In this Kindle 3 review, we’ll see just how smaller, slimmer, and lighter Amazon’s 6-inch Kindle has become. But does it pack in more welcome features than its predecessor? That’s what we intend to find out.
When the price of the Kindle 2 was dropped to $189 only a month ago, many said that with this move, Amazon accomplished two things: first, it pulled away from the tablet PC niche (well, the iPad specifically), and secondly it stayed at par, even a tad cheaper, with its closest competition (the Nook also dropped its price at the same time).
All in all, it was a great call by Amazon, no one would argue with that. Little did many know that the online retail giant had more surprising moves up its sleeve. Officially, it’s called the latest generation 6-inch Kindle. But in tech circles, it’s simply known as the Kindle 3.
Before diving into this review, watch it in action first.
A few days after its unveiling and the latest Kindle was sold out. So what was the rush all about? This Amazon Kindle 3 review takes a look at what may yet be the best Kindle ever.
A Slimmer, Smaller, and Lighter Kindle
With the latest generation of the 6-inch Kindle, Amazon reveals a smaller and lighter Kindle. Maintaining its 6″ screen, it now sports a sleek and 21% smaller body, measuring 7.5″ x 4.8″ x 0.335″. It also shed off 15% of its weight and is down to just 8.7 ounces from the previous 10 ounces. And with the device still a third of an inch thich, the Kindle is just the right fit in your hands — ideal reading for long hours on end.
With this Kindle, the user can also experience faster page turns, and the page turn buttons are said to be much quieter too. If that’s the case, you’ll really forget that you’re actually reading from an electronic device and just lose yourself in the book.
Improved, High-Contrast Screen
Still making use of e-ink technology, the 3rd generation Kindle now boasts of 50% better contrast, with the text rendered clearer and crisper and the images even sharper. And whether you read under bright sunlight or within the comforts of your room, you’ll have a glare-free reading experience. Plus, the upgraded device already has an auto-rotate feature that allows it to go from portrait to landscape mode by simply turning the device around.
Better Battery Life
The battery life of the older models were decent enough, but with the wireless turned off, nothing beats the 1 month reading time that this latest 6-inch Kindle offers. With the wireless activated, this ebook reader can still last up to 10 days without needing a recharge.
Free 3G, Wi-Fi, and Global Wireless Coverage
Going somewhere or live outside the US? In case the news hasn’t reached you yet, the Kindle 3 is already equipped with Global wireless connectivity so getting content wherever you are based at the moment should be a breeze, or less than 60 seconds to be exact. Plus, the 3G connectivity is absolutely free! No monthly bills or or contracts to worry about.
To date, Amazon has listed more than 100 countries and territories where the device can be shipped to. You have the option to choose from a Kindle that has both 3G and WiFi, or with WiFi connectivity only.
Native PDF Support
The new Kindle 3rd generation having native PDF support now is also a huge plus. Gone are the days when we would have to send a PDF file to Amazon for conversion.
Stores Up to 3,500 Books!
The fact that Amazon chose not to include an expansion slot for a memory card for the K2 as it did with the original Kindle didn’t sit quite well with some Kindle owners. But now that the latest Kindle has more than doubled its capacity to store books and documents — from 1,500 to 3,500! — really, who needs a storage card?
Extensive Selection and Low Book Prices
Amazon has now over 600,000 books to choose from, including most on the New York Times Best Seller list, plus periodicals, blogs, and magazines. With prices at $9.99 and below, it’s easy to fill your Kindle with all the books you love.
Superb Features at a Reasonable Price
One of the reasons why many were hesitant to get a Kindle, or any ebook reader for that matter, is the rather high price tag that went with it. But with the cost just down to $189 (for the Kindle 3G + WiFi), and $139 ( WiFi-only model), you’ve most likely run out of reasons not to get one. Both versions are available in classic white or black graphite color.
Kindle 3 Review: The Bottom Line
So, is it the best Kindle Amazon has ever released? I think many would agree that yes, Amazon has outdone itself this time with the Kindle 3. While a 9-inch screen like the Kindle DX has would still be more reader-friendly, taking into account the whole package – features, price, and portability – the Kindle 3 is now the ebook reader to beat. http://ebookreadersresource.com/www.amazon.com/amazon-kindle3.php