With the glutton of new technology products that constantly flood the market, there are always a few that seem to deliver on attractive simplicity. Recently, I found that the new Kindle from Amazon fits this category perfectly.
This device is the ideal gadget for those that want access to their libraries, without having to revert to rocking a backpack. Personally, I wanted to become a more diligent reader (especially with classical works) but the idea of having to tote a paperback around was enough to keep me in limbo.
With the Kindle device, this is no longer an issue. I simply load up the device with my collection, throw my Kindle in my back pocket, and I have material to ponder while the wife is trying on clothes.
Under The Hood
Without breaking down every technological nuance of the device, I thought I would list a few that really sold me when considering an e-reader.
First and foremost….I could not believe how small and compact they’ve made this device. As I mentioned previously, at 7.5″ tall x 4.8″ in width x 1/3″ thick and 8.5 oz in weight, I can literally put the Kindle in my back pocket and carry it anywhere. And…this was accomplished while maintaining the 6″ display that can be found on earlier versions of the device.
From there I was drawn to the new E-Ink Pearl display. The technology uses real ink, displayed digitally, which duplicates the “ink on paper” experience that most people enjoy. You get the same deep contrast with zero glare. As a result, you can sit in direct sunlight with the Kindle and not go blind trying to read!
Moving on….to the earth-shattering reality that the battery in the newest Kindle lasts for up to a month! I admit I was a little skeptical about this. Living in an age where you are constantly searching for the nearest power outlet, I had a hard time accepting such a claim. But, I am here to tell you that Amazon is speaking the truth. Because of the simplicity of the Kindle, it operates on minimal power. With no huge draws on the battery (outside of significant time connected to the Internet), you can forget a charge now and then and still have some juice left. With the capability of holding up to 3,500 books, that is some serious longevity!
Capping this all off is the $139 price of the Wi-Fi equipped base model that I acquired. From the $139 price tag you have two other options. You can spend $189 to add on 3G access or you can go big and spend $379 for the larger DX model. I thought it a tad unlikely that I would be in a position where I could not find Wi-Fi; coupled with an overwhelming need to download a new book.
Not Much To Dislike
I honestly have to say that I am very happy with the newest Kindle.
But….if I were to pick anything that could be a drawback, I would have to say that the browsing on the device is a little cumbersome. Although, I wasn’t too surprised by this. Especially when you consider that speed often means more complexity and less battery life.
Let’s face it; you are not going to buy a Kindle to surf the web. You have your computer and your smart phone for that. You are going to buy a Kindle because it is simply designed, with unique technology that gives you a compact, enjoyable reading experience.
Kudos Amazon!
