If you’re working on a Raspberry Pi project and need a display, you might consider getting an accessory made specifically for it. However, you could find that purchasing a secondhand Kindle for around $25 is an even better option for many projects.
A $25 Kindle is more affordable than most Raspberry Pi displays
You acquire a complete device, not just a screen
If you want a reliable display for your Raspberry Pi, the official Raspberry Pi display might be your go-to. However, the least expensive models are still fairly pricey. The Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 is available in sizes of 5, 7, and 10 inches, with base prices starting at $40. Currently, the 5-inch model is often priced over $50 at various retailers.
On the other hand, you can find used Kindles for much less. Models like the Kindle 4 are frequently priced under $25, while Kindle 5 and Kindle Touch models can be found for under $30 each. You might even secure better deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
A Kindle isn’t just cheaper; it also provides more functionality. While a Raspberry Pi display is limited to connecting to the Raspberry Pi, a used Kindle is an independent device with its own features.
A Kindle can operate for extended periods without a power source
Built-in battery and E-Ink technology allow for versatile placement
The standard way to connect a Raspberry Pi display is via a DSI interface, drawing power directly from the Pi itself. This means the display and Pi usually need to be situated together, since they require direct communication.
However, a jailbroken Kindle operates differently. Even older models come with Wi-Fi and rechargeable batteries, so they don’t need a continuous power connection. This allows you to position your Kindle almost anywhere as long as it’s within Wi-Fi range of the Raspberry Pi.
Thanks to E-Ink technology, a Kindle can run for several days displaying static images without needing a power outlet, making it ideal for various locations.
A Kindle display excels in bright sunlight
E-Ink technology thrives in natural light
Raspberry Pi displays may not perform well under bright lighting or direct sunlight, where readability can suffer despite anti-glare features. In contrast, a Kindle’s E-Ink screen relies on external light to enhance visibility, making it significantly easier to read outside.
If you intend to use your display outdoors, a Kindle is generally simpler to read in sunny conditions. This technology is also generally more comfortable for extended reading compared to a backlit LCD display.
A Kindle can perform some tasks independently
Your Raspberry Pi doesn’t need to do all the work
Unlike the Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2, which acts merely as a peripheral running off the Pi, a jailbroken Kindle is a standalone Linux device. This means that the Raspberry Pi isn’t burdened with handling every task, as the Kindle can take on some responsibilities.
The Pi may generate content for the Kindle, but the Kindle itself can manage tasks like fetching and displaying that content, allowing a single Raspberry Pi to potentially support multiple Kindles simultaneously.
E-Ink is ideal for various dashboard applications
A Kindle’s primary limitation is often irrelevant
If you’re in need of rapid refresh rates for fast-moving visuals, a Raspberry Pi display is clearly superior due to the slower refresh capabilities of E-Ink screens. However, for dashboard applications, which often don’t require quick updates, a Kindle could be more suitable.
For instance, a weather dashboard only needs to refresh when conditions change, while tracking a package might only necessitate updates once or twice daily. Even smart home dashboards do not always require constant changes, making a Kindle a viable option thanks to its low energy consumption between updates.
A Kindle can outperform a Raspberry Pi display
A jailbroken Kindle isn’t without its limitations. If you need color, quick touch interactions, video capabilities, or frequent updates, then the Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 remains the better option. Nevertheless, for many Pi projects that don’t necessitate these features, the advantages of a Kindle can surpass its downsides.
