Ebook Reader Reviews

This year I've decided to purchase an ebook reader as a present for a loved one. There are various models and brands on the market but the most popular as of this writing are the Amazon Kindle and Sony Ebook Reader. I've been doing a little comparison of both and I will talk about the important differences (in my opinion) below.

Amount and Variety of Ebooks

As you know the Amazon Kindle is tied in with Amazon.com, therefore the ebook selection is plentiful and if a book isn't available for download, chances are it will be soon. Sony Reader has ebooks for sale in their own ebook store. They have a large variety of titles to choose from as well. I don't think there is much to worry about with either reader in terms of book selection.

Ease of Reading and Style

Both Kindle and Sony Reader are lightweight and readability seems to be even. Unlike the Kindle which is only sold by Amazon, I was able to view the Sony Reader at a local electronics store and found that the text on the screen is easy to read. Amazon Kindle comes in one color (white) and Sony Reader comes in multiple colors (depending on model) to include black, silver, and pink.

Downloading Ebooks

Not too long ago, Sony Reader only allowed you to download ebooks through a USB cable connected to from the reader to your computer. However, they have just released a new model (Reader Daily Edition) which allows you to download via G3 wireless access. The Kindle has always offered wireless downloading.

Pricing

The Kindle comes in two models - regular and DX. The regular Kindle is priced at $259 and the larger DX model at $489. The Sony Reader comes in three models - Pocket Edition at $199.99, Touch Edition at $299.99, and the Daily Edition at $399.99.

Choosing can be tough since both readers seem to have similar features. I think making the choice will come down to price as well as taking an in-depth look at the differences between the Kindle and Sony Reader. My final decision has come down to the Amazon Kindle. I have always thought it was a great gadget and Amazon has led the way in terms of portable ebook readers.

Pricing is reasonable for the regular Kindle and you get the free 3G wireless access with it. Unlike the Sony Reader where the free wireless downloading is only available in one model and costs slightly more.