There are many different types of electronic reading devices that are available today. Some have been around for quite a while, some have evolved into improved versions and yet there are others that have just joined the club. The obvious advantage for the new players is that they have the benefit of learning from the earlier entrants and incorporating the needs of users into their newly launched models. There would certainly be room for improvement in the new models of electronic reading devices, however, they would still be ahead with the new features.

What Makes The Difference?

• Quality, variety and amount of content. Expanding book-based content to one that includes newspapers, magazines, blogs and the Web. All content is downloaded and ready to be accessed at your convenience. You get to read or view only the main content as all other unnecessary visuals, ads and other distractions are filtered out.
• Wireless connectivity. Do they bring the freedom and power to textual content that the cell phone brought to voice communications? Wireless downloading of books in just a few seconds. This may be a problem if a reader lacks discipline. You might downloading more than what you can manage financially. However, just like credit cards, you must learn how to use them prudently.
• A device that works and works well. One that delivers not in terms of just looks but value added content and practical features. Content that is crisp and readable. Fonts that are extremely legible, adjustable to various sizes and availability of italics. Page switching that can be done easily though it might take a little practice.
• Device size that is suitable for reading. A device that can be easily held in one hand while allowing the reader to reach out for a cup of their favorite beverage with the other! Readers know the importance of appropriate size as they can relate it to the newspapers. Yes, some prefer the full size of the more traditional papers but try reading those in an area with limited space. Even reading those in an economy class seat on an airplane that is full would be a challenge.

What Else?

Electronic reading devices are meant to be easily portable and usable in a number of situations and environments. Their design must therefore facilitate this in terms of size. If you need to be concerned about how to carry it along, then it is not for you. What would be a suitable size? Anything that is about the size of a basic paperback would pass the test. Can you pick and choose what and when you want to read? Would you be able to stop and continue from you left off or switch to something different?

Do you need something to be clarified? Can you pose a question and get an answer or several answers? Additionally, the reading device must be usable for long periods. Just as "talk-time" for a hand phone, the "read-time" is equally important for an electronic reading device and this comes down to battery life as well as time taken for a full recharge. Would you get everything you want and need in such a device? Certainly not. In exchange for convenience, a little compromise would be necessary.