Hello all! Long story short, I bought a Kindle 4 (Non-touch) second-hand a few months ago and enjoyed it. However, while I love its portability and the physical buttons, the lack of a touch screen is driving me crazy because I have to navigate everything with the 5-way controller. The battery is also terrible - probably due to the old age, but I have to charge it every day for only 30 minutes of reading time. That's why I'm currently looking for new eReaders and would be immensely grateful for your advice. I’m a student on a tight budget, so I'm looking at the second-hand market for a long-term replacement.
Requirements:
- Portability and light weight (around 6-inch - I find even Paperwhite too big)
- Sideloading books: This is my only source of books. I also don't have access to Libby or any other online libraries in my country.
- Touch screen
Optionals but preferable qualities:
- Page-turn buttons on both sides (Absolutely love those on my K4. I tried a Kindle 8 and found swiping and tapping a little tedious)
- Screen: Higher resolution than my current one (167 ppi). I prefer a "paper-like" timbre - absolutely love the recessed screen on my K4 (and K8). I'm worried that the flush glass might feel too much like a tablet.
- Front light that allows me to read in the dark
- Comprehensive dictionary
Qualities that I don't care about or dislike
- I don't like warm light
- Dark mode is optional
I've done some research and have decided on these two devices: Nook Glowlight 4 and Kindle Voyage.
Nook Glowlight 4 (60 USD/50 Euro) - I love the physical buttons and the recessed screen. I’ve heard the software can be a bit laggy - is it a dealbreaker for a pure sideloader?
Kindle Voyage (50 USD/40 Euro) - I've heard countless compliments about this, but I’m worried about the flush glass screen possibly making my reading experience less immersive, and the haptic "buttons" versus the physical ones on the Nook.
A few specific questions:
- Is the battery on a used Voyage usually a gamble at this point?
- For those who own both devices, does the Voyage’s glass screen feel significantly different/more reflective than the recessed plastic of the Nook (or any other eReaders you own)?
I'm also open to any other options! Please offer me some advice on which one to purchase. Apologies for my long post and thank you so much for your time!
