If you want to buy an eBook reader, you obviously wouldn’t want to settle for anything less than the best ebook reader out there! The only problem is that there are so many models of eReaders available in the market and there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer to the dreaded question “what is the best ebook reader?”.
YOUR Best E-Book Reader may not be someone else’ best
Your best buddy’s favorite e-reader may not be the one that suits your needs best. What you need from your ebook reader device may not be the same as what your friend needs.
Do I need a dedicated eBook Reader or a tablet computer?
Before we go in to detailed eReader comparisons like “Kindle vs Nook vs Kobo”, let us first sort out the “Dedicated eBook Readers vs Tablet Computers” debacle! The typical tablet computer will double as an e-Reader, however they are not perfect. For some people a tablet (iPad 2, Samsung Galaxy etc.) may be ideal while for others dedicated eBook readers are ideal (e.g. Kindle, Nook, Kobo).
Dedicated eBook Readers vs Tablet Computers
A dedicated eEook reader will be ideal for the functions that it is supposed to do like:
- Downloading eBooks – via Wi-Fi or 3G connections
- Reading eBooks, Magazines and Newspapers
- Be easy on your eyes with their E-ink screens (vs backlit LCD displays of tablet computers)
- Some models of dedicated electronic book readers will let you do basic web browsing, but nothing fancy!
A dedicated eBook reader may not be ideal for the following functions
- Things that require a color screen
- Watching YouTube videos
- Checking email
- Checking out Kim Kardashian’s latest evening dresses
- Liking your neighbor’s dog’s latest funny videos on FaceBook
You get the idea! Depending on what you plan to do with your eBook reader, YOUR Best E-Book Reader may be a dedicated E-Reader or a tablet computer.
- If you answered “Yes I want a dedicated eBook reader” – Go to our Kindle vs Nook vs Kobo E-Book Reader comparison
- If you answered “No, I think I may want a tablet computer that also doubles as an E-Book reader” – Go here
- If you answered “Tell me more” – Take a peek at the table below that compares typical features of dedicated E-book readers and tablet computers
- If you answered “I want something in the middle” – you want the Nook Color e-Reader
Dedicated E-Readers versus Tablet Computers – 10 points to consider
| Feature | Dedicated eBook Reader | Tablet Computer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Price | As low as $114 (Amazon Kindle 3 Wi-Fi) | Typically over $499 |
| 2 | Display | E-Ink Screen – Easy on the eyes | LCD Display – Tiring for eyes with prolonged reading sessions |
| 3 | Battery life | Up to 1 month | Typically around 6 – 10 hours |
| 4 | Screen Size | Typically 6 inches (Kindle DX is 9.7 | Best ones come with larger screen sizes |
| 5 | Weight | As low as 7 ounces | Typically 1.2 – 1.5 pounds |
| 6 | Convenience | More convenient in carrying, transport, holding with one hand etc. due to smaller size and weight | Larger size and weight make them not as convenient |
| 7 | Glare in the Sun | No glare with E-Ink screens | Glare makes it difficult read on LCD displays |
| 8 | Functions of a computer | Basic web browsing with certain eBook readers | Watch videos, play games, check email, Tweet on twitter, Like on FaceBook etc. etc. |
| 9 | Music | The Kindle 3 lets you listen to MP3 and other formats | Of course |
| 10 | Text-to-speech | The Kindle 3 has it – close your eyes and listen to the ebook | There is an app for almost anything these days |
What is your best ebook reader?
If you have made up your mind that your best ebook reader would be a dedicated ebook reader, see our Amazon Kindle vs Nook vs Kobo eBook Reader comparison.
If you think you want a tablet computer, think about getting yourself an iPad, Samsung Galaxy, BlackBerry Playbook etc.
If you want something in the middle, the Barnes & Noble Nook Color is your Best e-Book Reader.