The Nook vs Kindle Conundrum: Which is Best for You?
Article by Matt Hawkins
In this article concerning the Nook vs Kindle, the “generations” focused upon are the original versions of the Kindle (keyboard and touch) and the Simple Touch (black and white) version of the Nook. These were the first editions of each device to be released. They encompass the most simple characteristics of each device before the new generations were produced.
In terms of actual reading, the reason that Amazon’s device was so innovative was because it did not have an LCD screen. Instead, it uses “E-Ink” technology. The device contains actual ink particles that are constantly rearranged to create words and pictures that the user sees on the screen.
It has been well-established that watching an LCD screen – whether it be a television, computer screen, or handheld device – interferes with the production of melatonin in the brain which, in turn, can interfere with one’s ability to fall asleep. This is a decisive advantage that it has over Barnes and Noble’s device, which does have an LCD screen, while the Kindle does not.
Wi-Fi capability is another important characteristic on which to compare these two devices. While both contain Wi-Fi, the Kindle has one thing that the Nook does not; and that is a web browser. On the Kindle, you are free to browse the web, check emails, etc. The Nook used to have a very glitchy browser that hardly worked, and newer generations do not have it at all. In this sense, internet-lovers are more likely to be drawn to Amazon’s device.
Another internet advantage of Amazon’s device is the 3G edition. The 3G connectivity means that you do not have to be in a Wi-Fi area, such as a house or an internet cafe; you can receive Wi-Fi no matter where you are. This is perhaps Amazon’s most important advantage over Barnes and Noble.
When it comes to customer support, Amazon has a very distinct advantage over Barnes and Noble. Barnes and Noble’s e-book reader has been reported to have many bugs and connectivity problems; and, combined with poor customer support, this has left many customers feeling unsatisfied. This relates very much to Barnes and Noble’s financial problems.
Barnes and Noble is currently, among major chains of bookstores, the “last chain standing”. Many blame their financial problems on their overpriced books; customers all over the country have expressed outrage over the store’s unusually-high prices, and have often cited this as their main reason for finding other ways to buy books, especially e-books. With so many customers putting their money into other businesses, Barnes and Noble’s success continues to slope downward, and the company is now fighting for its life.
Overall, Amazon’s device seems to be more efficient than Barnes and Noble’s. Its internet connectivity is better; their customer support is decidedly superior; Amazon’s e-book selection is cheaper overall, with over 800,000 books at ten dollars or less, while Barnes and Noble’s is relatively smaller; and Amazon’s device uses a significantly lower amount of electricity than the Nook. In the Nook vs Kindle debate, Amazon clearly has a significant edge; in finances, in customer support, in e-book selection, and, especially, in product durability.
About the Author
Matt Hawkins loves to read and is a big e-reader fan. For more information on the debate between the Nook vs Kindle and a point-by-point comparison of each, visit http://www.kindlebacklight.net.
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