If you've had a Kindle 2 for a while... how is it NOW? - Page 2

fugazied · 10-08-2009, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whitearrow

1) Plenty durable, no problems
2) No discoloration that I can tell
3) No, but I keep it in a case
4) Love it. Would never go back full-time to paper books or an LCD screen.

I gave mine to my Mom when I upgraded to the DX, she says the above and it's still in great condition. She takes care of things though, so the average use who drops hardware or leaves it in the sun might have a different experience!

Blog Kindle · 10-09-2009, 03:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by juj1n

1) How durable is the kindle 2 in terms of the plastic material? I've heard reports of it cracking and chipping.
2) Does the white get discolored easily? My macbook is white and the trackpad is greyed out a bit from the usage. Will this happen to my Kindle?
3) Does the back scratch easily over time?
4) Do you still like it?

1,2,3) Mine didn't break. I believe it would break if you would use the cover and open it the wrong way on a regular basis. I just don't do things like that. I accidentally dropped it several times on the floor and on the carpet - no problems. So far I don't see any discoloration or scratches but again - I'm careful with my devices
4) Hell, yeah! If I have a choice between Kindle and paper book - I always read the Kindle version. If the book is not on Kindle - I find something else to read

Alisa · 10-09-2009, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by juj1n

I agree with this completely. One reason I'm semi reluctant to buy one is this whole issue of DRM... I think it's stupid that they're copyrighting an authors thoughts, essentially someone else's property, on their proprietary software... There's probably legislation that explains why but I still think it's really stupid

You already have a Sony, no? They also have DRM on their books. Is there a reason you found them less objectionable? I like the new scheme with ePub and adept DRM much better than the old one but it's still the same flawed concept. At least you can read the ePub book on other devices and you can remove the DRM unlike Sony's old .lrx. You can also liberate your .azw books. There are a small number of titles at Amazon in Topaz format which hasn't been defeated yet. So far they seem fairly rare. I've only had three in the two years (almost) that I've had the Kindle.

juj1n · 10-10-2009, 03:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alisa

You already have a Sony, no? They also have DRM on their books. Is there a reason you found them less objectionable? I like the new scheme with ePub and adept DRM much better than the old one but it's still the same flawed concept. At least you can read the ePub book on other devices and you can remove the DRM unlike Sony's old .lrx. You can also liberate your .azw books. There are a small number of titles at Amazon in Topaz format which hasn't been defeated yet. So far they seem fairly rare. I've only had three in the two years (almost) that I've had the Kindle.

Yes I do. I originally got the sony because I felt it was more open to different formats and I could take a wide variety of different files and put them onto my ereader. For example I took a bunch of mangas (originally jpegs) and used calibre to convert it into an LRF. To be honest it works perfectly but what I realized is... I'm not into that stuff anymore and I just wanna read books and maybe subscribe to a kindle newspaper. I'm trying to get some input on the kindle because obviously the kindle is the best for book reading. Or so I hear...

WT Sharpe · 10-10-2009, 09:40 AM

I've had mine for 7 months. There are no chips or other damage, and the white shows no signs of discoloration. I couldn't say about the back getting scratched easily, because when I bought it, in addition to a leather cover, I also purchased a GelaSkin protective skin for the back and a protective plastic shield for the screen. I wanted it to be well-protected!

The keyboard is not much to speak of, but it is certainly better than no keyboard at all. I use it often.

Yes, I still love my K2!

One word of warning about the Kindle cover: some folks have had a problem with cracked screens due to what many see as a flaw in the design, but this doesn't have to be problem. You can see my solution as well as Bluesman7's solution at https://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=58384

Alisa · 10-10-2009, 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by juj1n

Yes I do. I originally got the sony because I felt it was more open to different formats and I could take a wide variety of different files and put them onto my ereader. For example I took a bunch of mangas (originally jpegs) and used calibre to convert it into an LRF. To be honest it works perfectly but what I realized is... I'm not into that stuff anymore and I just wanna read books and maybe subscribe to a kindle newspaper. I'm trying to get some input on the kindle because obviously the kindle is the best for book reading. Or so I hear...

Well you can't beat the Kindle for ease of getting content. I love the combination of the free sample chapters and wireless delivery. It saves me tons of money since I don't buy books in advance anymore. I think there may be some compelling rivals coming up, though. More players seem to be realizing how attractive that sort of system is.

jwilker · 10-10-2009, 05:51 PM

Owned since April '09

1) No a scratch. I have a ZAGG Clear skin on the back for grippi-ness, but the front is naked. No scratches, discoloration, etc. looks like the day I bought it.
2) Since it starts out a kinda beige color, it doesn't look discolored. My buttons look just like the day I opened it.
3) See 1. I like the grippi-ness, but the original purpose is protection, and it does a good job of that.
4) Love it. It goes everywhere with me, including the gym 5 days a week. I wouldn't mind it being a bit more open of a platform, but love it nonetheless.

