After years of whispers, Amazon finally entered the color e-reader space with the Kindle Colorsoft.
At launch, it promised vibrant covers, better comics, and a premium reading experience — but at $279, is it really worth it in 2025? I spent several weeks testing it against the Kindle Paperwhite and Kobo Libra Colour.
🔥 Cyber Monday Deal: ~$229.99 — down from the usual ~$279.99. A great time if you’re considering a Colorsoft!
Quick Take: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Best For: comic fans, visual learners, Kindle loyalists who want color
Skip If: you’re happy with text-only novels or want a budget e-reader
November Sunday Series: The Reader
Whether you’re shopping for the book lovers in your life—or treating yourself—this month’s collection celebrates everything about the joy of reading. From creating the perfect reading nook to finding thoughtful gifts, each post in this Sunday Series brings cozy inspiration for book lovers.
Featured Posts:
• Creating the Perfect Reading Experience
• Which Kindle Should I Buy in 2025?
• Print vs eBooks: Which Fits Your Reading Life
• The Best Apps to Read Books for Free
• Kindle Colorsoft Review This Post
• Beyond the Shelf: The Ultimate Guide to Gifts for Readers Coming in December
What Makes the Colorsoft Different?
The Colorsoft uses E Ink Kaleido 3 — a color filter over standard e-ink. You still get the comfort of e-ink text, but covers, comics, and magazines now appear in color. It looks closer to a print magazine than ever, though color still isn’t as vivid as an iPad.
Key Specs:
• 7" color E Ink display (300 PPI text, 150 PPI color)
• 32GB storage
• Wireless charging + USB-C
• Waterproof (IPX8)
• Up to ~8 weeks battery life
• Auto-adjusting brightness
The Reading Experience
Covers pop in full color and make browsing feel bookstore-like. Comics and graphic novels are genuinely enjoyable, and study notes benefit from color highlights. Regular novels look the same as on a Paperwhite: crisp black text on a matte screen.
How It Compares in 2025
| Device | Display | Storage | Approx. Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kindle Paperwhite | 6.8” B&W e-ink | 16GB | ≈$180 | Amazon |
| Kobo Libra Colour | 7” Color E Ink | 32GB | ≈$220 | Amazon |
| Kindle Colorsoft | 7” Color E Ink (Kaleido 3) | 32GB | ≈$279 | Amazon |
👍 What Works
- Book covers look vibrant
- Comics & magazines are readable and fun
- Color highlights help with study/notes
- Fast performance, smooth page turns
👎 Limitations
- Colors are muted vs tablets
- Battery life shorter than Paperwhite
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Higher price than many competitors
Any Issues?
At launch, some readers reported a subtle “yellow band” at the bottom of the screen. Amazon says newer units fixed this, but check your device immediately and request a return if you see it.
Which One Should You Buy?
If you mostly read text-only novels: The Paperwhite remains the best value. Check price on Amazon
If you want color e-ink + page-turn buttons + better file support: The Kobo Libra Colour is fantastic for comics and sideloading lovers. Check price on Amazon
If you’re deep in the Kindle ecosystem and want color covers + comics: The Colorsoft is the premium pick — and currently on a deal! 🎉 Check today’s price on Amazon
🔥 Cyber Monday Deal: ~$229.99 (normally ~$279.99) Price at time of writing — may vary
Accessories I Recommend
- Slim Case — adds grip and a more premium feel
- Clip-On Book Light — doubles for print books & e-readers
- Wireless Charging Dock — clean and convenient bedside setup
Final Verdict
The Kindle Colorsoft delivers what many readers have been waiting for — a color Kindle. It’s great for comics, magazines, and cover art, but comes at a premium price and still can’t match tablet vibrancy. If you’re curious and invested in Kindle, it’s worth it. For most readers, the Paperwhite remains the smarter buy.
📊 Quick Poll: Would you switch to a color e-reader?
Tell me in the comments: Yes — take my money! / Maybe, if price drops / Still team Paperwhite
You may also like:
Which Kindle Should I Buy?
Print vs eBooks
Top Free Reading Apps
Creating Your Cozy Reading Space
FAQ
Is the Kindle Colorsoft good for reading in sunlight?
Yes — E Ink still performs beautifully outdoors with no glare.
Can I read Kindle Unlimited on the Colorsoft?
Absolutely — KU books display in color where applicable.
Is the color vibrant enough for comics?
More vibrant than past e-ink, still softer than a tablet — but very readable.
Want more cozy reading guides?
Follow me on Pinterest: @foreverbooklover0290 for tips, cozy recs, and new releases — straight to your feed!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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