January was a big month in the word of eReaders. The Consumer Electronics Show saw a host of announcements of new eReaders and interesting technologies. Apple unveiled its iPad and the new iBookstore, which may or may not revolutionize the market. Barnes & Noble has started shipping Nooks again. So how do we digest this information and predict which eReader will win?
One common analysis we all seem to like to the standard compassion chart. Here is one we put together for the “main” players in the market.
eReader Comparison
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This chart seems to say that there is not much real difference in the readers “technically.” Sure there are minor differences in screen sizes and battery life. Maybe these are not deciding factors. So what will eventually lead to a winner in the market? We offer 10 ideas for consideration:
1) Availability of books (recreational books, textbooks, professional books)
2) Cost of Books (cheaper than traditional books)
3) A new class of shorter, concise books for busy readers.
4) Cost of eReader
5) Availability of newspapers, Internet content, magazines, professional conference proceedings.
6) Reader type/display quality and experience.
7) Reader footprint—do readers want it “book-sized” (Kindle, Nook, Reader) or do they want something new (iPad).
8) Synchronization ability with personal data on computer (business documents, pdf files, etc.).
9) Seamless connectivity to new media content (Blogs, Twitter, traditional media outlets online).
10) Seemingly random user experiences such as: Can I read while my plane descends? Can I read in the dark in bed next to my spouse/partner? If I drop it, does it break? Any software maintenance?
Please comment and give us your thoughts on this list or make up your own list.
I was on the fence for months before I finally decided to order my Kindle 2. I had been reading such mixed reviews about the device and about Amazon’s customer service that I simply could not decide about the purchase. This review is for all of those people, like me, that cannot decide if they need a Kindle 2 for themselves. Well, struggle with the decision no more and ORDER IT! I am so happy with my Kindle 2 and I look forward to reading it every single day. All of the problems that I was worried about are not problems at all. Downloading books is easy, the screen is NOT too dark, the font size is adjustable and the Kindle customer service support is terrific. I had a problem with my Kindle 2 and I was instantly connected with the most helpful representative. I did not have to wait on hold and the problem was solved in no time. I have made the highest recommendations of the Kindle 2 to my friends and family and will continue to do so in the future. I can say with absolute confidence, if you order your own Kindle 2 you will not be disappointed!!!