Kindle Generations Compared: Specs, Upgrades, and Best Models to Buy
Kindle devices vary greatly in performance and features depending on the generation. This guide explains the key spec upgrades across Kindle generations, highlights when major improvements were introduced, and recommends which Kindle models are the best value to buy new or used today.
Modified at: 2025.9.17Posted at: 2024.6.13
Table Of Contents
Kindle (Standard)
In recent years, the Kindle (Standard) has achieved overwhelming spec upgrades.
Originally, as an entry-level model, it was a low-priced series due to limitations such as:
- Low resolution
- No front light
However, when the long-awaited front light was added in 2019, the 11th generation in 2022 saw a major upgrade to 300 ppi screen density. This is equivalent to the Kindle Paperwhite from the 7th to 10th generations.
Although the price has also gone up accordingly, if you are buying a Kindle (Standard) now, it is best to go for the latest 11th generation, or the 10th generation if looking for a used one.
| Generation | Spec Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Kindle 11th Gen (2022) | Paperwhite-level upgrade (300ppi) |
| Kindle 10th Gen (2019) | Added front light |
Kindle Paperwhite
The Kindle Paperwhite has long reigned as the king among Kindle devices.
By the 7th generation in 2015, it had already reached an “almost complete form” and remained without major updates for a long time. However, the 11th generation saw a surprising evolution with a larger screen.
Then, in 2024 with the 12th generation, the screen size increased even further to 7 inches.
With the screen density remaining at 300 ppi while the screen expanded to 6.8 inches and then 7 inches, it matched the display specs of the Kindle Oasis, which had been positioned as the “large-screen series.”
Taking this into account, if you are buying a Kindle Paperwhite now, the “12th generation” is definitely the best choice. If you find a slightly cheaper used option, the 11th generation is also worth considering.
| Generation | Spec Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen (2024) | Screen size increase 6.8″ → 7″ Page-turn speed improved by 25% |
| Kindle Paperwhite 11th Gen (2021) | Screen size increase 6″ → 6.8″ Added adjustable warm light |
| Kindle Paperwhite 7th Gen (2015) | Screen density increase 212ppi → 300ppi |
Kindle Oasis
The Kindle Oasis stands out with features such as physical page-turn buttons, waterproofing, and a large screen.
Interestingly, the first-generation Kindle Oasis, the 8th generation (2016), had a 6-inch display, the same size as other models.
In 2017, the 9th generation adopted its current 7-inch display design, and with the 10th generation (2019), the addition of the adjustable color temperature feature made it nearly a complete form.
Since the Kindle Oasis 2019 model remains the current generation, a long-awaited upgrade is expected soon.
| Generation | Spec Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Kindle Oasis 10th Gen (2019) | Added adjustable color temperature display |
| Kindle Oasis 9th Gen (2017) | Screen size increased 6″ → 7″ |
Kindle Scribe
The Kindle Scribe is still in its first generation but has two variations: the 2022 model and the 2024 model.
In the 2024 model, a new feature called “Active Canvas” was added, allowing users to write notes directly inside eBooks.
| Generation | Spec Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Kindle Scribe 1st Gen (2024) | Added Active Canvas |