Amazon Kindle Colorsoft is back with a refreshed design, a colourful E Ink display and several small improvements aimed at making reading more enjoyable. However, there is one detail that could make potential buyers think twice: its price.
Amazon has expanded its Kindle lineup with updated versions of the basic Kindle, Paperwhite and Colorsoft. The latest Colorsoft starts at $290, while the higher end Signature Edition costs $320. That puts it firmly in the premium e reader category, particularly when more affordable Kindle models are available for considerably less.
The Signature Edition has been tested over several weeks, revealing a device that improves on its predecessor in a few meaningful ways. It is thinner, lighter and features an edge to edge display, while retaining the colour reading experience that made the original Colorsoft stand out.
However, the improvements are relatively modest. If you already own the first generation Kindle Colorsoft, there may not be enough here to justify spending more money on an upgrade.
For readers considering their first colour Kindle, though, Amazon’s latest offering has plenty to appreciate.
Kindle Colorsoft brings colour to your digital bookshelf
The biggest attraction of the Kindle Colorsoft is undoubtedly its colour display. Unlike conventional Kindle devices that use black and white screens, the Colorsoft allows readers to experience books, illustrations and other content in their original colours.
Amazon has equipped the new model with a 7 inch colour E Ink display. It offers 300ppi resolution for black and white content and 150ppi for colour content.
This makes the device particularly appealing to people who regularly read graphic novels, comics and cookbooks. These types of publications often rely on illustrations and colour details to deliver the complete experience.
Colour also makes highlighting more useful. Instead of relying on a single highlight colour, readers can organise important passages using different shades, making it easier to revisit specific sections later.
However, there is an important limitation.
The colours produced by the Colorsoft are noticeably more muted than those on conventional tablets such as the iPad. Buyers expecting bright, vibrant visuals should adjust their expectations.
E Ink technology prioritises a comfortable reading experience rather than the punchy colours associated with LCD or OLED displays.
Nevertheless, having colour available makes a noticeable difference compared with standard Kindle models. It adds another dimension to digital reading without abandoning the familiar appearance of an electronic book.
Slimmer design, better controls and impressive battery life
Amazon has made several physical improvements to the latest Kindle Colorsoft.
The updated model is thinner and lighter than its predecessor, with an edge to edge display that gives the device a cleaner appearance. Although the design changes are not revolutionary, the slimmer construction makes it comfortable to hold during longer reading sessions.
The Signature Edition also features an aluminium back, available in Graphite and Fig finishes. The premium material gives the device a more refined appearance, and the tested unit reportedly held up well even without regularly using its protective case.
One particularly welcome improvement involves the power button.
On the previous generation, Amazon placed the button at the bottom of the device, close to the charging port. This made it relatively easy to press accidentally while holding the Kindle.
The new model moves the power button to the top right edge. It is a small adjustment, but it makes the controls feel more natural and reduces the chances of accidentally switching off the device.
The reading experience also benefits from relatively infrequent screen refreshes. During testing, there was no noticeable ghosting, where remnants of text from a previous page remain visible after turning to another page.
This is an important detail for E Ink devices, as frequent refreshes and lingering images can interrupt an otherwise comfortable reading experience.
Battery performance is another area where the Colorsoft performs well. Amazon claims that the device can last up to eight weeks on a single charge, although actual battery life will depend on usage.
For comparison, the Kindle Paperwhite is rated for up to 12 weeks.
The Colorsoft also includes adjustable screen warmth, allowing readers to switch to a more yellow toned display when reading at night. Automatic brightness adjustment is available as well, helping the screen adapt to different lighting conditions.
Another practical advantage is water resistance. Readers can use the device around swimming pools or in the bath without worrying about accidental splashes and spills.
Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition features and pricing
Amazon offers the refreshed Colorsoft in two configurations, giving buyers a choice between the standard model and the more expensive Signature Edition.
The standard version comes with 16GB of storage and starts at $290. The Signature Edition doubles the storage capacity to 32GB and costs $320.
The Signature Edition is available in Graphite and Fig, with an aluminium rear panel that contributes to its more premium appearance.
It also supports a magnetic cover with built in page turning buttons. The accessory connects through pogo pins on the back of the device, although the review did not include enough testing with this cover to establish how well the feature works in everyday use.
Here is how the two models compare.
| Feature | Kindle Colorsoft | Signature Edition |
| Starting price | $290 | $320 |
| Storage | 16GB | 32GB |
| Display | 7 inch colour E Ink | 7 inch colour E Ink |
| Black and white resolution | 300ppi | 300ppi |
| Colour resolution | 150ppi | 150ppi |
| Rear finish | Standard finish | Aluminium |
| Colours | Not specified | Graphite and Fig |
Both versions offer the core colour reading experience, so the main differences come down to storage and the Signature Edition’s premium finish.
The biggest concern remains the overall cost.
At $290, the standard Colorsoft is considerably more expensive than Amazon’s regular Kindle options. The Paperwhite starts at $199.99, while the basic Kindle costs $169.99.
That is a substantial difference for a device whose primary purpose is reading books.
For someone who mainly reads conventional novels, the additional expense may be difficult to justify. The standard Kindle and Paperwhite already provide excellent options for reading text without requiring a colour display.
However, people who regularly read comics, illustrated books and graphic novels may find the additional investment more worthwhile.
Final verdict
The refreshed Kindle Colorsoft is a thoughtful improvement rather than a complete reinvention. Its slimmer construction, repositioned power button, comfortable reading experience and colour E Ink display make it an appealing premium e reader.
The long battery life, water resistance and adjustable screen warmth also help make it a practical everyday companion.
However, the expensive starting price makes it difficult to recommend to everyone. Existing Colorsoft owners have little reason to upgrade, while readers who primarily enjoy traditional books can save money by choosing the standard Kindle or Paperwhite.
Ultimately, the Kindle Colorsoft makes the most sense for people who genuinely want colour on their e reader. If that feature is important to your reading habits, Amazon’s latest device is worth considering. Otherwise, the cheaper Kindle models remain perfectly capable alternatives.
Follow TechBSB For More Updates
