As the successor to the highly acclaimed Kindle Oasis 3, the Kindle Oasis 4 builds on its predecessors’ strengths while introducing subtle yet impactful improvements.
In this comprehensive review, 123 Review will dive deep into every aspect of the Kindle Oasis 4, from its design and display to its performance, battery life, and more. Whether you’re a long-time Kindle user or contemplating your first foray into e-readers, this detailed analysis will help you determine if the Kindle Oasis 4 is worth your investment.
Design and Build Quality
Ergonomic Features
The Kindle Oasis 4 upholds Amazon’s tradition of prioritizing ergonomic design, ensuring that readers can enjoy their favorite books comfortably for hours on end. The device features a distinctive asymmetrical design that sets it apart from other e-readers. On one side, it has a thicker grip area that houses the battery, while the opposite side tapers to a sleek, thin edge. This design is not only visually striking but also highly functional. The thicker side allows for a secure and comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue, especially during extended reading sessions. The design is particularly effective for one-handed reading, as the device feels balanced and easy to hold, regardless of whether you’re using your left or right hand.
The physical page-turn buttons are strategically placed on the thicker side of the device, allowing users to turn pages effortlessly without needing to swipe or tap the screen. This tactile feedback is a significant advantage for those who prefer physical controls over touch-based inputs, offering a more traditional book-like experience. Additionally, the device can automatically rotate the screen based on how it’s held, ensuring that the page-turn buttons are always on the correct side, regardless of orientation.
Portability and Weight
One of the standout features of the Kindle Oasis 4 is its impressive portability. Weighing in at just 188 grams, it is remarkably light, making it easy to carry wherever you go. Despite its larger screen size, the Oasis 4 maintains a slim and sleek profile, allowing it to easily slip into a bag, purse, or even a large pocket. This lightweight design ensures that the device is never a burden, whether you’re reading at home, during your commute, or while traveling. The Kindle Oasis 4 is designed to be your constant reading companion, offering the perfect balance between portability and usability.
The Kindle Oasis 4’s portability is complemented by its robust build quality. Despite its lightweight design, the device feels solid and well-constructed, with no signs of creaking or flexing when handled. This sturdy build ensures that the Oasis 4 can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable choice for readers who are always on the move.
Material and Durability
Amazon has spared no expense when it comes to the materials used in the Kindle Oasis 4. The device features a high-quality aluminum back that not only adds to its premium feel but also contributes to its overall durability. The aluminum is both lightweight and strong, providing a solid foundation for the device. The front of the Kindle Oasis 4 is covered by a durable glass screen that is resistant to scratches and minor impacts, ensuring that the display remains pristine even after prolonged use.
In addition to its sturdy build, the Kindle Oasis 4 is also designed to withstand various environmental conditions. It is IPX8-rated, which means it can be submerged in up to two meters of freshwater for up to 60 minutes without sustaining damage. This waterproof feature makes the Kindle Oasis 4 ideal for reading by the pool, at the beach, or in the bath without worrying about accidental splashes or drops. The combination of high-quality materials and waterproofing ensures that the Kindle Oasis 4 is not only a pleasure to use but also built to last.
Display and Reading Experience
Screen Size and Resolution
The display is arguably the most important aspect of any e-reader, and the Kindle Oasis 4 does not disappoint. The device is equipped with a 7-inch E Ink Carta display, which offers a larger reading area compared to the 6-inch display found on the Kindle Paperwhite. This increased screen size allows for more text to be displayed on each page, reducing the need for frequent page turns, which is particularly beneficial for readers who prefer larger fonts or have longer reading sessions.
The screen boasts a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (PPI), ensuring that text is rendered with exceptional clarity and sharpness. Whether you’re reading a dense novel, a detailed graphic novel, or a PDF document, the high resolution guarantees that every letter, image, and detail is crisp and easy to read. The Kindle Oasis 4’s display closely mimics the appearance of printed paper, providing a reading experience that is both immersive and comfortable for the eyes. The E Ink technology also ensures that there is no glare, even in bright sunlight, making it an excellent choice for outdoor reading.
