Shiny New E-Book Gizmo: The Amazon Kindle


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Nate the great
02-07-2008, 07:31 AM
Waterfield Designs (http://www.sfbags.com) announced 3 new cases for the Kindle yesterday. The third one is actually a gadget bag.

The Kindle Sleeve Case (http://www.sfbags.com/products/kindle/kindlecase.htm) protects the Amazon Kindle with: high-grade neoprene; impact-resistant plastic to protect the screen; a sturdy, black, ballistic nylon shell; and a lightly padded closing flap. A rear, open-top pocket stows items such as the USB cable and ear buds. A subtle grey-black checked fabric trims the bottom of the case.

The Kindle Slip Case (http://www.sfbags.com/products/kindle/kindlecase.htm) sports the same vibrantly colored, water-resistant material on its exterior as the Travel Case; a lightly padded, scratch-free liner; and impact-resistant plastic to protect the screen. In the Slip Case, the Kindle remains secure while still sliding in and out easily. The open top provides quick access.

The Kindle Travel Case (http://www.sfbags.com/products/kindle/kindlecase.htm) is designed with padded, internal compartments to keep the Kindle, the power adapter, the clip light, and any additional accessories tangle-free and organized. Self-locking zippers on a front pocket and on the main compartment ensure that contents don’t spill out. Available in six vibrant colors, the water-resistant case maintains its thin, compact shape, even when fully packed.

from:
http://www.sfbags.com/press/PR-06Feb2008.htm

PHugger
02-07-2008, 08:43 AM
Hah! I finally beat you...... (c8

http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showpost.php?p=147121&postcount=29



PCH

Nate the great
02-07-2008, 08:53 AM
Hah! I finally beat you...... (c8

http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showpost.php?p=147121&postcount=29

PCH

That doesn't count. You didn't start a new thread.

KlondikeGeoff
02-07-2008, 09:09 AM
Well, these are nice, but what I'm still hoping for is a replacement for Amazon's cover, either by them or another manufacturer. One that will do better keeping the Kindle in it, and one that lets one put it in and remove it with less annoyance.

Keep your eyes peeled. :D

Gideon
02-07-2008, 09:09 AM
I was looking at these a few days ago... ick.

What's the bloody point? You can't actually use the device while using any of these. If I wanted a slip cover I have options already, these are just cheap, useless things.

It's early, and I'm grouchy, but I stand by that.

gregr209
02-07-2008, 10:50 AM
What a waste! I want something I can put on my Kindle and still be able to read it. I was also looking for a replacement for the current Kindle cover :-( I guess we have to wait a bit longer. It is funny that the press release states that the current offering from Waterfield is what Kindle owners wanted....ummmm I don't think so. Try again Waterfield.

My 2 cents.
Greg

P.S. I do have to say what they are offering does look nice. So I'll give them that.

JSWolf
02-07-2008, 04:08 PM
That doesn't count. You didn't start a new thread.
Maybe not, but it does count.

Gideon
02-07-2008, 07:48 PM
Yes, they look nice. Just not useful for what I'd need at all.

TallMomof2
02-07-2008, 08:15 PM
Not what I wanted, bummer.

AlanF
02-08-2008, 09:44 AM
I have to agree. Not what I wanted either.

Jiiri
02-08-2008, 11:11 AM
I recognize I'm in the minority, but I actually don't mind the case it came with. I cut the corner tabs off with a razor blade and put velcro inside the case and on the back of the Kindle. Works wonderfully. I'd get a new case I guess if it looked nice - but like most people have said here I'd need to be able to read my Kindle while it's in the case.

Just4Fun
02-08-2008, 03:23 PM
I'm with Jiiri. I don't mind the Kindle's case. In fact, just from a cursory glance, I like the Kindle case better than these new cases. I read with my Kindle in it's case all of the time without any problem. I just loop the elastic binding over the bottom right hand corner and the Kindle seems to stay put for me. I'd consider a new case if it was along similar lines of the Kindle, but even more book like:

http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17437

eBookNerd
02-08-2008, 05:28 PM
M-edge finally has the new Kindle cover ready to order and shipping on March 1, 2008.

Very, very nice!

http://www.buymedge.com/index.html

gregr209
02-08-2008, 05:32 PM
M-edge finally has the new Kindle cover ready to order and shipping on March 1, 2008.

