Tech Talk: Exploring E-Readers and Alternatives to Amazon’s Kindle (1 of 3)
Mark McNease
2 more in this series
I recently decided to break away from using a Kindle and ordering all my books and eBooks from Amazon. I won’t be taking my own books off the platform, but I’ve grown more resistant to being chained to all things Amazonian. As an author, too, it has its disadvantages, especially when it comes to their Kindle Unlimited subscription offering: subscribers pay Amazon $9.99 a month for the ability to download as many eBooks as they want to. Individual authors are then paid depending on the number of pages read. This translates to pennies, literally, and while many authors rely on this income as part of their royalties, for others of us it’s a Devil’s bargain. Our eBooks cannot be available anywhere else for 90 days, a recurring cycle that automatically renews unless we opt out after the exclusivity period.
That’s a very long way of saying I’ve left KU, as we call it, and made my eBooks available everywhere, including Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Smashwords, directly from me, and on Amazon. Kindle is not the only game in town. You can get other e-readers, some of them described below. You can also just download the apps (Kindle, Nook, Kobo, and several apps that allow you to read any ePub or PDF book file). I’ve downloaded the Kobo app for books purchased on Kobo, and the Bluefire app, which is currently only available on Apple devices.
Keep reading for Part 1 in a series of 3. Next up: e-reader apps (2) and how to read with e-pub and PDF files (3). NOTE: Some of the e-readers described below are very expensive. I personally suggest using an app instead – there is no difference in the reading experience. But if you’d like to have a dedicated reader, read on!
About dedicated e-readers
In recent years, e-readers have revolutionized the way we consume books and other reading material, offering convenience, portability, and the ability to carry an entire library in our hands. While Amazon’s Kindle is probably the most recognized name in the e-reader market, there are several good alternatives that cater to different preferences and needs. Let’s explore some of the non-Kindle options.
The Kobo Clara HD is a strong contender in the e-reader market, particularly for those who value reading comfort and accessibility. Key features include:
– ComfortLight Pro: This feature reduces blue light exposure, making it easier on the eyes during nighttime reading.
– Wide Format Support: Kobo supports a variety of formats, including EPUB and PDF, making it a versatile choice for book lovers.
– Integration with Public Libraries: Kobo users can easily borrow e-books from their local library through the OverDrive service.
Barnes & Noble’s Nook GlowLight 3 offers a user-friendly interface and a comfortable reading experience. Its main highlights include:
– Night Mode: Users can switch to a warmer tone for night reading, reducing eye strain.
– Physical Page Turn Buttons: For traditionalists, the physical buttons offer a more familiar reading experience.
– Access to Barnes & Noble’s E-book Store: With a robust catalog, users can easily find new titles.
For those seeking a larger display, the PocketBook InkPad Color could be the perfect option. Its features include:
– 7.8-inch Touchscreen: The larger screen is great for reading magazines, PDFs, and graphic novels.
– Text-to-Speech Functionality: This feature can be beneficial for users who enjoy audiobooks or have visual impairments.
– Waterproof Design: Ideal for reading by the pool or in the bath.
The Onyx Boox Note Air is targeted toward users looking for an all-in-one device that can handle both reading and note-taking. Key features include:
– 10.3-inch Display: A large, high-resolution e-ink screen suitable for reading and writing.
– Android Operating System: This allows users to download and use various reading apps, opening up an expansive range of e-books.
– Stylus Support: Perfect for those who like to annotate or take notes while reading.
The Remarkable 2 stands out as a digital notebook and e-reader hybrid, designed for those who prefer writing and sketching:
– Paper-Like Feel: The e-ink technology mimics the feel of real paper, making it a hit with students and professionals alike.
– Focus Mode: This helps eliminate distractions, encouraging users to concentrate on reading or writing.
– Cloud Integration: Seamless syncing across devices ensures you can access your notes and books anywhere.
If you’re reading to pry yourself free from the Amazon octopus, finding alternatives for e-books, paperbacks, hardback and audiobooks is a good start.
NEXT UP: Easy apps for easy reading.