What Are the Differences Between Amazon's Kindle 1 & Kindle 2?

With the release of the much anticipated Amazon Kindle 2 which is meant to be better and sleeker than the original, you may be asking yourself whether you should buy the upgraded version or stick with the popular Kindle 1. If that's the case then read on, this article will take you through the differences between the two versions of this popular eBook reader.

First just looking at the two machines you'll see a lot of differences. The Kindle 2 is a lot slimmer than its predecessor at only 9mm thick and while it weighs the same as before it's now easier to hold and carry around.

The screen size is also the same at 600 x 800 but the new model has better graphical capabilities so that you'll now get 16 shades of grey rather than the four of the first Kindle.

This makes the text on the screen easier to read and quite sharp (less bleed into the screen). Of course the original version still had good readability and at first glance you might not notice much of a difference, but after reading many pages you'll appreciate the subtle crisper text. The background has also changed from a slight paper textured look in the first to a smooth flat surface in the second.

While the Kindle 2 is meant to be faster at page turning and overall speed, we can't say we noticed any significant difference between the two, after all it was never like Amazon's original model was slow - it wasn't.

The differences that were significant and enough to warrant considering an upgrade was the design changes in the newer model. The power switch is now conveniently at the top of the Kindle rather than the back which makes it much easier to turn it on and off. The volume buttons have also been moved to a rocker switch now on the right hand side of the reader (rather than the bottom).

The navigation system is now much more intuitive with the 'next' button sitting conveniently where your thumb rests so you can easily turn the page and it feels more natural.

Overall the differences between Amazon's Kindle 1 and 2 are subtle but do improve your ebook reading experience. So it's up to you whether you want the latest and greatest or don't mind the older version for up to $100 cheaper.

For more information about the Amazon Kindle 2 visit http://www.squidoo.com/amazons-kindle for all the latest information including wait times and tech specs.

What Are the Differences Between Amazon's Kindle 1 & Kindle 2?

With the release of the much anticipated Amazon Kindle 2 which is meant to be better and sleeker than the original, you may be asking yourself whether you should buy the upgraded version or stick with the popular Kindle 1. If that's the case then read on, this article will take you through the differences between the two versions of this popular eBook reader.

First just looking at the two machines you'll see a lot of differences. The Kindle 2 is a lot slimmer than its predecessor at only 9mm thick and while it weighs the same as before it's now easier to hold and carry around.

The screen size is also the same at 600 x 800 but the new model has better graphical capabilities so that you'll now get 16 shades of grey rather than the four of the first Kindle.

This makes the text on the screen easier to read and quite sharp (less bleed into the screen). Of course the original version still had good readability and at first glance you might not notice much of a difference, but after reading many pages you'll appreciate the subtle crisper text. The background has also changed from a slight paper textured look in the first to a smooth flat surface in the second.

While the Kindle 2 is meant to be faster at page turning and overall speed, we can't say we noticed any significant difference between the two, after all it was never like Amazon's original model was slow - it wasn't.

The differences that were significant and enough to warrant considering an upgrade was the design changes in the newer model. The power switch is now conveniently at the top of the Kindle rather than the back which makes it much easier to turn it on and off. The volume buttons have also been moved to a rocker switch now on the right hand side of the reader (rather than the bottom).

The navigation system is now much more intuitive with the 'next' button sitting conveniently where your thumb rests so you can easily turn the page and it feels more natural.

Overall the differences between Amazon's Kindle 1 and 2 are subtle but do improve your ebook reading experience. So it's up to you whether you want the latest and greatest or don't mind the older version for up to $100 cheaper.

For more information about the Amazon Kindle 2 visit http://www.squidoo.com/amazons-kindle for all the latest information including wait times and tech specs.

3 Reasons Why the Kindle 2 Beats the Nook This Holiday Season - The Differences Revealed

Everyone is talking about the battle of the eBook readers, now that the Amazon Kindle 2 has another competitor with the Barnes and Noble Nook. They both are excellent quality ebook readers, and there are some definite differences between the two. When one looks for a reason one way or another to choose between the Nook or the Kindle 2, there are 3 good reasons to go with purchasing the Kindle 2 this holiday season.

