Today, we will delve into the specifics of two popular Kindle models – the Kindle Paperwhite 2021 and the Kindle Basic 2022.
We’ll compare their features, performance, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision.
So, grab a coffee, cozy up, and get started!
Table of Contents
Pros and Cons
Kindle Paperwhite 2021 Pros & Cons:
- 6.8” screen with 300ppi resolution for a crisp reading experience
- 17 LEDs for improved visibility in low-light conditions
- Adjustable warm light feature to reduce eyestrain during long reading sessions or while reading at night
- 8GB/16GB storage options, waterproof design
- More expensive than the Basic model
- Non-waterproof
Kindle Basic 2022 Pros & Cons
- A 6” screen with 300 ppi resolution is still good enough for most readers
- 16GB storage option is ample space for thousands of books, comics, and audiobooks
- More budget-friendly than the Paperwhite model
- 4 LEDs for low visibility in low-light conditions
- No adjustable warm light feature
- The hard plastic back does not provide a premium feel.
Design and Build
I remember the first time I held a Kindle in my hands; it felt like a gateway to a world of endless stories at my fingertips.
That feeling hasn’t waned ever since, and I believe the design and build of a Kindle play a significant role in creating that magical experience.
The Kindle Paperwhite 2021 has a modern look with a flush-front screen that is easy to clean. It has a 6.7-inch display and a soft-touch rubber-plastic back that allows for comfortable reading for long periods.
The Kindle Basic 2022 (review here) has a 6-inch screen with only 4 LED lights and a hard plastic body. This may cause discomfort during long reading sessions, and the plastic back doesn’t provide a premium feel.
It is available in Black and White and has a hard plastic back that provides a decent grip.
Display and Resolution
As an avid reader and Kindle enthusiast, I can’t stress enough the importance of a comfortable and crisp reading experience. That’s where display and resolution come into play.
The Kindle Paperwhite 2021 boasts a 6.8-inch glare-free display with a 300 PPI (pixels per inch) resolution and 17 LEDs, ensuring sharp and clear text. It also features adjustable warm light, which allows you to modify the screen’s color temperature to your preference. This feature is handy for reducing eye strain during long reading sessions or while reading at night.
The Kindle Basic 2022 offers a 6-inch glare-free display with 300 PPI with only 4 LEDs and lacks an adjustable warm light feature. This may result in a sub-optimal reading experience for many users.
In short, The Basic model lacks the warm light feature, which could be a deal-breaker for some readers. Personally, I love to read with warm light on.
Storage and Battery Life
There’s nothing more frustrating than your Kindle dying on your mid-chapter or running out of storage space when you’re eager to download a new book.
Let’s see how these two models fare in these aspects.
The Kindle Paperwhite 2021 promises a battery life of up to 10 weeks on a single charge, based on 30 minutes of daily reading, with the brightness set at 13 and wireless off. It has two storage options: 8GB and 16GB, allowing ample space for thousands of books, comics, and audiobooks.
The Kindle Basic 2022, on the other hand, offers a battery life of up to 6 weeks under similar conditions. It comes with 16GB of storage, more than enough for your reading needs.
To conclude, the Kindle Paperwhite 2021 offers more features and longer battery life than the Basic 2022, but I don’t think the battery should be a reason to choose one.
Storage option for both is sufficient, and you can buy books directly from the Kindle store on both devices.
Price and Final Thoughts
Regarding pricing, the Kindle Basic 2022 is the more budget-friendly option. The Kindle Paperwhite 2021, with its additional features and improved display, comes at a slightly higher price.
I always recommend Paperwhite over the basic model, but it ultimately depends on your preferences and budget.
The Paperwhite is worth the investment if you want a premium reading experience with a crisp display, warm light, and a waterproof design. However, if you’re on a tight budget and can compromise on display resolution and some features, the Kindle Basic 2022 is still an excellent option for a seamless digital reading experience.
