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You may have wondered how the Kindle works. We explain the features of the reader and how you can always have your favorite books at your fingertips.
How does the Kindle work?
The Kindle from Amazon is one of the most popular e-book readers on the market—and for good reason.
- A Kindle is an e-book reader that allows you to read digital books—without paper, but with the feel of a real book.
- It uses an energy-saving E-Ink display that is easy on the eyes and remains easy to read even in direct sunlight.
- Purchased e-books are automatically stored in your Amazon cloud and can be downloaded to the device at any time – via Wi-Fi, without any cables.
- After switching on, select your language, connect the Kindle to Wi-Fi, and log in with your Amazon account. Your e-books will then be available immediately – and can even be synchronized with other devices such as your smartphone or tablet if you wish.
Set up your Kindle and get started
The Amazon Kindle is quick and easy to set up.
- After switching on, first select the operating language and connect the device to a Wi-Fi network.
- Then log in with your Amazon account or set up a new account. If you wish, you can also use your Kindle without Amazon.
- After logging in, the introductory mode starts. You will get an overview of all the Kindle’s features.
- The books you have purchased through your Amazon account are stored in the cloud and can now be downloaded to the Kindle.
E-books for the Kindle are available here
There are several ways to purchase new e-books.
- Directly from Amazon: The Kindle is directly connected to the Kindle Store. Here you will find millions of e-books, including free classics.
- Amazon Kindle Unlimited: This is a subscription model for around $11.99 per month with access to over a million e-books.
- Alternative sources: E-books from other stores can also be used, provided they are in MOBI or AZW format. The free Calibre software can be used to convert compatible formats and transfer them to the Kindle via USB.
Overview of different Kindle models
Amazon offers various Kindle models with different features and price ranges. All devices use energy-saving E-Ink technology and are optimized for reading digital books.
- Kindle Paperwhite (2024, 12th generation): Modern mid-range reader with a 7-inch display, 300 ppi, front lighting with adjustable color temperature, and USB-C port. The device is waterproof according to IPX8, offers 16 GB of storage, and supports Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz) and Bluetooth for audiobooks. It is particularly suitable if you read a lot and value a larger, eye-friendly display.
- Kindle (2022, 11th generation): Compact entry-level model with a 6-inch display, 300 ppi, front lighting, and USB-C port. It is suitable if you are a casual reader.
- Kindle Paperwhite (2021): It has a larger 6.8-inch display, 10 weeks of battery life, and adjustable color temperature. Perfect for avid readers.
- Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition: Like the Paperwhite, but with wireless charging and automatic brightness adjustment.