Reason 1) International Usage Ability With the Kindle 2: Both the Nook and the Kindle 2 boast wireless capabilities. So when you are in a place that free/ unsecured wireless is available, you can hook up with it to download books or publications. If wireless is unavailable, then both use 3G mobile service, so anywhere 3G cellular service is available you can download to your ebook reader.

However, only Amazon's Kindle 2 works internationally. Of course if you have your Nook with you and you travel overseas it will work, but you can't download books or publications! So people who live outside the United States need to take this into account.

Reason 2) Kindle's Features Out-compare Nook's: Let's start by pointing out the slightly lighter weight of the Kindle (10.2 ounces) compared to Nook's (11.2 ounces). This is probably not a big deal for the normal person, but a favorable difference nonetheless for the Kindle. Kindle offers "text-to-speech" and also a web browser, whereas the Nook doesn't.

The Nook has a color navigation screen, where the Kindle does not. Is this a positive for the Nook? It definitely looks to be on the surface. The color screen is a smaller touch-screen underneath the reading screen. It has many features including a touch keyboard function. This could prove to be a competitive advantage for the Nook.

However it should be reported that representatives weren't letting anyone touch the device during the Nook unveiling event. Why? Some are speculating the color screen is clunky and slow. However the demonstrations proved neither way. Only the consumer reviews will tell, and that's why it could be seen as a safer bet to go with the proven Kindle 2.

Reason 3) The Kindle 2 is In Stock: The Nook, having just been released November 30th, is out of stock. Order it and you'll be shipped your Nook on January 15th (at the time of writing this article). Order the Kindle 2 and you'll be shipped your eBook reader in time for the holidays (one day shipping available). This is an obvious advantage for Amazon, and customers who want to enjoy the device for the holidays.

You can Click HERE for more detailed information, reviews, and cheapest pricing on the Kindle 2.

Differences Between the Kindle Wi-Fi and Kindle 3G As Available in the UK, And Kindle DX

There are now two types of Amazon Kindle available from Amazon UK, and the Amazon DX which at present you have to order from the States. Amazon has not done a great job making it easy for customers to identify the difference between the models so I will try and demystify below.

Kindle Wi-Fi.

Currently £109.00 including free shipping and this is the 'base' model available. This model has a 6 inch diagonal screen, 9mm think (less than a pencil), can hold up to 3,500 books, has a battery life of one month with the Wireless turned off and three weeks with the Wireless turned on. It downloads books from Amazon UK in 60 seconds, has Wi-Fi access for Internet browsing etc,

Kindle 3G + Wi-Fi

This is currently £149 in the UK and is exactly the same to look at the Wi-Fi model, but it has the addition of free 3G global wireless coverage for downloading books and Internet access in over 100 countries. It is very slightly heavier than the model above and the battery life with wireless on is reduced to 10 days. In all other respects it is exactly the same.

Therefore in deciding between the two models that consideration is whether you will be using the Amazon extensively outside the UK and wanting access to the free 3G network while you are away (you can still access the internet (with it's basic browser) using the Wi-Fi, in hotels, bars etc). I guess unless you travel a lot and need to access your e-mail etc while you are away and do not possess one of the latest smart phones such as an iPhone, HTC desire, Blackberry etc, then the more expensive 3G model may be what you are looking for. I suspect for the majority of people the standard Kindle Wi-Fi will be the most appropriate model out of these 2.

Kindle DX

This is currently $379 ( approx £250) and has to be purchased from Amazon.com although they ship to the UK. This has a 9.7 inch diagonal size screen, it still holds 3,500 books, includes the 3G access and has a reduced battery life of seven days with wireless on and 2 to 3 weeks with a wireless off it is also approximately double the weight and slightly thicker. So the difference other Kindle 3G + Wi-Fi being the screen size.

Conclusion

The Kindle Wi Fi is exactly the same as the Kindle 3G except it does not have 3G, so for use as a ebook reader only and not wanting to download books while out of the UK it is perfect. To surf the web, download books abroad and over the internet you need the 3G, and if you want a bigger screen then the DX has it and the 3G.

Overall I would suggest that for most people the basic Kindle Wi-Fi meets their needs and at £109 it represents a bit of a bargain. Having used the 6 inch Amazon Kindle (an older model) the 6 inch diagonal screen is perfectly adequate and I suspect is easier to read, than the larger screen, as there is reduced eye movement.

