Amazon's Kindle Paperwhite has generated so much user demand that the recently launched device has sold out entirely in the U.S., and will be on backorder for 4 to 6 weeks as the company ramps up production.
The entry-level Paperwhite sells for $119, while the 3G enabled version runs $179. Both models feature a 6-inch high contrast front-lit LED screen, 2GB of storage, cloud support, and offer 8 weeks of battery life. The Paperwhite can hold up to 1,100 books, each of which reportedly download in less than 60 seconds with the device's built-in WiFi. Amazon touts that the device "has a matte screen that reflects light like ordinary paper so you can read as easily in bright sunlight as in your living room with no glare."
As for the Paperwhite 3G, the device sees a 0.3 ounce bump in weight, bringing it to 7.8 ounces from 7.5. 3G connectivity requires no investment beyond the original Paperwhite purchase, as Amazon pays for wireless services.
Overall critical reception has been positive.
CNET writes, "Both the Paperwhite and Nook GlowLight are excellent e-readers at $119, but the Paperwhite's light is implemented slightly better and the addition of the higher-resolution screen and capacitive touch technology are other pluses in its favor. Rest assured, Barnes & Noble will eventually add a higher-resolution display to its GlowLight model and tweak the GlowLight for the better."
The site adds, "But for the moment, the Kindle Paperwhite has jumped to the head of the e-reader pack. It may not be perfect, but it's definitely the Kindle a lot of people have been waiting for.
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