Reviewing the Amazon Kindle 2 For the Student & the Academic Professional
The Amazon Kindle 2 may be the avid reader’s best buddy nowadays but do you know that it could also be a good partner for students and professionals? This is because this ebook reader device offers an option for students that allow them to quit lugging around their heavy books. Professionals are also starting to realize that the Kindle can be used for reading their work-related documents. But how is the Kindle 2 doing in this role so far? Let’s find out what the pros and cons are in this Amazon Kindle 2 Review.
As these are primarily created for computers, digital versions of text books and other reading materials professionals often use, are commonly in MS Word and PDF format. Here’s lies the catch: the Kindle 2 does not natively support PDF files and this is one important thing that individuals have to consider before going ahead and buying one. Of course, there are ways of converting files to make them readable for the Kindle 2, but the process could be tedious, and the results, hit or miss.
There are some solutions to this. First, you can have Amazon convert your files for you for just a small fee. While it is not expensive, a student looking to convert dozens of books over the course of their studies may find it extremely time consuming and frustrating. And many college students don’t have the money to be nickel-and-dimed. If you’re good enough with computers, you can download programs and convert the files yourself. Again, it requires a bit of a learning curve and still takes time you may not be willing to invest.
But the mere fact that students and professionals are interested in switching to the Kindle for their reading needs must mean that there are benefits to this move. An obvious one is the size and portability. No more heavy textbooks, no more bulky backpacks, no more sore backs. It could also save you money. How, you may ask, when the Kindle 2 costs a few hundred dollars? You’re forgetting that digitalized versions of books are priced lower than their printed copies so while the purchase might cost more upfront, you will get to see the savings over time. And in this digital age, many college professors are giving PDF materials for students to study. Instead of browsing it on the PC, why not on the Kindle?
The decision comes down to weighing what is important to you against your resources. If you don’t have the money or time to convert files, you may be put off by the Kindle. But if you are willing to put in the extra time and effort to get the files converted, you will find a great burden lifted off your shoulders, literally. If you are still torn, you could always consider the new Kindle DX. With native PDF format readers, it might prove the perfect solution for you.