Lighting and Adjustable Brightness
One of the most notable features of the Kindle Oasis 4 is its adaptive front light. The device is equipped with 25 LEDs that provide even and consistent illumination across the entire screen. This ensures that there are no dark spots or uneven lighting, regardless of the environment in which you’re reading. Whether you’re reading in bright sunlight or complete darkness, the Kindle Oasis 4’s front light can be adjusted to provide the perfect level of brightness for your comfort.
In addition to its impressive brightness levels, the Kindle Oasis 4 also features an adjustable warm light. This feature allows you to change the screen’s hue from a cool white to a warm amber tone, which is particularly beneficial for reading at night. The warm light reduces blue light exposure, which can interfere with sleep patterns, making it easier to wind down before bed. The ability to customize the screen’s warmth ensures that you can create a comfortable reading environment at any time of day.
The Kindle Oasis 4 also includes an automatic light adjustment feature that uses an ambient light sensor to detect changes in your surroundings and adjust the screen brightness accordingly. This ensures that you always have the optimal brightness level, whether you move from a bright room to a dimly lit space or step outside on a sunny day. The combination of adjustable brightness and warm light makes the Kindle Oasis 4 a versatile device that caters to your reading preferences in any environment.
Page Turn Buttons vs. Touchscreen
The Kindle Oasis 4 offers users the best of both worlds when it comes to navigation: physical page-turn buttons and a responsive touchscreen. The physical buttons are located on the thicker side of the device, providing easy access for your thumb when holding the Kindle with one hand. These buttons offer a satisfying tactile click, making it easy to turn pages without shifting your grip or tapping the screen. This feature is particularly useful for readers who prefer a more traditional book-like experience or for those who find touchscreens less intuitive.
For users who prefer touch-based controls, the Kindle Oasis 4’s touchscreen is highly responsive and accurate. The E Ink display’s touch sensitivity has been fine-tuned to minimize accidental swipes or taps, ensuring that your reading experience is uninterrupted. The touchscreen makes it easy to navigate menus, adjust settings, highlight text, or make annotations. Whether you prefer physical buttons or touchscreen controls, the Kindle Oasis 4 provides a seamless and customizable reading experience that caters to your personal preferences.
Performance and Battery Life
Processor and Speed
Performance is a critical factor in determining the overall usability of an e-reader, and the Kindle Oasis 4 excels in this regard. The device is powered by a faster processor than its predecessor, resulting in noticeably quicker page turns, smoother navigation, and reduced loading times. Whether you’re flipping through the pages of a lengthy novel, scrolling through your library, or browsing the Kindle Store, the Oasis 4 handles these tasks with ease and efficiency. The improved processing power ensures that your reading experience is as fluid and responsive as possible, eliminating the frustrations of lag or delays.
The Kindle Oasis 4’s enhanced performance also extends to its handling of larger files, such as graphic novels, magazines, and PDF documents. These types of content typically require more processing power, but the Oasis 4 manages them with minimal lag or slowdown. The device’s responsiveness enhances the overall reading experience, making it an ideal choice for users who consume a wide variety of digital content. Whether you’re reading text-heavy books or image-rich files, the Kindle Oasis 4 delivers a smooth and satisfying experience.
Comparison with Kindle Paperwhite
While the Kindle Paperwhite remains one of Amazon’s most popular e-readers due to its excellent value, the Kindle Oasis 4 sets itself apart as a more premium option. The Oasis 4 offers several features that elevate it above the Paperwhite, starting with its design. The ergonomic shape, physical page-turn buttons, and larger 7-inch display make the Oasis 4 more comfortable and enjoyable to use, especially for long reading sessions. Additionally, the Oasis 4’s adjustable warm light and automatic brightness adjustment are features not available on the Paperwhite, providing a more customizable reading experience.
In terms of performance, the Kindle Oasis 4’s faster processor ensures quicker page turns and smoother navigation compared to the Paperwhite. While the Paperwhite is no slouch, the Oasis 4’s enhanced speed and responsiveness make it a better choice for users who demand the best performance from their e-reader. Moreover, the Oasis 4’s waterproof design and high-quality materials give it a more luxurious feel, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those who prioritize build quality and design.
