Amazon has outdone itself by launching the new Kindle eBook reader named Kindle Paperwhite. This new model is much easier on the eyes than the previous Kindle edition. It has won glowing reviews from Wired.com for its new screen and applications. The light-up screen on this model is far better than the one seen on its competitor – the Barnes & Noble Nook eBook reader.
The distribution of light on this new screen is much more uniform than the previous versions. The Kindle Paperwhite uses the light guide technology instead of the back-lit technology for its screens. LED (Light Emitting Diodes) are placed at the bottom of the device, over which a thin plastic screen, with patterns etched on it, is placed. These tightly spaced patterns diffuse the light over the top of the screen through nano guides. This allows the screen to have a gentle glow and can be used for late-night reading without added strain on the eyes.
Contrast and Text
This new model now displays text with better contrast. Text used by eBooks is now much sharper, allowing for better readability. The background color is also much lighter than it was on previous versions. This makes the text stand-out. Amazon claims that the Kindle Paperwhite has 25% more contrast than the previous models.
Touch Screen and Reading Features
Paperwhite is an eBook reader that allows you to turn pages by swiping the screen. The touch screen feels like good quality paper and is easy to use. The capacitive screen is very sensitive and allows the user to utilize this device with one hand. The Paperwhite screen is separated into three sections. Tapping on each allows you to navigate forward, backward or to the menu. As reader usually want to move forward in a book, the page forward section covers most of the screen. Although this Kindle e-reader has a large screen, the placement of these sections makes it easier to navigate through eBooks irrespective of the size of the user’s hand.
It helps you easily find your place in a book as it displays the current page number at the bottom left corner of the screen. One of its most dazzling features is its ability to calculate the time it takes you to read. Based on this information, it can tell you the time you need to finish the book or even the time it will take you to finish individual chapters. This model has retained the X-Ray feature that allows readers to track the various characters and plot-lines in a complex story.
The price of the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite rages from $120 for a basic version to $200 for an advanced version with 3G technology. Along with the e-reader, users get access to the extensive and exhaustive Amazon eBook catalog.
What Did Not Hit the Mark
The touch screen is not always useful and a physical button would have made it easier for readers to find certain pages in the eBook. Also, light patterns and LED blossoms often appear at the bottom of the Kindle Paperweight screen that can be quite distracting.