Don't count out the e-book reader—new models are better than ever
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The e-ink screens on most e-book readers are already about as good as they can get—text is crisp and very readable, even in bright light. But Amazon found a few ways to tweak its latest e-readers, the Kindle Voyage and the Kindle. Both are recommended in our updated Ratings, as is a new offering from Kobo.
What sets the new Kindle Voyage apart is the front light. It has a very even glow, without the dark spots you find on other front-lit e-readers. The Voyage also has a touch screen. It starts at $200 for the Wi-Fi version with special offers (that means you’ll see ads on the opening screen, but nowhere else).
That's a lot to pay for a e-reader, we know (especially considering the fact that Amazon is selling the highly-rated Kindle Fire HDX 7" tablet for $20 less than that during Black Friday sales). So if that price tag is too high for you, we also liked the latest version of the simpler Kindle. It also has a touch screen, excellent readability, and an attractive price of $80 with special offers. If you’re shopping this weekend, Amazon's Black Friday sale is making this Kindle a bit more tempting by dropping the price to $50.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Check our buying guide and latest Ratings for e-book readers. Be sure to check our Gadget Gift Finder for the tech geek on your gift list and watch our Ultimate Gift Guide interactive video, below.
Kobo’s latest reader, the Aura H2O, did well in our tests as well. You’ll get a clue about what sets it apart in its name—it’s waterproof. It survived our dunk test of 30 minutes submerged in three feet of water, and was none the worse for wear. So if you plan on reading that new Stephen King book in the tub or by the pool, this could be the e-reader for you. As with the two Kindles, readability was excellent. It retails for $180.
—Donna Tapellini
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