What is a Portable ebook reader?
In short a portable ebook reader is an electronic device that stores hundreds if not thousands of books that are read on the device' screen. These books are generally downloaded off the Internet and presented in a format that makes them easy to read.
So, the ebook is presented much like a traditional paper book with sequential pages that are "turned" by pressing a button on the device.
Currently the information on ebook readers can only be presented in black, but colored "inks" are bound to be integrated into ebook readers in the near future.
Why buy a portable ebook reader rather than books?
Most people spend the majority of their time at work staring at a computer screen so why would they then choose to read books on ebook screen rather than a page?
The reason is can be broken down into a number of factors, including"
- Accessibility (Text size can be increased/decreased, easy to read, easy to use)
- Convenience (Devices can store many titles, batteries last for hours, lightweight, slim)
- Environmental Sustainability (save trees & paper, no shipping of physical books)
However, none of the above bear any weight if the reader is uncomfortable reading the ebook reader. It’s one thing to have an energy efficient and lightweight gadget but if the user cannot actually use the thing, it is ostensibly worthless.
Is It Really Like Reading Paper?
Apart from price, the major reason why ebook readers are growing increasingly popular is the invention of something known as E-Ink. E-ink is a revolution in paperless electronic publications and often it’s something you have to take on faith and just trust that it is as accessible as reading paper, or try an ebook reader and see it for yourself.
If you have previously read text on a computer screen or your PDA, laptop, your phone or ipod then you have no doubt experienced the havoc that light can play on glossy or back lit LCD screens.
The E-Ink system defies all of that and allows electronic devices to read like paper and use very little power to do so. Its beyond the scope of this website to explain the system, except to say it is a completely different experience than reading on a traditional screen.
Eyestrain can still be a factor for some people though not the majority of experiences and its best to judge your own experience.
So which portable ebook reader is best?
There are a number of manufacturers in the industry at present, and the market is becoming increasingly dynamic. Reader features are getting better and prices are dropping due to increased competition. The Amazon Kindle, Apple's ipad, the Nook and the Nook Color readers are some of the most well-regarded readers on the market currently and each have their advantages and disadvantages.