Advertisement
Yahoo Canada is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

Amazon's new Kindle e-reader has arrived ahead of the holidays, and I tried it first

Amazon's new Kindle Scribe is available to shop now. Images via Amazon.
Amazon's new Kindle Scribe is available to shop now. Images via Amazon.

It can sometimes be tricky to find the perfect holiday gift idea for your loved ones, especially if they're the kind of person who already "has everything."

Luckily, if you're searching for a gift for the avid reader in your life, Amazon's newest Kindle device could be just the thing to win them over this holiday season. The new Kindle Scribe was just released, and it's the first-ever Kindle designed for both reading and writing.

I had a chance to put the device to the test ahead of its launch, so keep reading for all my thoughts on Amazon's newest e-reader.

Kindle Scribe

Kindle Scribe. Image via Amazon.
Kindle Scribe. Image via Amazon.

From $430 at Amazon

The details

Amazon's newest Kindle device is an updated take on their classic e-reader, with a range of new features that make it even more functional. The biggest draw is that this e-reader comes with your choice of a basic or premium pen stylus, transforming it from just an e-reader into a digital notebook, too.

You can handwrite your thoughts on "sticky notes" in your favourite books, and use the e-reader's blank pages to create organized notebooks, journals and lists. You can also download, review and mark up PDF files in Microsoft Word and other compatible documents to provide feedback on the go. Once you're done, sync them to your Amazon Kindle app to easily organize them.

First impressions

Coming from someone who had previously used a Kobo e-reader, the biggest difference when using the new Kindle Scribe is its sheer size. That said, it still manages to be a lightweight device that's comfortable to hold.

For those who are familiar with Kindle e-readers, you'll be happy to note that this new model easily connects to your previous library. The large screen is convenient for both reading books and making notes, and the dimmable backlight is a welcome addition for reading at night.

Using my Kindle Scribe for reading and taking notes.
Using my Kindle Scribe for reading and taking notes.

When using the Scribe's included pen, I was pleasantly surprised by how much it feels like actually writing on paper. You can even customize the thickness of the marks, use it as an eraser, and highlight passages as you read.

It did take a bit of getting used to switching between the notebook and the reader modes, but it quickly became second nature the more I used the Kindle Scribe.

The pros

One of the biggest pros to this device is the ability to create your own handwritten notes — whether that's jotting down a to-do list, leaving digital sticky notes in your favourite book passages or even just doodling. You can also easily share your notes directly through email when you need to provide quick feedback on documents or presentations.

In my opinion, the large screen size also makes it feel more like reading from an actual book than other e-readers I've used in the past.

Use the Kindle Scribe for reading and taking notes. Image via Amazon.
Use the Kindle Scribe for reading and taking notes. Image via Amazon.

From $430 at Amazon

The cons

I'll be honest, the price on the Kindle Scribe is pretty steep, so I wouldn't necessarily recommend this device to someone who has never used an e-reader before. Instead, I think it's better suited to someone who has used a Kindle device in the past and is already a fan, but may be looking for an upgrade to a newer model with more capabilities.

This device is also not compatible with public library digital downloads, as you can only download Kindle editions of books directly. It's less of a problem for those who don't mind purchasing their books, but the costs do add up if you're a quick reader.

Final thoughts

If you or someone on your holiday shopping list is in the market for a new e-reader, the new Kindle Scribe could be the way to go. It's a versatile device that doubles as an e-reader and a digital notebook, and is sure to become an instant hit this holiday season.

But due to its price tag that starts at $430, I'd recommend splurging on this device only if you're already a fan of the Kindle who's looking for a bigger and more powerful upgrade.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.