E-readers have exploded into the market this past decade and finally provide a real alternative to physical books. In an RV, every inch and pound matters so e-readers are a perfect fit for carrying anywhere from 1,200 to 6,000 books. But wait, it’s not just ebooks – you can have newspapers, magazines, and your favorite blogs delivered right to your e-reader, even when you’re on the road through Wi-Fi or 3G networks.
So how do you choose the best e-reader for you? Here are four popular models and their features to help determine the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
Kindle 3
Kindle 3 eReader
The Amazon Kindle brought the eBook e-Reader into the mainstream world and is very popular with its 3rd generation of readers.
E-Ink and Readibility
It uses the latest E-Ink generation, known as Pearl, so its display really replicates paper and what it looks like to read a book or newspaper. The screen is clear and works well in direct sunlight without glare. E-Ink is easier on the eyes than LCD technology due to technical reasons that you can read more about at Amazon if interested.
Like the other models available, you can easily increase the size of the type to suit your needs – and that may even allow you to skip the reading glasses. Also, don’t forget that since there’s no backlight, you’ll need a separate light to read at night. There are some inexpensive clip-on LED lights, like the Mighty Light, that make reading a breeze and last a long time with the efficient LED bulbs.
Battery Life
Along with less eyestrain, the battery life is vastly increased because the device doesn’t use any power while a page is displayed. If you keep the WiFi off, a single battery charge can last up to one month! Even with WiFi left on, the battery lasts up to three weeks.
Get New Books in Seconds
Wi-Fi is built in and some models include free 3G service as well. The device is simple to use and no software setup is required. Once you open your Kindle package you can literally turned in on, find a book or magazine, and download to your new device within a few minutes. There are over 850,000 books, and 50,000 audio books to choose from and you download sample chapters to review before purchasing.
Books purchased through the Kindle Store are archived online and can be synced to other devices to read. You can read on your Kindle, iphone, Mac, PC, Android or Blackberry and it syncs where you left off across your devices. All three models (Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi + 3G, and DX) have the capacity to carry up to 3,500 books.
UPDATE 4-12-11: Amazon just announced a new pricing option for the Wi-Fi version that lists for $139. They are offering $25 off if you agree to accept ads on your Kindle device:
Receive special offers and sponsored screensavers that display on the Kindle screensaver and on the bottom of the home screen—they don’t interrupt reading.
Sony
Sony has produced e-readers for quite some time and is a popular ebook reader manufacturer. The Sony uses E-Ink technology, like the Kindle does, so it has the same advantages with replicating a real-paper experience as well as a descent battery life of around two weeks.
The Smallest
There are several versions available, the Pocket, Touch, and Daily Editions. The Pocket Edition lives up to its name and with a thin 5” screen can actually slip into your pocket. Don’t let its small size fool though, it can still hold up to 1,200 books. The slightly larger Touch Edition sports a 6” screen, and the Daily Edition has a 7 inch screen; both have the same on board memory for 1,200 but is expandable to hold a mind-boggling 50,000 books.
Open Format
No limit in selection here. The Sony features the ability to use multiple formats including an open format, ePub, which goes beyond the limits of the Kindle Store. Yep, you can use the Sony for other online book stores.
Get Connected
Use a single USB cord to connect to your Mac or PC. From there you can manage your library, load books onto your device, and recharge your battery. Not as convenient as WiFi or 3G so decide whether this works with your travel style.
Prices
MSRP’s – $180 for the Pocket Edition, $230 for the Touch Edition, $300 for the Daily Edition
Nook Color
From Barnes & Noble comes the Nook Color. If you love color, you’ll love the Nook Color.
LCD Screen and Battery Life
Over 2 million books and magazines are available for viewing on the Nook Color’s 7 inch touch screen. If you’re wondering if the LCD screen may cause you trouble, then check it out in person at one of the many Barnes & Noble (B&N) retail locations. The most glaring difference is well the glare that you’ll get if trying to read in direct sunlight. Other wise night time might work better for some who prefer a backlit screen instead of relying on a separate light. This screen takes a toll on the battery life so expect to have to recharge after 8 hours of reading.
Nook Kids
Now your eReader can read bedtime stories to your kids. Hit the Read to Me button, and kid’s books, picture books and bedtime stories are read aloud by professional narrators. When you swipe the screen to turn the page, the narrator starts to read the new page.
Price and Upgrade
Look for an upcoming upgrade to give you applications, games and email. This software upgrade should be free. The Nook Color goes for about $249.
Pandigital Novel
From the makers of digital frames comes another color LCD option to ebook readers. This is packed with features such as color touch screen, Wi Fi, SD memory expansion slot and access to B&N eBook store. This one has a lower price point of around $189, but don’t get too excited by the lower price compared to the Nook. The sacrifice is a much slower processor that has received many complaints. And some don’t like the feel of the device, claiming that it feels plastic. If the features are more important to you than these trade offs, then this might be a viable option for you.
Accessories
Don’t overlook the importance of accessories for improving your experience with your eReader device. Covers, or cases, are highly recommended to protect your investment and to maybe even add a splash of personality. If you have an E-Ink model, don’t forget a light that attaches to the device. If you dry camp at all, these little lights will come in handy at many times and will save house battery usage.
Today
The Today Show had a technology segment with information on these readers and sparked the idea for this article. We’ll add more later, like a chart to provide convenient information about these incredible eBook Readers and how to determine the best eReader for you. In the meantime, all models are available through Amazon, so head there now to learn more.
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