That being said, the Kindle Paperwhite is still an excellent e-reader for its price point, offering many of the core features that make Kindle devices so popular. However, if you’re looking for the ultimate reading experience and are willing to invest in a premium device, the Kindle Oasis 4 offers significant advantages over the Paperwhite.
Battery Longevity and Charging Time
Battery life is a key consideration for any e-reader, and the Kindle Oasis 4 does not disappoint. The device is equipped with a long-lasting battery that can provide up to six weeks of reading on a single charge, depending on your usage patterns. This impressive battery life is achieved by optimizing power consumption, particularly during standby mode, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite books without constantly worrying about recharging.
Charging the Kindle Oasis 4 from zero to full takes approximately two hours using the included micro-USB cable. While some users may be disappointed by the continued use of micro-USB instead of the more modern USB-C, the charging time is relatively quick, and the long battery life means that frequent charging is rarely necessary. For most users, a single charge will easily last through weeks of reading, making the Kindle Oasis 4 an ideal travel companion.
The Kindle Oasis 4’s battery life is further enhanced by its efficient use of the E Ink display, which consumes power only when refreshing the screen. This means that you can leave the device on for extended periods without draining the battery, as it uses minimal power when displaying static pages. Whether you’re a casual reader or a voracious bookworm, the Kindle Oasis 4’s battery life is more than sufficient to meet your needs.
Operating System and User Interface
Navigation and Accessibility
The Kindle Oasis 4 runs on Amazon’s latest e-reader operating system, offering a clean, intuitive, and user-friendly interface. The home screen is well-organized, with easy access to your library, the Kindle Store, and personalized recommendations based on your reading habits. Navigating through menus, adjusting settings, and accessing various features is straightforward, ensuring that you can focus on reading without being bogged down by complicated controls.
The Kindle Oasis 4 also includes several accessibility features that make it a suitable choice for readers with disabilities. For instance, the device supports VoiceView, a screen reader that provides spoken feedback, allowing visually impaired users to navigate the interface and read books using text-to-speech. The device also offers an inverted color mode, which swaps black and white to create a high-contrast display that can be easier on the eyes for some users. These accessibility options ensure that the Kindle Oasis 4 is an inclusive device that can cater to a wide range of reading needs.
In addition to its user-friendly interface, the Kindle Oasis 4 supports multiple languages, making it accessible to readers around the world. Whether you prefer to read in English, Spanish, French, or any other supported language, the device’s interface can be easily customized to match your preferences. The Kindle Oasis 4’s operating system is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing you to immerse yourself in your reading without distractions.
Kindle Ecosystem Integration
One of the key advantages of the Kindle Oasis 4 is its seamless integration with Amazon’s extensive ecosystem. As part of the Kindle family, the Oasis 4 provides access to millions of eBooks, including bestsellers, new releases, and exclusive Kindle-only titles. The Kindle Store is easily accessible from the device, allowing you to browse, purchase, and download books directly to your Oasis 4 in just a few taps. With features like Whispersync, your reading progress, bookmarks, and notes are automatically synced across all your devices, so you can pick up right where you left off, whether you’re reading on your Kindle, smartphone, or tablet.
The Kindle Oasis 4 also integrates with Amazon’s Audible service, allowing you to listen to audiobooks through Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers. This feature is particularly useful for readers who enjoy switching between reading and listening or for those who want to enjoy their favorite books while on the go. With the ability to seamlessly switch between text and audio, the Kindle Oasis 4 offers a versatile reading experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
In addition to its integration with Amazon’s services, the Kindle Oasis 4 also supports Goodreads, the popular social networking site for book lovers. This feature allows you to connect with other readers, share your thoughts on books, and discover new titles based on recommendations from the Goodreads community. Whether you’re looking for your next great read or want to keep track of the books you’ve finished, the Kindle Oasis 4’s integration with Goodreads makes it easy to engage with the wider reading community.
Customization Options
The Kindle Oasis 4 offers a wide range of customization options to tailor the reading experience to your preferences. You can choose from multiple font styles and sizes, adjust line spacing and margins, and even set up custom profiles for different users. This level of customization ensures that you can create the perfect reading environment, whether you prefer large text, narrow margins, or specific font types.
