The Kindle Personality Test You Didn’t Know You Needed
Which Kindle is right for you? Start here.
I didn’t set out to own opinions about Kindles. I just wanted to read without carrying a book the size of a brick in my bag. And yet—here we are. Because choosing a Kindle is not a purchase. It’s a quiet self-assessment. Let me explain.
The Kindle (Classic):
“I Just Want to Read, Susan.” This is the minimalist. The “I don’t need bells, whistles, or emotional support lighting” Kindle.
Who it’s for:
You read because you like reading, not because BookTok told you to
You appreciate a device that does exactly one thing and does it well
You secretly judge people who highlight entire paragraphs
Benefits:
Lightweight
Affordable
No distractions
Battery life measured in eras, not hours
Story moment:
You’re at the airport. Everyone is frantically charging phones. You? Calm. Serene. On chapter 14. Your Kindle hasn’t been charged since the previous administration (I kid. I kid.).
“I Read… but Make It Comfortable.” This is the Kindle for people who have evolved. Not dramatically. Just… ergonomically.
Who it’s for:
Night readers who whisper “just one more chapter” at 11:47 PM
People who want waterproof just in case (bath readers, we see you)
Anyone who appreciates warm lighting like it’s a lifestyle choice
Benefits:
Adjustable warm light
Waterproof
Bigger, crisper screen
Still distraction-free, but slightly smug about it
Story moment:
You’re reading in bed. The lights are off. Your Paperwhite glows softly like a tiny literary candle. Your phone? Face-down. Judged. Ignored.
“Yes, It’s for a Child. Also for Me.” Officially, this is for kids. Unofficially? It’s for adults who like:
Covers
Longer warranties
The audacity of getting more for less
Who it’s for:
Parents who want kids to read instead of ask for snacks
Adults who love a whimsical cover and zero shame
Anyone who enjoys loopholes
Benefits:
Kid-friendly case included
No ads
Excellent parental controls (also great for self-control)
Surprisingly durable (emotionally and physically)
Story moment:
Someone says, “Isn’t that a kids’ Kindle?” You say, “Yes.” And then continue reading your third thriller of the week in peace.
“I Have Thoughts About My Reading.” This is not a Kindle. This is a commitment.
Who it’s for:
Note-takers
Journalers
People who underline AND annotate AND reflect
Anyone who’s ever said, “I should write this down”
Benefits:
Large screen
Write directly on the page
Journals, planners, notes—all in one place
Makes you feel like a Serious Person™
Story moment:
You’re reading nonfiction. You pause. You underline. You write a note in the margin that says, “This explains everything.” You nod. Profoundly.
“I Want Pretty AND Practical.” The newest personality in the group. This Kindle said, “What if e-ink… but with vibes?”
Who it’s for:
Readers who like visual organization
Highlighters with intent
Graphic novel, cookbook, and reference-book lovers
Benefits:
Color covers and highlights
Still easy on the eyes
Makes your library look alive
Adds just enough flair without becoming a tablet
Story moment:
You scroll through your library. The covers pop. Your highlights are color-coded. You feel deeply put together—even if your life is not.
So… Which Kindle Are You?
Here’s the truth: No Kindle is better than another. And I’m not going to lie, I have 2.
They’re just different reading personalities:
Classic Kindle: Low drama. High pages.
Paperwhite: Comfort is a lifestyle.
Kids: Rules are suggestions.
Scribe: Thoughts will be documented.
Colorsoft: Reading, but aesthetically.
And whichever one you choose, the story always ends the same way:
You. Curled up somewhere cozy. Ignoring the world. Reading one more chapter. Because no matter the Kindle, the best one is the one that keeps you reading.
Transparency moment: Some of the words here were helped along by AI (teamwork!), and some links are affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the reading lights on and the Kindle charged.