Choosing An E-reader
It’s bound to be one of the hottest gifts of the holiday season again this year: the e-book reader, which is transforming the American book market.
Some people still prefer the printed book—they like the heft of a novel in the hand, or knowing they can sell their used books or lend that new biography to the brother-in-law after they finish it. But the advantages of e-book readers are clear, too. They’re lightweight and great for travel. In many towns, brick-and-mortar bookstores with a good selection are increasingly scarce. E-books can be downloaded quickly—no waiting for books ordered online to arrive or having to pay shipping fees.
DOLLARS & SENSE
Choose an e-reader based on your needs
So you’ve decided to get an e-book reader.
Now what?
Pay attention to how you (or the lucky holiday gift recipient) would likely use the reader. Some e-readers are better suited for reading only books; others also work well for reading magazines, newspapers, or larger documents for work or school.
More expensive tablets—such as the iPad or Android devices—work well for reading e-books but allow users to do much more, such as accessing the Internet or watching videos.
With the introduction this fall of a new line of the popular Kindles, prices are dropping (on some models) and the range is broadening to include more choices of touch-screen and color-screen vs. black-and-white e-readers. So think carefully about how you would use a reader—for books only, or much more.
Another question is how you’ll download books—whether a wireless Internet connection is sufficient (you can use it with your home wireless network or anywhere you can tap into a hotspot) or whether you need a reader with 3G capabilities, allowing you to download anywhere, with or without a monthly fee. Keep in mind, though, that turning off the wireless Internet or 3G feature when you’re not downloading will help the battery hold its charge longer.
Another tip before buying: check with your local library to see what programs and policies it may have for borrowing e-books for free, then consider buying an e-reader that’s compatible.
SMART SHOPPER
Plenty of accessories are available
There are numerous accessories available for e-readers—from protective covers (including some that claim to be waterproof) to screen covers and car chargers.
Many e-book readers aren’t backlit, which means you can’t read them in the dark—although they’re good for use in sunlight without the screen glare found on LCD tablet models. You can, however, buy small clip-on lights or e-book cases with built-in lights for reading in the dark.
