Ever since its launch, Amazon's Kindle line has been setting standards for eBook readers with clear, crisp displays and backed with an immense collection of books, audio books, and other content. The latest iteration of the line, Kindle 3, comes in two variants: a Wi-Fi only version, and a 3G version. So which Kindle is best for you? It is basically Kindle Wi-Fi vs 3G, the better model is going to be your final choice.
Let's take a look at the hardware specs first while considering Kindle Wi-Fi vs. 3G. Both Kindles share the exact same specs, except the inclusion of an EVDO/CDMA modem in the 3G one.
Both devices come with ARM-11 CPUs; which might seem underpowered at 532MHz, but is fully optimized to give you the best performance possible. Combined with 256MB of RAM and very light and quick Linux-based operating system, it's definitely one of the smoothest digital readers in the market right now.
Both offer enough storage for up to 3,500 books, which combined with Amazon's online sync and archive feature, Whispersync, ensure that you never run out of space. They both come with the usual collection of ports, jacks, and adapters; a USB 2.0 port for PC connections, a 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack, and built-in stereo speakers.
Perhaps one of the most important parts of these devices is the display. Both versions come with a 6-inch E Ink Pearl Display with a native resolution of 600x800 pixels. Combined with dark, sharp fonts, this ensures a glare-free reading experience, even in bright sunlight.
Both devices also come with 1750 mAh batteries that offer up to two months of use with a single charge, provided you keep the wireless adapter and modem off. The screen plays a significant role in improving their battery life. Through their E Ink technology, Amazon has lowered power consumption quite a bit, and the slower ARM-11 processor helps a lot too.
When analyzing Kindle Wi-Fi vs 3G, you will get to know that both variants come with Wi-Fi adapters, with one carrying an added 3G, EVDO/CDMA modem. This makes it really easy to stay connected to Amazon's servers wherever you go. The modem connects to Amazon's Whispernet 3G networks free of cost, letting you manage your account, download new content and synchronize your reading progress, bookmarks, and even archive your old books.
Whispernet is Amazon's 3G network that only works with Kindle devices and gives you access to their collection of over a million books and audio books. The best bit is that you don't have to pay any subscription or connectivity charges for 3G network access. Another key Amazon feature is Whispersync. It lets you synchronize your reading progress, bookmarks, notes, and tags with all your Kindle devices. You can also archive your old content on your Kindle library on Amazon's network to free up space on your Kindle device.
Having access to over 1 million books including best-selling titles, over 1.8 million out-of-copyright titles, thousands of free samples and book previews, and over 50,000 audio books is definitely a plus! Users can even lend select books to other Kindle or Kindle app users now.
You can get the Wi-Fi-only Kindle for $139, while you have to pay an additional $50 for the 3G variant ($189). The Kindle Wi-Fi vs 3G debate is entirely dependent on your usage. If you plan to use it where you know you have wireless access, such as at some public places, restaurants or cafes, or at home, then you can opt for the Wi-Fi version. If you commute a lot, or spend a lot of time in suburban areas where Wi-Fi hotspots are a bit scarce, then you can opt for the 3G version and stay connected all the time, provided you fall in their coverage zone. You can view Amazon's Whispernet coverage map to see whether you can access the network from your area. Kindle Wi-Fi vs 3G will enable you to come up with a better decision.
Jill Fox is a writer who specialises in sports and outdoor activities, and personal tech products. You can check out her latest website at Kindle 3g vs Wi-Fi where she provides unbiased reviews and buying advice for this latest personal tech craze, including information on Kindle Wi-Fi vs 3G and much much more.
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