Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Ereader Now Available

Those looking for the latest-generation of ereader from Amazon can now buy it: the online retail giant begun sales of the Kindle Paperwhite. This device has an eInk screen and a built-in light.

Previous eInk-based screens from this company depended on ambient light, so users needed a book light to read. This new model has its own front light. The 6-inch screen has 25% more contrast than the ones in previous Kindle ereaders, as well as a 62% higher resolution, thanks to its 1024 x 768 pixel, 212 pixel-per-inch display.

The device offers more detailed fonts, including seven choices in eight sizes, and a new feature that can calculate a user's reading speed and estimate how long it will take to finish a given chapter or book.

According to Amazon, it boasts an 8-week battery life, even with the light on. The device can hold up to 1,100 books.

Like earlier Kindles, users will be able to access millions of books, newspapers, and magazines from Amazon.

A Range of Options

The Wi-Fi version of the Kindle Paperwhite sells for $120. Adding 3G cellular-wireless data capabilities increases the price to $180. These prices are for the Special Offers models -- the ad-less Wi-Fi and 3G versions cost $140 and $200, respectively.

Amazon is shipping units to those who pre-ordered this product now, and it can be ordered on this company's website. However, orders placed today are not expected to ship until the week of October 22.

Those interested in this ereader might read our review of the rival Barnes & Noble NOOK Simple Touch with GlowLight, which recently had its price cut.