OK, so I have had the chance to play with a few models. My BFF has a Sony Touch PRS 600 (red) and her sister has the PRS 300 (pink). And when I went out for a BFF girls coffee night, we went to B&N and played with the Nook.
Here were my impressions. I love the color selection for the Sony (what can I say, it appealed to the inner fashionista
)and the feel of the metal casing. I liked the touch on the 600 but there was some reflection depending on where I was sitting. I also thought that the print could have been a little darker. I did not like that you can't change the battery, did like expandable memory.
The 300 had a darker print and again I liked the pink. What I realized with this model is that I prefered the 6inch size for reading rather than the 5 inch. I think it is because it is closer to the page size of most paperbacks. Though not difficult to read, 5inch seemed a bit small. I did like the responsiveness of the buttons, I did not like that you can't change the battery and there was no expandable memory (just in case I go real nuts and deside I need a "Library of Congress" sized book selection).
Both Sonys were easy to use and figure out and were overall appealing in design.
OK, so a B&N my BFF and I tried the Nook. I would have to say that it is much improved since I had played with it in Dec. '09 (which is what had taken it off my list last year). Actually it was faster and the LCD touch icons seemed a bit larger and easier to push. We also remarked that the print display was darker than her 600. It had the 6inch size that I found easier to read with and though it only comes in white, it did have some accessories that catered to the nagging inner fashionista in me. Also, pretty good e-book selection. Is it true you can use it with the Sony book store too? My BFF wants to know.
It took a little getting used to navigating on the LCD to control the e-ink, but not terrible, just more of a learning curve compared to the Sonys.
So, right now, not completely sold on Sony.
Choices so far 6in reader:
1) Nook (has alot of what I wanted in reader)
2) PB 302/602 - lists features I like, but can't find one to play with
3) Samsung E60 - looks cool, lists features I like, no demo to try
4) Orizon - looks cool, right features, no release date.
Anyone know of any bugs to be wary of with the Nook? How about where in CT I can try the others? Thanks!