For those of you that are interested in how the Kindle has developed from the earlier generation, it has reduced in overall size and weight whilst maintaining the same screen size, increased the already impressive screen contrast by 50% and has increased the number of books that can be stored by nearly double and has an improved PDF reader along with various other improvements and of course reduced the price!

The Amazon Kindle does appear to be marking itself out as the way forward for electronic book reader's.

Buy the Kindle in the UK

Kindle Readers available in the UK

Differences Between the 2009 EBook Readers, the Amazon Kindle 2 and the Sony Reader PRS-700

The new Sony Reader PRS-700 and the Amazon Kindle 2 are this years most talked about ebook readers, offering an increased amount of reading pleasure. For those who aren't familiar the recent ebook reading devices and are interested in purchasing one, we will compare the Amazon's Kindle 2 and Sony's Reader to see how they compare.

Pricing when it comes to any gadget is always an important factor especially for those who are first time buyers. Currently, the Amazon's Kindle 2 priced at $259, but Sony's Reader is priced almost double that at $399, which means that the Kindle 2 is lower priced and has a better value.

When it comes to these gadgets their size and weight comparisons don't really give them a unique advantage over each other. While the Sony reader PRS-700 weighs in at 10 oz, Amazon's Kindle 2 is just a bit heavier. Although the Sony's Reader is wider and thicker, the Kindle is a few inches longer. Either way, they're both at a convenience when you have to carry them around.

Both ebook readers use the new e-ink technology which means their displays are as close as regular text on paper as you can technically have at the moment, which makes it easier to read since the technology can display crisp text and images. Although Amazon's Kindle 2 is capable of producing 16 different shades of gray, and Sony's Reader is only capable of 8, this makes Amazon's Kindle 2 much crisper.

In the area of wireless technology, Amazon's Kindle 2 is the clear winner. Using Whispernet technology, Amazon's Kindle 2 can receive free wireless coverage. Kindle owners also have access to a collection of over 350,000 books, newspapers, magazines, and even blogs! You just simply choose the reading content of your choice, pay for it, and you can download the magazine or book to your Kindle when you want, anywhere you want, in only minutes! On the other hand Sony's Reader PRS-700 completely lacks any sort of wireless capabilities and only has access to a collection of 100,000 titles, which doesn't even compare to the amount available to Kindle users.

Both readers can read common formats such as TXT, JPEG, GIF, MP3, GIF, BMP, and PNG not to mention other formats which are unique to each device. Although Sony's Reader can read PDF's while Amazon's Kindle 2 can't - well not directly anyways. PDF's are sent to Kindle's support desk for conversion, then they can be read on the Kindle, although Amazon warns that "complex PDF files might format incorrectly" on the Kindle.

Now in the memory options, Sony's Reader has a clear upper hand. Although Amazon's Kindle 2 offers 2GB's of internal memory, which only 1.4GB is accessible for content storage, it can hold an estimated 1,500 books, although it doesn't support use of external memory cards anymore. However while Sony's Reader only offers 256mb's of on board memory, its advantage lies in the fact that Sony's Reader is capable of supporting 16GB's through the use of an external memory card. Not only is that a good benefit for having tons of content accessible to you when you need it, but it's also good for managing files onto other memory cards.

When it comes to their battery lives, both readers have equivalent operating hours. On a full charge, both the Kindle 2 and the Sony Reader can handle two weeks of reading without the need to charge. Charging time is also equivalent for both readers, 4hours when charging through USB and 2hours when plugged to the AC wall charger.

The bottom line when it comes to the ebook readers of 2009, the Amazon Kindle 2 and Sony's eBook Reader is:

That Amazons Kindle 2 is the best ebook reader of the two hands-down. Its price, wireless capabilities, content, and overall improvements in design makes the Amazon Kindle 2 the clear winner, as it bests Sony's Reader 700.

For more information about Amazon Kindle Reader news and reviews including the Kindle 2 Book Reader and other Kindle's please visit our website.