The Hooded Claw · 10-11-2009, 01:04 AM

I've been on the fence for ages, but ordered a Kindle 2 after the price drop this week, and should have it on Monday. Because I'd like to keep it (mainly the screen) in good condition, I ordered one of the Belkin sleeves that encloses the whole Kindle, rather than putting it inside a folder that isn't sealed shut like the main cover Amazon promotes for the K2. Since appearance is important to you, you may want to go with such a sleeve (or a bigger one that holds the Kindle AND a folder-style cover). To my mind, the main hazard to my Kindle will be when it is in storage, and especially when I'm carrying it around. I'm not anticipating a lot of problems when I actually have it out to read, and I don't want to mess up the thin lines and light weightof the thing with a permanent cover. Experience may make me change my mind, though!

If you're in doubt about a Kindle, you might get one of the Kindle 1 refurbs for $149. They have some minor disadvantages that I'm sure you are aware of, but the price sure is attractive! I was sorely tempted to get one instead of my K2.

jwilker · 10-11-2009, 01:11 PM

Alos if I'm not mistaken, you can return the Kindle in 30 days for a full refund. So the Fence Sitters can try it out and send it back if they don't like.

I believe it was the Kindle VP that suggested that route,

bookfanmd · 10-11-2009, 08:43 PM

I just got a refurbished K2 this week. $219 and it's in perfect condition. It still has the 30 day return period. I'm very satisfied with it so far. I have a Sony 505 that I love but just couldn't resist the Kindle at this price. I do wish it had some way to organize books though.

juj1n · 10-11-2009, 09:26 PM

You have no idea how hard it is to resist buying a kindle 2 right now... I want one so bad but I wanna wait and see what the B&N ereader will be like in a month or so.

JeremyZ · 10-12-2009, 08:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by juj1n

You have no idea how hard it is to resist buying a kindle 2 right now... I want one so bad but I wanna wait and see what the B&N ereader will be like in a month or so.

It is kind of like follow the leader. Have you seen any of the ad campaigns in the luxury cars market? The European brands don't really seem to notice what the Japanese or Americans are doing. Lexus' catch-phrase "the result of our relentless pursuit of perfection" has been giving the others ammo for years. Lexus (Toyota) admits that nothing in perfect and is happy to pursue it. Then, Infinity (Nissan) in all its arrogance said: "Why pursue perfection, when you can drive it?" Wow. Now, Buick, fresh out of bankruptcy court, is advertising: "something else for Lexus to relentlessly pursue." If that doesn't top all.

I guess my point is this: Do you want to have the one the others are always trying to beat? (Kindle/Lexus) or do you want to hop on the bandwagon and buy the one that will supposedly beat them?

There's ALWAYS going to be something better just around the corner. You're a collector, and the Kindle belongs in any collection of eBook readers.

BigWaffles · 10-15-2009, 02:07 AM

I got mine 8 months ago in preparation for an upcoming deployment (can't lug too many books to the desert). I installed the screensaver hack so I could load some pictures. After loading it with 100+ books and several magazine subscriptions, I packed it up and went to the sandbox. For the past 6 months it’s been alternating between my backpack and the cargo pocket on my uniform. I've used it in all kinds of weather: 120 degree temps with 70% humidity, 117 degrees with 8% humidity and 40mph winds. It's not unusual for me to stand at a bus stop in blowing sand reading a magazine on the Kindle. I've even dropped it a few times (minor). All that being said, here are the answers to your questions:

1) No problems with durability. I have the basic Amazon cover and couldn't be happier with it. I fold the cover back and read one-handed. The cover is holding up well and provides protection while it's in my pocket.

2) The plastic facing and screen are holding up fine. Every now and then I blow the dust off of it before wiping it down and as of yet, there is no discoloration or scratches. I am really surprised about the lack of scratches on the facing as there is no way to keep the dust off of things over here. I figured I'd get dust/sand between the cover and the white plastic and the movement of the cover would act like sandpaper. Not yet.

3) No scratches yet, but it's always in the cover.

4) A good product to me is one I pick up and use without even thinking about it. That means it fills my needs and is not lacking. That being said, the Kindle has been a real sanity-saver over here. I can carry my books wherever I go, I don't have to worry about recharging it that often, and I have a way to relax and forget where I'm at from time to time. This is my first e-reader and I use it for basic reading and nothing else, so I'm not sure what other features would be useful. The only thing I would change would be to add the time to the top of the main display. That way I wouldn't stay up so late reading some nights. In short, the Kindle rocks from day one.

