Which reader do I need?

[mbovenka]

Originally Posted by eschwartz

That is because there are different downloads offered. You can download specific namespaces, you can download images separate from the text, you can download curated selections, you can even download the multi-terabyte complete everythingness which includes the entire revision history of every last corner of Wikipedia.

Yep. The 11.5 GB is the English Wikipedia without images, just the (compressed) text.

[Rizla]

Originally Posted by sunreader

Thank you all a lot for your helpful replies!

I have updated my OP after having done more reading on the matter. Updates are:
- Offline Wikipedia is not really important.
- I was pretty happy with what I saw here regarding reading pdfs on an 6" e-ink reader (horizontal format reading): https://youtu.be/MOhuIGIsqA4?t=2m53s . So pdfs although I see that they are not ideal for small an e-ink reader should not be a problem - being able to read in the sun is much more important to me! Or is your personal experience different from what I could see in the video above?
- A must have I forgot: Being able to browse a website and then save/download it (my browser on my laptops saves it as html) to read if offline. Is that a standard feature that all e-readers are capable of?

Here is what I want to do (besides situations that are easy to handle for almost all devices): Working in the sun. Reading pdfs (social science, mostly text, some tables) and writing a few texts in the sun.

The two devices I consider atm:
1) Kindle paperwhite, using it's touch screen keyboard to write.
Question: Can you make notes (without making reference to some part of the text) with the paperwhite?

Advantages:
- Seems to be the more mature system with regard to details that matter in daily use: Zomming into pdfs, keyboard. Also referring to this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWBGJ7_QbMs
- Has a well working built in vocabulary trainer which I really like.
- Best overall device at the moment, except for the keyboard.

Disadvantages:
- no external keyboard.
- no further apps.

2) An android device, using this app https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...keyboardhelper to use an external keyboard. The best device I could figure out is the Energy Sistem PRO (almost the same as the Boyue T62 and the Iccarus Illumina). The Onyx T68 is almost twice the price as the Energy Sistem here in Germany...

Advantages:
- External keyboard
- More extendable in the future. It's usability grows with the Android ecosystem.

Disadvantages:
- big bug with zooming into pdfs: https://youtu.be/aqPEJu_FPg8?t=6m59s
- I haven't yet found an android app that remembers the words you looked up from a pdf and saves those. Does anyone know more?

This is an interesting option to the Energy Sistem: http://goodereader.com/blog/electron...ernal-keyboard
I still have to find out here how this/such an app is applicable to currently available Nook devices in Germany.

Someone said on this forum (can't find the link atm) that writing on an e-ink device would be a bad idea in general because the constant page refresh would lead to a battery live comparable to a tablet. If so this still would not be a killer argument because I can still read better than with a tablet in the sun.

If you are happy converting your pdfs to a Kindle format (mobi, az3), then the PW2 is okay. The annotation ability is very good and the touchscreen is good. I don't know how well annotations work with non-Amazon purchased material.
I don't think you'll be satisfied reading pdfs natively on the Kindle using its pdf reading software.
I will also add, if you want to type texts (not annotations) I am not aware that the Kindle can do it. I know the older models did it, but Amazon has removed the ability to run notepad-like programs and games, at least for the Voyage.
Be aware: As of the moment, you cannot customize the software in any way. It's locked. For this reason, the Kindle is the worse choice for reading pdfs natively.

If you wish to retain the option to read pdfs in their native pdf format, get an Android reader. I personally always convert pdf to epub, but sometimes that is not possible, and I have to read the pdf natively.
I also highly recommend getting an e-reader that includes a stable A2 no-refresh mode so that the screen scrolls without flashing. It is essential for reading pdfs natively and for browsing.
An Android e-reader is also best for writing on (I mean typing on a screen keyboard). You can install a plethora of writing apps.

[sunreader]

Considering all I read and all your feedback I am thinking about buying a Nook simple touch and root it (like this http://www.the-ebook-reader.com/nook-touch-root.html). That should give me all I want: External keyboard, Notepad, vokab trainer, saving websites for offline reading (opera mini browser).
Slight disadvantages compared to paperwhite:
- 2 GB (Kindle PW: 4GB), on the other side you can extend the nook with a memory card.
- more prone to bugs probably compared to the kindle that seems to work very smooth (source various video test I have seen; see this one as an example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWBGJ7_QbMs).
- no light to read in the dark!!

[Tarana]

Here are my thoughts. Since your primary need is to be able to read in sunlight, you are restricted to ereader devices completely (no tablets). Assuming that you have neither the time nor the programs to convert pdfs (calibre does a crappy job on this), you are probably better off with a Kindle. Why? Unlike Nook, you can actually magnify pdfs on a kindle to make the text or diagrams/illustrations bigger. Now, this doesn't necessarily make reading easier since you have to move the page from side to side, but at least you can read difficult to read text. Your bigger problem is the size of the documents. PDFs are much larger in size and would fill up any device a lot faster than either mobi or epub. The older Nook had an option to add a mini-SD card for this, the current version has no such option (although it has more space than previously). If your PDFs have a lot of illustrations, it will be even more difficult.

