Kindle II popular in SA
eBook readers have become popular and useful gadgets. The new Amazon Kindle II was recently launched, and there has been widespread analysis of the market segment, with the much rumoured Mac Tablet set to ruffle some feathers when it finally makes an appearance.
With a variety of devices becoming ubiquitous, it might be a little difficult to decide which is best. Justin Drennan, co-founder of the South African online shopping portal Want It All (http://www.wantitall.co.za), shared his opinions on the devices, and offered some insight into the best sellers.
“The Amazon Kindle II is definitely the hottest product,” said Drennan.
“The Kindle II uses 3G to download books directly to the device – no data plan is required. You pay a little extra on the eBooks though, probably to subsidise data costs. Unfortunately the international Kindle II doesn’t have access to some of the US bestsellers,” Drennan explained.
“The newspapers and magazines that you can access through Amazon also add value to the device. The Kindle II comes with a nice accessory market around it; things such as leather covers that make it look like a bound book, neoprene covers, bags for using it in the shower – a lot of awesome stuff,” said Drennan.
The Kindle II with a 6” display is available for US$259 (±R1,930) from Amazon. The Kindle DX, with the larger 9.7” display is available for US$489 (±R3,640). Of course shipping and import fees will apply.
According to Drennan another option is the Sony PRS 600 series, Sony’s equivalent to the Kindle.
“The Sony eBook store doesn’t have the number of books available that Amazon does – that’s what makes the Kindle II a killer device. You can also load your own books on to the Sony,” he continued
The Sony PRS 600 series costs US$282.77 (±R2,105) from Amazon. Again, shipping and import fees will apply.
Drennan also highlighted the Barnes & Noble nook as a worthy eReader. The nook can be found for US$259 (±R1,930) from Barnes & Noble excluding the mandatory import and shipping fees.
Sharing some advice for consumers shopping around for eReaders, Drennan said: “Functionality is the most important thing to consider. If you are using the reader for specialised tasks, such as at an educational institute, something like the Sony may be better. If you just want a user friendly device, the Kindle is simpler.”
Other prominent devices worth investigating are: the Sony PRS 700 Series for US$649 (±R4,830); and the ECTACO jetBook for US$199 (±R1,485) from Amazon. Again, expect additional costs for shipping and import duties.
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