In May 2022, Amazon announced that a number of older Kindle models will be losing the ability to access the Kindle store. If you're one of the people affected, here's what is going down and what the news means for you.

What's Happening to Older Kindles?

All Kindles come with access to the Amazon store, where you can browse and purchase books directly from your device without using a computer.

However, starting on August 17, 2022, five specific Kindle models will lose access to the Amazon store. These are the second-generation Kindle International (2009), the Kindle DX International (2010), the Kindle Keyboard (2010), and the fourth- and fifth-generation basic Kindles (2011 and 2012, respectively).

If you're eligible, you should get an email to the account associated with your device. If you're unsure whether your device will be affected or not, you can visit Amazon's Help and Customer Service page, where you can identify the model of your Kindle.

To clarify, you can still read on these Kindles. Your existing library will remain accessible. If you buy any books through your computer (or borrow them via Kindle Unlimited), they'll be automatically delivered to your device, just as they usually would be.

Should You Upgrade Your Kindle?

Before you go and decide which Kindle device you should buy, we ought to reiterate that needing to upgrade isn't completely necessary since the Kindles will still be functional as e-readers. You can still get to your library and even read new books you've added to your library. But you'll have to buy those books on your computer or smartphone instead.

Physically, Kindles are definitely built to last. One of the models we've owned is the Kindle Keyboard, which was still going strong over a decade after its purchase, so you may not feel the need to rush out and upgrade just because buying books is a little less convenient now.

On the other hand, if you've had your Kindle for a ridiculously long time, this might seem like the perfect opportunity to move up. Here are a few things to bear in mind before going out shopping.

What You Need to Consider Before Upgrading Your Kindle

The biggest feature that Amazon got rid of when changing the Kindle's design is physical page-turn buttons.

All Kindle models—except for the Kindle Oasis—have essentially the same design. This consists of a flat rectangular slab completely devoid of any buttons beyond the simple on/off button.

The Kindle Oasis, on the other hand, does have buttons—and an eye-catching asymmetric design. While we can attest that not having to swipe or tap on the screen to move pages is very convenient, you'll have to consider if it's worth enough to you that you'd be willing to shell out over $100.

While the lack of buttons is the biggest change, there are other technological advances that older models are also missing out on. For example, all Kindle models nowadays have front-lit screens, a feature that single-handedly revolutionizes the entire reading experience. Plus, with some models, you can even use warm light on your Kindle to make reading at night easier than ever.

The Kindle Paperwhite and higher-end models also have flush glass screens, while the 2021 Signature Paperwhite even offers wireless charging.

To aid your decision-making, Amazon is offering a financial incentive for upgrading. Owners of the models we mentioned will receive a 30 percent off code if they're buying a new Kindle and a staggering $40 of credit towards buying ebooks.

If you're set on the Kindle Oasis, the base model will cost around $175. It's still expensive, of course, but not such a hit on your wallet. Plus, considering many ebooks cost less than $5, that store credit will take you long to populate any new Kindle you buy.

This offer is valid until 11:59 pm PT on July 5, 2022.

To Buy or Not to Buy

Ultimately, your decision on whether or not to upgrade will probably come down to how much you use your Kindle to access the Amazon store and how much you value the upgrades you get on a new model.

Whichever you choose, rest assured that you'll still be able to read on your original Kindle for as long as you want.