Electronics Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know About E-Readers and Tablet PCs
Aluratek Libre Multimedia eBook Reader with 10 Books and 20 Songs Item: 108-037
It’s time again for a little bit of tech homework. Today’s topic will include just what an E-reader does, what a Tablet computer is, and how are they similar and different. Time to help tell the difference, so that everyone knows what works best for them.
E-Readers
First on the agenda is the popular E-reader. Here at HSN we have carried some of the most popular, and user friendly E-Readers, such as the Aluratek Libre Multimedia eBook Reader.
An E-reader has one main purpose. It’s made to read digital books also known as e-books. Some of the different makes and models differ in where you can get those books as they may limit you to one store, while others have more store options available. Don’t forget though, the majority of these will have some e-books pre-loaded, generally with access to hundreds of free e-books as downloads!
Their biggest advantages are that you can literally store hundreds and even thousands of books in just one small, easy to carry, simple to store, device! They tend to be even smaller and thinner than the lightest net book or laptop around! Many can also read published periodicals, so you can download your favorite newspaper from just about anywhere!
As models vary, so do some of the features they include. Some have what is called “E-ink” which uses very low power, and makes it very easy to see the screen, even outside. Instantly be able to change the font size, from small to large with literally the touch of a button, and a few even allow you to notate!
Samsung 7" Galaxy Tab Wi-Fi Touchscreen Tablet with Apps, Software, $300 Rebate Offer Item: 109-198
Tablet PCs
For those who want something even more feature rich, then it’s time to talk Tablet PCs or ‘tablets’ for short. These guys are the latest tech craze to hit. Not only do most of them allow you to view e-books, but many include built in Wi-Fi connectivity, an internet browser, email checking, built in camera, as well as many other applications or “apps” for just about everything you would need from a basic calculator, to reading and writing documents, to games!
These types of ultra-thin and sleek computers, generally have an LCD screen, as opposed to the E-ink displays of E-readers, so their battery lives vary a bit more. They tend to be just as small and portable as E-readers, and usually allow you to not only read, but view photos and videos as well!
There are a couple that have been coming out, such as the Samsung Tablets (short for tablet), that allows access to the 3G network, with a data subscription. What this means, is that you can browse the internet, send and receive email, and basic online functions using the cell phone (3G) network and you don’t have to be in a Wi-Fi hotspot! So you can have access just about anywhere!
enTourage Dualbook Touchscreen eInk & LCD Tablet with Software
Here on HSN we have also featured a device called the enTourage, which features the best of both worlds! It has an E-Reader on one side, and a tablet on the other! We make sure you have all the options you could ever want, and cover the full spectrum of tech here on HSN! Don’t forget to keep an eye out, as we have a new enTourage coming soon!
If you want to see all of these great new devices in action, be sure to tune into HSN’s Electronic Connection hours and catch me, so that I can show and explain some of the great reasons why you may want to own, one, two, or more of these awesome electronics!
–Shannon Smith, HSN Show Host
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