Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr. Drib
They use the same screen, so I think it boils down to other issues, such as ergonomics, the file type(s) a Reader will read, availability of what you like to read for that unit, the firmware that controls the files, etc.
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I absolutely agree. While I found the Sony more visually appealing, I found myself leaning towards the Cybook and eventaully the Kindle because features and content. Two features that were important to me were dictionary lookup and content search and Sony did not offer them. The Cybook had dictionary lookup and some other nifty features like the ability to load your own fonts. It would have been a little compromise but I was quite close to buying it when the Kindle came out.
I wasn't a fan of the looks of the Kindle, though I do find it quite ergonomic. I was sold by the search capabilities and dictionary. Because of the EVDO access, there's even Wikipedia and Web search. Plus, at the time, they had more titles and they were way cheaper. Other sellers have lowered their prices now to stay competitive so that's not as much of a big deal. Now that I have it, I'm totally blown away by the convenience of the Amazon store and the network access. I didn't think it would matter that much to me when I bought it but now I really love it.
Of course, time has passed since I made my decision and Sony has released some great new firmware for the 505 with better PDF support and ePUB opening up your content options. It still doesn't support my top-ranked features but if those aren't high on your list you might find the Sony pretty attractive. It's the least expensive e-ink option out there and I do like the sleek looks. I'm eager to see what they announce in October. Plus, these three aren't the only game in town. There are other devices out there and new ones on the horizon.