This content comes from @What's worth buying APP, and the views only represent the author's own |Author: Zhihao
1. Why should I buy an e-book reader?
If you want a reading tool that is both eye-friendly and practical, eBooks are definitely worth a try. Compared to a regular phone or tablet, e-ink technology does not project light directly into your eyes, reducing blue light and strobe stimulation. This unique display technology not only reduces eye strain, but also mimics the visual look and feel of a paper book, bringing your reading experience closer to traditional reading.
The benefits of an e-book reader go far beyond that. Its connectivity, interoperability, and large storage make it easy to download thousands of books and articles, and most devices support Wi-Fi connectivity (some models even have built-in SIM cards for independent internet connections), so you can access new content at any time.
Today's e-book readers also have features such as note-taking, highlighting, and built-in dictionaries, which is extremely convenient for users who need to do research-based learning. The e-book reader released in the past two years also supports the listening function, which provides greater convenience for those who have poor eyesight or like to listen to books while doing things.
In the long run, while the initial investment in buying an e-book may be higher than buying a few paper books, e-books are actually a more cost-effective option, given that e-books are usually less expensive and that many public and limited-time free books are available for free. Moreover, it not only saves you the expense of buying paper books, but also saves space to store books.
To sum up in one sentence: e-book readers provide a blue-light-free, flicker-free reading interface, which protects your eyesight, and at the same time allows you to enjoy the convenience of downloading and reading books at any time, which is the best choice for modern reading.
2. How to choose an e-book reader?
When choosing an e-reader, you'll need to consider a few key aspects, including branding, hardware configuration, operating system, reading experience, and other additional features.
1. Brand selection
Each brand of eReader has its own unique selling point and target user base. For example, the Kindle (which has been withdrawn from the domestic market and is not recommended to continue to buy) and Palm Reading are known for their ease of use and long battery life, Aragonite focuses on providing a high-quality PDF reading experience, Bigme and iFLYTEK focus on higher-end office attributes such as voice recognition and meeting recording functions, Xiaomi Duokan and Moxi attract users with high cost performance, and Hanwang is good at providing high-definition display and powerful OCR functions. Which brand to choose is best decided based on your specific needs, and the characteristics of each brand will be explained in detail in the second half of this article.
2. Hardware Specifications
- Screen: The screen of e-books mostly uses E Ink e-ink screen, which varies in quality and type. The cover is usually made of PMMA (plastic) and tempered glass, the former is anti-reflective and suitable for outdoor use, and the latter is clearer. There are also various types of ink screens, from Carta1000 to Carta1300, and the higher the number, the better the display is usually better. In addition to this, there are also color e-ink screens, and the latest technology is the Kaleido 1300 series, which is used to provide color displays.
- Size and memory: Screen sizes range from 5.2 inches to 13.3 inches, making them portable in small sizes and better in large sizes for a better reading experience. The size of the storage capacity is also one of the considerations, generally ranging from 16GB to 128GB, and some devices also support TF card expansion storage.
- Battery life: E-books have a strong battery life, but it depends on personal usage habits, such as frequent Wi-Fi use, screen brightness, etc.
3. Operating System
- Closed system (single-task system): For example, the Kindle has a simple system and excellent battery life, but it cannot install external applications.
- Semi-open system (single-task system, but allows the installation of third-party software): For example, Palm Reading provides some application support, but third-party application support is weak.
- Open system: For example, aragonite and ink, based on the Android system, can install a variety of applications, suitable for users who need a high degree of customization.
4. Reading experience
- Reading light (front light): E-books are often equipped with a front light system, which allows the brightness to be adjusted under different lighting conditions to ensure comfortable reading.
- Touch and handwriting: High-end models typically support touch and handwriting input, making them ideal for users who need to take notes and markup.
In the past two years, with the popularity of aragonite Tab series ink screen tablets, users have begun to pay more attention to the processor performance and memory size of e-book readers. When purchasing an e-book, you should not only consider these hard indicators, but also choose the most suitable model according to your reading habits and usage scenarios.
