As a writer, I spend a significant amount of time reading, primarily tech news. However, I still enjoy settling down with a good book. I use a basic Kindle for casual reading, but often find myself wanting to highlight passages, jot down notes, or simply write on paper. That’s where the Kindle Scribe (2024) shines. This large-format Kindle is not just an e-reader, but a digital notebook as well. Building on its 2022 predecessor, the 2024 Scribe adds several new features. Is it worth it? Absolutely. In fact, it’s remarkably impressive.
Kindle Scribe idle screen.
Design and Hardware: A Premium Feel
The Kindle Scribe (2024) largely resembles its predecessor, but with refinements inspired by paper notebooks to enhance the writing experience. The Scribe maintains a sleek, minimalist design, crafted from recycled aluminum. This gives it a cool-to-the-touch feel, which can be less appealing in colder weather. The back features rubberized corners and the Amazon logo. These corners prevent scratches and keep the device stable while writing. The new Metallic Jade color is stunning, though limited to the 64GB model.
The back of a Metallic Jade Kindle Scribe.
The left edge houses the power button and USB-C port, while the right edge features magnets for the Premium Pen, similar to the iPad and Apple Pencil. A key design improvement is the flush-front display with uniform white bezels, resembling a traditional notebook. Unlike the previous model, the 2024 Scribe only includes the Premium Pen, contributing to its slightly higher price. The included Premium Pen is a joy to use, crafted from aluminum to match the Scribe. The flat edge makes the shortcut button easier to access, and the eraser tip is incredibly convenient.
Display: Crisp and Clear
Main screen on a Kindle Scribe.
The Kindle Scribe boasts a 10.2-inch, glare-free e-ink display with a 300ppi resolution. The adjustable front light, reaching up to 94 nits, provides comfortable reading in various lighting conditions. Despite its size, the display remains sharp and crisp, making text and images clear and easy to view. The adjustable front light is a valuable feature, offering customizable warmth and brightness. The larger screen also reduces page turns, enhancing the reading experience.
Performance and User Interface: Seamless Integration
Handwritten notes using different pens on a Kindle Scribe.
The Kindle Scribe’s interface is familiar to any Kindle user, with additions for note-taking. Access the Kindle Store, your library, and the new Notebooks section. Reading is a seamless experience, with customizable font, layout, and other options. The Premium Pen tools menu, located beside the text, provides quick access to pen, highlighter, eraser, lasso, selection, undo/redo, and note options. While notes are confined to designated spaces, the digital notebook functionality is outstanding.
Amazon Kindle Scribe in Metallic Jade showing a text note in a book.
Create individual sheets or notebooks (folders), with customizable templates like college-ruled, grid, and planner layouts. The Premium Pen offers pressure sensitivity, allowing for varied ink thickness. The eraser tip provides effortless correction. Writing on the Scribe feels natural and responsive.
Refined notes on a Kindle Scribe.
The 2024 Scribe introduces helpful AI features, including note summarization and handwriting refinement for improved readability.
Battery Life and Charging: Impressive Endurance
Amazon Kindle Scribe in Metallic Jade showing side button, charging port, and pen button.
The Kindle Scribe boasts up to 12 weeks of battery life, depending on usage. Charging via USB-C takes approximately 2.5 hours with a 9W adapter, or seven hours via a computer.
Price and Availability: Worth the Investment
Amazon Kindle Scribe in Metallic Jade, showing writing on a page.
The Kindle Scribe (2024) is available from Amazon, Best Buy, and Target, starting at $400 for the 16GB model. The 32GB and 64GB versions are priced at $420 and $450, respectively. The Metallic Jade color is exclusive to the 64GB model. The 2022 Kindle Scribe remains available for those seeking a more budget-friendly option. For those prioritizing note-taking and color, the Remarkable Paper Pro is an alternative, albeit more expensive.
Verdict: A Powerful Combination
Amazon Kindle Scribe in Metallic Jade.
The Kindle Scribe (2024) seamlessly blends reading and writing. Its large, lightweight design is perfect for annotating books, taking notes, and even doodling. The intuitive interface, responsive pen, and helpful AI features make it a compelling device for students, professionals, and avid readers. While a few improvements are still desirable, the Kindle Scribe (2024) is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a powerful e-reader and digital notebook in one.
