I am in the market for an e-reader, my first.
I’ve done some research and looked at a number of models, ruling many of them out for one reason or another. I found this forum, have read through several of the “Which one should I buy?” posts and thought I’d join to make my own.
My general requirements and other info:
- I’ll be reading books, with no or few illustrations (no need for colour either).
- A large percentage of the books I’ll be reading are in PDF format, non-DRM. I’m happy to install KOReader (or similar) to facilitate this.
- Other ebooks will be purchased from Amazon or smaller / independent websites.
- I’m happy to pay for books and used to this, not so happy about the limitations imposed by DRM (in case of future device changes, etc.). An ethical way around this (for me) would be to buy a DRM version and download a pirated version; not sure if I can be bothered to do that though, in which case I’d just buy and download the DRM version.
- In principle, I’d prefer open source software wherever possible.
- The last time I avidly read books on a device was around the turn of the century, on an HP iPaq using MobiPocket Reader. I’ve used the Kindle App on my phone and Mac, but neither satisfy me.
- No budget limitations; I’m prepared to pay for quality but not novelty.
My MAIN REQUIREMENTS or deal-breakers:
- ability to make notes/annotations and highlight text - then synchronise this with my computer (Mac). I believe I can do this with Calibre. I need to do this with PDF books also, though I’m happy to use Calibre (or alternative) to convert to another format, if necessary.
- ability to install either the Concise Oxford English Dictionary, the Collins English Dictionary: Complete and Unabridged or alternative: a comprehensive, primarily UK English dictionary. I’m expecting to purchase the dictionary and possibly a Thesaurus, not expecting it to come bundled. Ideally I’d be able to highlight a word and have it looked up, but I’m happy to settle for copying and pasting the word into the dictionary.
Edit: I'm aware that the ODE comes bundled with Kindle devices. I mean that if I have to buy it for a different ereader this is not a problem, as long as I can and it works well.
- readable in bright sunlight as well as darkness / candlelight.
BONUS FEATURES that would make me choose one device over another:
- waterproof & dust-proof.
- regular firmware updates that effectively extend the life/usability of the device.
Devices considered / in the running:
Initially I was keen on the Kindle Oasis, but after further research I’m leaning towards the Kobo Aura H2O.
My main concern about the Aura H2O is that it was released in 2014, which seems a bit long in tooth for an electronic device. Is there a new version expected out soon?
I’ve seen the Tolino Vision 3 mentioned in one of the threads here, but have not been able to find many reviews.
...
Thank you for reading through all this and for any suggestions and guidance you can give me!
UPDATE: I've decided to go for the Kindle Oasis. After much reading, it seems that only Kindle can give me the dictionary I want, plus the highlighting
and annotation features.
Thanks again to everyone for your feedback and advice!
