[Maggie Leung]

I don't think an in-store trial works well to test e-book reading, because of limited access, fluorescent lighting, uncomfortable position, lack of immersion and such. Each reading app adjusts differently as well; you need to be able to install and try 'em.

I've seen some online posters talk about their trials, and it's clear most of them had limited time and access, and don't know what they're talking about. I mean, you can test it fully and still hate it, but you're not making an informed choice unless you've had time and access.

I've messed with several iPad book apps and am fine with 'em all, but I don't have eye problems and such. I turn my backlighting low and use the Kindle app most frequently. I've read a book or two on a few other apps as well. On the Kindle app, I also use the sepia setting. (You can turn backlighting ridiculously low; so dark I'm not sure how you'd read.) At least one app has a night-reading setting as well (as opposed to just setting backlighting lower).

For me, the iPad is great reader for books, news and blogs. I reverted to my Kindle 2, which I used extensively for 15 months, while I was charging my iPad. I found that iPad's screen size, backlighting and touch screen had spoiled me. (And I hated the freakin' Mighty Bright, because of glare, uneven light coverage and ease of knocking it out of place once I managed to get a sweet spot.)

I'm not urging everyone to run out and get an iPad, because no device fits everyone. I'm really happy with mine for now. I don't have brand loyalty, so I'll switch if a significantly better tablet comes along.