One of the standout customization features of the Kindle Oasis 4 is the ability to personalize the device’s screensaver. Instead of the default screensaver images, you can choose to display the cover of the book you’re currently reading, adding a touch of personalization to your device. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Kindle Oasis 4 but also makes it easy to quickly identify which book you’re reading when the device is in sleep mode.
For those who like to annotate or highlight text, the Kindle Oasis 4 offers robust note-taking features. You can easily highlight passages, add notes, and bookmark pages, all of which can be synced across your devices and accessed later. These features are particularly useful for students, researchers, or anyone who likes to engage deeply with the text they’re reading.
Storage and Connectivity
Available Storage Options
The Kindle Oasis 4 is available in two storage configurations: 8GB and 32GB. The 8GB model is ideal for users who primarily read eBooks, as it can store thousands of books without running out of space. This option is perfect for those who don’t require a large amount of storage and prefer to keep their library streamlined. However, if you’re a heavy user who plans to store a large collection of audiobooks, graphic novels, or PDFs, the 32GB model is the better choice. The extra storage space ensures that you have plenty of room for all your digital content without needing to constantly manage your library.
While the Kindle Oasis 4 does not offer expandable storage via microSD cards, Amazon’s cloud storage mitigates this limitation. All of your purchased content is stored in the cloud, allowing you to download and delete items as needed. This means that even if you opt for the 8GB model, you can always access your entire library without worrying about running out of space on the device itself.
Wi-Fi and Cellular Connectivity
The Kindle Oasis 4 offers two connectivity options: Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi with cellular connectivity. The Wi-Fi model is perfect for users who primarily download books at home or in areas with stable Wi-Fi access. This option provides a fast and reliable connection, allowing you to browse the Kindle Store, download books, and sync your library without any issues.
For users who are frequently on the go or live in areas with limited Wi-Fi access, the cellular model is an excellent option. The cellular version of the Kindle Oasis 4 offers free 4G LTE connectivity, allowing you to download books and sync your library wherever you are, without the need for a Wi-Fi connection. This feature is particularly useful for travelers or those who want the convenience of downloading books on the fly. The cellular connectivity is provided at no additional cost, making it a valuable feature for those who want to stay connected at all times.
Regardless of which model you choose, both Wi-Fi and cellular versions of the Kindle Oasis 4 offer fast and reliable connectivity, ensuring that you can access your books and content whenever you need them.
File Formats and Formats Support
The Kindle Oasis 4 supports a wide range of file formats, making it a versatile device for reading various types of content. The supported formats include Amazon’s proprietary AZW and AZW3 formats, as well as MOBI, PDF, TXT, and HTML. Recent updates have also improved the device’s handling of PDFs, making it easier to read and navigate documents on the Oasis 4’s larger screen. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to read technical documents, academic papers, or other PDF-based content.
While Kindle devices do not natively support EPUB files, which are commonly used by other e-readers, Amazon offers a convenient conversion service. You can email EPUB files to your Kindle email address, and Amazon will automatically convert them to a compatible format for use on the Oasis 4. This feature ensures that you can read a wide variety of content, even if it’s not in a native Kindle format.
The Kindle Oasis 4 also supports the Audible audiobook format, allowing you to listen to your favorite books using Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers. This integration with Audible provides a seamless experience for users who enjoy switching between reading and listening, making the Kindle Oasis 4 a versatile device for all your reading and listening needs.
Pricing and Value for Money
Cost Comparison with Competitors
The Kindle Oasis 4 is positioned as a premium e-reader, and its price reflects this status. When compared to other e-readers on the market, such as the Kobo Forma or the Nook GlowLight Plus, the Oasis 4 is on the higher end of the price spectrum. However, the features and build quality it offers make it a strong contender in the premium e-reader category. The Kindle Oasis 4’s unique ergonomic design, high-resolution display, adjustable warm light, and physical page-turn buttons set it apart from its competitors, justifying its higher price tag.
