 | Kobo: $129 |
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 | Amazon Kindle: $139-$379 |
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 | iPad: $499-$829 |
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| All eReaders offer the ability to store many books in one easy to read handheld device. The different models vary according to screen size, memory capacity, format compatibility, wireless connectivity and battery life. Some double as MP3 players and photo viewers, while others include the level of functionality more usually found on a netbook computer. One of the key considerations when choosing an eReader is the selection and cost of compatible eBooks, newspapers and magazines. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Amazon offers three Kindle eReaders. The Amazon Kindle Wi-Fi costs $139, weighs 8.5 ounces, has a six-inch display and can store up to 3,500 books. The Kindle 3G+Wi-Fi has all the features of the Kindle Wi-Fi but also offers wireless coverage in 100 countries and territories for $189. The Kindle DX has a 9.7-inch display, wireless coverage in 100 countries and territories and enough storage for 3,500 books for $379. See How Much Does a Kindle Cost for more details.
- Sony offers three eReader models, each compatible with the EPUB as well as text formats such as PDF. The entry-level unit is the Sony Reader Pocket Edition which costs $179, has a five-inch screen and 2 GB of memory, enough to store up to 1,200 books. Sony's midrange eBook reader, the Reader Touch Edition costs $229, has a six-inch touchscreen display, audio output and 2 GB of memory that can be expanded to 32 GB with a memory card. The Reader Daily Edition also uses a touchscreen navigation system and costs $299. It features a seven-inch screen and 2GB of memory expandable to 32 GB. See How Much Does a Sony Reader Cost for more information.
- The Barnes & Noble Nook is available in two models. The Nook has a 6-inch touchscreen and a 2GB memory, It is available with Wi-Fi and 3G+Wi-Fi for $149 -$199. The Nook Color has a seven-inch color touchscreen. It has 8GB of memory and costs $249. See How Much Does a Barnes & Noble Nook Cost for more information.
- The Apple iPad costs from $499 to $829 and offers many advanced features not offered by other eReaders. See How Much Does an Apple iPad Cost for more details.
- Launched in May 2010, the Kobo from Borders was designed as a no-frills eReader. It has 1 GB of memory, which holds 1,000 books, and costs $129. See How Much Does a Kobo Cost for more information.
What should be included: | - Most eReaders include a USB cable, rechargeable battery, Mac and PC-compatible software.
- Except for Apple's iPad, an eReader's wireless connectivity is included in the cost, so there are no monthly data charges or wireless commitments.
- The iPad and Nook both offer Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Google Books offers many public-domain books for free download.
Additional costs: | - Sony's Reader Store, Amazon's Kindle Store and Barnes & Noble's eBook Store boast a large selection of ebooks, magazines and newspapers. Most Best Sellers and new releases cost $7.50 to $10. Monthly subscriptions to US or international newspapers or periodicals cost about $1 to $14 per month. Apple's iBooks app sells titles for 99 cents to $10 or more.
- The iPad 3G models require an AT&T data plan deal costing $30 per month for unlimited data or $15 per month for up to 250MB. There is no contract so it can be cancelled at any time. There is no charge for wireless connectivity for the Kindle, Nook and Sony Daily Edition.
- Protective cases for an eBook Reader range from $8 to $120. A clip-on reading light costs about $20; a bookstand costs about $25. Ear buds cost about $5 while noise-canceling headphones cost $20 to $500. Memory cards cost $13 to $90.
Discounts: | - Sites such as B&H Photo Video offer discounts for federal, educator and student buyers. The Apple Store for Education offers discounts for college students, teachers and administrators and Apple Store for Government offers special prices for government agencies and employees.
- Sony Outlet offers discounted and refurbished Sony Readers and accessories. Online retailers such as Amazon sell Sony Readers in discounted kits that include the Reader, a protective cover and accessories such as an AC adapter or reading light.
- Barnes & Noble offers free shipping on the Nook and same-day delivery in Manhattan, NY.
- Warehouse Deals at Amazon offers discounted Kindle accessories.
Shopping for an ebook reader: | - PC Magazine has a buying guide for eBook readers.
- Find competitive prices online at sites such as Amazon then look for comparable or discounted prices at local electronics retailers such as Best Buy.
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Article updated December 2010 |
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