The 2021 Kindle Paperwhite is an essential upgrade, with larger 6.8-inch display, warm light, and USB-C. The Signature variant offers three exclusive features.
After almost three years, the next-generation middle-range Kindle model is revealed. If you assumed nothing exciting could happen in the e-reader development, think twice.
For a price $10 higher than the previous generation, Kindle Paperwhite 2021 offers a slim design, with considerably reduced bezel, and a set of long-expected features listed below.
Just like in the case of Amazon Fire HD 8, there are two variants of the device. They are so different that they could be separate product lines. In fact, they are listed on Amazon with different product identification ASIN numbers.
Kindle Paperwhite 2021 Regular (from $139.99) comes with:
- Larger 6.8-inch glare-free 300 ppi E-ink display
- 8 GB or 16 GB storage (the latter added in September 2022)
- Warm light – the feature borrowed from Kindle Oasis
- USB-C port for faster charging and data transfer
- Battery life extended to even 10 weeks
- Eco-friendly manufacturing of the device and packaging
Kindle Paperwhite 2021 Signature (from $189.99) has all the benefits of the Regular version, and adds three more:
- 32 GB memory (no other storage is available)
- Auto-adjusting front light – there is no need to manually increase or decrease the brightness level
- Wireless charging – you can use your current charging station or buy a dedicated Wireless Charging Dock.
How to call the Kindle Paperwhite released in 2021?
The most common way to call the previous model was “Kindle Paperwhite 4,” after the Paperwhite-specific generation number.
However, the 5th-generation Paperwhite was already available back in 2015 – and the “5th-generation” was referring to the overall Kindle generation number, not the one specific to the Paperwhite model. What’s more, “Kindle Paperwhite 5th Generation” listing is still available on Amazon – it may be a source of confusion for many users.
That’s why, in this overview and all upcoming posts, we will be calling the 2021 Paperwhite model as “Paperwhite 6.8,” after its display size. It’s the same idea as “iPad 10.2” for the entry-level Apple tablet.
Last but not least, when looking for relevant case covers and accessories, it’s always good to put the release year in a search phrase, for instance, “Paperwhite 2021 sleeve”.
It’s worth noting that the 2021 Paperwhite is the next step on the way of removing or avoiding extra features in Amazon e-readers: cellular connection, microSD card, headphone jack, or speakers.
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 comes together with dedicated Amazon accessories: fabric covers, leather covers, cork covers, wireless charging dock, as well as a new antimicrobial screen protector from NuPro.
There is also a dedicated version for kids. It’s called Kindle Paperwhite Kids, and it includes one free year of Amazon Kids+, 2-year worry-free guarantee, and a kid-friendly cover available in three designs. The kid-friendly bundle of the Paperwhite 6.8 is worth $269, but costs only $159.99.
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 (2021) – main features
Bigger 6.8-inch display with front light
The new display is 13% larger than in the previous-generation Kindle Paperwhite, released in 2018. Its diagonal length (the distance between opposite corners) is 6.8 inches, instead of 6.
The screen resolution is not yet revealed, but with the pixel density of 300 ppi, it should be at least 1600 × 1200 px. The front light is now even smoother, as it’s provided by as many as 17 LED lights, instead of 5 in Paperwhite 2018.
Only a bit bigger size
Despite the considerably larger screen, the overall size of the 6.8-inch Kindle Paperwhite is not dramatically higher. Its height is 6.9 inches (174 mm), instead of 6.6 inches (167 mm) – only 7 mm bigger. It was achieved by reducing the bezel around the display.
The overall shape is the same as in the previous Paperwhite, with one outstanding difference – the display is closer to the top edge, making the device look lighter than the 2018 Paperwhite.
Adjustable warm light
The 2021 Kindle Paperwhite is the second Kindle model, after Oasis, to get the warm light.
Adjustable warm light lets you control the color of the front lighted screen. In the evening, you can switch from blue light with to a warmer tone to reduce eye strain and minimize the negative effect on sleep.
USB-C port for faster charging
The Paperwhite 6.8 is the first Kindle to sport the USB-C port for faster charging and data transfer. It’s a useful feature if you still add own books and audiobooks via the cable.
You will need less than 3 hours to fully recharge Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 via 5W USB-C charger.
Over twice longer battery life
You won’t need the USB-C port too much, however. The battery in the 2021 Kindle Paperwhite will need recharging not after 4 but even 10 weeks.