3. Explanation of the technical principles and functions related to e-book readers
1. Ink screen technology and reading light (front light)
The ink screen of the e-paper book uses front-lit technology, where the light source is located at the edge of the screen, and the light shines from the side instead of directly penetrating from the back, which can reduce the pressure on the eyes. The adjustment levels of the front light, such as 24 levels, 28 levels, 32 levels, etc., are actually just to provide a better reading experience in different lighting environments. Warm light is less irritating to the eyes, contains less blue light, and is softer. However, due to the size and distribution of lamp beads, it is difficult for the light to be completely uniform in large-screen devices, and this part of the experience often depends on personal feelings and product batches.
2. Afterimage and refresh mode
A common problem with eBooks is afterimages, where the text from the previous page still appears slightly on the new page. This is because the e-book screen may only be partially updated (local swipe) when refreshed to maintain smoothness during the refresh process and reduce flicker, but may leave an afterimage. A full refresh (full swipe) updates the entire screen when turning pages, avoiding ghosting but may cause a slight splash. Regal refresh technology can greatly reduce the problem of ghosting and provide sharper page turns.
3. Grayscale and resolution
Grayscale is especially important when displaying images and comics, and e-books usually offer 16 or 256 levels of grayscale, with the higher the level, the more detailed the display. As for the resolution, it directly affects the clarity and sharpness of the text, common resolutions include 167ppi, 212ppi, 227ppi, and 300ppi, the larger the number, the clearer the display.
4. File format support and transmission mode
The e-book file format is not a problem at all, and today's e-book readers support almost all e-book formats (except for Kindle). In terms of transferring books, in addition to traditional data cables and email methods, many domestic readers also support modern transmission methods such as Wi-Fi, WeChat, and cloud drives.
5. Thickness and weight
The slim and lightweight design improves portability. At present, the thickness of mainstream e-paper books does not exceed 9mm, and the weight varies according to different sizes, the small size is lighter, and the large size is heavier due to the increase in the screen and battery. For example, the 6-inch model typically weighs between 140-220 grams, while the larger 13.3-inch model weighs between 360-500 grams.
When choosing the right eBook for you, consider the technical details and additional features of your device in addition to the basic reading experience. Understanding these can help you make more informed choices and maximize your reading experience.
Fourth, explain the brand selection of e-book readers in detail
Among the e-book readers currently on sale, each brand has its own unique advantages and features. Here are some of the more well-known e-book reader brands on the market, and their respective highlights:
- 1. Amazon Kindle: The Kindle reader has the best e-ink display effect, the longest battery life, and a simple and easy-to-use operation interface, which can be easily used by users of all ages. But now that Kindle has withdrawn from the domestic market, it is not recommended to continue buying any Kindle device unless it is to read offline e-books.
- 2. iReader: As a representative of local brands, Palm Reading has the most abundant Chinese book resources. Palm readers typically use a "single-task" system, which can use low-power hardware to maintain a better reading experience, so the battery life is closest to that of the Kindle.
- 3. aragonite BOOX: aragonite is well-known in the industry for its high-performance Android system readers, and the Tab series released can not only read e-books, but also install various applications at will, such as note-taking software and office tools. To be precise, aragonite's device is more like a tablet with an e-ink screen, and aragonite Tab also has a built-in Google framework, which can use more software, which is very suitable for professors and scholars who need to conduct academic research.
- 4. iFLYTEK: Exquisite workmanship, built-in iFLYTEK voice engine and iFLYTEK AI Spark model, not only a reader, but also has strong productivity attributes. The built-in meeting recording function with high accuracy rate is the favorite of many business executives, professors and scholars. However, in view of the fact that iFLYTEK has not released a new machine this year, this article does not make a product recommendation for iFLYTEK, but the iFLYTEK smart office laptop Air Pro and iFLYTEK smart office laptop X3 Pro are still models worth considering.
Five or ten different sizes of e-readers are recommended
After mastering the above points that need to be paid attention to when choosing an e-book reader, I will recommend ten different models of models to you, and the following recommendations are all based on my personal experience.
