Looking Beyond the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8" 16? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8" 16 GB offers a balanced reading experience with its larger 6.8-inch screen and adjustable warm light. You get up to 10 weeks of battery life and waterproof durability. These specs make it a strong contender, but you might seek amazon kindle paperwhite alternatives if your priorities differ. Perhaps you need a color display for comics or a smaller form factor for one-handed reading. Some readers also prefer the Kobo ecosystem over Amazon's proprietary store.
The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original device. Each option shares key features like waterproofing, long battery life, or substantial storage capacity. You will find choices that emphasize portability, such as the 6-inch models, or those that prioritize visual fidelity with color screens. This guide compares devices strictly by their published specifications to help you find the right fit. You can evaluate each device based on screen size, weight, and unique features like touchscreen responsiveness or audiobook support. The goal is to identify which specs matter most for your daily reading habits.
How alternatives compare to Paperwhite
Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16GB E-Reader
The Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16GB uses a smaller 6-inch display compared to the Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch screen. It is lighter at 5.57 ounces versus 7.2 ounces, making it easier to hold for long periods. You lose the adjustable warm light found on the Paperwhite. The device remains waterproof and offers the same 16GB storage. This model suits readers who prefer a compact form factor over screen real estate. It is ideal for text-heavy books where color and large visuals are not necessary. You get a distraction-free experience with a smaller footprint.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 7" 16GB
The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 7" 16GB features a larger 7-inch screen, which is bigger than the Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch display. It adds a color display, a feature the standard Paperwhite lacks. The device weighs 7.52 ounces, slightly more than the Paperwhite’s 7.2 ounces. It retains the waterproof design and adjustable warm light. This model is best for readers who want vibrant visuals for comics or magazines. You pay a premium for the color technology and larger screen. It is less portable than the standard Paperwhite due to the increased size and weight. Choose this if color is a priority for your reading habits.
Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16 GB (Refurbished)
The Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16 GB (Refurbished) matches the standard Amazon Kindle 6-Inch model in specs. It has a 6-inch screen, which is smaller than the Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch display. It weighs 5.57 ounces, making it lighter than the Paperwhite. It lacks the adjustable warm light feature. The device is waterproof and includes 16GB of storage. This option is for readers who want a lower-cost entry into e-readers without sacrificing durability. It is best for those who prioritize portability and battery life over screen size. You get a compact, black-and-white reading experience that is easy to carry.
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 7-Inch 16GB
The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 7-Inch 16GB increases the screen size to 7 inches, offering more reading area than the 6.8-inch model. It weighs 7.44 ounces, which is slightly heavier than the standard Paperwhite. It retains the waterproof design and adjustable warm light. This model is ideal for readers who want a larger display for better readability. You get faster performance and a larger screen for extensive reading sessions. It is best for those who read in various lighting conditions and need more space for text. The larger screen makes it less compact than the 6.8-inch version.
Kobo Clara BW 6-Inch Waterproof E-Reader
The Kobo Clara BW 6-Inch Waterproof E-Reader has a 6-inch screen, which is smaller than the Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch display. It weighs 6.14 ounces, making it lighter than the Paperwhite. It is waterproof and supports audiobooks. This device is best for text-heavy reading in wet environments. It lacks the adjustable warm light found on the Paperwhite. You get a solid option for readers who value waterproofing and eye comfort. It is a practical choice for those who prefer a compact device. The Kobo Clara BW is suitable for users who do not need color visuals.
Kobo Clara Colour 6-Inch Color E-Reader
The Kobo Clara Colour 6-Inch Color E-Reader features a 6-inch color screen, which is smaller than the Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch display. It weighs 6.14 ounces, making it lighter than the Paperwhite. It is waterproof and supports audiobooks. This model is best for readers who want color visuals in a compact device. It is ideal for comics and graphic novels. You lose the larger screen size of the Paperwhite. The Kobo Clara Colour is a solid choice for those who prioritize color in a portable format. It is suitable for users who read visual content more than dense text.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8" 16 GB
Best for: Readers wanting a larger screen and warm light
- Screen Size
- 6.8"
- Storage Capacity
- 16 GB
- Front Light
- Adjustable warm light
- Battery Life
- Up to 10 weeks
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Color
- Black
The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite offers a 6.8-inch glare-free display with adjustable warm light. It features 16 GB of storage for thousands of titles and up to 10 weeks of battery life. The device is waterproof and supports Bluetooth for audiobooks. This model suits readers who want a larger screen than standard Kindles without the bulk of a tablet. It provides a focused reading experience with practical features like USB-C charging.