Climate friendly product
The 6.8-inch Paperwhite is one of the first Amazon devices to have a Climate Pledge Friendly badge.
The device is made with 60% post-consumer recycled plastics and 70% recycled magnesium. Plus, 95% of the packaging is made of recycled sources or materials from responsibly managed forests.
Premium features available only in Signature Edition
Signature Edition is a premium version of the Kindle Paperwhite 6.8, with three exclusive features that are not available in the regular version:
▸ 32 GB memory – the regular variant is sold with either 8 or 16 GB.
▸ Wireless charging – even the Oasis doesn’t offer this feature. If you have a wireless charging station or pad, you can use it to charge Paperwhite Signature.
▸ Automatically adjustable front light – the Signature comes with an auto-adjusting light sensor. it means that the front light will be automatically adjusted to changing light conditions, so there is no need to do it manually.
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 – pros and cons
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
| ▸ Large 6.8 inch display ▸ Warm light ▸ Extended battery life ▸ Slim design ▸ Small, paperback book dimensions ▸ Sustainable production process ▸ IPX8 waterproof level ▸ USB-C port | ▸ No cellular variant ▸ No adjustable light in the Regular version ▸ No microSD card ▸ No USB-C power charger included in the box ▸ Only Black color variant |
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 – specs comparisons
Let’s dive into side-by-side tech specs comparisons that will help you decide which Amazon device suits your needs more.
Below, you will see three comparison charts:
- Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 Regular vs. Signature
- Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 vs. Basic Kindle 2022
- Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 vs. Amazon Fire HD 8
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 (2021) Regular vs. Signature
| Regular | Signature | |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.8-inch | 6.8-inch |
| 8 GB Storage | Yes | No |
| 16 GB Storage | Yes | No |
| 32 GB Storage | No | Yes |
| microSD card | No | No |
| Speakers | No | No |
| Headphone jack 3.5 mm | No | No |
| Front light | Yes, 17 LEDs | Yes, 17 LEDs |
| Warm light | Yes | Yes |
| Auto-adjusting light | No | Yes |
| USB-C port | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless charging | No | Yes |
| Battery life | Up to 10 weeks | Up to 10 weeks |
| Cellular variants | No | No |
| Waterproof | Yes, IPX8 | Yes, IPX8 |
| Climate Pledge friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Kindle Unlimited free plan | No | No |
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | from $139.99 | from $189.99 |
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 vs. Basic Kindle 2022
| Paperwhite | Basic | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.8-inch | 6-inch |
| Pixel density | 300 ppi | 300 ppi |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Front light | Yes, 17 LEDs | Yes, 4 LEDs |
| Warm light | Yes | No |
| Storage | 8 GB, 16 GB | 16 GB |
| microSD card | No | No |
| Speakers | No | No |
| Headphone jack 3.5 mm | No | No |
| USB-C port | Yes | Yes |
| Dark Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless charging | No | No |
| Battery life | Up to 10 weeks | Up to 6 weeks |
| Cellular variants | No | No |
| Waterproof | Yes, IPX8 | No |
| Climate Pledge friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Kindle Unlimited free plan | Yes, 3 months | Yes, 4 months |
| Colors | Black | Black Denim |
| Weight | 7.23 oz / 205 g | 5.56 oz / 158 g |
| Dimensions | 6.9 × 4.9 × 0.32 in 174.2 × 124.6 × 8.1 mm | 6.2 × 4.3 × 0.32 in 157.8 × 108.6 × 8.0 mm |
| Release date | October 27, 2021 | October 12, 2022 |
| Price | from $139.99 | from $99.99 |
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 vs. Amazon Fire HD 8
| Paperwhite | Fire | |
|---|---|---|
| Display size | 6.8-inch | 8-inch |
| Display technology | E-paper | LCD |
| Screen resolution | N/A | 1280 × 800 px |
| Pixel density | 300 ppi | 189 ppi |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Warm light | Yes, via front light | Yes, via Blue Shade software feature |
| Storage | 8 or 16 GB | 32 or 64 GB |
| microSD card | No | Yes, add up to 1 TB of additional storage |
| Speakers | No | Yes |
| Headphone jack 3.5 mm | No | Yes |
| USB-C port | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless charging | No | No |
| Battery life | Up to 10 weeks | Up to 12 hours of mixed usage |
| Cellular variants | No | No |
| Waterproof | Yes, IPX8 | No |
| Climate Pledge friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Kindle Unlimited free plan | No | Yes |
| Colors | Black | Black, Plum, Twilight Blue, White |
| Weight | 7.23 oz 205 g | 12.5 oz 355 g |
| Dimensions | 6.9 × 4.9 × 0.32 in 174.2 × 124.6 × 8.1 mm | 8.0 × 5.4 × 0.4 in 202 × 137 × 9.7 mm |
| Release date | October 27, 2021 | June 3, 2020 |
| Price | from $139.99 | from $89.99 |
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 (2021) – full tech specs
Below, you will find the full specs of the 5th-generation Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 released in September 2021. Scroll down to see full specs of Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 Signature Edition (2021).