Very, very nice!

http://www.buymedge.com/index.html

Now this is what I'm looking for! Thanks! Let us know how it works once you get it eBookNerd!

Greg

radleyp
02-11-2008, 12:53 PM
The tab rather than the elastic closing aside, how is this case different from the one that comes with the Kindle? I see the bottom tab in the picture, so I am assuming that the unit is secured in the same way. What would be the reason for buying this one?

KlondikeGeoff
02-11-2008, 01:04 PM
The tab rather than the elastic closing aside, how is this case different from the one that comes with the Kindle? I see the bottom tab in the picture, so I am assuming that the unit is secured in the same way. What would be the reason for buying this one?

The Kindle only has two tabs on the left side, top and bottom, and the plastic one underneath the device, which does not work at all for me and others. Many of us have difficulty in keeping it in the case, as it easily falls out if one tips it to the right. This can be helped by twisting the elastic band over the bottom corner which makes it more secure.

This new case has what Amazon should certainly have provided, four tabs on each corner. The top right one is elastic, so can easily be removed to access the two switches on the back.

Whether that is worth $40 is a good question.

radleyp
02-11-2008, 01:22 PM
Thanks for the clarification. I would like to get a different case, because I like good leather. OTOH, I have not had a single instance of the Kindle coming out of the case, and I have concluded that that hinge on the back is much more secure than I would have thought. I will buy a new case, however, but I will wait for a few more to appear.

wallcraft
02-11-2008, 02:55 PM
The tab rather than the elastic closing aside, how is this case different from the one that comes with the Kindle? I see the bottom tab in the picture, so I am assuming that the unit is secured in the same way. What would be the reason for buying this one? It has straps on all four corners to hold the device securely, one is elastic: Elastic strap in corner allows for easy access to power and wireless switches I would not describe switch access as "easy", but at least the Kindle won't fall out.

exreader
02-12-2008, 08:22 PM
nothing wrong with the stock kindle case - $0.10 worth of velcro in the right spot [1] solves all problems for me.

[1] a strip of white velcro, 2 inches long, with fuzzy side on the kindle, hooks on the cover size, located at the lower right corner is all it takes.

strevena
02-14-2008, 10:51 PM
I've hated the case that came with the Kindle. I always take it out, as it's next to impossible to flip the power and wireless buttons in the case without it flipping out. I carried PDA's for years, and I alwasy opted for the pouches and sleeves over the leather shells everytime. Nothing beats a 'naked' Kindle in your hands.

I am most worried about it in my laptop bag, door compartment in my car, back seat, trunk and on my desk when not in use. I received my Sleeve Case today via US Postal Priority Mail. This is dead on what I envisioned as the answer to my needs.

The case is lined in a soft material and very well padded. There's a stiff sheet of plastic in the front padding to give extra screen protection. The velcro fastner is heavy duty, as is the 'bullet proof' fabric. There's a nice loop at the base that allows you to easily hold the sleeve case with one hand while sliding it out with the other.

I don't like burying any of my electronic gadgets in bulky wrap around binders and cases. Don't be so quick to knock this case until you've seen one and held it in your hands. I am a happy Kindle owner as of today.

snookums
02-14-2008, 11:34 PM
Interesting. I've never used the Kindle's case and can't see any real reason to. The slipcases look right up my alley though, and they look delicious. Anything larger sounds like something for a frequent traveler.

Bear
02-15-2008, 11:49 AM
I agree. I like using the Kindle "naked" as well. I tried to order the WaterField case, but was told they were backordered. I believe the date mentioned for shipping was Feb. 22nd.

I just use the supplied cover for protection during transport.

strevena
02-15-2008, 12:39 PM
I was really impressed with Waterfield and their customer service. They sent me an email the morning after my late night order informing me that they were backordred. This was on Feb 5th. The email asked me if I wanted to wait until the following Tuesday, or cancel my order. I replied that I would wait, and that it was not a problem. I actually got three emails, and the last told me that my case was shipping out Tuesday night via US Postal Priority Mail.

I received it on Wednesday afternoon (I live a few hours east of San Francisco). I've had two days of kicking it around, sliding the Kindle in and out in a variety of places and situations. I find that I am not so paranoid now when removing it from this case as I was with the supplied Amazon case. The case carries well and is not bulky at all. And the biggest plus . . . . it does not look like a purse, or as my wife calls them 'murse'!<LOL>.