Pros
- 6.8-inch glare-free display with 300 ppi resolution
- Adjustable warm light for comfortable night reading
- 16 GB storage holds thousands of books
- Up to 10 weeks of battery life on a single charge
- Waterproof design for beach or bath reading
Cons
- Black and white E Ink display lacks color
- No color display option like the Colorsoft
- 6.8-inch screen is smaller than tablet alternatives
Good fit if
- You prefer a larger 6.8-inch screen for easier reading
- You want waterproof protection for reading in various environments
- You need long battery life without frequent charging
Skip if
- You require a color display for comics or magazines
- You want a tablet for general multimedia use
- You prefer a smaller 6-inch device for one-handed use
Verdict: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16 GB delivers a balanced reading experience with its larger 6.8-inch screen and warm light. It is ideal for readers who prioritize battery life and waterproof durability over color displays.
Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16GB E-Reader
Best for: portable reading of text-heavy books
- Screen Size
- 6“
- Storage Capacity
- 16 GB
- Front Light
- Adjustable front light
- Battery Life
- Up to 6 weeks
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 6.21 × 4.27 × 0.32 inches
The Amazon Kindle 16 GB (2024 model) is a lightweight e-reader designed for portable reading. It features a 6-inch glare-free display and adjustable front light that is 25% brighter than previous versions. With 16 GB of storage, it holds thousands of books. The device offers up to 6 weeks of battery life. It is a compact option for readers who prioritize portability and fast page turns over color screens.
Pros
- 6-inch glare-free display with adjustable front light
- 16 GB storage capacity for thousands of books
- Up to 6 weeks of battery life on a single charge
- Lightweight build at 5.57 ounces
- Fast page turns and high contrast ratio
Cons
- 6-inch screen is smaller than the 6.8-inch Paperwhite
- Black and white display lacks color for comics or magazines
- No waterproofing rating mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight device that fits easily in a bag
- You read mostly text-based books and do not need color
- You prefer a smaller 6-inch screen for one-handed use
Skip if
- You need a larger 7-inch or 6.8-inch display for more reading space
- You want to read color comics, magazines, or graphic novels
- You require a waterproof device for reading in the bath or pool
Verdict: Amazon Kindle 16 GB (2024) is a practical choice for readers who prioritize portability and battery life over screen size or color. It fits those who want a compact, distraction-free device for standard text books.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 7" 16GB
Best for: color reading on a large screen
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Storage Capacity
- 16 GB
- Display Type
- Colorsoft
- Front Light
- Adjustable white to amber
- Battery Life
- Up to 8 weeks
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 GB features a 7-inch Colorsoft display that renders covers and content in high-contrast color. It includes an adjustable white-to-amber front light for reading in any lighting condition. The device is waterproof and offers up to 8 weeks of battery life on a single charge. You get 16 GB of storage for your library. This model suits readers who want color visuals without sacrificing battery endurance.
Pros
- 7-inch Colorsoft display for color content
- Adjustable white to amber front light
- Up to 8 weeks battery life
- Waterproof design
Cons
- Color display may reduce battery efficiency compared to black-and-white models
- Heavier build at 7.52 ounces
- Limited to black color option
Good fit if
- You want to read color comics or magazines
- You prefer a larger 7-inch screen
- You need waterproof durability
Skip if
- You only read black and white text
- You prioritize the lightest possible device
- You want a color e-ink display from a different brand
Verdict: The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 GB is the best choice for readers who want color visuals on a large 7-inch screen. It fits those who value waterproofing and long battery life over minimal weight.
Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16 GB (Refurbished)
Best for: compact, battery-efficient black-and-white reading
- Screen Size
- 6“
- Storage Capacity
- 16 GB
- Front Light
- Adjustable front light
- Battery Life
- Up to 6 weeks
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 6.21 × 4.27 × 0.32 inches
This like-new Amazon Kindle offers 16 GB of storage and a 6-inch glare-free display. It features an adjustable front light that is 25% brighter at its maximum setting, along with fast page turns and a high contrast ratio. The device weighs 5.57 ounces and measures 6.21 inches in length. You get up to 6 weeks of battery life on a single charge. It is a compact option for distraction-free reading.
