The Netbook Review

A lot of people are interested to see which ebook reader would take top honors in a Nook vs Kindle matchup. The big question is — which one? While Amazon's Kindle is clearly the dominant ereader out there today, there are consumers and tech reviewers saying that the Nook has the goods to give the Kindle some serious competition. But does it really? It's time to put the two ereaders side by side.

Comparing the Basic Features and Design

Measuring 7.7 inches in length and 4.9 inches in width, the Nook is a bit smaller than the Kindle which measures 8 inches long and 5.3 inches wide. But then again, at 0.3-inch thick, the Kindle is slimmer than the Nook at half an inch thick. The Barnes & Noble device also weighs a bit heavier at 11.2 ounces compared to the Kindle's 10.2-oz weight.

Unlike the Kindle, the Nook's back cover can be opened, allowing easy access to its replaceable lithium ion battery pack. But what really places the Nook on a wholly new level is its 3.5-inch LCD color touchscreen which replaces a typical keyboard for navigation. The contrast between the color LCD and the grayscale e-ink screen offers an interesting dynamics to the gadget that few other ereaders can boast of.

Other Features

The two ebook readers come with 2GB of internal memory, but while that's the most storage the Kindle can manage, the Nook gives the user the option of adding more memory via its microSD memory expansion slot. And while the two ebook readers both offer 3G wireless connection via the AT&T network, only B&N Nook is WiFi capable. Visit a Barnes & Noble shop and you'll have instant free access to WiFi.

The Haves and Have-Nots

Now comes the more exciting Nook vs Kindle facts. What does the Nook have that Kindle can't counter and vice versa? For starters, the Barnes and Noble ereader offers two innovative services – book lending (having the ability to lend your ebook to another Nook owner) and in-store browsing (being able to look over complete ebooks at no cost within Barnes and Noble outlets).

For its part, Kindle does come with text-to-speech option which lets the reader become just a hearer and listen to the book read to him. In addition, the Kindle allows web browsing, while the Nook doesn't. Finally, the Nook's battery life of 7 to 10 days (more like 4-5 days according to users) is a far cry from the Kindle's up to 14 days battery power (more like 10 days in actual use). These are battery life estimates with the Wifi turned off. 

The Decision

As expected, finding a clear winner between the Nook vs Kindle is just not that simple. But while both have exciting features, Amazon's device takes the upper hand in overall use as it has practically perfected the technology, having gone through several Kindle versions. On the other hand, the Nook's numerous issues, like delayed page turns and sluggish startup will likely be addressed in future versions, after which it can truly be a possible Kindle killer.

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Introduced to the public in October of 2009, the Barnes and Noble Nook, one of the latest ebook readers in the market today, was seen as a probable candidate to unseat the Amazon Kindle from its dominance in the ebook reader industry. What has it got that makes it a significant challenger This Nook review explores a few of the most notable features of this ebook reader.

Size, Display Specifications

First off, the basic specs. The Nook's surface dimensions are fairly standard. It is 7.7 inches long, 4.9 inches in width, 0.5-inch deep, and weighs 11.2 ounces. It's roughly the same size as the 2nd generation Kindle – only thicker and a bit heavier. The device also comes with a 6-inch e-ink screen with 16 shades of gray, and some choices for font style and size.

But what undoubtedly gives it a wow factor that's not present on most ebook readers today is the 3.5-inch capacitive color touchscreen. Located just below the e-ink screen, the LCD screen replaces the standard keyboard and buttons used for making ebook selections and navigating within the ereader and the text itself.

More Noteworthy Features

The Nook is pre-loaded with 2GB of internal memory and a micro-SD card slot so it's easy to add more memory as the need arises. The ebook gadget also comes with a replaceable lithium ion battery pack, 3G connection through the AT&T network, wireless connectivity, MP3 player, speakers, and a dictionary so you can easily look up unfamiliar words.

Other Nook features which are completely distinctive from other ebook readers are the book lending and store browsing capabilities. As the term implies, book lending refers to having the ability to lend out an ebook in your library to a different ereader user for a 14-day period. In-store browsing, on the other hand, means having the chance to look over full ebooks at no cost in brick-and-mortar Barnes & Noble shops.

