Disclaimer: This is a general review about the Kindle device and a few useful tips for new users/buyers. I do not own this version (mine is Kindle 3.3 with keyboard)
5 stars for Kindle E-Reader and 1 star for Amazon's After Sales Policy!
Great experience as long as I used it:
I received this wonderful e-reader as a gift back in 2011. This version comes with a keyboard that's a little difficult to use. But it has buttons on the side for turning pages and it is not touchscreen. It also had the option for listening to songs. Even though I used it regularly for the first month or so, I couldn't make it a habit of using the Kindle more often. I have only sparingly used it in the years since then. During these five years, I haven't had any issues with the screen, buttons, charging or anything else. I downloaded .mobi format classics from Project Gutenberg and enjoy them.
After Battery gets damaged:
Last week, I took my Kindle from the case where I'd stored it, hoping to transfer some books over and read as I got some free time. I immediately noticed that something was wrong. The back unit looked unusually bulgy. When I opened it, the battery was a little swollen and it also looked like something had leaked out. I must point out that I had not charged the device for a few months prior to that. I do not know why this happened. It has never fallen down or been mishandled in any way.
Amazon's sad after-sales policy for Kindle:
I got in touch with customer service and was directed to speak to someone in Amazon.com as this device is originally from USA. I didn't have much expectations as my Kindle was more than 5 years old. However, I was hoping that it would be possible to replace the battery. That's a simple solution, right? Turns out that they don't sell batteries for Kindle. You have to buy a new one. If it's under a year, they'll probably give you a free replacement. But otherwise, 10 percent off on the price of the Kindle. I said that was too less and the guy offered me a $15 coupon instead (which would work out to 20% off in the basic model that is priced at $79.
Anyway, I found a lot of questions from users and thought I'd offer some information and tips for prospective buyers and new users:
1. Register your Kindle: If you do not have an Amazon account, create one and register your Kindle as soon as you can. This will be very useful if and when your kindle encounters any problem. The customer service executive will be able to automatically check the serial number, date of purchase and other details when you get in touch.
2. Buy a cover/case for your Kindle: Even if you think it's a little pricey, get it because you'll be able to carry your Kindle about without any hassles.
3. Charge with your smartphone charger as most models are compatible with Kindle. Mine (Lenovo K4 Vibe Note's charger works fine)
4. Add books to your Kindle: If you buy Kindle ebooks, it'll automatically appear in your Kindle. If you plan to download free Kindle books, here's what you can do: Create a folder in your PC. Find Project Gutenberg, Internet Archive and such sites that offer classics and other books in different subjects free of cost in different formats. Choose .mobi format, download and save it in the folder in your PC/laptop. Then connect your Kindle to your PC, copy the books from the folder and paste them in the Books folder in the Kindle that is present by default. There is another feature called BookDrop (offered by Dropbox) that can be synced to your kindle. Every time you drop a book there, it'll automatically show up on Kindle.
5. Convert PDFs you wish to read: I have read ebooks in PDF and it's a real pain because the formatting is affected. The text size will usually be too small and the formatting goes bad sometimes. If there are pictures, they won't get displayed properly. To avoid all these problems, convert PDFs or EPUB books to MOBI format easily with the help of online conversion tools and then copy it to your Kindle.
6. Get a screen protector for preventing scratches.
7. Use your Kindle regularly: I made the mistake of keeping it unused for months in stretch. It might have contributed to the battery issue. Charge it fully once in 3 weeks or so.
8. Keep your Kindle updated: As far as I know, Kindle gets regular updates and it is necessary to connect it to Wi-Fi occasionally so that it can update to the current version. This is necessary for it to function smoothly.
9. Look out for good offers before you buy: As far as I saw, the Kindle is given a discount of INR 1000 sometimes during the festive sales. Wait and buy during those times to save some money.
10. Download kindle App for free if you have a tablet: If you are an occasional reader and already have a tablet, download the Kindle app to enjoy the e-books without having to purchase this. The major difference is in the screen - the Kindle screen is a solid, black and white one unlike the glass screen in tablets and smartphones.
11. Take screenshots: I read somewhere that you can take a screenshot of a page on Kindle Paperwhite by pressing the bottom left and top right corner of the reading screen simultaneously. The page is saved as an image that can be retrieved by connecting the Kindle to the PC.
12. Correct a frozen screen: If your screen freezes, slide and hold the power button for about 40 seconds and then release it. This will start up the screen again.
13. Check the battery occasionally: Just to be sure, you can open the back case and check the battery to check if there are no leaks or swelling. This will be particularly useful if the product is still under the warranty period to be eligible for free replacement.
14. As far as I can see, this is a robust device that can last for some years with good care. If your Kindle does have any problems and it's over a year, get in touch with customer service. You'll get 10 percent off coupon for a new Kindle (possibly more if you try requesting) that'll be valid for a year at least. If you seriously wish to buy another one, you can wait until it is offered at a good discount and then combine your coupon for a better price. Another thing is not to replace with third-party seller batteries as I've heard from a friend that it didn't last even for a few months after changing.
I don't think I have to add anything else - many other reviews here offer much more detailed information that you can refer to!
Message to Amazon:
Please don't make us buy a new Kindle for a battery malfunction or similar issues. Either offer at least a 3 year warranty or provide the option for buying authentic Kindle battery. Even if a battery is priced at INR 1000 - 1500, it's still much better than buying a new e-reader. You'll find that this simple step will enhance sales and increase lifetime of a Kindle and make people buy a Kindle without worries.
Books
10 Days Returnable
You can return if you receive a damaged, defective or incorrect product.
Used Books
10 Days, Refund
Returnable if you’ve received the product in a condition that is damaged, defective or different from its description on the product detail page on Amazon.in.
Refunds will be issued only if it is determined that the item was not damaged while in your possession, or is not different from what was shipped to you.
