How Long You Can Expect Your Kindle To Last – According To Users

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It's hard to beat the experience of curling up with a good book, be it physical or your Kindle, but e-readers offer some perks that paper books can't match. You can store thousands of books on one device, making them a great space-saving solution, and users can easily adjust the font size and screen brightness to suit their specific needs. You can also toss your e-reader in your everyday bag and bring your entire library with you wherever you go.

There are several e-reader options, from the basic Amazon Kindle to the lesser-known but well-rated Kobo Libra Colour. Amazon's e-reader, which comes in several different models, is the most popular option out there, with the Kindle Paperwhite consistently cited as a top choice. If you've had your Kindle for a while or you're mulling over upgrading or purchasing your first model, you may wonder how long you can expect your Kindle to last. We live in an era of perceived obsolescence, constantly upgrading our phones to the next great option, but often doing so before that original device fails. So it may be a relief to know that it's a safe bet your Kindle will be around longer than your smartphone, and definitely longer than your current reading obsession.

According to Reddit users, many Kindle owners keep the same device for several years, with some citing five or even ten years of use. Users in this Amazon forum reported similar stories, with many readers using the same device for several years or more.

With potentially years of reading ahead of you, what can you expect when it comes to Kindle warranties and common repair needs? The basic Amazon Kindle costs $109.99 at time of writing, with the Kindle Paperwhite coming in at $159.99. That's hundreds of dollars less than your typical smartphone and is a sound investment if you plan to keep it for several years or more. Both models have a one-year limited warranty that covers the device "against defects in materials and workmanship under ordinary consumer use." Buyers in the U.S. also have the option to purchase additional extended warranties.

No gadget is perfect, and Kindle users do report a few glitches and bugs now and then, including screen freezes, books not downloading properly, and rapid battery drain. Just like other electronics, such as your phone or table, they're also vulnerable to damage if you drop them or place something heavy on top of them. Some of these issues may be solved with a reset or software update, but others, like a cracked screen, could be pricy.

If you're thinking of upgrading simply for new features, you should carefully consider how the models have evolved and whether it's worth the cost. The current Kindle Paperwhite has a slightly larger screen than older models — 7 inches compared to 6.8 inches — but the display tech is the same. If you find that your current model lags, however, you may want to explore an upgrade. The new Paperwhite boasts faster and more seamless page turns than the prior model.