Some Concerns

This Nook review wouldn't be thorough enough if we don't reveal a few of the concerns given by current Nook users. One is the device's lack of web browsing capability despite its WiFi connectivity. Another serious issue is the Nook's seemingly insufficient battery life in comparison to other ereaders. Barnes & Noble says it could be used for about 7 to 10 days with the WiFi deactivated, but for actual users, 4 to 5 days is more like it.

With the Nook's superior features and Barnes & Noble's value-added services, the Nook could have a big impact on the ereader market. Still, this Nook review points out that you'll still find a number of changes that have to be made, for the device to really kick off with a big bang.

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Putting together a feature-for-feature Kindle vs iPad review, which device will likely win hands down? No doubt about it, the Apple iPad, with its recent much talked about launch, is the “in” thing today. True-blue Apple patrons can scarcely wait to get their hands on one as the WiFi versions are expected to ship in late March, and the 3G models are to be delivered starting April. When that time comes, we will expect to see long lines in front of every Apple store as what happened with the sale of the iPhone.

But what of the ereaders like the Amazon Kindle and the Sony Reader?  The ereader has slowly become a common consumer device, with the Kindle getting the lion's share of the market. Seeing the potential of such a device however, a lot of similar ebook readers have also cropped up, with most of them having practically the same features as that of the Kindle. Now with the entry of tablet PCs like the iPad which can also ably operate as an ebook reader, the gadget need may shift  to multi-functional devices. So, is the iPad poised to take over the ereader market? Let's weigh the significant elements.

First off, the negatives. The iPad will only be connected to Apple's own ebook store. While this makes is sensible for those who are still considering buying an ebook reading gadget, if you already own a lot of digital books, you won't be able to dump them in the iPad. Actual ebook prices are still for confirmation, but there's word that purchasing iBooks in the Apple ebook store is going to cost you around 12.99 dollars and 14.99 dollars. These rates can be slightly pricey for those who have to start from scratch. Plus, Amazon's ebooks are still retailing at 9.99 dollars apiece.

Nonetheless, buying an iPad has its own set of advantages, being a device that can perform a lot of functions. You will be able to use this oversized iPhone clone, sans the “phone”, to stream high-def movies, watch your favorite TV shows, do online browsing, and have fun with games on a 9.7 inch IPS touch screen. True to Apple standards, the clarity and color is amazing, and it comes with your choice of 16-GB, 32-GB or 64-GB internal memory. With such storage capacity, the Library can hold tons of books, which are cleverly displayed on a “book shelf” design. With an easy tap, you may choose your ebook, and read it on the high-resolution, LED back-lit screen. Depending on your storage and connection preferences, prices start out at 499 dollars and end at 829 dollars. It does have special apps developed specially for the iPad, and you'll have access to many of the 140,000 other apps at the App Store.

On the other hand, the Amazon Kindle is a device intended for the user's most comfortable and convenient reading experience in mind. Unlike the LCD monitor of the iPad, the Kindle, like the current batch of ebook readers, is equipped with e-ink display, which many say, is still best for reading for longer periods of time. The Kindle's battery can last up to two weeks without recharging, so it could also make the right traveling companion. The 6-inch model is priced at 259 dollars, while the 9.7-inch Kindle DX costs 489 dollars.

So which gadget gets our thumbs up in this Kindle vs iPad comparison? Definitely for the gadget geek, the iPad will fit perfectly alongside his MacBook Pro, AirPort Express, Magic Mouse and its smaller counterpart in looks, the iPhone. Jobs and his staff have created yet another brilliant product for the dedicated Apple user. But for the bookworm just looking to read in the most conjucive “environment” and don't require all of the other extra features, the Kindle ebook reader is still the best choice on the market today.

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Presenting a side-by-side Kindle vs iPad review, which device will likely prevail? No doubt about it, the Apple iPad, with its recent much hyped about launch, is the “in” thing today. True-blue Apple patrons can hardly wait to get their hands on one as the WiFi versions are likely to ship in late March, while the 3G units are arriving in April. When that time comes, we will expect to see long lines in front of every Apple store as what happened with the release of the iPhone.

But what of the ebook reading devices like the Amazon Kindle and the Sony Reader?  The ereader is fast becoming a mainstream consumer device, with the Kindle getting the bigger share of the market. Seeing the potential of such a device however, a lot of similar ebook readers have also been released of late, with most of them having practically the same features as that of the Kindle. Now with the entry of tablet PCs like the iPad which can also ably perform as an ebook reader, the gadget need may perhaps shift  to multi-functional devices. So, is the iPad primed to take over the ereader market? Let's weigh the significant factors.