1、掌阅iReader Ocean3 Turbo
If you're looking for an e-reader with rich book resources and excellent screen performance, iReader Ocean3 Turbo is undoubtedly a powerful choice. As a long-established e-book manufacturer that started in the book city, Palm Reading has obvious advantages in terms of book resources. This reader stands out for its crisp and sharp text display and smooth color transitions, especially outdoors in direct sunlight, and the nano-etched screen also provides clear reading and excellent anti-glare performance.
In terms of hardware configuration, iReader Ocean3 Turbo is equipped with a pixel density of 300PPI and uses Carta1200 e-ink technology to support 256 levels of grayscale display, ensuring visual comfort for reading. In addition, the device is equipped with a speaker, 28-level warm and cold backlight, a gravity-sensing function, and two physical buttons with customizable functions. The device's dark mode effectively reduces ghosting, and combined with its long battery life of nearly 75 hours, it stands out in its class. The 4mm slim body and spine design make it very comfortable to hold with one hand, and the bezel design avoids the problem of accidental touches.
In terms of software and functions, iReader Ocean3 Turbo is not only fast, but also has a built-in WeChat reading app that has been specially optimized to make it very smooth to use. Supported Regal image refresh technology dramatically reduces refresh rates, reduces eye strain, and helps preserve eyesight. The document processing functions are abundant, supporting font size adjustment, content reflow, cross-out translation and note-taking functions, and notes can be exported as pictures in real time, which greatly facilitates daily recording. It is also very convenient to transfer books, providing a variety of ways, especially the direct import speed of the data cable, which is suitable for users who need to download and read a lot.
2、Bigme大我B751C智能办公本
Bigme B751C smart office laptop is a newly released color screen e-book reader, which focuses on the dual use of office and learning. Equipped with a 7-inch color ink screen with third-generation E ink technology, it provides vivid colors and high contrast, suitable for reading various types of books and documents. Built-in open Android system, support Bluetooth listening, speech-to-text function (unlimited duration), memory capacity of 64GB, and also equipped with capacitive handwriting input function.
The advantage of the Bigme B751C is that its color ink screen displays images and text in vivid colors, making it ideal for reading image-rich content such as magazines, comics and textbooks. The 7-inch screen size takes into account portability and ample display area. Handwriting input, speech recognition, and translation are ideal for office and study scenarios.
The built-in speech-to-text function supports a variety of dialects, which is suitable for various meeting records, and the built-in AI large model function is convenient for users to write and organize notes, and the speech-to-text function of Bigme B751C has no time limit. The Bigme B751C is especially suitable for those who are looking for a versatile office and study tool.
3、文石Tab8C
If you're looking for an e-book reader that's portable, handwritten, and color-in-color, the aragonite Tab8C is the first choice. Equipped with aragonite's latest Kaleido 3 color e-ink screen technology, this reader is not only bright and high-contrast, but also suitable for reading various types of books and documents, especially color comics and images.
The aragonite Tab8C has a 7.8-inch screen, and its modest size makes it both portable and provides plenty of reading space. Stylus input expands the range of use, and users can annotate or take notes while reading. Equipped with BSR quickbrush technology and handwriting prediction algorithm, which enhances the handwriting experience and makes handwriting smooth and natural.
In order to adapt to different reading needs, Tab8C provides a variety of screen refresh modes, including HD refresh, fast refresh, high-speed refresh and ultra-fast refresh, to adapt to different scenarios from text reading to video playback. In addition, the device is also equipped with a two-color front light module, which allows users to adjust the brightness according to the reading environment to ensure comfort when reading at night.
Aragonite Tab8C runs on the BOOX OS system based on Android 11 and supports downloading third-party applications, providing greater scalability. Users can find a variety of software in the built-in app marketplace to enhance their versatility. All in all, the aragonite Tab8C is a versatile, high-performance reader that is especially suitable for those who need a color display and handwriting capabilities.