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 Regular (2021)
| Screen | Amazon’s 6.8-inch Paperwhite touchscreen display |
|---|---|
| Levels of gray | 16 |
| Front light | Yes, 17 LED lights |
| Auto adjusting light | No |
| Adjustable warm light | Yes |
| Screen resolution | N/A |
| Pixel density | 300 ppi |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Waterproof rating | IPX8 – tested to withstand immersion in 2 meters of fresh water for 60 minutes |
| Storage capacity | 8 GB 16 GB (added in September 2022) |
| microSD card | No |
| Body color | Black |
| USB-C port | Yes |
| Wireless charging | No |
| Battery life | A single charge lasts up to ten weeks, based on a half hour of reading per day with wireless off and the light setting at 13 |
| Charge time | • 5 hours from a computer via USB cable * Under 2.5 hours using 9W USB power adapter (sold separately) |
| Weight | 7.23 oz / 205 g |
| Dimensions | 6.9 × 4.9 × 0.32 in / 174.2 × 124.6 × 8.1 mm |
| Kindle Unlimited free | No, a variant with a free Kindle Unlimited plan is not available |
| Climate Pledge Friendly | Yes, built with 60% post-consumer recycled plastics and 70% recycled magnesium; 95% of the packaging is made of wood fiber-based materials from responsibly managed forests or recycled sources |
| Wi-Fi | Supports 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz networks with support for WEP, WPA and WPA2 security using password authentication or Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) |
| Cellular | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes, with Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) support for audio streaming from Kindle Paperwhite to your Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Bluetooth speakers requiring PIN codes are not supported |
| Speakers | No |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Audible-ready | Yes; capable of playing both Audible audiobooks and Audible companions for Kindle ebooks. Pair with Bluetooth-enabled speakers or headphones |
| Accessibility features | VoiceView screen reader, available over Bluetooth audio, provides spoken feedback allowing you to navigate your device and read books with text-to-speech (available in English only). Kindle Paperwhite also includes the ability to invert Black and White, adjust font size, font face, line spacing and margins |
| Supported formats | Kindle Format 8 (AZW3), Kindle (AZW), TXT, PDF, unprotected MOBI, PRC natively; HTML DOC, DOCX, JPEG, GIF, PNG, PMP through conversion; Audible audio format (AAX) |
| Original case covers | Yes; sold separately. Cork, leather, and fabric covers in multiple colors, including Deep Sea Blue, and Lavender Haze |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty and service included. Optional 1-year, 2-year or 3-year Extended Warranty available for US customers sold separately |
| Generation number | • Kindle Paperwhite generation – 5th * Overall Kindle generation – 11th |
| Included the box | • Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 Regular (2021 release) * USB-C charging cable * Quick Start Guide |
| Launch dates | • Announcement: September 21, 2021 * Pre-orders: September 21, 2021 * Release: October 27, 2021 |
| Prices | • 8 GB, Wi-Fi, with special offers – $139.99 * 8 GB, Wi-Fi, without special offers – $159.99 * 16 GB, Wi-Fi, with special offers – $149.99 * 16 GB, Wi-Fi, without special offers – $169.99 |
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 Signature (2021)
| Screen | Amazon’s 6.8-inch Paperwhite touchscreen display |
|---|---|
| Levels of gray | 16 |
| Front light | Yes, 17 LED lights |
| Auto adjusting light | yes |
| Adjustable warm light | Yes |
| Screen resolution | N/A |
| Pixel density | 300 ppi |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Waterproof rating | IPX8 – tested to withstand immersion in 2 meters of fresh water for 60 minutes |
| Storage capacity | 32 GB (approximately 27 GB available to the user) – thousands of books or over 160 Audible audiobooks |
| microSD card | No |
| Body color | Black |
| USB-C port | Yes |
| Wireless charging | Yes |
| Battery life | A single charge lasts up to ten weeks, based on a half hour of reading per day with wireless off and the light setting at 13 |
| Charge time | • 5 hours from a computer via USB cable * Under 2.5 hours using 9W USB power adapter (sold separately) * Fully charges in less than 3.5 hours with any compatible 10W Qi wireless charging pad (sold separately) |
| Weight | 7.34 oz / 208 g |
| Dimensions | 6.9 × 4.9 × 0.32 in / 174.2 × 124.6 × 8.1 mm |
