The latest edition of the device that made e-books cool has started reaching some parts of the media and we were able to spend a little time messing with a Kindle 3 (3G version) that one of our editors in the US had got for review. Now, we must confess to having felt a trifle miffed when Amazon launched the Kindle 3 within days of our getting ourselves a Kindle 2, but after spending some time with the new Kindle, we feel a lot better. Yes, the Kindle 3 is a step up from the existing Kindle models, but not, in our opinion, compelling enough for us to consider an upgrade right now. Here are the five reasons that underpin our rationale to stay loyal to our newly acquired Kindle 2.
- We are not really too impressed by the smaller and lighter argument. Honestly the change in dimensions is not that great and neither is the weight difference. Personally speaking, I kind of feel a bit better with the bulk and weight of the older Kindle. The new one seems just a tad too light. Go ahead and call me silly if you wish.
- Yes, the graphite version of the new Kindle does look better than the all white Kindle 2, but at the end of the day, the reading space is pretty much the same, although we do concede that the D-pad on the new Kindle is a lot better than the horrible one on the 2.
- The higher contrast on the new pearl display does make a difference but truth be told, we do not really see it as a killer feature on a device that is basically for reading books in black and white. Yes, those who get used to the Kindle 3 might not want to move back to the Kindle 2, but those using the Kindle 2 will honestly not really see what the fuss is about.
- The new Kindle does turn pages faster than its older counterpart but once again, we are not sure if this is really a feature that will make us decide to upgrade. While reading a book, one seldom notices how fast a page has turned unless it has been really slow, which it is not on the Kindle 2.
- The WebKit browser (still experimental) might have swayed us but truth be told, we do not really use the Kindle to surf the Net. And we could not see any discernible change in speed while shopping in the Kindle store.
So there you have it, while we do think that the new Kindle 3 is an excellent device for those wanting to get into e-book mode, it certainly is not good enough to make us ditch our recently acquired Kindle 2 devices. Give us something more than just a mild refresh, Amazon!
Hmm, sounds like you’re really reaching to try to convince yourselves why you are keeping the K2. Weak arguments you make, though…
(laughs) You are entitled to your opinion. They sound pretty good to us.
I say hits the nail on the head, Nimish. Good good thing for new buyers, enough incentive to dump the Kindle 2 and go for a new one? NO
(Ps: I ordered my Kindle 2 days before 3 was announced and received it after Kindle 3 went on sale. Its still burning …)
It’s bit like the iPhone 3G, if you remember. It threw GPS into the equation but apart from that, really did not do all that much to the basics.
If you bought your Kindle 2s within 30 days of the announcement of the Kindle 3 then return it and get the newer, better K3s. Why would you have to convince yourself not to? Wi-Fi is the killer new feature even if you dont’ browse the web. Probably too late now, too bad for you!
With smaller bezels, the 6-inch screen now dominates, plus there’s still plenty of room to hold it easily. The 3G is absolutely worth the price.It’s international, so you have the ability to buy a new book where ever you’re at anytime.