[ams6110]

I don't have either, but have been thinking of getting one. When I compare the original Kindle to the Paperwhite in the store, the Paperwhite contrast seems almost too high; I think I would find it hard to look at that brilliant white background for very long. The original is easier on the eyes.

Is the Paperwhite contrast adjustable?

[sliverstorm]

The backlight is what makes the background so brilliant; the backlight is adjustable. It ranges from "tiny sun" to "faint phosphor glow"

[GvS]

Yes it is. I just bought one a week ago and it is really comfortable. Too bad it doesn't have auto adjust, but configuration is just two clicks away.

[tsironakos]

OP here. It actually is pretty dimable at the point that you can read comfortably at a totally dark room.