Now, I did my tests on a Nook Glo and two older Kindles (keyboard and 6"). Someone here with a paperwhite could confirm that magnification option, but I see no reason why they would take that out. There are a variety of lighting options if you don't want to spend the money on a paperwhite. The easiest is to buy a cover that lets you add a mini-light clip on. Both my sisters actually prefer that, while my Mom prefers the light in the Paperwhite. You absolutely want a cover to protect your device while traveling.

If you have the time and money and have mostly all -text pdfs, consider AABBY Transformer. It isn't as good as AABBY Finereader, but well above in capability than the PDF converter in Calibre. The program keeps coming on sale for around $40. I normally use my Nook HD+ for all my pdf reading (magazines, knitting books, cookbooks) because it simply is better suited for them with the larger screen. But no way you can read in sunlight with a tablet, even with a non-glare screen.

Note: I have no personal experience with Kobo.

[sunreader]

Originally Posted by Tarana

Here are my thoughts. Since your primary need is to be able to read in sunlight, you are restricted to ereader devices completely (no tablets). Assuming that you have neither the time nor the programs to convert pdfs (calibre does a crappy job on this), you are probably better off with a Kindle. Why? Unlike Nook, you can actually magnify pdfs on a kindle to make the text or diagrams/illustrations bigger. Now, this doesn't necessarily make reading easier since you have to move the page from side to side, but at least you can read difficult to read text. Your bigger problem is the size of the documents. PDFs are much larger in size and would fill up any device a lot faster than either mobi or epub. The older Nook had an option to add a mini-SD card for this, the current version has no such option (although it has more space than previously). If your PDFs have a lot of illustrations, it will be even more difficult.

Now, I did my tests on a Nook Glo and two older Kindles (keyboard and 6"). Someone here with a paperwhite could confirm that magnification option, but I see no reason why they would take that out. There are a variety of lighting options if you don't want to spend the money on a paperwhite. The easiest is to buy a cover that lets you add a mini-light clip on. Both my sisters actually prefer that, while my Mom prefers the light in the Paperwhite. You absolutely want a cover to protect your device while traveling.

If you have the time and money and have mostly all -text pdfs, consider AABBY Transformer. It isn't as good as AABBY Finereader, but well above in capability than the PDF converter in Calibre. The program keeps coming on sale for around $40. I normally use my Nook HD+ for all my pdf reading (magazines, knitting books, cookbooks) because it simply is better suited for them with the larger screen. But no way you can read in sunlight with a tablet, even with a non-glare screen.

Note: I have no personal experience with Kobo.

Thanks for your comments.
My best plan at the moment is to either get a device that has an open Android (allows to install apps) or root a device like the nook. This way I can install a pdf reader that allows to zoom into pdfs (like you described the kindle can do, if I understood you right). Also it allows me to use an external keyboard and make notes in a separate text file - both of these things are not possible with the kindle.

My two favorite options atm are http://www.energysistem.com/en/produ...gy_ereader_pro and ImcoV6L @ http://www.imcosys.com/e-reader-1.html
I have compared them a bit:
- both of these have an sd card slot.
- Energy Sistem Pro (ESP) has 512 mb ram, Imcosys (I) has 256 mb ram.
- ESP has the Android App store preinstalled, the I doesnt.

Another option: rooting a nook simple touch (see above) but that option seems more complicated and doesn't have a backlight to read in the dark (the option would be an external light in the protection case as you mentioned) and the display is worse.

Is there anything I can do more (any advantages in general) with a rooted android device compared to an open Android like on the Energy Sistem (equal to the Iccarus Illimuna and the Boyue T62)

[Rizla]

Originally Posted by sunreader

Thanks for your comments.
My best plan at the moment is to either get a device that has an open Android (allows to install apps) or root a device like the nook. This way I can install a pdf reader that allows to zoom into pdfs (like you described the kindle can do, if I understood you right). Also it allows me to use an external keyboard and make notes in a separate text file - both of these things are not possible with the kindle.

My two favorite options atm are http://www.energysistem.com/en/produ...gy_ereader_pro and ImcoV6L @ http://www.imcosys.com/e-reader-1.html (both of these have an sd card slot) or rooting a nook simple touch (see above) but that option seems more complicated and doesn't have a backlight to read in the dark (the option would be an external light in the protection case as you mentioned) and the display is worse.

Is there anything I can do more (any advantages in general) with a rooted android device compared to an open Android like on the Energy Sistem (equal to the Iccarus Illimuna and the Boyue T62)

I have a rooted Nook STR. I am using it to write this post. It is the cheapest open android e-reader solution. I use it to write on, browse on and read pdf natively. I run dropbox on it too. I also have the A2 refresh mode installed on it. It is an excellent peice of hardware and the software is of course the most flexible for an e-reader. Recommended.

[Rizla]

Personally I've yet to get the external keyboard / second monitor going with the nook. Its something Ill look into. I use an app called textwarrior to write on using the onscreen keyboard. I find it is adequate. I edit the file on a laptop after.

The rooted Nook STR is not for everyone and it is not as easy to use as a tablet, but it suits my needs.