Hope this helps.

C.P.T.

Kat89447 · 10-15-2009, 02:44 AM

I've had mine for a couple of months and its like anything else that's electronic, some things in this world just should not be dropped. I carry mine everywhere and I have a couple of different cases. They all have padding and I treat it like my cell phone. If you are the type to toss things than it will not hold up, just like any device. I read a ton of books and the kindle makes that easier for me. I have also found that they types of books I read have expanded because they are more accessible as well as well priced. I usually wait til prices come down on books, just as I did for DTB's. If you enjoy reading there is nothing better, if you are an occasional reader and just love the idea of having the latest device then maybe it's not for you.

NavyDad6 · 10-15-2009, 03:49 PM

I just wanted to echo alot of the comments that have been posted.

I have had my Kindle 2 since they first shipped and have had NO problems whatsoever. In fact it has exceeded my expectations (and more importantly my wife's) in all regards. Durability, ease of use and portability are all great.

But my biggest issue BEFORE making the switch from books to e-books was would the reading experience be diminished? 30+ e-books later, I can say that it has actually been improved. I will never go back to paper unless a book that I REALLY want is not available and I don't see that happening.

Currently reading:
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer- Book 3 of the Twilight series (insert snide comment here)
Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson
Carnage and Culture by Victor Davis Hanson

10-10-2009, 09:40 AM	#20
WT Sharpe Bah, humbug! Posts: 39,072 Karma: 157049943 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Chesapeake, VA, USA Device: Kindle Oasis, iPad Pro, & a Samsung Galaxy S9.	I've had mine for 7 months. There are no chips or other damage, and the white shows no signs of discoloration. I couldn't say about the back getting scratched easily, because when I bought it, in addition to a leather cover, I also purchased a GelaSkin protective skin for the back and a protective plastic shield for the screen. I wanted it to be well-protected! The keyboard is not much to speak of, but it is certainly better than no keyboard at all. I use it often. Yes, I still love my K2! One word of warning about the Kindle cover: some folks have had a problem with cracked screens due to what many see as a flaw in the design, but this doesn't have to be problem. You can see my solution as well as Bluesman7's solution at https://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=58384 Last edited by WT Sharpe; 10-10-2009 at 09:44 AM.

10-15-2009, 03:49 PM	#30
NavyDad6 Reading is FUNdamental Posts: 233 Karma: 1516 Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: WA state Device: Kindle 2	I just wanted to echo alot of the comments that have been posted. I have had my Kindle 2 since they first shipped and have had NO problems whatsoever. In fact it has exceeded my expectations (and more importantly my wife's) in all regards. Durability, ease of use and portability are all great. But my biggest issue BEFORE making the switch from books to e-books was would the reading experience be diminished? 30+ e-books later, I can say that it has actually been improved. I will never go back to paper unless a book that I REALLY want is not available and I don't see that happening. Currently reading: Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer- Book 3 of the Twilight series (insert snide comment here) Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson Carnage and Culture by Victor Davis Hanson Last edited by NavyDad6; 10-15-2009 at 03:53 PM.

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
Show Printable Version Email this Page	Search this Thread: Advanced Search

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
The Frugal Kindle ~ Frugal Finds Under $9 for the Kindle (Kindle eBook Resource)	eTrubrown	Self-Promotions by Authors and Publishers	3	10-10-2010 06:12 PM
Transfer Kindle books from Kindle PC to Kindle 3	ppearce	Amazon Kindle	15	09-16-2010 05:11 PM
Font hacks for the Kindle 2, Kindle International and Kindle DX	edge777	Kindle Developer's Corner	17	04-30-2010 04:11 PM
$0.01 in Kindle Store: Interactive Sudoku for Kindle 2 and Kindle DX - Volume 1	Xia	Deals and Resources (No Self-Promotion or Affiliate Links)	2	11-07-2009 10:06 AM

10-10-2009, 05:51 PM	#22
jwilker Zealot Posts: 105 Karma: 1940 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Denver, CO Device: Libra H2O	Owned since April '09 1) No a scratch. I have a ZAGG Clear skin on the back for grippi-ness, but the front is naked. No scratches, discoloration, etc. looks like the day I bought it. 2) Since it starts out a kinda beige color, it doesn't look discolored. My buttons look just like the day I opened it. 3) See 1. I like the grippi-ness, but the original purpose is protection, and it does a good job of that. 4) Love it. It goes everywhere with me, including the gym 5 days a week. I wouldn't mind it being a bit more open of a platform, but love it nonetheless.

