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Amazon’s Kindle has become synonymous with electronic reader devices. Although there are many ebook readers in the market, Kindle comes to mind first. And since its launch, Amazon has developed different versions of this device.
The original Kindle had a keyboard and physical buttons. Later versions adopted digital interfaces, but its purpose remains the same — that of an electronic reader. It allows users to store hundreds of books, periodicals, and even graphic novels in one convenient platform.
Like any electronic device, Kindle is subject to questions and criticisms. And one of the most common questions is about overheating. It’s not a baseless question but a legitimate one.
Are Kindles prone to overheating?
The concern stems from many Kindle users who love using their devices while doing other activities under the sun. For example, many people love reading while getting their tan on the beach.
Table of Contents
Can Kindles Overheat?
The quick answer is yes. Like any electronic device, Kindle has the potential to overheat. However, certain factors affect this answer.
First, Kindle is not your typical device like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Although it has electronic circuitry inside, it has a sole purpose — display text or graphics.
But the later versions of the reader are more advanced. They contain more powerful but sensitive processors that could overheat faster than their predecessors. Additionally, its color can also contribute to how fast it will overheat. Let’s get into the details below:
Version/Model
Different versions of the Amazon reader might have different heat tolerance levels. For example, the Oasis version might be more sensitive to direct sunlight than the Paperwhite Standard Edition.
Despite that, there are different ways to protect your Kindle from overheating. For example, a cover could reduce how much heat could get into the device. Also, use any material as long as it can keep the Kindle cool enough when using it outside.
Color
As we know, black quickly absorbs heat more than other colors. And some Kindles have black frames, making them like heat sponges. Yet, even Kindles with dark frames should be able to withstand prolonged sun exposure with no problems.
Furthermore, even users in hot countries say they never had issues with their readers overheating in the sun. But to be safe, don’t leave your Kindle exposed to the sun for long periods.
How Much Heat Can a Kindle Handle?
Most Kindles could withstand heat up to about 95℉ without any issues. And according to its user manual, you can store your reader in temperatures up to about 113℉. However, it’s advisable to keep your reader in significantly lower ambient temperatures when possible.
Electronics do not do well with prolonged heat exposure. As a result, components might overheat. Additionally, there’s no guarantee that your Kindle could recover from this damage after it cools down. Although it must generate some heat internally when in use, exposing it to hotter temperatures would affect how long it stays cool when in use it.
Some Kindle models might have a different tolerance level to heat. For more information, consult with Amazon or check the safety section of your Kindle’s user manual.
Furthermore, don’t depend too much on Amazon’s recommended usage and storage temperature levels. Exercise caution when using your electronic reader under extreme temperatures. It’s still a good idea not to expose your device to these temperatures for too long.
What Happens if a Kindle Gets Too Hot?
Here are just a few of the possible scenarios you might encounter when faced with this issue:
1. Depending on which version you own, your device might give you a warning. That message should pop up on your screen intermittently.
If it does, discontinue using your Kindle as soon as you can. If possible, take the device to an area with lower temperatures and allow it to cool down. If you cannot do so immediately, turn it off.
2. If any of its components overheat, your Kindle will shut itself off without warning. You could turn it on again later and use it. However, if the parts sustained too much damage, you may be unable to power it on later.
If this is the case, Amazon Support may offer some solutions. However, their warranty policy will affect what type of damage it covers.
3. Besides the internal components, its battery could also overheat. If this happens, it could melt or expand, making the Kindle dangerous. If you’ve noticed this, discontinue using your reader immediately.
4. Battery expansion can also crack or damage the screen. An obvious sign is a document sticking in the corner of the screen even when you turn the page.
5. Your Kindle might become erratic. It means the screen will show unnecessary texts or images. However, flickering and refreshing issues are common.
Can You Leave Your Kindle in the Car?
Sometimes, it is OK to leave your Kindle in the car. But that depends on several factors.
It is probably OK to leave your Kindle for a few hours if you live in an area with only moderate temperatures. However, for extra precaution, store it away from direct sunlight. On cooler days, store it in the glove compartment.
If the surrounding temperatures are scorching, leaving it in the car for too long is not a good idea. The device might survive, but the battery might warp and expand. In extreme situations, it might become a fire hazard.
Can I Read My Kindle in a Sauna or a Pool?
Some Kindles are waterproof and can handle some direct sunlight for a few hours. However, even waterproofing has limits, and you should be careful when you bring it into the pool.
Similarly, sauna temperatures can exceed the maximum allowable ones that a Kindle can handle. So, although using it for a few minutes in such an environment should be OK, you should still refrain from using it much here.
Conclusion
For book lovers, having one device carrying a whole library can be a dream come true. The Kindle is one such device, and different versions sport various features that may make the experience even more enjoyable.
While Kindle can handle some high temperatures, you should still care for this electronic device. Use and store it in relatively mild temperatures to keep its battery happy for years to come.
