You probably don't need one. If you want protection for travel, children or a bag full of keys, fit a matte PET film for your exact model, not glass. On a Colorsoft, pick a high-clarity film: heavy matte films can emphasise the warm tint of the colour screen.
The current range
| Model | Screen | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Kindle | 6-inch | Lightest, cheapest; popular for children |
| Kindle Paperwhite | 7-inch | The mainstream choice; waterproof |
| Kindle Colorsoft | 7-inch colour | Colour E Ink; tint is worth considering |
| Kindle Scribe range | 11-inch | Writing models; separate guide |
Sizes repeat across generations, and so do names. A "Kindle Paperwhite" protector from a few years ago may be cut for a 6.8-inch screen rather than the current 7-inch. Match the generation in the listing, which Amazon prints on the device box and in Settings → Device Info.
Film, not glass
Glass adds weight and gloss to a device chosen for being light and matte. PET film keeps the paper-like look, costs little, and is enough for what actually threatens an e-reader: grit in a bag, a child's fingernail, suncream on fingers. See glass vs film for the materials.
The Colorsoft catch
Colour E Ink puts a filter layer over the black-and-white panel, which already gives the screen a slightly warm, muted look. Reviewers have noted that strongly matte films can emphasise that tint. If you want a protector on a Colorsoft, choose the clearest film you can find and turn the warm light setting down.
Questions people ask
Does a Kindle Paperwhite need a screen protector?
Not for normal use. E Ink barely abrades from reading. Fit film for beach trips, bags full of keys, or a child's Kindle.
Should I use glass or film on a Kindle?
Film. Glass adds gloss and weight to a device designed to be matte and light.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these sources on 2 October 2026: