Choosing an E-Book Reader
Making expensive purchases is always a big deal for me. I like to take my time, research and consider my options.
I've learnt from previous mistaken purchases that checking off a few essential requirements helps with buyer's remorse.
Aside from the obvious reviews and YouTube videos, I like to ensure I've check other things:
- That I'll actually use it (Hello, my poor Nintendo DS)
- Official support is efficient and effective. Sniffing around the forums is a good start
- Hack-a-bility. When v2 comes out, support will tail-off and open-source hackers are your best friend
- It supports open standards
I've had terrible experiences with Sony hardware in the past (expect the PS3), so I discounted that device outright. The BeBook Neo has a lot of additional features such as touch screen and wifi, but all I'm looking for is a simple e-book reader. Plus, I've got an Android phone for mobile Internet and desktop for everything else. A device I can use on the journey to work and back and read in bed is all I need. So, BeBook Neo's extra features are superfluous and come at a high premium.
After reading good reviews on the Register, and seeing hacking beginning on the firmware I decided to pick the iRiver Story. This decision was spurred on by a Play.com sale (21st Jun 2010) selling it for £150.
It should arrive within the week, and I'll post a follow up review after it arrives.
