Best E-readers.com

As with the previous Kindles, the new WiFi-only Kindle Touch combines simplicity, functionality, and loads of extra features. Looks-wise, the Kindle Touch is not like any of the previous Kindle models: It has no QWERTY keyboard, no physical page turn buttons. In the grand scheme of eReader things, however, the Kindle Touch does not really bring much new to the table.  In fact, its design and touch functionality is the same as that of the Nook Touch’s and Kobo Touch’s, both of which came out in the 2^nd quarter of 2011. The minimal number of hardware buttons, the Neonode infrared sensor on top of the Pearl eInk display, and the rubberized back are reminiscent of the Nook Touch’s and the Kobo Touch’s.

 

Features – Hardware and Software

 

Measuring 6.8 x 4.7 x 0.4 inches, the Kindle is thinner and more compact than the Kindle 3. It is also very light – just 7.5 ounces – and easy to tote and hold. Thanks to touch, the interface is easier, more convenient. As all page-turning takes place on screen now, Amazon has added a touch experience they call EasyReach to eliminate fatigue from perpetual swiping of screen and to allow users to hold and use the Kindle with either hand. EasyReach allows users to open a new page by tapping the screen with either right or left thumb. To go back to a page, tap the narrow area near the left edge of the device. Based on demos shown, the Kindle Touch is very responsive and very zippy. It looks faster than the Kindle 3.

 

Software-wise, the Kindle experience is the same. This is because Kindle Touch carries over most of the features and functions of the Kindle 3. There are some additions, though. One is the X-Ray function, which provides you a summary or background information of the book you are reading. The information is available offline. Online, you can get more information by clicking on the embedded links. Another vital addition is the Library Book Support. Users can now borrow Kindle books from public libraries.

 

Pros

 

The Kindle Touch is intuitive and very simple to use. The addition of touch has even made the interface friendlier to the user. Most of the advantages of the Kindle 3 are also offered by the Kindle Touch, including 2-month battery life (with wireless on), free WiFi access in AT&T hotspots, real page numbers on eBooks, password-protection, text-to-speech conversion, book lending, synching, and automatic cloud backups. Users get to access the Kindle Store, which now offers over 800, 000 free and paid books and over 1.5 million free classics – the most range of books you can get from a bookstore.

 

Cons

 

The Kindle Touch carries a large 4GB internal storage (3GB is available for use), but it doesn’t have an SD card slot. Amazon compensates this lack with a free cloud storage service, but you can’t really use it unless you’re connected to the Internet.

 

True, the Kindle Touch is the first major eReader to break the mythical $100 barrier. However, this price is for the model with Special Offers only.  The Kindle Touch with Special Offers features ads on the homepage and as screensavers. Are you willing to deal with ads to get the $99 device? If not, just fork over additional $40; the regular Kindle Touch (with no ads) is priced $139.

While Amazon has loosened its grip on its eReaders by allowing users to borrow library books or lend Kindle books, the device still lacks ePub support. This means users cannot buy from non-Amazon stores.

 

The Bottom Line

The Kindle Touch with Special Offers (priced $99) and the Kindle Touch ($139) are definitely a step up to the Kindle 3. They’re worth checking out if you are looking for good value for your money. Shipping of the devices will start the second or third week of November.

- Kindle Touch - USB 2.0 cable - Quick Start Guide

Main Features - 6-inch eInk Pearl Display with touch sensor - Touch controls, virtual keyboard - Wireless function via WiFi network - On-device storage: 4GB for 3,000 books - 2 months battery life (with wireless off), 3 weeks with wireless on - Weighs 7.5 ounces Key Features - Sleek, compact design - Experimental web browser - Unlimited cloud storage for Amazon eBooks - Never gets hot - Adjustable texts and font sizes - Multiple language support - Multiple notes and sharing features