While the Kindle Paperwhite offers excellent value for money with many of the same core features as the Oasis 4, it lacks the premium build quality, advanced lighting options, and physical buttons that make the Oasis 4 stand out. For users who are looking for the best possible reading experience and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Kindle Oasis 4 offers significant advantages over both the Paperwhite and its competitors.
Features Justifying the Price
The Kindle Oasis 4’s premium price is justified by a range of features that enhance the overall reading experience. The device’s ergonomic design and lightweight build make it comfortable to hold for extended periods, while the physical page-turn buttons provide a tactile and satisfying way to navigate through books. The 7-inch, high-resolution display offers sharp text and crisp images, ensuring that every page looks as close to printed paper as possible.
The adjustable warm light is another standout feature that sets the Oasis 4 apart from other e-readers. The ability to customize the screen’s color temperature and brightness ensures that you can read comfortably in any lighting condition, whether you’re in a dimly lit room or out in bright sunlight. The device’s waterproof design adds an extra layer of durability, making it a reliable choice for reading by the pool or in the bath.
Additionally, the seamless integration with Amazon’s ecosystem, including the Kindle Store, Audible, and Goodreads, provides a comprehensive and user-friendly reading experience. The combination of these features makes the Kindle Oasis 4 a compelling choice for avid readers who want the best that e-reader technology has to offer.
Availability and Stock Issues
Given its premium status, the Kindle Oasis 4 is occasionally subject to stock shortages, especially during peak shopping periods such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the holiday season. These shortages can make it challenging to find the device in stock, particularly if you’re looking for a specific color or storage configuration. To avoid disappointment, it’s advisable to purchase the Kindle Oasis 4 well in advance of any major shopping events or to keep an eye out for restocks if it’s sold out.
Despite these occasional stock issues, the Kindle Oasis 4 is widely available through Amazon and other authorized retailers. It’s also worth noting that Amazon frequently offers discounts and promotions on its devices, so it’s possible to find the Oasis 4 at a reduced price if you’re patient and willing to wait for a sale.
Pros and Cons
Advantages of Kindle Oasis 4
- Ergonomic design: The unique asymmetrical design with a thicker grip and physical page-turn buttons offers a comfortable and intuitive reading experience, perfect for one-handed use.
- High-resolution display: The 7-inch, 300 PPI E Ink Carta display provides sharp and clear text, closely mimicking the look of printed paper, with no glare even in bright sunlight.
- Adjustable warm light: The ability to customize the screen’s color temperature and brightness enhances comfort, particularly for night-time reading.
- Waterproof design: The IPX8 rating ensures the Kindle Oasis 4 can withstand accidental splashes and submersion, making it ideal for reading by the pool or in the bath.
- Seamless ecosystem integration: The device’s compatibility with Amazon’s Kindle Store, Audible, and Goodreads offers a comprehensive and convenient reading experience.
- Long battery life: Up to six weeks of battery life on a single charge means you can read for extended periods without worrying about recharging.
Disadvantages and Limitations
- Higher price point: The Kindle Oasis 4 is more expensive than other e-readers, including the Kindle Paperwhite, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
- Micro-USB charging: The device still relies on micro-USB for charging, which feels outdated compared to the more modern USB-C standard found on many other devices.
- Limited storage options: While 8GB and 32GB models are available, there is no option for expandable storage, although Amazon’s cloud storage partially mitigates this limitation.
- Occasional stock shortages: The device can be difficult to find during peak shopping periods, making it important to plan your purchase in advance.
Conclusion
The Kindle Oasis 4 is a top-tier e-reader that delivers an exceptional reading experience, combining advanced features with a luxurious design. Its ergonomic shape, high-resolution display, adjustable warm light, and seamless integration with Amazon’s ecosystem make it a standout choice for avid readers. While it comes with a higher price tag, the benefits it offers—such as the adjustable warm light, waterproof design, and premium build quality—more than justify the cost.
If you’re someone who values comfort, customization, and cutting-edge technology in your reading experience, the Kindle Oasis 4 is an investment worth making. Whether you’re reading at home, on your commute, or by the pool, the Kindle Oasis 4 offers the best of what e-reader technology has to offer, making it the ultimate choice for those who want the very best.
