strains your eyes. Physical books are bulky. You want to read more but keep getting distracted by notifications.
An e-reader solves all of this—and the 2024 Kindle Paperwhite is the best one Amazon has ever made.
Our verdict: The Kindle Paperwhite (2024) is the best e-reader for most people, delivering a larger screen, faster performance, and months of battery life in a waterproof package.
Our Pick: Kindle Paperwhite (2024)
Quick take: 7" glare-free display (up from 6.8"), 25% faster page turns, adjustable warm light, IPX8 waterproofing, and up to 12 weeks of battery life. The definitive reading device.
Best for:
- Dedicated readers who want distraction-free reading
- Beach/pool readers (IPX8 waterproof)
- Anyone with eye strain from phone screens
- Travelers who pack multiple books
Skip if:
- You prefer physical books (and that’s okay!)
- You need color for magazines/comics (get Kindle Colorsoft)
- You already have the 2021 Paperwhite
What’s New in 2024
Larger 7" Display
The screen grew from 6.8" to 7"—doesn’t sound like much, but it’s noticeably more comfortable for extended reading. More words per page means fewer page turns.
25% Faster Page Turns
The new processor delivers snappier performance. Page turns, menu navigation, and book downloads all feel quicker than previous generations.
Improved Front Light
17 LEDs (up from 16) with adjustable color temperature. The warm light option reduces eye strain for nighttime reading without the blue light that disrupts sleep.
The Honest Downsides
Quality Control Concerns
Good Housekeeping couldn’t recommend the 2024 lineup due to quality control issues: “Around ten percent of Amazon reviews mention screen problems.”
If you receive a defective unit, Amazon’s return process is straightforward—but it’s annoying.
No More Simple File Transfer
You can no longer drag-and-drop files via USB. Amazon now requires the Send to Kindle app or Android File Transfer utility. Long-time Kindle users find this frustrating.
Power Button Placement
The bottom-edge power button is too easy to press accidentally. You’ll trigger it while adjusting your grip.
Who Should Buy the Kindle Paperwhite
Perfect for you if:
- You read regularly and want a dedicated device
- Eye strain from screens is a concern
- You read by the pool, beach, or bath
- You want weeks of battery life
Consider alternatives if:
- You need color (Kindle Colorsoft)
- Budget is tight (basic Kindle at $99)
- You prefer physical books
The Bottom Line
The Kindle Paperwhite (2024) refines an already excellent formula. The larger screen and faster performance make it the best e-reader for most readers, despite the quality control lottery.
If you don’t own an e-reader, this is the one to buy. If you have a 2021 Paperwhite, the upgrade is nice but not essential.