Pros
- 16 GB storage holds thousands of books
- 6-inch glare-free display with adjustable front light
- Up to 6 weeks of battery life
- Light and compact at 5.57 ounces
Cons
- Black color option only
- Lockscreen ads are included
- No color display capability
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight device for one-handed reading
- You prefer a smaller 6-inch screen size
- You need basic e-ink functionality without color
Skip if
- You require a color e-ink display
- You want a larger 7-inch screen
- You prefer a device without lockscreen ads
Verdict: Like-New Amazon Kindle 16 GB is a practical, compact reader for those who prioritize portability and battery life over screen size or color. It suits you if you want a distraction-free experience with a smaller form factor.
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 7-Inch 16GB
Best for: Readers wanting a larger 7-inch screen
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Storage Capacity
- 16 GB
- Front Light
- Adjustable white to amber
- Battery Life
- Up to 12 weeks
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Color
- Black
This refurbished 2024 Kindle Paperwhite features a 7-inch glare-free display and 16 GB of storage. It offers adjustable white-to-amber front lighting and waterproof protection. The device delivers up to 12 weeks of battery life on a single USB-C charge. It is designed for readers who want a larger screen and faster page turns than standard models.
Pros
- 7-inch glare-free display with higher contrast
- 25% faster page turns than previous models
- Adjustable front light from white to amber
- Waterproof design for pool or bath reading
- Up to 12 weeks of battery life
Cons
- Refurbished condition with generic packaging
- Ad-supported configuration included
- No color display capability
Good fit if
- You prefer a larger 7-inch screen for text
- You want adjustable warm-to-cool lighting
- You need waterproof protection for reading near water
Skip if
- You require a brand-new device with original packaging
- You want a color e-ink display
- You prefer an ad-free experience without subscription
Verdict: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 7" 16GB suits readers who prioritize screen real estate and lighting flexibility over newness. It delivers faster performance and a larger display for those who read extensively in various lighting conditions.
Kobo Clara BW 6-Inch Waterproof E-Reader
Best for: text-heavy reading in wet environments
- Screen Size
- 6"
- Storage Capacity
- 16GB
- Display Type
- E Ink Carta 1300 HD
- Front Light
- ComfortLight PRO
- Battery Life
- weeks
- Water Resistance
- IPX8
The Kobo Clara BW offers a 6-inch E Ink Carta 1300 HD display with ComfortLight PRO. It features IPX8 waterproofing and 16GB of storage for thousands of eBooks. This model supports audiobooks and includes a Dark Mode option. It is a practical choice for readers who want a glare-free screen and adjustable lighting for comfortable reading in various conditions.
Pros
- 6-inch glare-free E Ink Carta 1300 HD display
- IPX8 waterproof protection for up to 2 meters
- ComfortLight PRO with adjustable color temperature
- 16GB storage holds up to 12,000 eBooks
- Dark Mode option for nighttime reading
Cons
- Black and white display limits photo viewing
- 6.14 ounces is heavier than some competitors
- No mention of color screen capability
Good fit if
- You read in the bath or by the pool
- You prefer a compact 6-inch form factor
- You want adjustable blue light reduction
Skip if
- You need a color display for comics
- You prioritize the smallest possible weight
- You only buy books from Amazon
Verdict: Kobo Clara BW 6" E Ink Reader is a solid option for text-focused readers who value waterproofing and eye comfort over color visuals.
Kobo Clara Colour 6-Inch Color E-Reader
Best for: Color comics and graphic novels
- Screen Size
- 6"
- Storage Capacity
- 16GB
- Display Type
- Colour E Ink Kaleido 3
- Front Light
- ComfortLight PRO
- Water Resistance
- IPX8
- Features
- Waterproof, Audiobooks, Dark Mode
The Kobo Clara Colour offers a 6-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 display for reading color eBooks, comics, and graphic novels. It includes 16 GB of storage and a waterproof IPX8 design. ComfortLight PRO adjusts blue light, and Dark Mode is available. This device suits readers who want color visuals in a portable, water-resistant format.
