Amazon Kindle DX 2nd Generation eBook Readers

Large Screen E-ink Screen E-Book Reader

IMO an excellent if aging E-book reader which also has audio capability. The large screen size of 9.7" diagonal measurement means either more text is available per book page or the font size can be increased, advantageous for some readers. The downside is that this is heavier and bulkier than other Kindle e-readers and IMO deserves a dedicated hard case for carrying or a cover and a dedicated slot in a briefcase or large tablet carrying case. What may be considered an advantage or disadvantage, depending on the user, is that it does not have a touchscreen so all tasks are performed with the keyboard and the 5 way joystick controller and paddle switches along the right side of the screen. No left side switches, unlike it's close cousin the Kindle 2, so this one is designed primarily for right handed users apparently. There are three models in two basic generations. The early units are all white and are marked as Model Number D00611 on the back and have serial numbers starting with B004. Later units are Model Number D00801 and have serial numbers starting with B005 (white units) or B009 (cobalt units). The big difference between the units is that the early units have USA only 3G communications and the later units have worldwide 3G communications. Also some of the early units may not have the e-ink Pearl screen which lowers contrast slightly. No way to tell that other than a visual comparison with a later unit or a disassembly and knowledge of part numbers. You may see some units mis-listed in that the listings claim 3G and Wi-Fi communications. Incorrect as no Kindle DX units were made with Wi-Fi per Amazon. At a minimum a DX Kindle is going to be three years old so may need a new battery. There are refurbishers out there or there are videos available on how to open the unit and replace the battery. Damaged screens are replaceable too but i will leave that to the experts as I am told that there are LOTS of small screws involved. The large screen is vulnerable so at least to me the fitting of a protective cover is worthwhile. I am not sure if a so called screen protector is worthwhile as it looks to me like it might protect from scratches but not impact. Due to a relatively minor screen impact I had to have my screen replaced in one Kindle DX. If size, weight and portability are primary concerns then the Kindle DX is not the way to go. ALL other Kindles have 6" diagonal screens and weigh lots less, and some other brands of e-readers have been made with 5" diagonal, 7" diagonal and other screen sizes so there are multiple choices out there, including on ebay.

Verified purchase:Yes

One of the Best Made

In my opinion, purely as an electronic reader, this is one of the best kindles that was made. It holds several thousand books. You can organize the books into folders to make specific things easier to find. It's not back-lit, so the reading is easier on the eyes. The larger size means more words on a page, allowing for page-turning less often, and thus longer battery life. I also love the fact that it has free 3-G, so I can download books from almost anywhere...no need for wifi access. It doesn't do anything fancy, but I don't need fancy. I just want to have access to a lot of books. I haven't yet tried to register my newest (second-hand) Kindle dx, and after purchasing it, I've read that it might not be as easy to do so any more. I hope Amazon will still allow me to register it. I really wish they would bring this model back with some of these same features (size, 3-G, etc...)

Verified purchase:Yes

Good product in imperfect condition requiring additional costs

1. The battery was so old that it became bloated out of shape and nearly ruined the screen. 2. It was well-nigh impossible to register the DX under my name at Amazon. Specialized help was needed. 3. Software was outdated. All three issues had to be solved for extra USD 70 investment.

Verified purchase:Yes