4、掌阅iReader Ocean3 Plus
If you need an e-book reader that combines portability and screen size, we recommend that you focus on the iReader Ocean3 Plus. This reader has a large 8-inch screen with the latest Carta1200 e-ink screen technology, which ensures clarity and contrast when reading. Despite the large screen, the body design is still thin and light, with a thickness of only 7.8 mm, making it easy to carry. Ocean3 Plus is also particularly suitable for long-term reading, as its front light system can adjust the color temperature and brightness, and with the flexible screen technology, it is more comfortable to read when reading.
In terms of battery life, Ocean3 Plus has a strong battery life, which can support three weeks of reading time on a single charge. All in all, iReader Ocean3 Plus is a practical and excellent e-book reader, which is an ideal choice for both daily reading and studying.
5. Hanwang N10 2024 version
This is the e-book reader with the whitest screen background and the most handwriting and content that jumps on paper - Hanvon N10 2024 Edition. The "screen reduction" design allows the screen to achieve the highest whiteness and clarity, so that the ink capsule of the e-ink screen can face the user without gaps. In terms of display technology, the N10 2024 version adopts the latest Carta1200 e-ink screen technology, which supports 256 levels of grayscale display, and the text and image display are more delicate.
Hanvon N10 2024 Edition is designed with attention to detail, with a large 10.3-inch screen supplemented by thin bezels to create an almost full-screen visual experience. It's also extremely thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry, and it has a long battery life that allows you to read for long periods of time without power limitations. The N10 2024 version also supports handwriting input and comes with an original electromagnetic stylus, which is very convenient for users who need to take notes or annotate. If you're looking for an e-book reader that offers a premium reading experience with high-end features such as handwriting recognition, Hanvon N10 2024 Edition is definitely worth considering.
6、掌阅iReader Smart5
This is a newly released 10.3-inch phone, especially for those who are looking for a large screen experience and comprehensive office features. Equipped with a high-resolution 300ppi display, this reader provides a clear reading experience, especially for reading PDFs and complex documents. It uses the Android 11 operating system and supports a wide range of applications, enhancing the versatility of the device. In terms of screen backlight, iReader Smart5 also pays great attention to the user's reading experience, providing 28 levels of cold and warm light adjustment to ensure a comfortable reading experience in different lighting environments.
The Smart5 is also equipped with a stylus function that supports 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, making it suitable for taking notes and annotating documents. In addition, it has a text-to-speech function that can convert to multiple languages, including English and Chinese, making it easier to understand the content. The device's built-in high-capacity battery can support long-term use without frequent charging. Compared with other palm readers, iReader Smart5 is not only a powerful e-book reader, but also a smart device suitable for professional work and study. If you're looking for a device that can meet the needs of efficient reading and work, the iReader Smart5 is worth considering.
7、文石Tab10C Pro
This is one of the few e-book readers with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, or more precisely, a tablet with a color e-ink screen. This device is especially suitable for those who need high-performance processing power and excellent graphics. The Tab10C Pro uses the latest Kaleido 3 color ink screen technology, with a screen size of 10.3 inches, of which the black and white resolution is up to 300ppi, and the color resolution is 150ppi, ensuring a clear reading and viewing experience. The built-in Snapdragon 855 processor is built on a 7nm process and paired with a combination of 6+128GB storage for faster running speeds and efficient multitasking.
To better support OCR recognition, it also has a 16-megapixel scanning camera, ideal for users who need to digitize paper documents. Its 4600mAh battery capacity can support long periods of use without frequent recharging. The body of the aragonite Tab10C Pro is made of aluminum alloy material, with a thickness of only 6.6mm and a weight of about 440g.
8、BIGME inkNoteX智能办公本
This model has a built-in Dimensity 900 octa-core A78 processor with a main frequency of 2.4GHz, 6+126GB storage combination, and the same hardware performance as the aragonite Tab10C Pro, which is comparable to the mainstream mobile phones and tablets currently on sale. The key is that the BIGME inkNoteX smart office laptop has a built-in unlimited voice-to-text duration, which is especially useful for voice recording and meeting recording.