Pros
- 6-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 color display
- 16 GB storage capacity
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- ComfortLight PRO with Dark Mode
Cons
- 6-inch screen is smaller than the 7-inch Paperwhite
- Color E Ink refresh rate is slower than standard e-ink
- No mention of audiobook playback support in specs
Good fit if
- You read graphic novels or color comics
- You want a waterproof reader for bath or pool use
- You prefer a 6-inch portable form factor
Skip if
- You need a 7-inch or larger display
- You prioritize fast page turns over color
- You only read standard black and white text books
Verdict: Kobo Clara Colour 6" Color eReader is a solid choice for readers who value color visuals in a compact, waterproof device. It fits those who read comics or graphic novels more than those who read dense text.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8" 16 GB | Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16GB E-Reader | Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 7" 16GB | Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16 GB (Refurbished) | Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 7-Inch 16GB | Kobo Clara BW 6-Inch Waterproof E-Reader | Kobo Clara Colour 6-Inch Color E-Reader |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.8" | 6“ | 7" | 6“ | 7" | 6" | 6" |
| Storage Capacity | 16 GB | 16 GB | 16 GB | 16 GB | 16 GB | 16GB | 16GB |
| Display Type | not specified | not specified | Colorsoft | not specified | not specified | E Ink Carta 1300 HD | Colour E Ink Kaleido 3 |
| Front Light | Adjustable warm light | Adjustable front light | Adjustable white to amber | Adjustable front light | Adjustable white to amber | ComfortLight PRO | ComfortLight PRO |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 weeks | Up to 6 weeks | Up to 8 weeks | Up to 6 weeks | Up to 12 weeks | weeks | not specified |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | not specified | Waterproof | not specified | Waterproof | IPX8 | IPX8 |
| Storage | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB |
| Features | not specified | not specified | Color Display | not specified | not specified | Waterproof, Audiobooks, Dark Mode, Touchscreen | Waterproof, Audiobooks, Dark Mode |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 6.85 × 4.9 × 0.32 inches | 6.21 × 4.27 × 0.32 inches | 6.96 × 5.02 × 0.3 inches | 6.21 × 4.27 × 0.32 inches | 6.96 × 5.02 × 0.31 inches | 6.26 × 4.39 × 0.36 inches | 6.26 × 4.39 × 0.36 inches |
| Weight | 7.2 ounces | 5.57 ounces | 7.52 ounces | 5.57 ounces | 7.44 ounces | 6.14 ounces | 6.14 ounces |
| Model | M2L3EK | RS23CV | SA58CB | RS23CV | SA568B | N365-TP-BK-S-EP | N367-TP-BK-S-CK |
Frequently asked questions
Which Kindle has the largest screen?
The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 GB features a 7-inch display, making it the largest option in this lineup. It also offers color visuals, which distinguishes it from the standard black-and-white models. This screen size suits readers who prefer more real estate for text or images without switching to a tablet.
Is there a waterproof e-reader for light reading?
Yes, the Kobo Clara BW 6-Inch is a waterproof e-reader designed for text-heavy books. It weighs 6.14 ounces and includes a touchscreen. This device is ideal if you want to read in the bath or by the pool without worrying about water damage, while maintaining a compact form factor.
Can I read color comics on a Kindle?
The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 GB supports color displays, allowing you to read comics and graphic novels in color. It features a 7-inch screen and includes waterproofing. This model is the best choice for readers who want vibrant visuals on a large, durable e-reader device from Amazon.
What is the lightest Kindle model available?
The Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16GB is the lightest option at 5.57 ounces. It measures 6.21 inches in length and 4.27 inches in width. This compact size and low weight make it easier to hold for extended periods compared to the heavier Paperwhite or Colorsoft models.
Does the Kobo Clara support audiobooks?
Yes, the Kobo Clara BW and Kobo Clara Colour both support audiobooks. They also feature dark mode and waterproofing. These devices are 6.14 ounces and include 16GB of storage. You can use them for both text reading and audio listening in various environments.
Which device is best for portable text reading?
The Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16GB is best for portable text reading. It is compact, weighing only 5.57 ounces, and fits easily in small bags. It prioritizes battery life and portability over screen size. This makes it a practical choice for standard text books and distraction-free reading on the go.
Are there refurbished Kindle options?
Yes, the Amazon Kindle 6-Inch 16 GB (Refurbished) is available. It shares the same specs as the new version, including a 6-inch screen and 5.57-ounce weight. This option provides a practical, compact reader for those who prioritize portability and battery life. It offers a distraction-free experience with a smaller form factor.