Kindle DX Review

Fans of the Kindle in South Africa looking for something extra from their e-reader would do well to seek out the Kindle DX.

The latest generation of the Kindle is at the forefront of the e-book revolution in South Africa - and, priced at $379.00 or R2645.00, it’s not hard to see why it is a ‘must-have’ with those looking for a higher end e-reader.  

The Kindle DX is arguably the most technologically advanced device of its kind available to book lovers in South Africa. And, although bigger does not always necessarily mean better, I found that this e-reader certainly offered a range of features which ensured it stood out from its competitors.

First thing new owners of the Kindle DX will notice is the larger screen size. While the 6” screen offered by other Kindles is more than acceptable for those with smaller purse strings to call on, the 9.7” screen belonging to the DX certainly enhanced my reading experience.

And although slightly heavier as a result, the DX is still easy to hold when digesting your latest favourite novel. I would liken the difference between the sizes to those seen between a hardback and a paperback novel - and for me the additional spaciousness offered by the increased screen size worked a treat.

Elsewhere the Kindle DX also shone - the graphite casing makes for a sleek and classy feel while the e-Ink display also offers an enhanced read – As with other Kindles, reading a book on the DX is nothing like reading from a computer screen as the e-Ink technology ensures the eyes are not forced to endure any additional strain. This was one of my worries before trying the device but thankfully one which has turned out to be a work of fiction rather than having any grounding in reality.

The range of additional features provided by the Kindle DX is also impressive - Battery life with wireless off is up to three weeks - while when on a the device can be used for a week. As with the smaller devices readers can access PDFs while the 3G ensures readers are able to download books at any time.

Growing numbers of readers in South Africa use the Kindle device in favour of purchasing a physical copy of the book - although statistics have yet to be published, it is officially the most popular currently offered by the online retailer. The Kindle DX is certainly one of the best e-readers I’ve experienced. Although arguably not as flexible as the iPad, which is part of the same bracket, the DX certainly outperforms Apple’s device when it comes to the reader experience.

Bottomline: If you are in the market for a high-spec, well sized e-reader, then the Kindle DX cannot be recommended highly enough...