The iPad/ eReader debate has been a huge one since the iPad was released in 2010.
Many critics said that it simply couldn’t compete with dedicated eReaders, and others said that it wasn’t trying to. Here’s a guide to how the iPad compares to other eReaders available on the market today.
1) Screen Display
Since eReaders have been designed with bookworms in mind, they have been made to look and feel as much like “real” books as possible. The most notable feature is the screen. Using a technology known as e-Ink, eReader screens will not get tiring to look at like backlit computer or iPad screens do. They look just like real ink, and can even be read in bright sunlight (perfect for lounging on the beach). In this respect, the iPad can’t quite match the look and feel of the eReader, and some people may find their eyes quickly become tired of staring at the screen.
2) Reading Features
eReaders differ in the reading features they offer, but all generally come with the ability to make notes, look up words on the dictionary, save the page you’re on, and navigate pages easily. The iPad includes all these features, though also allows media, such as video, to be displayed within books, which eReaders do not.
3) Added Functions
The iPad wins the iPad/ eReader debate when it comes to looking at the extra features. The truth is that the iPad is a tablet computer, eBook readers are designed solely for the purpose of reading eBooks. Functions of the iPad include the web browser, games, a whole variety of apps, email, the ability to watch movies, GPS maps and much more. An eReader simply can’t compete here.
4) Book Formats and Compatibility
eReaders do vary when it comes to the various eBook formats they support. However, most major eReaders support a number of eBook formats, including PDF and ePub, which is used in a number of online bookstores. The iPad also supports these popular formats.
Although various eReaders often come with their own specific eBook format, they are generally compatible with other devices. For example, the Kindle has released an app which means its books are compatible with the iPhone and iPad, as well as being readable on your PC, as have Barnes and Noble. As it stands, Apple iPad books are not compatible with other devices. This may not be an issue if an iPad is all you want to use. However, it’s also important to consider the possibility that, if you change device in future, your eBook purchases may not be compatible.
5) Bookstores
The great thing about both eReaders and the iPad is that they don’t just work with purchased eBooks: you can download public domain eBooks for free from a number of sources. This is a definite bonus for those who want to save money. iPads and most eReaders also allow users to buy books from a number of different sources, as long as the books are downloadable in a compatible file type.
6) Price
Price is a huge factor in the iPad/ eReader debate, though it does depend on how many extra features you may want besides the ability to read eBooks. There’s no doubt who wins on the price front: eReaders are many times cheaper than the iPad. Starting at around $100, even the most expensive eReaders are just about even with the cheapest version of the iPad, which comes in at $499. If you want the cheapest gadget you can get, then opt for a dedicated eReader. But if you want an all-round portable computer, go with the iPad.
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