10-11-2009, 01:04 AM	#23
The Hooded Claw Connoisseur Posts: 70 Karma: 6050 Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Oklahoma! Device: Kindle Paperwhite, Android phone with Kindle app, Kindle 4 in reserve	I've been on the fence for ages, but ordered a Kindle 2 after the price drop this week, and should have it on Monday. Because I'd like to keep it (mainly the screen) in good condition, I ordered one of the Belkin sleeves that encloses the whole Kindle, rather than putting it inside a folder that isn't sealed shut like the main cover Amazon promotes for the K2. Since appearance is important to you, you may want to go with such a sleeve (or a bigger one that holds the Kindle AND a folder-style cover). To my mind, the main hazard to my Kindle will be when it is in storage, and especially when I'm carrying it around. I'm not anticipating a lot of problems when I actually have it out to read, and I don't want to mess up the thin lines and light weightof the thing with a permanent cover. Experience may make me change my mind, though! If you're in doubt about a Kindle, you might get one of the Kindle 1 refurbs for $149. They have some minor disadvantages that I'm sure you are aware of, but the price sure is attractive! I was sorely tempted to get one instead of my K2.

10-11-2009, 01:11 PM	#24
jwilker Zealot Posts: 105 Karma: 1940 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Denver, CO Device: Libra H2O	Alos if I'm not mistaken, you can return the Kindle in 30 days for a full refund. So the Fence Sitters can try it out and send it back if they don't like. I believe it was the Kindle VP that suggested that route,

10-11-2009, 08:43 PM	#25
bookfanmd Addict Posts: 246 Karma: 4476 Join Date: May 2009 Location: US - Maryland Device: Sony 300/505/T1 Nook STWG Kobo Glo Kobo Aura HD KDX iPad1 K3 KT PW2	I just got a refurbished K2 this week. $219 and it's in perfect condition. It still has the 30 day return period. I'm very satisfied with it so far. I have a Sony 505 that I love but just couldn't resist the Kindle at this price. I do wish it had some way to organize books though.

10-11-2009, 09:26 PM	#26
juj1n Connoisseur Posts: 95 Karma: 350 Join Date: Sep 2009 Device: Lots!	You have no idea how hard it is to resist buying a kindle 2 right now... I want one so bad but I wanna wait and see what the B&N ereader will be like in a month or so.

10-15-2009, 02:07 AM	#28
BigWaffles Enthusiast Posts: 47 Karma: 970 Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: North Pole, AK Device: K2, KDX	I got mine 8 months ago in preparation for an upcoming deployment (can't lug too many books to the desert). I installed the screensaver hack so I could load some pictures. After loading it with 100+ books and several magazine subscriptions, I packed it up and went to the sandbox. For the past 6 months it’s been alternating between my backpack and the cargo pocket on my uniform. I've used it in all kinds of weather: 120 degree temps with 70% humidity, 117 degrees with 8% humidity and 40mph winds. It's not unusual for me to stand at a bus stop in blowing sand reading a magazine on the Kindle. I've even dropped it a few times (minor). All that being said, here are the answers to your questions: 1) No problems with durability. I have the basic Amazon cover and couldn't be happier with it. I fold the cover back and read one-handed. The cover is holding up well and provides protection while it's in my pocket. 2) The plastic facing and screen are holding up fine. Every now and then I blow the dust off of it before wiping it down and as of yet, there is no discoloration or scratches. I am really surprised about the lack of scratches on the facing as there is no way to keep the dust off of things over here. I figured I'd get dust/sand between the cover and the white plastic and the movement of the cover would act like sandpaper. Not yet. 3) No scratches yet, but it's always in the cover. 4) A good product to me is one I pick up and use without even thinking about it. That means it fills my needs and is not lacking. That being said, the Kindle has been a real sanity-saver over here. I can carry my books wherever I go, I don't have to worry about recharging it that often, and I have a way to relax and forget where I'm at from time to time. This is my first e-reader and I use it for basic reading and nothing else, so I'm not sure what other features would be useful. The only thing I would change would be to add the time to the top of the main display. That way I wouldn't stay up so late reading some nights. In short, the Kindle rocks from day one. Hope this helps. C.P.T.

10-15-2009, 02:44 AM	#29
Kat89447 Member Posts: 11 Karma: 18 Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Nevada Device: kindle 2	I've had mine for a couple of months and its like anything else that's electronic, some things in this world just should not be dropped. I carry mine everywhere and I have a couple of different cases. They all have padding and I treat it like my cell phone. If you are the type to toss things than it will not hold up, just like any device. I read a ton of books and the kindle makes that easier for me. I have also found that they types of books I read have expanded because they are more accessible as well as well priced. I usually wait til prices come down on books, just as I did for DTB's. If you enjoy reading there is nothing better, if you are an occasional reader and just love the idea of having the latest device then maybe it's not for you.