How to Decide Between the Amazon Kindle 2, Barnes & Noble Nook, and Borders Kobo (E-Readers)?

Answer 1

The proliferation of e-reader hardware into the market in recent years has placed consumers in somewhat of a bind – is the Amazon Kindle the best product? How about the new Barnes & Noble Nook, or the Borders Kobo? There are a few distinguishing features contingent to each model that should be mentioned before considering the purchase of a new e-reader.

Why Buy the Amazon Kindle 2? What Features Does the Amazon Kindle 2 Have?

The earliest contender out of the gate (and in some sense, the industry benchmark), the Amazon Kindle was originally launched in 2007 as a premiere e-reader device capable of downloading books via 3G (cellular) technology throughout the United States. The devices currently sold and marketed by Amazon (the Kindle 2 and the Kindle 2 DX) are substantially improved over the initial model.

Presented in an attractive 16 shades of greyscale alongside anti-glare technology that allows the reader to bask in the sunlight while flipping through their latest blog, newspaper, or e-book purchase – the Amazon Kindle 2 is an aesthetically pleasing piece of hardware. The Kindle is just over a third of an inch in profile, and weighs in at a sliver over ten ounces – a very sleek and modern looking design.

Complimented by a free 3G wireless connection to the Amazon's Whispernet service (allowing you to browse over 620,000 titles as well as free access to Wikipedia) and a brand new price point of $189, Amazon's Kindle 2 is a strong contender for those looking at an all-in-one reading solution.

Why Buy the Barnes & Noble Nook? What Features Does the Nook Have?

The Nook (now offered at two price points – one coupled with wi-fi connectivity for $149 and another with Wi-fi and 3G connectivity at $199) is quickly becoming the greatest challenger for the marketshare typically dominated by the Amazon Kindle.

One of the most interesting and appealing hardware aspects of the B & N Nook is that it also utilizes a touch-screen for navigation and control, forgoing the standard keypad of the Kindle for something more in line with Apple's iPhone or iPad. Beyond this improvement, the Nook also offers the ability for users to “lend” their ebooks for periods up to and including two weeks – something that the Amazon Kindle would do well to emulate. The Nook is a big larger (physically) than the Kindle as well, which is either a pro or a con depending on the consumer's individual taste.

One negative feature contingent to the Nook is it's U.S.-centric content delivery system. Where the Kindle advertises international connectivity (whether via 3G or EDGE), the Nook is largely constrained to the continental United States in terms of delivering free 3G wireless connection.

Why Buy the Borders Kobo? What Features Does the Kobo Have?

The Borders Kobo e-reader is the most recent entry into the market, having been launched just this year. At ~$149.99, it is the most inexpensive choice (though the Nook's recent price drop to the exact same price point will no doubt either force the Kobo to drop further, or precipitate a losing war).

The Kobo also utilizes the e-Ink technology that allows users to read without any chance of screen glare due to sunlight. The design aesthetic, as it is with the Nook, is very simplistic – a single blue button is used to navigate the Kobo. Load times are problematic, however, and many consumers have indicated that the blue multi-directional button is a little bit quirky.

For the price point, the real battle rages between the Amazon Kindle 2 and the Nook – the Kobo will have to drop below ~99.99 to compete, given that it does not offer 3G connectivity nor the laundry list of features present in the International Kindle nor the Nook.

Answer 2

Consider factors such as display quality, battery life, store selection, and ease of use. Compare features like screen type, storage capacity, and compatibility with different file formats. Research reviews and seek hands-on experience to determine which device best matches your reading habits and preferences.