Is a blue light filter necessary to read the Kindle Paperwhite at night?

Best answer: No. The Amazon Paperwhite doesn't emit a significant amount of blue light, as its LEDs direct the light towards the page, rather than directly at your eyes. There are ways to adjust the lighting to suit your preferences and comfort, however, including a simple stick-on filter or pair of specialty glasses.

Do I need a blue light filter for my Kindle Paperwhite?

Many have long touted the benefits of covering up the blue light emitted from electronic devices, though there is some skepticism on the issue as well.

Thankfully, the Kindle Paperwhite uses an array of five LEDs that direct the light towards the content on the page, rather than a backlight that shines at your face. This presents you with a more natural, reflective lighting scenario that is generally gentler on your eyes. Still, some users will find that reading either in the dark or just before bed can cause irritation and sleep disruptions. Thankfully, there are many affordable options available for stick-on light filters that pull double-duty as screen protectors for any make and model Kindle device.

For those looking for something a little less permanent and a little more stylish, some blue light reducing "gamer" glasses will offer the same protection from eye-strain. They have the added benefit of not being confined to use on just one device and are particularly great while working all day at a computer.

Do I have to buy something, or are there some free fixes?

Increased light exposure affects everyone differently, and for some, the irritation may not be frequent or disruptive enough to warrant spending more money on another solution. In those cases, some simple changes to the Kindle's settings and how it's used may solve the problem.

Turning down the light intensity in the device settings will not only reduce the amount of light your eyes are exposed to; it will also add hours of battery life for further reading. Limiting your use of the Kindle at night or in the dark will also significantly reduce eye strain and help improve your sleeping patterns.

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