[sunreader]

@Rizla By STR do you mean Simple Touch Rooted? Do you see any (hypothetical, as you don't have the Energy Sistem I guess) advantages of your rooted Nook compared to the Energy Sistem Pro. The advantages I see for the ESP are: Better display, bigger internal storage, more ram, faster cpu, backlight (if an advantage).

[nhedgehog]

Originally Posted by sunreader

@Rizla By STR do you mean Simple Touch Rooted? Do you see any (hypothetical, as you don't have the Energy Sistem I guess) advantages of your rooted Nook compared to the Energy Sistem Pro. The advantages I see for the ESP are: Better display, bigger internal storage, more ram, faster cpu, backlight (if an advantage).

Since I own to two device (Simple Touch Rooted with Glowlight [STG] and ESP) just my 2 cents to add to the advantages/disadvantages you descibed.

Pro STG:
- If STG is rooted and adapted to your needs (takes some time but worth of it), it has a much better batterylife. Can stay hibernated for a week or more, the ESP just some days.
- with a simple hack last open page can be used as "screensaver"
- more none e-ink adapted apps are working on STG
- still very active hacking community


Con STG:
- old Android version, a lot of new apps are not running on it
- slower but doesn't feel like it while mostly reading
- display contrast is not that good
- has to be registered on start (can be bypassed though)
- no audio output
- more blueish backlight
...

But if you don't like tinkering with your device, try something new, spent hours (or even days) to finetune it, booth devices are not your devices.

I personally like reading more on my ESP, since reading on it feels better for my eyes. If it wouldn't be for that subjective impression, I would still stick to the Nook STG.

[Rizla]

Originally Posted by sunreader

@Rizla By STR do you mean Simple Touch Rooted? Do you see any (hypothetical, as you don't have the Energy Sistem I guess) advantages of your rooted Nook compared to the Energy Sistem Pro. The advantages I see for the ESP are: Better display, bigger internal storage, more ram, faster cpu, backlight (if an advantage).

STR = Simple Touch Reader.

>> Do you see any (hypothetical, as you don't have the Energy Sistem I guess) advantages of your rooted Nook compared to the Energy Sistem Pro.

Price.

Also the Nook STR is robust as hell. No matter what I throw at it, the damn thing refuses to even crash. I've maybe rebooted it twice in as many years.

Be warned you have to do a lot to get the Nook STR to work well. See this thread:
https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=254000

Found this page on getting external keyboard to work. I'm not sure it's worth it with such a small screen, but I might do it.
https://lararthompson.wordpress.com/...with-usb-host/

[sunreader]

Originally Posted by Rizla

STR = Simple Touch Reader.

>> Do you see any (hypothetical, as you don't have the Energy Sistem I guess) advantages of your rooted Nook compared to the Energy Sistem Pro.

Price.

Also the Nook STR is robust as hell. No matter what I throw at it, the damn thing refuses to even crash. I've maybe rebooted it twice in as many years.

Be warned you have to do a lot to get the Nook STR to work well. See this thread:
https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=254000

Found this page on getting external keyboard to work. I'm not sure it's worth it with such a small screen, but I might do it.
https://lararthompson.wordpress.com/...with-usb-host/

Is there not a more simple way to get a keyboard going than this https://lararthompson.wordpress.com/...k-writing-101/ ?

@Booxtor seems to just have installed the app named here https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=242238 and it worked without much hastle. Other say that it didn't work for them this way. Does anyone have an overview of how hard it really is to get an external keybaord working for an open or rooted (is there a difference here between open (like with the Energy Sistem Pro for example) and rooted?) Android device and what it depends on?

[cybmole]

If the tablet is bluetooth capable, like my kindle fire, you just pair it to any bluetooth Kb. Job done, nothing to install, nothing to root

[sunreader]

Originally Posted by cybmole

If the tablet is bluetooth capable, like my kindle fire, you just pair it to any bluetooth Kb. Job done, nothing to install, nothing to root

I can't read with a tablet in the sun (see OP).

@Rizla, can your read (text heavy) pdfs with your ESP fine? I read that reading pdfs is much better with Onyx on board pdf reader neoreader.

[cybmole]

Originally Posted by sunreader

I can't read with a tablet in the sun (see OP).

.

an i=ink tablet , like Onyx, will be fine outdoors. but are any of those bluetooth enabled ?

it's longer, but less confusing to say that what meets your spec is an "android device with an e-ink screen" and avoid the terms "reader" / "tablet"

there was a discussion in another thread where I claimed that e-reader => e-ink and tablet => LCD but that was quickly disproved by others

[sunreader]

Originally Posted by cybmole

an i=ink tablet , like Onyx, will be fine outdoors. but are any of those bluetooth enabled ?

it's longer, but less confusing to say that what meets your spec is an "android device with an e-ink screen" and avoid the terms "reader" / "tablet"

there was a discussion in another thread where I claimed that e-reader => e-ink and tablet => LCD but that was quickly disproved by others

Agreed I will have to decide between three Android devices: Nook Simple Touch, Enegry Sistem Pro and Onyx C67 ML.