Amazon has launched its latest Kindle lineup, featuring a new Kindle Colorsoft that starts at $290. The Signature Edition, priced at $320, offers 32GB of storage and comes in graphite or a maroon-like Fig finish with an aluminum back. The new Colorsoft is lighter and thinner than its predecessor, boasting an edge-to-edge display.
The Colorsoft stands out with its 7-inch color E-Ink display, offering 300ppi resolution for black-and-white content and 150ppi for color. While the colors are not as vibrant as an iPad, they enhance the reading experience for comics, graphic novels, and cookbooks. The device also allows adjusting the screen’s color temperature and features auto-adjusting brightness.
Battery life on the Colorsoft lasts up to eight weeks on a single charge, slightly less than the Paperwhite’s 12 weeks. The new model includes a repositioned power button for better usability and is waterproof, making it suitable for reading in the bath or by the pool. The Signature Edition supports a magnetic cover with built-in page-turn buttons, though this feature was not tested.
The biggest drawback of the Colorsoft is its high price, making it a steep investment for a reading device. However, for those who prioritize a color display, it is a worthwhile consideration. For most readers, the basic Kindle or Paperwhite, priced at $169.99 and $199.99 respectively, may be more practical choices.