Which Kindle to Buy?

Before we start with the review, we need to explain some terminology. It's nothing complicated and it doesn't require much knowledge about computers and internet. Let's start:

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi in this context is a Wireless Internet Connection. A wireless network uses radio waves, just like cell phones, televisions and radios do. In fact, communication across a wireless network is a lot like two-way radio communication. When we say "Wi-Fi Kindle", we mean that the Kindle is able to connect and use a Wireless Internet Connection (a Wi-Fi network). All Kindles can use Wi-Fi networks. 


What is 3G?

3G in this context is also a wireless internet connection. However, 3G is the third generation of wireless technologies. It comes with enhancements over previous wireless technologies. It is not necessarily faster or better than Wi-Fi!


What is the difference between a Kindle Wi-Fi only and a 3G + Wi-Fi?

It is important to remember in this comparison that you will always be able to read the books you already have in your Kindle, even without a Wi-Fi or 3G connection. You don't need an Internet connection (Wi-Fi or 3G) to read what you already have in your device. 

Now, in very simple terms, Wi-Fi only Kindles need a Wi-Fi connection to access the Internet and the 3G Kindles have their "own free internet connection". It is not technically right but for all practical purposes it is exactly like that. And yes, it's free, no monthly plans, nothing to sign up.

Still unsure? Let us explain with an example. 

There are basically 3 ways you can put books in your Kindle

1) Download the book to your computer and load it to the Kindle via USB cable

This can be done with any Kindle.

2) Download books through your Kindle using a Wi-Fi (Wireless) connection, when you are at your house or in a place with free internet (like McDonald's or a Cafe).

This can be done with any Kindle.

3) Download books through your Kindle with "it's own internet connection", the 3G connection. The 3G Kindles have free internet connection built into the device.

This can be done only with 3G Kindles:

Note that the Kindle Fire is not a 3G Kindle.

Again, the internet connection of the 3G is FREE. There are no monthly fees, no trial period, no contracts, no Optus, no Telstra, no Vodafone. Free. 


General recommendations

Seniors, want the biggest screen possible (easier on the eyes) with a simple to use 3G + Wi-Fi connection:
 Since the Kindle DX has been discontinued, we recommend either the Kindle Touch 3G or the Kindle Paperwhite 3G. Font-size can be adjusted in all Kindles.

Want to read books, watch videos, play music, browse the web, read in colours:
Buy the Kindle Fire, 2nd Generation or the Kindle Fire HD 7" 16GB

I'm going on a trip and I don't know which books I'm going to read or I want to be able to get new books wherever I am
Buy a 3G Kindle like the Kindle Touch 3G or the Kindle Paperwhite 3G

I'm going on a trip and I have a few books in mind that I'll purchase before going. I won't need 3G.
Buy a WiFi only Kindle: Kindle 5, Black, Kindle 5, Graphite, Kindle Fire, 2nd Generation, Kindle Fire HD 7" or Kindle Paperwhite WiFi.

I like to take notes while I'm reading.
We recommend the following ones, in order:
- Kindle Fire, 2nd Generation, Kindle Fire HD 7", for the fast processor, makes it easy and fast to type.
- Kindle Keyboard (Graphite or White), for the keyboard.
- Kindle Paperwhite WiFi or Kindle Paperwhite 3G, for it's faster processor and touch screen.


Which Kindle do you recommend? 

Do you need a device that allows you to watch videos, comfortably browse the web and play music (*) use apps and also read books with colours?

We recommend the Kindle Fire, 2nd Generation or the Kindle Fire HD 7" . Although you can browse the web with all Kindles (if you have internet connection), the experience is much better with the Kindle Fire. Also, graphics are displayed in gray scale in the other Kindles, the Kindle Fire is the only one that display colours.

Do you need a 3G Kindle?

If you're going to stay away from the computer, want to download books anywhere you go, don't have access to a Wi-Fi network or simply can't be bothered with Wi-Fi networks or USB cables, then get a Kindle with 3G like:

If you have a few books you plan on reading during you trip and you don't anticipate having to purchase more books while you're there, you can get a Wi-Fi only Kindle:


What about audio, music and text-to-speech ("read-to-me" feature)?

The only Kindles that do not have those features are: