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Question

Budget Dilemma: eReader/Tablet?

by slow_mo_panda Nov 18, 2012 6:36AM PST

I am having a buyer's crisis of too many options!
Let me break it down so I don't write a 10-page 'help' post...
I currently OWN:
1. Desktop PC w/ MS Windows Vista Home Premium - Customized and updated periodically by my computer-savvy and PC-building Dad. Has been used almost solely for gaming (WoW & Diablo)
2. Acer Aspire Laptop w/ MS Windows 7 - 4GB Memory, 320GB HD, 15.6" Screen, Appx. 3 mo. old. Originally bought for easier/portable internet and ability to use around the home, also for writing and storage for music, small videos (watching TV episodes), and e-books directory.
3. Samsung Proclaim 'Smart Phone' w/ pre-paid 'Unlimited Talk + Data' by Straight Talk - Android OS, used mainly as a talk+text cell, only occasionally use 3G or Wi-Fi for Facebook, have been trying out the Aldiko e-book reader, use rear cam for pics and video rarely, do enjoy a few apps. Purchased after relic 'flip-phone' broke, realized paying $45/mo. for 'Unlimited Data' was being wasted on a phone with no web access.
4. 6-month-old basic 'Kobo Slick' e-reader, bought on a tight budget for ebook use. I am an avid reader and have a difficult time holding larger books. I do enjoy e-readers that have the e-ink style screen. This reader was very cheap, and I definitely got what I paid for. It is pretty much bricked right now, the buttons barely function, and the display routinely re-boots for no reason at all.
It's the need for a new e-reader that sent me searching the web for the best deal I can get on what I want in my device. I am looking for these features:
-Longer battery life
-Good e-reader, e-ink display if possible, Nook is preferred over Kindle, though any other brand would be acceptable.
-Smaller than a laptop, lighter and thinner would be nice
-Attachable or wireless keyboard is a plus (the feature that drew my attention to the MS 'Surface' tablet.)
-Does NOT need to be a complete full-color full-touch screen, although this will likely be unavoidable if I wanted to watch videos on it, which is another bonus.
-Plays music and videos
-HDMI output
-Front AND Rear camera
-Trying to avoid any Apple products, would rather have Android or Microsoft

My questions are:
+Does ANYONE know what device would have the most of my choice features for the best value? Where could I find devices like these online for the best price?
+Is it possible to find the MS Surface with keyboard for less than $400?
+Do you think I should just go ahead and drop $100 on a Nook Touch for the e-reader I desire the most? Or is it a good idea to try to find a decent tablet for a slightly higher cost?

Thanks for the advice, and I hope I can find a good deal online for these holiday sales before they are gone!

Discussion is locked

1 Posts
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Answer
Thanks for this.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Nov 18, 2012 8:42AM PST

I've read that Kobo for a while and didn't care for the hardware "feel." Now you post this.

Given the owner of the Nook, I'd look at the Kindle's.

As to the Surface, that system has the feel like Vista. I might bet you can get your price next year.

http://www.zdnet.com/microsoft-ceo-surface-rt-sales-off-to-a-modest-start-7000003141/

Bob

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