I am glad that I went with this one over the Travel case, as that would have been too big for my use, and it most definitely would have looked like a 'murse'. The slip case didn't do anything for me, as I really wanted the padding and protection. Still loving this case.

KlondikeGeoff
02-17-2008, 09:28 AM
nothing wrong with the stock kindle case - $0.10 worth of velcro in the right spot [1] solves all problems for me.


You're right, after putting it off for a while and only using the elastic band to keep it in the case, finally got a pack of Velcro and put one 3/4 inch piece on the lower right corner. It works like a charm. Big relief not worrying about it falling out all the time.

radleyp
02-19-2008, 11:25 AM
Well, a sleeve case to me is a total waste, and I never buy them. What I want is protection when I am using the device, since that is when I am most likely to subject it to damage (by dropping it, etc...). If all I am doing is carrying the Kindle, I can put it in a briefcase compartment or some other bag. Moreover, I much prefer not using the Kindle uncased, since I find I push the page advance buttons much too often by accident. BTW, what do you do if you want to attach a reading light?

pbennett
03-12-2008, 12:50 AM
Well, I picked up the travel case and the sleeve case (the one that fully encloses the Kindle). Both are very well made. I also got the M-Edge cover (also nice). I wanted something I could stick the Kindle in (by itself or with a cover - which the travel case is specifically designed for) along with the charger and usb cable when I travel. I also wanted an alternative to just carrying the kindle around by itself (the sleeve case was more of a 'try it' sort of thing), but since I like to have the option of using a book light, I'll probably leave it in the m-edge cover. The travel case (I got it in Red) is definitely quite nice. If anybody wants some more pictures (and if I can figure out how to upload here), I can post some.

As for the M-Edge cover, it's definitely nicer than the stock cover 'overall', but I must admit I like the stock cover better for one-handed reading as it's stiffer and sticks out on the left hand side when the cover is folded back. The m-edge folds more or less flat so there isn't really a convenient place to grab it with my left thumb. I've only read with it on one day though so it may just take some getting used to. I also wish there was more screen protection like the stock cover's padded screen protection.

Back to the waterfield bags, if you like using the Kindle without a cover, I can absolutely recommend the waterfield sleeve case or travel case (for tossing in an overnight bag while keeping everything organized). I don't really get the point of their 'slip' case though. :\

dkb
03-14-2008, 11:10 AM
The M-Edge cover has a softer smoother feel to it. It gives you a choice between black, brown, or red. Unlike the original cover there is no possible way that the Kindle will come out of the M-Edge cover--unless you want it to. I think it looks better too--but that's just my opinion.

zinister
03-17-2008, 01:37 PM
I purchased the Waterfield slip case and am very happy with it. It protects the Kindle's screen while being carried in my purse and has the open end so i can plug it in when it needs charging. I carry all my gadgets (sidekick, ipod touch) naked, though in pockets. I change purses frequently, and carry the kindle with me every day so I don't have one bag that would be the "kindle" bag or the "work" bag.

HiTech
04-02-2008, 02:18 PM
I completely agree with the person who posted about the Waterfield Designs amazing customer service and quality case as I had a very similar experience. I liked what I got so much that I went back and ordered two more cases right away! Amazing company, especially in this day and age.

Here's what I can also recommend:
Camera Case (http://www.mobileread.com/forums/register.php)
LOVE IT!

http://www.sfbags.com/products/cameracase/images/cameracase04-md.jpg

Sling (http://www.sfbags.com/products/cameracase/images/cameracase04-md.jpg)
Got it in the brown. Love it too. Even gets compliments from passersby.

http://www.sfbags.com/products/slingbag/images/slingbag-md-003.jpg

Daithi
04-02-2008, 04:15 PM
Personally, I like the cover that comes with the Kindle. I too had problems with my Kindle falling out, and occassionally the back cover would pop off when I turned the power on. However, I added some velcro and I really don't have a problem anymore.

Initially I tried using it without the cover, but this requires awkward thumb and finger placement. I prefer using it with the cover by far.

