Amazon's latest base Kindle arrives in two versions: a plastic model and a new aluminum one. The aluminum version, priced at $190, is the first to ship from the company's refreshed lineup. WIRED's review gives it a 7/10, calling it beautiful but expensive, and notes that the main appeal is the body itself, available in Seaglass Green and Alpine Sky.
The review argues that the aluminum model does not justify its price on features alone. It offers the same 6-inch screen as the plastic version, plus double the storage and an ad-free experience, but it skips the warm light and auto-adjusting front light found on the more expensive Signature Editions. The aluminum back also adds weight, making the device feel noticeably heavier despite a small actual difference on a scale.
What may matter more to Amazon is the upgrade cycle. For years, Kindles came in basic colors, giving owners little reason to replace a working device. By adding distinctive colors and a premium material, Amazon appears to be borrowing a tactic from Apple's iPhone playbook, encouraging frequent upgrades for aesthetic reasons. WIRED's reviewer notes that the color alone has drawn interest from fellow readers, but concludes that for most existing Kindle owners, the new model is not a necessary purchase. The business bet is that enough buyers will want the look, even if the functionality has barely changed.