Kindle Paperwhite vs Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Which Is Best?
Are you torn between the sleek design of the Kindle Paperwhite and the kid-friendly features of the Kindle Paperwhite Kids? Choosing the right e-reader can be tricky, especially when catering to different needs. This comparison dives deep to help you make the best decision.
Both Kindles offer access to a vast library of books, but they cater to different audiences. The Kindle Paperwhite provides a premium reading experience, while the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is designed with younger readers in mind. We’ll explore the key differences to help you decide which device suits you or your child best.
We’ll look at the features, design, and overall value of both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Paperwhite Kids. From screen quality to parental controls, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed choice. Get ready to discover which Kindle reigns supreme for your reading needs!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Kindle Paperwhite | Kindle Paperwhite Kids |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.8 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Resolution | 300 ppi | 300 ppi |
| Storage | 8GB or 16GB | 8GB |
| Waterproof | Yes (IPX8) | Yes (IPX8) |
| Adjustable Warm Light | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | Weeks | Weeks |
| Ad-Supported Options | Yes/No | No |
| Color Options | Black, other | Black, other |
| Included Accessories | USB-C charging cable | USB-C charging cable, Kid-Friendly Cover |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | 2 year worry-free guarantee |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Size & Technology
- Kindle Paperwhite: Features a 6.8-inch glare-free display with adjustable warm light and a 300 ppi resolution. Offers a comfortable reading experience in various lighting conditions.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Also has a 6.8-inch glare-free display with adjustable warm light and 300 ppi, identical to the standard Paperwhite. Includes a kid-friendly case.
- Winner: Tie
Storage Capacity
- Kindle Paperwhite: Available in 8GB or 16GB of storage, which is sufficient for thousands of ebooks.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Comes with 8GB of storage.
- Winner: kindle paperwhite
Durability & Design
- Kindle Paperwhite: Sleek and lightweight design, water-resistant (IPX8). Designed for portability and everyday use.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Includes a kid-friendly cover, adding an extra layer of protection. Water-resistant (IPX8).
- Winner: kindle paperwhite kids
Battery Life
- Kindle Paperwhite: Offers weeks of battery life on a single charge, based on typical usage.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Also provides weeks of battery life on a single charge.
- Winner: Tie
Reading Experience Features
- Kindle Paperwhite: Supports features like adjustable fonts, text size, and page margins. Offers Whispersync for syncing reading progress across devices.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Includes all of the same reading features as the standard Paperwhite, plus a kid-friendly interface and parental controls.
- Winner: kindle paperwhite kids
Content & Ecosystem
- Kindle Paperwhite: Access to the Kindle Store with millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Offers access to the Kindle Store and includes a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+ (formerly FreeTime Unlimited), providing access to a vast library of kid-friendly books and content.
- Winner: kindle paperwhite kids
Parental Controls
- Kindle Paperwhite: Lacks parental controls.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Includes robust parental controls, allowing parents to set reading goals, manage content access, and monitor reading progress.
- Winner: kindle paperwhite kids
Warranty & Extras
- Kindle Paperwhite: Comes with a standard warranty.
- Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Includes a 2-year worry-free guarantee and the kid-friendly cover.
- Winner: kindle paperwhite kids
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Best Overall for Adults | Kindle Paperwhite |
| Best for Kids | Kindle Paperwhite Kids |
| Durability | Kindle Paperwhite Kids |
| Value | Kindle Paperwhite |
| Warranty | Kindle Paperwhite Kids |
What They Have in Common:
- Screen Size and Resolution: Both devices feature a 6.8-inch display with a sharp 300 ppi resolution, providing a clear and comfortable reading experience. This ensures that text appears crisp and easy to read, even in direct sunlight.
- Waterproof Design: Both Paperwhite models are waterproof, rated IPX8, allowing you to read worry-free by the pool or in the bath. This feature protects the device from accidental spills and submersion.
- Adjustable Warm Light: Both e-readers include an adjustable warm light feature, which allows you to customize the screen’s color temperature for comfortable reading at night. This helps reduce eye strain.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both devices support Bluetooth, enabling you to listen to audiobooks via wireless headphones or speakers. This feature adds versatility to your reading experience.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Both devices connect to Wi-Fi to download new books and sync your reading progress across devices. This allows you to access your library wherever you have an internet connection.
- Long Battery Life: Both Kindle models offer weeks of battery life, allowing for extended reading sessions without frequent charging. This is ideal for travel or everyday use.
Kindle Paperwhite Vs Kindle Paperwhite Kids Buying Guide
Screen and Display
Both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Paperwhite Kids boast a crisp, glare-free 6.8-inch display with adjustable warm light. This feature allows you to customize the screen’s color temperature for comfortable reading in various lighting conditions. However, the Kids edition typically includes a slightly more durable screen, designed to withstand the occasional bumps and drops that are common with children. The text clarity and overall reading experience are essentially identical on both devices, providing a comfortable reading experience.
Storage and Content
The Kindle Paperwhite offers multiple storage options, typically starting at 8GB and going up to 16GB or 32GB, which is ample space for thousands of eBooks. The Kindle Paperwhite Kids usually comes with a fixed storage capacity, often 8GB, which is sufficient for a child’s library of books. Both devices allow you to download books from the Kindle Store, and access other content such as audiobooks via Audible. Consider your content needs when choosing storage.
Battery Life and Charging
Both Kindles have impressive battery life, lasting for weeks on a single charge with moderate reading. The actual battery life depends on usage, including screen brightness and the use of features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Both devices utilize USB-C charging for faster and more convenient charging. A full charge typically takes a few hours. This long battery life makes them ideal for travel and extended reading sessions.
Durability and Design
The Kindle Paperwhite has a sleek and lightweight design, making it easy to hold and carry. While it offers splash resistance, it’s not designed for extreme conditions. The Kindle Paperwhite Kids, however, often includes a protective case designed to protect the device from drops, bumps, and scratches. This added protection is a significant advantage for younger users who are more prone to accidental damage. Consider the user’s habits.
Features and Functionality
The standard Kindle Paperwhite provides access to advanced features such as adjustable warm light, Bluetooth for listening to audiobooks, and the ability to highlight passages, look up words, and take notes. The Kindle Paperwhite Kids includes parental controls, which allow parents to monitor and control their child’s reading habits, set reading goals, and limit access to the Kindle Store. Both devices offer a seamless reading experience.
Price and Value
The Kindle Paperwhite generally comes at a lower price point than the Kindle Paperwhite Kids. The Kids edition, while more expensive, offers added value through its protective case, parental controls, and often includes a subscription to a book-focused content service. Consider the added value of the features included with the Kids edition, such as the warranty and the content subscription, when deciding which device is right for you. Evaluate your budget.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Kindle Paperwhite If…
- You want a sleek and versatile e-reader for yourself.
- You prefer the option to choose between ad-supported and ad-free versions.
- You want more storage options.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
Buy Kindle Paperwhite Kids If…
- You’re purchasing for a child and want a more durable and kid-friendly device.
- You want a device with a worry-free guarantee.
- You want a device that is ad-free by default.
- You want the included kid-friendly cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Paperwhite Kids?
The Kindle Paperwhite is a standard e-reader designed for a broad audience, while the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is specifically geared towards children. The Kids edition often includes a protective case, parental controls, a longer warranty, and sometimes a subscription to a kid-friendly content library. The Paperwhite offers more storage options and is slightly less expensive.
Does the Kindle Paperwhite Kids have parental controls?
Yes, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids includes parental controls that allow parents to monitor and manage their child’s reading experience. Parents can set reading goals, control access to the Kindle Store, and track their child’s reading progress. These controls offer peace of mind and help create a safe and engaging reading environment.
Can I listen to audiobooks on both devices?
Yes, both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Paperwhite Kids support Audible audiobooks. You can connect Bluetooth headphones or speakers to either device and listen to your audiobooks. This feature expands the ways you can enjoy your books, providing flexibility for reading and listening.
What is the battery life like on these Kindles?
Both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Paperwhite Kids offer excellent battery life, typically lasting for weeks on a single charge with moderate reading. The actual battery life depends on factors like screen brightness and the use of features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This long battery life makes them ideal for travel.
Does the Kindle Paperwhite Kids come with a warranty?
Yes, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids often comes with an extended warranty, typically including a two-year worry-free guarantee. This provides added protection against accidental damage. The standard Kindle Paperwhite has a standard warranty, usually covering manufacturing defects.
What kind of books can I read on these Kindles?
You can read a vast selection of eBooks from the Kindle Store on both devices. The Kindle Store offers millions of titles, including new releases, bestsellers, and classics. You can also download books from other sources as long as they are compatible with the Kindle format, or you can convert them.
Is the Kindle Paperwhite Kids waterproof?
The Kindle Paperwhite Kids, like the standard Paperwhite, is water-resistant, meaning it can withstand splashes and accidental exposure to water. However, it is not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water. It is safe for use near the pool or beach.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Paperwhite Kids depends on your needs. The standard Paperwhite offers a great reading experience with more storage options, while the Kids edition provides added value with parental controls, a protective case, and often a content subscription, making it ideal for young readers. The Paperwhite is a solid choice for those seeking a more affordable and straightforward e-reader, while the Kids edition offers a more tailored experience for children.
Winner: Kindle Paperwhite Kids