First off, the negatives. The iPad will only be associated with Apple's own ebook store. While getting an iPad is a smart move for those who are still thinking of buying an ebook reading gadget, if you already own plenty of ebooks, you won't be able to access these in the iPad. Actual ebook prices are still for confirmation, but there's talk that purchasing iBooks in the Apple ebook store is going to run you around 12.99 dollars and 14.99 dollars. These rates can be a little pricey if you have to start from scratch. Plus, Amazon's ebooks are still retailing at 9.99 dollars apiece.

Notwithstanding, purchasing an iPad has its own share of advantages, being a device that can serve a lot of functions. You will be able to use this big iPhone lookalike, sans the “phone”, to view high-def movies, watch your favorite TV shows, do online browsing, and have fun with games on a 9.7 inch IPS touch screen. Sticking with Apple standards, the clarity and color is superb, and the package includes your choice of 16-GB, 32-GB or 64-GB internal storage. With such storage capability, the Library can hold a lot of books, which are ingeniously displayed on a “book shelf” design. With an easy tap, you may choose your ebook, and read it on the high-resolution, LED back-lit display. Depending on your memory and connection preferences, prices start out at 499 dollars and end at 829 dollars. It does run special apps created specifically for the iPad, and you'll have access to most of the 140,000 other apps at the App Store.

On the other hand, the Amazon Kindle is a device designed for the user's most comfortable and convenient reading experience in mind. Unlike the LCD monitor of the iPad, the Kindle, like the present batch of ebook readers, utilizes e-ink display, which many say, is unarguably best for reading for longer periods of time. The Kindle's battery can last up to two weeks without recharging, so it could also make the perfect traveling companion. The 6-inch model is priced at 259 dollars, while the 9.7-inch Kindle DX costs 489 dollars.

So which gadget gets our nod in this Kindle vs iPad matchup? Definitely for the gadget geek, the iPad will go perfectly alongside his MacBook Pro, AirPort Express, Magic Mouse and its smaller counterpart in looks, the iPhone. Jobs and his staff have come up with yet another brilliant product for the dedicated Apple user. But for the booklover just looking to read in the most conjucive “environment” and have little need for all of the other extra features, the Kindle ebook reader is still your best option on the market today.

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Participants were impressed at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas with the Plastic Logic Que (pronounced “Q”) digital ebook reader. Partnered with AT & T 3G network as the broadband provider, the Que has WiFi connectivity. With the company behind it claiming that it is a really exceptional gadget, the Que is the first of its kind that is is being marketed to the mobile professional. With its portability, users will definitely find it easy to carry around

Some may shy away from the Que due to its hefty price tag. The WiFi 4GB model will dent the pocket by 650 bucks, and the WiFi 3G 8GB model will have you paying 150 bucks more. Why is it so dear? Similar to other electronic book readers, the Que allows the users to read their preferred books, magazines, and newspapers, but on top of these conventional features, they also can also use Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

The 4GB version can store up to 35,000 documents and the 8GB model holds up to 75,000. Finding reports, documents and presentations is easy, and only requires a few taps. With this technology, you can practically bid goodbye to a briefcase bursting with documents. This function is truly the reason why it's best suited for the traveling professional or businessman. It may even be appealing to students as well.

The Que is a sleek and sophisticated gadget, with a 10.7 monochrome screen built into a slim body. It measures 8.5 x 11 inches, the same size as a standard piece of paper, and is light in weight. It is easy to bring anywhere, tucked in one's briefcase or purse.

Undemanding on the eyes, the plastic display is very inviting and the e-ink provides pleasurable reading. The Plastic Logic Que doesn't come with a stylus, but a powerful virtual keyboard. The user can make notes and highlight crucial content in any document for future reference. The Que has a built-in a USB port, SD card slot and speaker, and isn't cluttered with excessive hardware. The sole button located on the front is the power button located at the bottom of the reader. Simply put, it's a good-looking device!

The reading enthusiast will have access to their favorite books, magazines and newspapers with the wide selection in the QUE Store. Users can enjoy as well their daily newspaper over breakfast, steal a quick glance at their presentation even in the midst of a meeting, and enjoy accessible information all the time. Consumers will get their hands on the Plastic Logic Que from local retailers in mid-March, or pre-order it at the Que website.

