Kindle review
Kindle review
The Amazon Kindle is a portable reader that wirelessly downloads eBooks, blogs, newspapers and magazines to a high-resolution electronic paper display that seems like and even feels like real paper and not just indoors but even in bright daylight. The Kindle, which is approximately the size of a paperback book, made its debut in November 2007, and since that time, it is estimated more than 200,000 Kindle readers have been sold. When introduced, Amazon touted the Kindle as a “revolutionary and innovative portable reader that allows its users to wirelessly download eBooks in less than sixty seconds and automatically receive magazines, newspapers and blogs without the hassles of a PC or a laptop and no hunting for Wi-Fi hot spots.” After nearly a year in the market and used by thousands of people, feelings about the Kindle are mixed. Some love it and sing its praises, but equally mixed in with the raves are those users who were left wishing for just a little bit more. That being said this reviewer found very few outright unsatisfied customers. By far the best and most appreciated feature of the Kindle is the device’s free built-in wireless connection – no PC needed. That means you can download books and periodicals without having to connect to a PC, which is required by other readers. There is also some limited Internet access. However, at this point in the product’s development the Internet access is not a main selling point as it lacks a true Web browser. Second to the wireless capability, the Kindle also provides a high-contrast screen that provides an electronic-paper display. This display looks and reads like real paper. Rather than choosing to go the back-lit route like other e-readers, the Kindle’s technology makes it appear paper-like and is infinitely easier on the eyes. This enables readers to use the Kindle in the same well-lit environments that you’d read a traditional book including outside. Other features are it’s built-in keyboard for notes, it’s SD card expansion slot, and it’s compatibility with Windows and Mac machines. On the flip side of the pros, a major complaint with the Kindle is the device’s design. This complaint is leveled in large part due to the Kindle’s cover. The cover has been described as “clumsy” and “poorly designed” and is not comfortable in the reader’s hand. Furthermore, due to the casing being made of plastic, as opposed to Sony’s metal casing, the Kindle feels cheaper in-hand. While the design is ergonomic, it’s definitely not the most attractive e-reader on the market. Additionally, at $350, the high up-front cost, which is a complaint leveled against e-readers in general. Other complaints include content pricing and the annoyance of having to email Amazon for additional file format conversions. All in all, it’s a great electronic device for readers, but with rumors of a newer version on the horizon, it might also be worth the wait.