Differences Between Kindle 2 and Kindle 1

In this article I explain the differences between the Kindle 2 and Kindle 1 wireless electronic book readers. The Kindle 2 is Amazon's 2nd generation wireless eBook reader and has a new design, updated display, more storage, and a 6 inch 600x800 pixel display that provides 16 shades of gray (the previous generation Kindle displayed just 4 shades of gray). Having the additional shades of gray makes the text clearer, just like a real book, and provides crisper images and photos.

The Kindle 2 is only 1/3 of an inch thick, weighs about 10.2 ounces (lighter than a typical paperback book), has 2G of internal memory and holds 1,500 books--almost 8 times as many as the previous generation Kindle.

 

There are other important differences between the Kindle 2 and Kindle 1. With the new Kindle 2, pages refresh 20% faster and it has 25% longer battery life. You can read for up to 4 days with wireless on, or up to 2 weeks with wireless off, before you need to recharge. The Kindle 2 fully charges in approximately 4 hours, and supports charging from your computer via the included USB 2.0 cable.

 

Additional differences between the Kindle 2 and Kindle 1 are you can change text size, add bookmarks and notes, read PDFs and Word documents, and even search the web. You can increase the text size of your favorite book or periodical with the push of a button. If your eyes tire, simply increase the font size and continue reading comfortably. Kindle has six adjustable font sizes to suit your reading preference. Using the QWERTY keyboard, you can add annotations to text, just like you might write in the margins of a book. You can also edit, delete, and export your notes. Using the new 5-way controller, you can highlight and clip key passages and bookmark pages for future use. You never need to bookmark your last place in the book, because Kindle remembers for you and always opens to the last page you read.

 

One of the key differences between the Kindle 2 and Kindle 1 is that the new Kindle has an experimental text-to-speech function that allows you to listen to books. With the new text-to-speech feature, the Kindle can read every newspaper, magazine, blog, and book out loud to you. Pages automatically turn while the content is being read, so you can listen hands-free. You can choose from both male and female voices which can be sped up or slowed down to suit your preference. In the middle of a great book or article but have to jump in the car? Simply turn on text-to-speech and listen on the go.

 

The Kindle 2 also includes free built-in access to Wikipedia.org, the world's most exhaustive and up-to-date encyclopedia. Looking up people, places, events, and more has never been easier.

 

Electronic books for the Kindle 2 cost about $10 and download in less than 60 seconds. The Kindle has 3G wireless which lets you download books right from your Kindle, anytime, anywhere, with no monthly fees, service plans, or hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots. The Kindle Store offers over 230,000 books, and you can purchase subscriptions that are delivered wirelessly. Newspaper subscriptions currently range from $6 to $15 per month and magazines range from $1.25 to $3.50 per month.

 

I hope you've enjoyed this article on the differences between the Kindle 2 and Kindle 1. If you're transitioning from a Kindle 1 to Kindle 2, all the content you currently have on your Kindle 1 can be synchronized to your Kindle 2 using Amazon's Whispersync technology.

Mark Minks is the founder of MoneyJibe, a Personal Finance website that offers money saving tips, money making ideas, and free online coupons. The Amazon.com Promotional Codes on the site are very popular for site visitors. A special page has been created on the site if you think you might be ready to Buy a Kindle wireless eBook reader. A portion of all money earned by the site from ads, product referrals etc. is given back to the community to help those that are less fortunate. Details can be found on the site.

Kindle 2 Reviews - Amazon Kindle Vs Kindle 2 Reader, Differences & Similarities

Review for Amazon original reader vs kindle 2 upgrade is here. Differences in form are more evident than it's function. We can say the upgrade 2 got one step closer to imitating paper and its tactile and visual feel. No, you can not roll it up as yet, like in a sci-fi movie, but the latest cosmetic and technological Kindle upgrade can make any book reader wanting to own one desperately.

Amazon.com has officially launched the 2nd upgrade in Feb 2009, and the response is building up like quantum leaps. Amazon gave preference to customer loyalty, which led them to assure owners of the original first-generation reader, to be able to pre-order much ahead of the queue. And their words were: "Our original Kindle owners are first in line to receive the upgrade. Place your order by midnight PST on February 10th and you will receive first priority.Customers who have placed an order for the first generation are due to receive a 2.0 upgrade much sooner."