The BIGME inkNoteX smart office laptop is equipped with a 10.3-inch Kaleido 3 color e-ink screen, which not only displays vivid colors, but also supports touch and handwriting functions, which is ideal for users who need to take notes or draw frequently. In addition, this model is equipped with dual front and rear cameras, which is convenient for video calls or document shooting.
In addition to a powerful processor and a multi-function screen, this device also has a large storage capacity and supports up to 1TB TF card expansion, which is ideal for users who need to store a large number of files and materials. The built-in 4000mAh battery is able to provide long hours of use without the need for frequent recharging.
In terms of overall quality, the BIGME inkNoteX smart office laptop is a top-of-the-line device that combines a high-performance processor, a high-definition color display, and productivity office functions, which is ideal for those who are looking for an alternative to a laptop for efficient office work and study.
9、掌阅iReader Smart X3 Pro
This is an upgraded version of iReader Smart X3, in terms of hardware configuration, Smart X3 Pro is equipped with a quad-core processor, and is equipped with 4GB of memory and 64GB of storage space. It has a thickness of 5.6mm and weighs only 365g, making it very portable. An X-Pen3 electromagnetic pen using Wacom technology is included, which is perfect for users who need to take notes and draw.
In terms of system, the Smart X3 Pro is equipped with the new SmartOS system, which includes a dark mode that can effectively reduce eye strain, especially when reading in low-light environments. At the same time, the newly added AI dynamic high-brush engine and independent display chip also further improve the smoothness of the screen and reduce the residual image when swiping the page, making the reading experience more comfortable than the previous generation.
10, aragonite Tab13
This is my "dream machine", but because I already have multiple e-book readers on hand and have been unable to get my hands on it, the charm of aragonite Tab13 is really hard to resist. Its screen reaches 13.3 inches, making it ideal for users who need a large screen for reading and note-taking. The Carta 1250 e-ink screen not only ensures the clarity of the text, but also achieves a high response speed and refresh rate, especially when reading PDF files, the clarity and fluency are significantly improved.
Aragonite Tab13 not only has an outstanding screen display effect, but also is equipped with a fully open Android system, which supports a wide range of application compatibility, from professional document processing to casual reading. Even with its large screen size, the reader is moderately thick and still maintains good portability. The battery life is also very strong, so it is suitable for long periods of use without worrying about frequent charging.
For those users who need to read complex documents or graphics on a large screen, the aragonite Tab13 is an ideal choice. Despite the slightly higher price, its superior performance and convenient features are really worth the investment.
6. Summary
At the end of this e-reader buying guide, let's take a quick overview of the people who are suitable for e-books, in case your purchase ends up being an infrequent decoration.
- If you're the type of reader who likes to immerse yourself in fiction or long articles, eBooks may be perfect for you.
- For those middle-aged and elderly people who are not very good at technology, the simple and easy-to-use e-paper book is also a good choice.
- E-books are a lightweight alternative for those who find traditional paper books too heavy or inconvenient to carry.
- If you are a person who is sensitive to LCD screens or prone to dry eyes, the non-illuminated screen of e-paper books is also a good choice.
Commuters can take advantage of eBooks to enjoy reading while riding public transportation, while night readers will appreciate its backlit feature for reading in low-light environments. In addition, eBooks are an ideal gift option for those who don't know what to give to a friend or student, as well as for parents who want to reduce their child's exposure to harmful light.
Conversely, if you're easily distracted while reading and want to play games, or want to find an iPad alternative at a lower cost, then eBooks may not be for you. Of course, we can also argue dialectically that buying an e-book reader may be a new opportunity for you to develop good reading habits. Users who blindly follow the latest electronics trends on a whim should also reconsider their decision to buy an e-book reader.
When choosing an eBook, you shouldn't just focus on the technical parameters, but also consider whether the devices will meet your actual needs. I will continue to monitor and update the information of new e-book readers in the market. If you have any questions about choosing an e-book reader, please feel free to leave a message in the comment area, or communicate with me through private messages or paid communication.
For future reference, friends who want to buy an e-book reader remember to bookmark this selection guide