A guide to digital readers

EReaders are one of the most popular growing home electronic devices. Amazon now sells more eBooks than paper books, and there are different file types which eBook readers can handle. IBooks can not be read on an Amazon Kindle and Kindle books can not be read on Sony eReaders. When you buy eReader books, you need to be sure that they will work on your device.

EPUB eReaders

There is not a universal electric book format, but EPUB and PDF files are close. Almost all digital eBook devices will read EPUB files. If you buy a book at the Sony eBook stores, you can read the EPUB eBook on a Sony eReader or another device which can read EPUB files, such as the Kobo eReader or the iRex eReader. EPUB files are also used by Overdrive for library ebooks. So, if you have an EPUB reader, you can check out books from the library. PDF eBooks PDF eBooks are also close to universal files. The iRex iLiad, the Amazon Kindle, and all models of the Sony digital book line can read PDF files. The problem with PDF files is that they are sometimes locked into a specific size because they are almost like image files. When you are shopping for an eReader, you should look for an eReader which can use EPUB files and has zoom features for PDF files. The Amazon Kindle uses mobi files and topaz files as well as PDF files. For the most part, you need to buy your books from Amazon or load them to your computer as PDF files. You cannot buy eBooks from the Sony store and put them on a Kindle.

EReaders versus tablets for eBook reading

Amazon Kindle The Amazon Kindle is Amazon's most popular item. It is a dedicated eReader, which means that although you can use it for audiobooks and basic web access, it is designed for reading eBooks. UK readers have other options, such as the Apple iPad. Apple iPad The iPad and the Kindle have different screens. The iPad has backlighting. So, you can read it when the lights are off. The shiny screen is reflective. The Kindle uses e-ink and e-paper so that it mimics real paper. You can read a Kindle in the sunlight, and you need a light to see in the dark. The Kindle battery life lasts for several weeks. The iPad runs for about 10 hours between charges. If you read books occasionally, a tablet will be fine. If you read books frequently, you will be better served with a dedicated eBook reader.