Ever wonder which Amazon Kindle you could cozy up with at the pool? Amazon recently introduced the Kindle Colorsoft, a new, colorful variant of its beloved e-reader, and a new Kindle lineup with an updated Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite, and Kindle Scribe. While many of the fan-favorite features are back in the newest models, we still need clarification on how durable they are in case water is in your future.
Here’s what you need to know about waterproof Kindles and exactly how well they hold up in the splash zone. While you’re at it, make sure to check out the best e-readers too.
Sadly, not all Kindles are created equal. These are the Kindles from the current generation with a waterproof IP rating:
Many companies use IP ratings to communicate just how waterproof their products are. The standard Amazon Kindle and Kindle Scribe don’t have a rating, so we can assume that they aren’t waterproof at all. This makes sense, considering the price jump from the Kindle to the Paperwhite and Colorsoft. The Kindle Scribe’s stylus-savvy features might contribute to how difficult it is to protect it from liquids. It’s worth noting that the Kindle Oasis, which was noticeably absent from the new lineup, also had an IPX8 rating. However, Amazon announced that it would be discontinuing the Oasis after the current generation ages out.
That said, even Kindles with waterproof ratings aren’t exactly invincible.
An IPX8 rating doesn’t mean your Kindle is fully waterproof, as it’s a measure of water-resistance, not full waterproofing. While Amazon designed its Kindles to survive accidental submersion and splashes, they shouldn’t be used underwater and water exposure could still damage them. The Kindle Paperwhite, Kindle Colorsoft, and Kindle Oasis can theoretically last in fresh water for up to 60 minutes and at up to 0.25 meters for three minutes in seawater. However, Amazon suggests quickly drying off your Kindle if it’s exposed to water and making sure to drain any excess liquid from the USB-C port. You should also rinse your Kindle with fresh water if it comes in contact with salt water, chlorinated water, or soapy water to remove unwanted chemicals.
In short, even if it’s meant for reading at the pool, don’t toss it in the water like a beach ball. It’s waterproof, but pretend it isn’t.
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