Although these posts can be a bit self-serving, I know when shopping for something new, I find posts like this helpful. So, here's my "first impressions" post for the Kindle 2.
I came into this as a paperbook snob. I really like(d) the idea of having a "real" book that I can hold, smell, and have a tactile sense of how far along in the book I am. I couldn't imagine enjoying using an eReader.
Nonetheless, we bought a Kindle for my daughter for Christmas - she loves to read and being a young-un she enjoys gadgets. (As do I, for the record.)
Other than checking it out and downloading a couple of books before wrapping it, I really hadn't used it.
But, last night she was at a sleep over, so I figured I would try it out.
All I can say is that I'm sold.
One of my concerns was whether or not it would be awkward to hold and manipulate the device. I find holding the Kindle is quite comfortable in any of my reading positions - even lying on my back. In fact, I would say it's even easier to hold and change pages than with a real book.
My only concern is that if I nod off, I might drop it on my head.
I was also concerned about reading at night where I use a small LED light. No problem. The E-ink page is as good as a traditional black ink on white paper page. I almost wonder if it's easier on the eyes - but time will have to show whether or not that's the case.
And, I really like the little bar along the bottom of the page that shows percentage progress through the book. It's kind of fun to see that I'm almost 40% of the way through, etc. And the little dots showing chapters is a nice touch as well.
And, finally, the convenience of getting a book any time is really nice.
Now I have to decide whether or not to wait to see if there's any repricing due to the Nook or CES drives some price restructuring, etc. Or, just bite the bullet now. (I kinda wish Amazon continued to offer free 2-day shipping like they did at Christmas. It would probably push me over the edge.)
Mitch