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Are ebook readers about to be discarded in favor of the iPad? After the much-talked about introduction of the Apple iPad, tech geeks are restlessly pacing the floor, anxiously looking to the time when they could finally get their hands on this device. The iPad models built with WiFi are expected to be shipped by late March and the 3G models are to be shipped starting April. It's no surprise actually; a person who uses Apple products are a rare breed, loyal and have stayed true to Apple.

It looks like Steve Jobs still got his touch, coming up with a product that will be flying off the shelves, no doubt. Perhaps scores of Apple followers will meander in long lines at the nearby Apple Store, standing by for when the iPad will finally go on sale, harking back to the iPhone launch. But will the anticipated entry of the iPad have a big impact on the slowly rising ebook reading market presently dominated by the Amazon Kindle? In order to come to a verdict, let's take a look at the iPad in detail.

It's not cheap with prices starting at 499 dollars and topping out at 829 dollars, and why shouldn't it be more than a bit pricey? True, the Apple iPad is an ebook reader but it does a great deal more than that It looks like a huge version of the iPhone, minus the call capabilities. You'll be able to watch high-def movies, stream TV shows, browse the internet, and play games on it. The large 9.7-inch IPS touch screen is up to Apple's high clarity standards. It is equipped with a memory capacity of 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB flash drive.

With such storage capability, this gadget will no doubt hold a library much larger than your average ereader. Books are coolly arranged on a “book shelf”. You can just tap the book you would like, and enjoy reading it on a high-resolution, LED backlit display. While current iPhone and iPod Touch apps will also run on the iPad, exclusive apps specifically created for the iPad are expected to come out too.

Here's a setback, though. The iPad will only be associated to Apple's own ebook store, and these books are not compatible with the Kindle and other ebook reader market dominators. If you've got a wide collection of ebooks already on another ereader, you'll have trouble reading them on the iPad. While it remains unconfirmed as yet, word has it that iBooks will sell for 12.99 dollars and 14.99 dollars.

The Apple iPad is portable, lightweight, and most likely really fun to use. But if you won't be in need all of the “other stuff”, the ereaders on the market now will do just fine. But if you are a hardcore Apple fanatic, then Jobs and his group have produced yet another exciting product for consumers. With amazing clarity and capabilities, you will “iLove” this multi-tasking gadget. The Apple iPad will match perfectly with your MacBook Pro, AirPort Express, Magic Mouse and iPhone.

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If your love for hard cover books is still leading you to resist a digital ebook reader like Amazon's Kindle, you may reconsider when you take into account the ereader as a green device. Books, newspapers and magazines use a lot of paper for production, and the paper and ink process can impact the environment in such a harmful way. So looking at it this way, an ebook is a choice to go green because this eliminates tree cutting.

Ebook reading devices utilize rechargeable lithium polymer batteries which are another advantage to consider. Compared to similar accessories, nickel-based batteries, they are not as detrimental, and your wallet will thank you when you need not shell out every so often for batteries.

Unfortunately, it is the way it goes, and with these positive features, a new set of problems follows. Our society depends heavily on technology, and to satisfy the needs, electronic companies are frantically coming up with new devices to give geeks their much-desired tech fix. We acquire the newest gadget, and don't responsibly get rid of our “old” electronic devices. Electronic waste isn't likely to disappear, and honestly, it is piling up. Recycling isn't hard, and you can even donate your old gadgets to a non-profit organization or a school that has suffered from budget cuts. Provided the device is still in good working condition, you will be making a lot of other people happy.

As mentioned earlier, companies are determined to boost the ebook reader's functionality. Currently, you have to recharge an ebook using your laptop or wall charger, depending on which one you own. This does produce greenhouse gases, and as we are aware of, these gases are also affecting the environment negatively. Perhaps soon, a manufacturer will design an ebook which will be able to get its charge from the sun. What a great excuse to be able to lay out by the pool and read because you need to charge your ereader!

It would simply be unwise for a manufacturer to ignore society's demand for “green” products. With more attention to these important matters, enhancements on gadgets should also deal with environmental concerns to safeguard our world and satisfy the market.

If you happen to be still shunning the ebook reading device, do a little research. The portability it offers and ease  is simply amazing, and reading a novel digitally brings the story to life. In addition, you may want to look at the simple truth that you're doing your part in saving trees. Most people agree that if you want to go green, using the ebook reader green gadget is a great way of doing so.

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