We often mention free eBooks in freebies roundups and occasionally in posts all by themselves. Although you can download applications to read these free eBooks on your computer or phone, you may get tired of that and decide to purchase your own eReader.
I (Laura) have frequently admitted to being a book junkie and have hemmed and hawed about whether to get an eReader or not. I’m still looking into my options, so I thought I’d share my research with you here in case you’re interested in purchasing a Kindle or NOOK for yourself or for someone else.
Kindle
Amazon recently announced the release of the Kindle Fire, an alternative to the iPad and other tablet devices. With that announcement came new versions (and prices) of their current Kindle eReader. The best deals on Kindles right now are found at Amazon itself; all of these products ship for free with Amazon Prime.
(Note: It’s entirely possible that we’ll see better deals on Kindles after the release of the Kindle Fire – especially on refurbished products – but these are the best deals available right now.)
Some of these products come with “Special Offers,” which means that special offers and sponsored screensavers will display on the screen (although they won’t interrupt your reading). If you don’t want any special offers to show up, you’ll just need to pay an extra $30-$50, depending on the version you choose.
Kindle Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display with Special Offers $79.00
Kindle Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display without Special Offers $109.00
This is the simplest device and comes with built-in Wi-Fi but no other add-ons like a touchscreen or 3G.
Kindle Keyboard, Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display with Special Offers $99.00
Kindle Keyboard, Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display without Special Offers $139.00
This version has a physical keyboard, plus audio and built-in Wi-Fi.
Kindle Keyboard 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display with Special Offers $139.00
Kindle Keyboard 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display without Special Offers $189.00
And this one is just like the Kindle Keyboard except you’ll also get free always-connected 3G Wireless.
Kindle Touch, 6″ E Ink Display with Special Offers $99.00
Kindle Touch, 6″ E Ink Display without Special Offers $139.00
This version has a touchscreen, Wi-Fi and audio.
Kindle Touch 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display, 3G Works Globally with Special Offers $149.00
Kindle Touch 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 6″ E Ink Display, 3G Works Globally without Special Offers $189.00
And this product is just like the Kindle Touch except you’ll also get free always-connected 3G Wireless. This product will be released on 11/21; orders are prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis.
Kindle Fire, Full Color 7″ Multi-Touch Display, Wi-Fi $199.00
This device has a vibrant color touchscreen for web access, movies, apps, games, reading and more. This product will be released on 11/15; orders are prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis.
NOOK
If you’re more interested in a NOOK eReader, the best deals available are on refurbished products which include a one-year Barnes & Noble warranty.
You can get the Refurbished Barnes & Noble NOOK The Simple Touch Reader for $79.00 + free shipping right now at Overstock.com. This eReader has a touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi.
Or if you’d prefer something a little more flashy, the Refurbished Barnes & Noble NOOK Color WiFi eReader is priced at $139.00 + free shipping right now at Buy.com. This eReader also has a touchscreen (although this one is in color), built-in Wi-Fi, and different apps available for download.
Once you get your eReader, keep tabs on the freebies posts to find free eBooks available for download. Don’t forget that eBookFling is another option for borrowing and lending eBooks with other eReader owners. Check the comments on this post to find more ways to get free eBooks.
Your turn: So, what’s your opinion: Kindle or Nook? And do you prefer a touchscreen, keyboard, apps, or just the basic eReader?
Disclosure: This post contains one or more referral links that may yield commissions for Pocket Your Dollars.com at no cost to you. See Pocket Your Dollars’ disclosure statement for more details.
About Laura Wales
