What Would I Miss if I Buy a Kindle 6?
Many people have questioned whether purchasing a Kindle 6 would truly impact their reading experience, especially after using the earlier versions like the 2008 Kindle 2nd Gen or the newer Paperwhite. In this article, we'll explore the advantages and limitations of the Kindle 6, particularly focusing on the impact of not having the built-in light and backlight feature.
Backlight – An Essential Feature?
One of the most significant differences between the Kindle 6 and Paperwhite is the backlight. It's a feature that allows you to read during dark hours or when the lights are off. If you are not an avid reader who enjoys reading at night or during travel, you might not find this feature as crucial. However, the backlight is a game-changer for those who love to read in dim light without straining their eyes.
xpath options for the Kindle 6
For those who are okay with manual reading (i.e., using a physical cable to transfer books or uploading books from a computer), the regular Kindle 6 can be a perfect choice. Here are the key points to consider:
Internet vs. WiFi
If you plan to use 3G for on-the-go reading, you may need to pay for a 3G connection. However, if your home or office already has WiFi, you can wait to download books when you have a stable internet connection. Most hotels, bed breakfasts, airports, and cafes have WiFi available, allowing you to download books when you're out and about.Paperless Purchases
When purchasing a Kindle, you have the option to download books in AZW3 format, which you can then manually transfer to your device. This is in addition to the wireless delivery option through WiFi. Consider whether this manual setup is convenient for you.
Key Features of the Kindle Paperwhite
The Kindle Paperwhite, being the upgraded version, comes with a built-in light, increasing its usability in various lighting conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for readers who wish to read at night or during travel without the need for a separate lamp or flashlight.
Comparison between Kindle 6 and Kindle Paperwhite
Backlight Consideration
The most significant difference between the Kindle 6 and Paperwhite is the backlight. While the Kindle 6 can be used during the day with a low screen brightness setting, it lacks the functionality to read in complete darkness or during night time without additional lighting. If you enjoy reading at bedtime or during summer nights, the built-in light of the Paperwhite is a non-negotiable feature.
Offline Reading
Both readers are capable of offline reading. You can connect via USB or WiFi to transfer books and then read them later. However, the Kindle Paperwhite offers the convenience of using the built-in light to read even when the device is not connected to any power source. This feature is particularly useful for those who enjoy reading in bed or during travel.
Additional Reading Features
The Kindle Paperwhite supports reading in various formats, including PDFs, although it is not optimized for complex diagrams. It also has features like a dictionary that requires occasional internet access, and a Wikipedia feature that, while valuable, cannot contain the entire database. These additional features further enhance the reading experience and flexibility of the Paperwhite over the regular Kindle 6.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between a Kindle 6 and a Kindle Paperwhite depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are content with managing your books manually and do not require the convenience of reading in complete darkness or during travel at night, a regular Kindle 6 might suffice. However, if nighttime reading or cross-reading formats like PDFs are important to you, investing in a Kindle Paperwhite would be a worthwhile choice.