One of the things I like about the Kindle cover is that with the elastic strap I can wedge my hand into the back and the cover holds onto me. It looks like I would lose this ability with the M-edge covers.

radleyp
04-02-2008, 04:45 PM
That strap is exactly what I did not like about the stock case: it stretches and twists and it is clear to me that it will eventually snap. Nor do I like the idea of attaching velcro which, with the difference in shape between the curved Kindle edge and the flat edge of the case, requires that the case be bent. I have the M-edge which, in addition, is better leather and has a slot both for sheets of paper and a pen.

huevos
04-17-2008, 01:30 PM
all i want is a rubber wrap around case like people have on their iPhones, or Wii controllers...something rubber to absorb shock if...when..i drop it.

http://www.digitaltechnews.com/news/images/2007/07/02/jam_jacket_for_iphone.jpg

or

http://cache.kotaku.com/assets/resources/2007/10/cushionyshield.jpg

the current case makes it nearly impossible to press the buttons on the left side of the screen

MoSo
04-17-2008, 02:26 PM
The current case works best when folder back around flat and then secured with the elastic band. Then you can wedge your right hand between the back and the folder-over front and it's held securely and all the buttons are easy to reach with your thumb (assuming you are right-handed AND the Kindle is fitting securely in the case, which mine has never really done).

I have the M-Edge leather on order - we'll see how well that works when it comes.

Elsi
04-17-2008, 08:38 PM
(assuming you are right-handed AND the Kindle is fitting securely in the case, which mine has never really done). After dropping my Kindle a couple of times (I read in bed and it will fall from my limp hand to the floor if I'm too close to the edge of the bed) the little plastic tab that holds the Kindle in the case had slipped almost totally into its slot and didn't stick out enough to secure the Kindle. So, with my trusty tweezers, I pulled it out, dribbled a generous amount of super glue onto its edge, then slipped it back in and pressed tightly on the edge of the suede until the glue had adhered. No more problem with the Kindle coming out of the case.

Shemp65
05-10-2008, 09:31 AM
Question about the M-Edge cover: It doesn't look like there's a slot in the back for the power on/off switch. Does anyone know if there is? Also... I'm a Kindle noob, should I be switching the power on and off, or using the screensaver mode when I'm done reading? How do I invoke the screensaver mode?

TIA
Brandon

MoSo
05-10-2008, 10:15 AM
Question about the M-Edge cover: It doesn't look like there's a slot in the back for the power on/off switch. Does anyone know if there is? Also... I'm a Kindle noob, should I be switching the power on and off, or using the screensaver mode when I'm done reading? How do I invoke the screensaver mode?

TIA
Brandon

In the M-edge leather case, the upper left, lower left and lower right corner fit into secure wedge-like pockets. The upper right corner has a stretchy band, partly covered with leather, that you slip off to lift the corner of the Kindle to access that on/off and wireless switches. Even with that stretchy band slipped off (as mine is most of the time), the Kindle is pretty securely held by the other three pockets.

The pluses of the M-edge case are that it does hold the Kindle very securely and it has some pockets on the inside cover that are good for storing the SD card, some index cards and a thin pen. The minuses (which are minor minuses) are that the leather is a bit glossier than I'd like, and I actually miss the elastic band on the Kindle cover - I like to make a place to wedge my hand to hold the whole thing by folding the front cover back and using the elastic band to secure it.

I usually leave the Kindle in sleep mode (either I push the alt-Aa or I just put it down and it puts itself to sleep), but I try to shut it off once or twice a week, too - I figure that my laptop and desktop start to misbehave when they've been left running for days and days and there is no reason to encourage that kind of behavior in the Kindle, especially since it shuts off quickly and boots fairly quickly.

EDIT: I also bought the SFBags/Waterfield Travelcase for the Kindle, so I could put the Kindle and my laptop in my backpack when I travel. The Travelcase holds the Kindle (with the stock cover or the M-edge cover), the charger, the earphones and my iPod. The Travelcase zips shut at the top and is pretty tough and padded, so it protects the Kindle and the ports.

radleyp
05-10-2008, 03:35 PM
I really like the M-edge case, and I should point out that you can also fold it back and secure the front cover by fitting the tab into the front slot (the two sides will then be facing one another, so to speak). I never liked the elastic strap because I felt it would stretch out of shape - no matter what I did when I was closing the case, the strap twisted and I then had to carefully untwist it. I never turn the Kindle off (I never turn my phone off either), I just don't see what harm can result from leaving it on.