Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Review: A Disappointing Upgrade for Color Lovers
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Review: A Big Step Forward for Color E Ink
After four years of waiting, Amazon has finally released a Kindle with a color screen. Meet the Kindle Colorsoft, a device that boasts improved color E Ink technology with a new display stack, brighter LEDs, and special coatings. But is this color screen worth the premium price?
The Good
- The best color screen on an e-reader so far
- Faster performance during page turns and zooming content
- Streamlined screen customization to one simple option
- Shopping for books is more engaging in color
The Bad
- Expensive
- Lacks stylus support and page turn buttons
- Wireless charging is pointless without extra accessories
- Seven-inch display makes small text difficult to read
Comparison to the Kobo Libra Colour
While the Kindle Colorsoft has a better color screen, I prefer the design of the Kobo Libra Colour, with its larger grip and etched texture on the back. The Colorsoft’s button is located on its bottom edge next to the USB-C port, which can be triggered accidentally while trying to charge the device.
Alternatives
If you’re not concerned with color accuracy or don’t want to be stuck in Amazon’s world, the Kobo Libra Colour is a cheaper alternative at $219.99. It still looks good and performs very well, with the option to use a stylus ($69.99) for easier highlights and basic note-taking.
Verdict
While I’m glad to see Amazon attempted to improve the current generation of color E Ink technology, it’s still a bit disappointing, with washed-out colors and lower resolutions. If you’re already a happy Kindle user, consider the 12th-gen Paperwhite instead. A color screen just isn’t a must-have upgrade.
Photography by Andrew Liszewski / The Verge
