Amazon Kindle Comparison
The lightest and most compact model in the lineup. It’s the definitive entry-level e-reader that perfectly covers all your reading essentials.
✦ The most affordable and lightweight entry-level model in the series. It packs core reading capabilities into a sleek design, complete with a crisp 300 ppi high-resolution display.
Latest Current Model
Kindle (Basic) Gen 12 (2026)
- Display Specs
- 6" 300ppi
- Monochrome
- Weight
- 154 g
- 8mm thick
- Battery & Charging
- Up to 6 weeks
- USB-C
- Waterproofing
- Non-waterproof
- Daily splash resistant
Kindle (Basic) vs Other Amazon Kindle Series
Explore positioning and hardware trade-offs (5-axis radar balance) between Kindle (Basic) and other series across the Amazon Kindle lineup.
All Kindle (Basic) Historical Models
Compare all 7 models across generations of Kindle (Basic). Scroll horizontally to view full hardware specs.
Historical Sale Prices & Price Track Record
Historical discount record and lowest price benchmarks across major seasonal sales and campaigns.
History of Kindle (Basic) Series
Kindle (Basic) Gen 12 (2026)
Redesigned with a flat front, top-right power button, 154g ultra-lightweight body, 30% faster reading, and a new 32GB aluminum edition.
Kindle (Basic) Gen 11 (2024)
Added Matcha green color, boosted front light brightness by 25%, and featured USB-C and 16GB storage.
Kindle (Basic) Gen 11 (2022)
Major update featuring a sharp 300 ppi display, double the storage at 16GB, and the introduction of a USB-C charging port.
Kindle (Basic) Gen 10 (2019)
The first entry-level Kindle to feature a built-in adjustable front light for reading in dark environments.
Kindle (Basic) Gen 8 (2016)
11% thinner and 16% lighter than the previous generation, featuring a more rounded design and a new white color option.
Kindle (Basic) Gen 7 (2014)
The first basic Kindle to include a touchscreen display, removing physical buttons for more intuitive navigation.
Kindle (Basic) Gen 5 (2012)
Updated with a black finish, 15% faster page turns, and a lightweight design relying on a 5-way controller.