| Kindle Unlimited free | No, a variant with a free Kindle Unlimited plan is not available |
| Climate Pledge Friendly | Yes, built with 60% post-consumer recycled plastics and 70% recycled magnesium; 95% of the packaging is made of wood fiber-based materials from responsibly managed forests or recycled sources |
| Wi-Fi | Supports 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz networks with support for WEP, WPA and WPA2 security using password authentication or Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) |
| Cellular | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes, with Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) support for audio streaming from Kindle Paperwhite to your Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Bluetooth speakers requiring PIN codes are not supported |
| Speakers | No |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Audible-ready | Yes; capable of playing both Audible audiobooks and Audible companions for Kindle ebooks. Pair with Bluetooth-enabled speakers or headphones |
| Accessibility features | VoiceView screen reader, available over Bluetooth audio, provides spoken feedback allowing you to navigate your device and read books with text-to-speech (available in English only). Kindle Paperwhite also includes the ability to invert Black and White, adjust font size, font face, line spacing and margins |
| Supported formats | Kindle Format 8 (AZW3), Kindle (AZW), TXT, PDF, unprotected MOBI, PRC natively; HTML DOC, DOCX, JPEG, GIF, PNG, PMP through conversion; Audible audio format (AAX) |
| Original case covers | Yes; sold separately. Cork, leather, and fabric covers in multiple colors, including Deep Sea Blue, and Lavender Haze |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty and service included. Optional 1-year, 2-year or 3-year Extended Warranty available for US customers sold separately |
| Generation number | • Kindle Paperwhite generation – 5th * Overall Kindle generation – 11th |
| Included the box | • Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 Signature Edition (2021 release) * USB-C charging cable * Quick Start Guide |
| Launch dates | • Announcement: September 21, 2021 * Pre-orders: September 21, 2021 * Release: October 27, 2021 |
| Prices | • 32 GB, Wi-Fi, with special offers – $189.99 * 32 GB, Wi-Fi, without special offers – $209.99 |
Kindle Paperwhite 6.8 (2021) product description
Here are the highlights from the Kindle Paperwhite 2021 product page on Amazon.
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6.8-inch (2021 model)
Black / 8 GB
Lose yourself in a book – wherever, whenever
Kindle Paperwhite is thin, lightweight, and travels easily, so you can enjoy your favorite books at any time. With our signature 300 ppi glare-free Paperwhite display – now 10% brighter at its max setting – you can read in any light. And now, a single battery charge via USB-C lasts up to 10 weeks. Battery life may vary depending on use.
Goes beyond a book
Now you can adjust the shade of your Kindle Paperwhite display from a white light to a warm amber, or schedule when the light changes for a personalized reading experience. You can also adjust the size and boldness of text for whatever suits you best.
Make a splash
With the waterproof Kindle Paperwhite, you’re free to read and relax in more places – from the beach to the bath. Kindle Paperwhite is IPX8 rated to protect against accidental immersion in up to two meters of fresh water for up to 60 minutes, and up to 0.25 meters of seawater for up to 3 minutes.
Your reading experience, reimagined
Enjoy a new, intuitive, and easier Kindle reading experience with the latest software update. Now with easier access to your device Settings and a new bottom navigation to easily switch between Home, Library, or the book you are currently reading. Plus an alternative fast setup experience using the Kindle app on your phone.
Better together
Designed by Amazon to perfectly fit your Kindle Paperwhite, these slim, form-fitting covers attach securely and fold back for one-handed reading. They automatically put your device to sleep when closed and wake upon opening, making it easy to get back to your story.
Every day is an Earth Day
You don’t have to be an environmental scientist to make sustainable choices. We considered sustainability in the design of this Kindle device. 60% post-consumer recycled plastics and 70% recycled magnesium is used in a device. 95% of the packaging is made of wood fiber-based materials from responsibly managed forests or recycled sources.
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