In late 2024, Amazon introduced the next iteration of the Kindle Scribe, the largest in its lineup and the only model featuring a pen for writing. Despite spending time with the previous version, the improvements in this generation were minimal.
The 2024 Kindle Scribe retains the size of its predecessor but includes a redesigned screen with even borders. Its specifications include a 10.2-inch display with up to 94 nits of brightness and a 300 ppi resolution. It offers a USB-C charging port, a battery life of up to 12 weeks, and storage options of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB. The device includes a premium pen and is available in tungsten and metallic jade but is not waterproof.
Kindle Scribe combines all the typical features of a Kindle e-reader with the added functionality of annotation. Users can access books from the Kindle Store or Libby and annotate directly on the device with a stylus called the “premium pen.” The latest model allows users to jot down notes in book margins and annotate PDFs, which can then be emailed to others.
However, despite these features, the Kindle Scribe is notably slower than other Kindle models. It uses an older processor, leading to lag when waking up or switching between applications, and even some pauses when turning pages. These issues are particularly pronounced considering the device’s price, which is over twice that of the Kindle Paperwhite.
While the writing experience on the Kindle Scribe is favorable due to its tactile, anti-glare screen and the premium pen, the device suffers from ghosting issues. Erased writings leave shadows that linger, affecting readability when transitioning between different functions.
The Kindle Scribe is priced similarly to a tablet, starting at $399.99 for the 16GB model and reaching $449.99 for the 64GB model. In contrast, an 11th generation iPad, with its broader range of capabilities, is available for less. The Kindle Scribe is limited to reading and writing without any multimedia functions.
For individuals focused on annotation and needing a distraction-free reading environment, the Kindle Scribe could be useful. However, due to its limited performance and higher price point, alternatives such as the Kobo Libra Colour or the iPad 11th generation might be more attractive. The Kobo Libra Colour, priced at $229.99, offers more storage, while the iPad provides a wider array of functionalities at $349.99.
