Kindle vs. Nook — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 15, 2024
Kindle, an Amazon product, dominates the e-reader market with extensive features and an expansive bookstore; Nook, from Barnes & Noble, offers unique customization options and integration with physical stores.
Difference Between Kindle and Nook
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Kindle, produced by Amazon, is a market leader in e-readers, known for its wide range of models including those with advanced features like Paperwhite and Oasis. Whereas, Nook, Barnes & Noble's answer to the Kindle, emphasizes customization and enhanced reading features such as night mode and page animations.
Kindle devices typically offer a more extensive content library, thanks to Amazon’s vast digital bookstore. On the other hand, Nook allows greater integration with Barnes & Noble's physical store offerings, like in-store assistance and promotions.
Kindle often leads in technology with high-resolution displays and connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and cellular, while Nook focuses on user-friendly experiences with easy access to customer service.
Comparison Chart
Manufacturer
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Key Features
High-resolution displays, long battery life
Customization options, integration with B&N stores
ADVERTISEMENT
Content Library
Extensive digital bookstore
Access to B&N’s digital and physical bookstores
Technological Advancements
Latest e-ink technology, waterproof models
Emphasis on user-friendly reading features
Market Presence
Global dominance
Strong presence in the U.S.
Integration
Seamless with Amazon services
Tied closely to Barnes & Noble’s offerings
Compare with Definitions
Kindle
Features like waterproofing and audiobook integration.
The Kindle Oasis is waterproof, making it ideal for beach reading.
Nook
Focuses on comfort and ease of use, such as night mode.
Nook’s night mode makes it easier to read in low light without eye strain.
Kindle
Widely available across many countries.
Kindle devices and eBooks can be purchased in over 100 countries.
Nook
Barnes & Noble's answer to the Kindle, with an emphasis on customization.
The Nook GlowLight allows users to adjust the screen brightness and color.
Kindle
Amazon's digital book reader, known for its sleek design.
The Kindle Paperwhite offers a backlight for reading in the dark.
Nook
Supports and integrates with the physical Barnes & Noble stores.
Nook users can get exclusive in-store content and discounts.
Kindle
Benefits from connectivity with Amazon Prime for additional content.
Kindle owners with Prime can access hundreds of free books.
Nook
Access to a variety of file formats and public library eBooks.
Nook supports ePub files which allows users more flexibility in sourcing content.
Kindle
To build or fuel (a fire).
Nook
Maintains loyalty through its bookstore brand.
Long-time Barnes & Noble customers often choose Nook for brand consistency.
Kindle
To set fire to; ignite.
Nook
A small corner, alcove, or recess, especially one in a large room.
Kindle
To cause to glow; light up
The sunset kindled the skies.
Nook
A hidden or secluded spot.
Kindle
To arouse (an emotion, for example)
"No spark had yet kindled in him an intellectual passion" (George Eliot).
Nook
A small corner formed by two walls; an alcove.
There was a small broom for sweeping ash kept in the nook between the fireplace bricks and the wall.
Kindle
To catch fire; burst into flame.
Nook
A hidden or secluded spot; a secluded retreat.
The back of the used book shop was one of her favorite nooks; she could read for hours and no one would bother her or pester her to buy.
Kindle
To become bright; glow.
Nook
A recess, cove or hollow.
Kindle
To become inflamed.
Nook
(historical) An English unit of land area, originally 4 of a yardland but later 2 or 20 acres.
Kindle
To be stirred up; rise.
Nook
A corner of a piece of land; an angled piece of land, especially one extending into other land.
Kindle
To give birth to young. Used especially of rabbits.
Nook
|_|fandom slang|vulgar}} The vagina-like genitalia of a troll, featured in Homestuck fanworks but not in canon.
Kindle
A brood or litter, especially of kittens.
Nook
To withdraw into a nook.
Kindle
(transitive) To start (a fire) or light (a torch, a match, coals, etc.).
Nook
To situate in a nook.
Kindle
To arouse or inspire (a passion, etc).
He kindled an enthusiasm for the project in his fellow workers.
Nook
A narrow place formed by an angle in bodies or between bodies; a corner; a recess; a secluded retreat.
How couldst thou find this dark, sequestered nook?
Kindle
To begin to grow or take hold.
Nook
A sheltered and secluded place
Kindle
To bring forth young; to give birth.
Nook
An interior angle formed be two meeting walls;
A piano was in one corner of the room
Kindle
A group of kittens.
A kindle of kittens.
Kindle
(of an animal) pregnant
Kindle
To bring forth young.
The poor beast had but lately kindled.
Kindle
To set on fire; to cause to burn with flame; to ignite; to cause to begin burning; to start; to light; as, to kindle a match, or shavings.
His breath kindleth coals.
Kindle
Fig.: To inflame, as the passions; to rouse; to provoke; to excite to action; to heat; to fire; to animate; to incite; as, to kindle anger or wrath; to kindle the flame of love, or love into a flame.
So is a contentious man to kindle strife.
Nothing remains but that I kindle the boy thither.
Kindling her undazzled eyes at the full midday beam.
Could swell the soul to rage, or kindle soft desire.
Kindle
To take fire; to begin to burn with flame; to start as a flame.
When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
Kindle
To begin to be excited; to grow warm or animated; to be roused or exasperated.
On all occasions where forbearance might be called for, the Briton kindles, and the Christian gives way.
Kindle
Catch fire;
The dried grass of the prairie kindled, spreading the flames for miles
Kindle
Cause to start burning;
The setting sun kindled the sky with oranges and reds
Kindle
Call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses);
Arouse pity
Raise a smile
Evoke sympathy
Kindle
Access to millions of books, newspapers, and magazines.
Kindle users can purchase the latest bestsellers directly from their device.
Common Curiosities
Which device offers better reading features for outdoor conditions?
Kindle devices, particularly the Paperwhite and Oasis models, are designed for easy reading in various lighting conditions, including outdoors.
What is the main difference between Kindle and Nook?
Kindle offers a wider range of features and access to Amazon’s extensive bookstore, while Nook focuses on customization and physical store integration.
Can Kindle books be read on a Nook?
No, Kindle books are formatted for Kindle devices and apps only, due to DRM protection.
Can I access audiobooks on these devices?
Kindle devices, especially newer models, typically have better integration with audiobook services like Audible.
What are the advantages of Kindle’s integration with Amazon Prime?
Kindle users with Amazon Prime have access to a large selection of free eBooks, magazine subscriptions, and other Prime reading benefits.
Is Nook compatible with public library eBooks?
Yes, Nook devices support ePub and other formats used by public libraries.
How do the prices of Kindle and Nook devices compare?
Prices vary by model and features, but Kindle devices generally start at a slightly higher price point compared to Nook devices.
Which e-reader is better for a first-time user?
Both are user-friendly, but the Nook may appeal more to those who prefer in-person support and customization.
Does Nook offer any features that Kindle does not?
Nook devices often offer more physical customization options and features like in-store promotions and support, which Kindle does not.
Are there any waterproof options available for Nook?
As of the latest releases, Nook does not offer a waterproof model, unlike Kindle’s Oasis model.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Abbey vs. PrioryNext Comparison
Reseat vs. ResetAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Maham LiaqatCo-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.