Learn About eBook Readers or Reading Tablets
How does an eBook reader differ from the usual tablet? What are the specifications of eBook readers?
eBook readers are known in many different names such as: eBook Reader, e-Reader, or a reading tablet. The reason behind its numerous names is because of the different manufacturing companies and how they name their devices.
Regardless of the names, the one constant is that the device looks like a tablet with its main function being storing and saving eBooks and reading them.
A person may wonder here what the purpose of an eBook reader is if you can use a normal tablet for reading eBooks. The answer is that an eBook reader is a device manufactured for the reading purpose. It can store many books and can display all of the books formats.
With all the technological advancement of the 21st century, some believe that the traditional paper books will be replaced with eBooks. This is also supported by the fact that eBooks are much cheaper than paperbooks.
Also, carrying a reading tablet is much easier than carrying several heavy books; it also allows you to read anytime you want. It can save a large number of books (depending on the size of its internal storage). The user can also read a book with 6000 pages without needing to connect the tablet to a power source for charging purposes. This is also linked to the battery size but the number listed above is the average between all battery capacities.
The user can also edit the text size and line spacing, as well as highlighting texts (just like you would a normal book). Some eBooks support WiFi as well and can play music.
After defining the reading tablet reader, we will now list the most important specifications you need to check so you can make a smart and wise buying decision.
Screen and Resolution
The most common types of screens are LCD and E-Ink. We will explain the differences between them in the next few lines.
E-Ink screen are a uni-color screens, making the reading experience seem like reading a normal paperbook. This limits the screen’s brightness on the eyes and enables the user to read in sunlight.
Its negatives are that you need a constant light to be able to read since the screen has no light of its own thus limiting you to reading in lit areas.
LCD screens are very similar to smartphone and tablet screens. It is a colored screen and some advanced models enable the user to play videos and search the internet. It is also suitable for people who want to read in the dark but not as useful for reading in sunlight.
E-ink screens are closer to paperbooks and are good for people who will read in an area that is well lit. On the other hand, LCD screens are useful for reading colored texts (like newspaper) or for people who read in dim lights.
Both types of reading screens are available in two types as well: a touchscreen and a normal one! Touchscreen eBook readers are more expensive than the normal ones.
Battery
After choosing a screen type (between E-ink, LCD, Touch or not), you will need to check the battery capacity.
The battery capacity differs from one manufacturing company to another. Make sure you choose a suitable capacity so that the reader can last for the number of hours you want. The capacity is usually written on the box.
Generally, eBook readers can work for weeks without needing a recharge. E-ink readers consume less power than LCD. Both can be recharged using a USB.
Storage Capacity
Just like any other electronic device, it is important to check the internal storage capacity. Note that some eBook readers can support an additional Micro SD Card.
A 4 gigabytes memory can store thousands of books, but if you prefer using an LCD screen then you might need more storage. Magazines, comic books, audio books, video and music will need a bigger storage. And those files can only be played or viewed on LCD screens.
Internet Connection
Most eBook readers support WiFi connectivity. This is because users will be able to connect to the internet, purchase online books, and download them directly. Some also support a Sim Card (3G and 4G connection), but the latter are more expensive.
Applications and eBook Format
Online stores have many applications and so having an eBook reader that supports applications will be beneficial. It is important to make sure that the file types you want to read are supported by the reader as there are different book formats.
Summary
There are different brands of eBook Readers in the market, but the most famous brands are: Kindle, Nook, Sony, Kobo, and Boox.
The average screen size for eBook Readers is 6-Inches.
Below you will find a few tips that we can give you to make a smart decision:
- First decide on the screen type.
- Make sure of the battery size, internal storage, connectivity, and the types of files it can support.
- You can also check if the device supports different languages if you want to read books from different languages.
Be smart before making a decision!
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