Amazon's Kindle Scribe 1 is discounted for Prime Day, priced at $199.

The Amazon Kindle Scribe 1 and the upcoming Kindle Scribe 2 (expected release in 2024 and 2025) share many common features, with the 2024 release being considered a first-generation update rather than a full new generation. While there are some differences, both devices offer an excellent reading and note-taking experience.

Shared Key Features of Kindle Scribe Models

Both the Kindle Scribe 1 and 2 models boast a large 10.2-inch 300 ppi E Ink Carta 1200 screen, providing excellent contrast and low ghosting for a seamless reading experience. Note-taking is made easy with Amazon’s Premium stylus pen, known for its near-zero latency and natural feel.

Other shared features include a range of storage options (16GB, 32GB, and 64GB), up to 12 weeks of battery life, Tungsten and Metallic Jade body colours, and support for note-taking with refinements such as Active Canvas, Extended Margin, and AI-powered notebook features.

Differences Between the Original Scribe and the Updated 2024/2025 Scribe

| Feature/Aspect | Kindle Scribe 1 (Original) | Kindle Scribe 2 (2024/2025 Update) | |------------------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------| | Release Date | 2022 | December 4, 2024 | | Design | Black bezels | Redesigned front with white bezels | | Stylus | Basic stylus (earlier version) | New Premium stylus with color matching and soft rubber eraser; Basic stylus discontinued | | Screen Texture | Standard E Ink glass | Updated glass texture for a more paper-like writing feel | | Software Features | Standard Kindle note-taking | Added Active Canvas, Extended Margin, AI Notebook Tools (reflecting firmware updates for prior model too) | | Price & Bundling | Included basic stylus | Base 16GB now bundles Premium stylus, with a price increase | | User Interface | No Active Canvas or Extended Margin | Supports scrolling margin notes and handwriting overlays on e-books | | Firmware | Earlier firmware, no AI features | Firmware 5.17.2+ supports new software features like AI-generated summaries and improved note management |

Kindle Scribe 2: A Refreshed Experience

The Kindle Scribe 2 model, set to be released in 2024/2025, is essentially a hardware and software refresh of the original Scribe. It enhances pen quality and note-taking features while introducing AI-powered notebook tools and better integration with digital books. The screen remains the same E Ink Carta 1200 technology, but the glass texture update improves the writing experience.

Software features like Active Canvas and Extended Margin improve writing flexibility and note organization. If you prioritize the latest stylus and note-taking software, the updated Scribe 2 is the better choice. However, because many software features were backported via firmware updates, the older Scribe 1 still offers core functionality and may be found at reduced prices depending on retailers.

Pricing and Availability

The Kindle Scribe 1 is currently available for purchase at a low price of $199.99 (basic pen) or $219.99 (premium pen) in the United States. With the release of the Kindle Scribe 2, the price of the Scribe 1 may drop further, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

Key Features of Kindle Scribe 1

The Kindle Scribe 1 offers several unique features, such as the Side Panel, which allows users to write notes in e-books and Word documents. The device is made from recycled aluminum and features USB-C for charging and document transfer, Wi-Fi internet access, and Bluetooth for wireless headphone pairing.

The Side Panel can be opened using a new icon and works in both landscape and portrait modes. A marker is placed on the text when a note is taken, allowing easy navigation. The Kindle Scribe 1 screen is flush with the bezel and protected by a layer of glass. The device has a front-lit display with a color temperature system using a combination of white and amber LED lights.

The Kindle Scribe 1 also offers multiple storage options: 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB variants. It has a 10-inch e-paper screen with a 300 PPI resolution, co-developed by Amazon and E INK. Richer eBook annotations can be created with enhanced typesetting. A canvas can be created by writing on the page or inserting one from the writing toolbar. The Kindle Scribe 1's asymmetrical design, similar to the Kindle Oasis, is designed for easy one-handed use.

[1] Amazon Kindle Scribe 1 product page [2] Kindle Scribe 1 review by The Verge [4] Kindle Scribe 1 review by TechRadar [5] Kindle Scribe 1 review by Wired

Amazon's Kindle Scribe 1 is discounted for Prime Day, priced at $199.