Tablet or eReader? Which to Choose
October 5, 2011 
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Shopping for a new tablet or eReader can be pretty overwhelming. With so many choices, how can you choose? Well, the first decision you need to make is do you want a dedicated eReader, a la Kindle or should you buy a more full-featured tablet like the iPad 2 or the GalaxyTab? This depends on number of factors, including your budget. Here we outline some questions to answer before you make a purchase.
Top Reasons You Should Choose an eBook Reader
1. You just want to read books. Maybe you already have an iPhone or Android phone that has tons of apps and features and all you are really looking for is a device to read the latest novels on. Dedicated eBook readers are lightweight and more comfortable to hold and carry than tablets. Plus the E Ink screens can be easier on the eyes for reading and do much better outside in bright light, where the LCD screens can throw a lot of glare. So if you want to be able to read at the beach or in the park, choose an eReader.
2. Battery life. There’s really no comparison between the battery life on a eBook reader and that of a tablet. For example, the Kindle can last a couple of months without having to be recharged while the iPad can only go about 10 hours. So, if you plan on going camping for days at a time, you should opt for an eReader.
3. You want to throw it in your bag or pocket. eBook Readers are a lot lighter and smaller than tablets. For example, the Nook Simple Touch is only a half pound and can easily slide into your pocketbook or backpack. Most tablets are a little to hefty for that.
4. Your Budget. Even the top eReaders are about half the price of a decent tablet. You can get a Kindle for under a hundred dollars. Compare that with the iPad 2 
Top Reasons You Should Choose a Tablet
1. Apps, Apps, Apps. While its true that some eReaders have access to apps, they don’t really compare with the selection available on the iPad or Android tablets. There are tens of thousands of cool, fun, and useful apps available in the iTunes store, many of them free. The Android Market also offers thousands of apps to choose from.
2. Access to books from multiple sources. If you buy a Kindle you won’t be able to purchase books from Barnes and Noble (and vice versa). With a tablet you are not limited to where you can purchase your books. Apps are freely available for the Nook, Kindle, and most other eBook readers. Whatever format your book is in, you can read it on a tablet.
3. Functionality. If you want your tablet to double as a laptop there are many apps available for word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, videoconferencing, and the like. Web surfing is also more enjoyable on a color screen.
Still can’t decide? Check out or eBook Reader Reviews for more expert advice on finding the right eReader or tablet.
