Kindle Paperwhite VS Oasis. The Ultimate Kindle Comparison
The Kindle Paperwhite 11th Gen (2021) and the Kindle Oasis are two of Amazon’s premium e-readers, but they offer different features and cater to different kinds of readers. The Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021) introduces some exciting new features, and when compared to the Kindle Oasis, it’s important to understand where each model excels. Whether you're on a budget or seeking a high-end device for extended reading sessions, this comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Display: The Oasis wins with an adjustable warm light filter and a larger screen, which is especially helpful for late-night reading.
- Portability: Both are compact and lightweight, but the Oasis feels more premium due to its all-metal design.
- Battery Life: Both offer up to six weeks, depending on use.
- Price: The Oasis is a premium device at $250, while the Paperwhite gives you excellent value at $120.
Feature | Kindle Paperwhite | Kindle Oasis |
---|---|---|
Display | 6.8-inch, 300 PPI, Paperwhite display | 7-inch, 300 PPI, Paperwhite display |
Resolution | 1448 x 1072 pixels | 1680 x 1264 pixels |
Warm Light Adjustment | No | Yes (Adjustable blue-to-warm light) |
Page-turn Buttons | No | Yes |
Battery Life | Up to 10 weeks (varies with usage) | Up to 6 weeks (varies with usage) |
Build Quality | Plastic body | Premium metal body (aluminum) |
Storage Options | 8 GB or 32 GB | 8 GB or 32 GB |
Weight | 205 grams (Wi-Fi), 207 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular) | 188 grams |
Processor | 1 GHz (Optimized for reading) | 1 GHz (Optimized for reading) |
Colors Available | Black, Blue, Green, (Special Editions) | Graphite, Champagne Gold |
Charging Port | USB-C | Micro USB |
Price (Base Model) | $139.99 | $249.99 |
When Should You Choose the Kindle Paperwhite?
The Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021) is an excellent option for readers who want:
- Great value: At around $139.99, the Paperwhite provides a superior reading experience at a much more affordable price than the Oasis, which starts at $249.99.
- Boost portability and battery life: With a 6.8-inch screen and up to 10 weeks of battery life, it’s an excellent choice for readers who want a compact, long-lasting device.
- An all-around solid experience: While it may lack some of the premium features of the Oasis, it offers adjustable warm light, USB-C charging, and IPX8 waterproofing, making it a reliable and well-rounded device for most readers.
Monotonous vs. Adaptable: The Display Difference
The Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021) and the Kindle Oasis offer 300 PPI (pixels per inch) displays, making text sharp and clear. However, the display features differ slightly:
- Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021):
- The Paperwhite features a 6.8-inch display, larger than the previous generation. It has 17 LEDs that provide even backlighting, but it is slightly less advanced than the Oasis regarding brightness distribution.
- The Paperwhite also offers adjustable warm light, allowing you to shift the screen from cool blue to a warmer amber tone. This feature is particularly useful for nighttime reading and reducing eye strain.
- Kindle Oasis:
- The Oasis has a 7-inch display, providing a slightly larger screen area for more text. It’s better for readers who want more space for their content, especially for longer reading sessions or highlighting.
- The Oasis has 25 LEDs for a more uniform lighting experience. This makes it superior for brightness control and offers a smoother reading experience, especially in low-light conditions.
- The Oasis also features an ambient light sensor, which automatically adjusts the screen brightness based on your surroundings, while the Paperwhite requires manual adjustment.
Which Display is Better?
- The Oasis is better if you prefer a larger screen with more control over your reading experience (especially in varying lighting).
- The Paperwhite still provides an excellent reading experience with its 6.8-inch display and warm light adjustment, making it a great option for budget-conscious readers who want a premium experience.
Kindle Paperwhite vs. Oasis: Size and Design
When it comes to ergonomics, both devices have different design philosophies:
- Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021):
- The Paperwhite has a slim, sleek design with thin bezels on all sides. It’s slightly more compact than the Oasis, making it easier to carry around and hold for long reading sessions.
- The plastic body feels durable and lightweight. It’s IPX8 waterproof, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 2 meters for 60 minutes, making it perfect for poolside or beachside reading.
- Kindle Oasis:
- The Oasis is a premium device with a premium aluminum body, giving it a more luxurious feel. The metal build is incredibly lightweight but feels more high-end than Paperwhite’s plastic finish.
- The Oasis features a unique asymmetrical design with a thicker right side, making it more comfortable for one-handed reading. It’s also IPX8 waterproof, so you can enjoy it by the pool or bath without worrying about damage.
Which is More Comfortable?
- The Oasis is designed for one-handed use with a more ergonomic feel, thanks to its asymmetrical design and page-turn buttons.
- The Paperwhite is more compact, and while it lacks physical page-turn buttons, it is still comfortable to hold for long reading sessions.
Page-Turn Buttons and Ergonomics
- Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021): The Paperwhite uses the touchscreen for page turns, which is smooth and intuitive. However, it lacks the physical page-turn buttons that some readers prefer.
- Kindle Oasis: The Oasis has page-turn buttons on the device's right side. These are especially useful for one-handed reading, allowing you to turn pages without touching the screen. If you enjoy tactile feedback while reading, the Oasis’s buttons add convenience.
Battery Life: A Key Factor
- Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021): Depending on usage, the Paperwhite offers up to 10 weeks of battery life on a single charge. Its USB-C charging port makes it easier to charge and use it on the go.
- Kindle Oasis: The Oasis has up to 6 weeks of battery life, which is still impressive but falls short of the Paperwhite’s longevity. It charges using micro-USB, which is less convenient than the Paperwhite's USB-C port.
Why Choose the Oasis?
The Kindle Oasis is best suited for readers who:
- Want a premium, luxurious design with higher-quality materials (aluminum vs. plastic)?
- Prefer page-turn buttons for one-handed reading and a more ergonomic design.
- Read for extended periods and want the comfort of a larger 7-inch display and automatic brightness adjustment.
Why Choose the Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021)?
The Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021) is the right choice if you:
- Want a budget-friendly option with excellent features like warm light, USB-C charging, and a 6.8-inch screen.
- Prefer a more compact design without sacrificing quality or durability.
- Don’t mind manually adjusting the brightness, as the Paperwhite lacks the ambient light sensor that the Oasis offers.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
In summary, both the Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021) and the Kindle Oasis offer a fantastic e-reading experience, but they cater to different types of readers:
- The Kindle Paperwhite (11th Gen, 2021) is ideal for those looking for a high-value device that balances performance with affordability. It has a solid display, adjustable warm light, USB-C charging, and long battery life, making it a great option for most readers.
- The Kindle Oasis is perfect for premium-seeking readers who want a larger screen, physical page-turn buttons, and automatic brightness adjustments. Its premium design and ergonomics make it the go-to choice for those willing to spend a little more for extra comfort and convenience.
Choose the Paperwhite for great value or the Oasis if you want luxury, comfort, and premium features. Either way, both devices are superb e-readers that enhance your reading experience.