Amazon Kindle vs Kindle 2 Reader Comparison

Thickness reduced to half making it more handy. The first generation was "19 mm" thick while upgrade 2 retains all of it's capabilities, being as thin as "9 mm" now. The new device surely feels better in your hands, and is albeit easier to pack.

Sleeker and Smoother: Kindle 2.0 is a cosmetically advanced gadget. It is thinner and sleeker in appearance. Smooth and gentle curves with rounded buttons make it all the more eye-candy.

Improved Joystick: The slim silver line has been also been replaced by a few buttons and a joystick offering "5 way controller" option. Now making notes, highlights, and bookmarking options are easier to access through the keyboard and using the joystick.

Easier Access to Dictionary: The dictionary has words that appear at the bottom of the screen, instead of leaving current the book page.

Enhanced E-Ink screen: It has incorporated the latest E-Ink technology that uses 16 shades of gray versus the 4 shades available on the original Kindle.

Improved screen technology and Sharper Text : The difference is noticeable on readable text that looks crisper and clearly tighter, with less ink-like bleed-in to the virtual page behind it.

Better Picture Quality: Undoubtedly pictures appear more detailed with 2.0 as the images use more color composites and far greater gradations.
Smoother Screen: The background of the screen also has changed. Earlier, the screen appeared to have a slight texture, imitating the look of a newspaper, but now the surface is completely smooth.

Faster Page Turn Option: Pages supposedly turn 20 percent faster, although the difference is apparently subtle between the two. But with time we will know better.

Sleek Speakers: The speakers are now integrated on the new, sleek back design.
Longer Lasting Battery: The battery-power lasts longer.

More Internal Storage Capacity: New Kindle has a memory of 2GB whereas earlier one had an internal storage capacity of 256 MB only, shipping with 180 MB free.

SD memory Card Expansion Slot Removed: Original version had a SD memory card expansion slot officially supporting up to 4GB which implied support for SDHC. But now the SD card slot has been dropped. This has although been compensated by an 8 times increase in the internal storage. And most likely just like ipod story, Amazon will probably focus more on increasing its internal storage than depending on external card expansions.

Text To Speech Feature: AT&T 's foray into text to speech recognition technology more than 30 years ago has come of age. Yes! Unlike the Original the version 2.0 has integrated an experimental text-to-speech feature. Now kindle can read your favorite book or the news even while you are driving.

Easier Article Copy Feature: Another addition is the ability to quickly copy entire articles.

Faster Zoom in feature: Zooming into pictures is of great utility value too.

Whispersync Feature Added : Whispersync is a new interesting and exciting functionality, that allows users to seamlessly switch back and forth between Kindle devices while keeping your reading location synchronized- simply pick up reading right where you left off. How Whispersync evolves is what we have watch out for, as it may transform it to work across multiple networks as well. Amazon is all set to allow readable files to be moved across different mobile devices such as cell phones etc. Current users can sit back and wait for Kindle cell phones and see what whispersync has to offer as well.

Case Accessory Unavailable: Yes! The new version does not arrive with a case, and it will not fit in the covers of first generation either, so the $299 price tag needs a $30 cover extra for a case.

Similarities Between Original Reader and Kindle 2.0

Both still have 600 x 800-resolution screen size, measuring 6 in.
Weight is virtually the same. Original one weighed 0.29kg, but now even with it's thinner profile it is currently weighs about 0.28kg.
Whispernet download speed is still just as fast and is likely to improve. The New upgrade retains its Wi-Fi ability.
Adjustable and Variable font sizes making the text more readable.
Battery life is still as commendable.
It is still based on paperlike E-Ink display technology that considerably reduces eyestrain, as compared to the backlit displays of mobile phones and other mobile devices.
Smart automatic bookmarking, remembering where it was the last time.
Facilitates text conversions for txt and pdf files. Free books can just be converted and emailed.
Glare-free screens making it readable against direct light.

Design enhancements are more appealing in in the new one than the preceding model. Technical upgradation, although commendable is apparently less enough to transport the original device to the next level. Whatever remarks or ratings does kindle review gets, it is still a revolution of a kind.

They say old flings die hard. And if you have romanced with original version, then version 2 will surely rekindle your love interest for technological reading in a far more seductive way.

For more useful resources and latest information, articles, news and sale options for Kindle 2.0, DX Kindle, click on the link.
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