...I can understand the "Why would I want a tablet?" crowd a little better. I'm late to the smartphone party; my half-bright phone (SE Walkman 760) kept me happy for quite a while, with first a netbook and then the NC filling the gap between phone and PC. The other day, though, I snagged a used Xperia X10 on craigslist, and I'm starting to wonder how much use my NC will see aside from e-reading, which would be served as well or better by an e-ink device.
I mean, if the phone and the tablet are both in arm's reach, sure, I'll go for the bigger screen, but their uses are almost 100% redundant now. The only thing I couldn't see doing on the phone is reading comic books, which I rarely do on the NC anyway, and I could still read b&w comics on e-ink. Some games would be kind of pointless on the X10, but overall the two devices break even there, given the NC's bigger screen and the X10's better touch response. The same could be said for web-browsing; the NC's screen is a gorgeous klutz, as touch screens go. That trade-off doesn't apply to tablets in general, but the rest pretty much do; many phones are at least as capable as any tablet near the NC's price range.
The NC is a great platform for exploring ROMs and mods to a greater extent than I'd be comfortable doing on my phone--really, the NC has been a hobby unto itself in the time I've had it, but I think I've covered all the mods I care to explore. I may well sell it off and pick up a N2E or other rootable Android e-ink device (are there any others yet?) in the near future.
I started with the smartphone, then picked up my NC a year later. The Nook is very much my reader of choice. On long hauls, I'm OK with running down my Nook's battery, while keeping my phone for "serious" use.
Of course, the phone does SMS more cleanly. The phone is always with me, whereas the Nook is more for planned long periods of downtime. While I could do it all on my phone, the larger Nook screen has made reading and browsing more of something I enjoy doing.
- Bob
Battery life is the upside of redundancy, for sure, but for reading at least, an e-ink device would have substantial advantages over the NC in that department. Something like the STR that can be rooted to display pretty much any document format and has some limited browsing capability might end up absorbing more of my juice-intensive activities than the NC. It's also somewhat relevant, for me, that the STR would be more efficient in terms of my personal power consumption, drawing much less juice off the grid.
I'm not decided on shelving the NC--I've had the phone less than a week, so I'll see how my usage patterns shake out. Still, it's tempting to go e-ink. It would also give me a new device to mod
I use my phone on the go and my Nook at home. I like having a bigger screen to do my browsing, movie watching, book read etc.
I don't don't see why you would drop the nook for an e-ink as the nook can do almost anything while a stand alone reader does one thing.
Sent from my NookColor using Tapatalk
koopakid08 said:
I don't don't see why you would drop the nook for an e-ink as the nook can do almost anything while a stand alone reader does one thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What it can do is immaterial if I do not in fact use it to do those things--most of my uses for the larger display would be met by the STR, primarily reading and some browsing.
I don't know, though--I probably will end up sticking with the NC. A lot of my reading is at night, where the backlight is a plus, and every once in a while I do get into some dumb game on the NC (often sitting less than six feet away from a PC with probably 20 real games installed ).
Mainly, I just have more sympathy for the people who are baffled by the tablet phenomenon. A decent Android phone is an extremely capable device, and all a tablet really brings to the table are those extra inches.
Since I flash my phone quite often I try to keep the installed apps to a minimum while my nook is loaded to the hilt. Since it (the Nook) fits in my back pocket I take it everywhere so it keeps me from draining my phone's battery as well.
My $.02 with data being so expensive for phones now I actually save money by using the nook everywhere and not using phone data. I love my nook, I can hardly even stand browsing the web on my phone now that I have been spoiled with the nooks brilliant screen. I use my phone primarily when I am super bored in class and to keep updated on email everywhere. And my phone is a mytouch.4g so not a bad phone for comparison. I don't even understand the hype on the Amazon tablet except for the price, if you ask me the brilliant people that designed the nook color should be receiving all the press. Everything but dual core almost a year in advance, am I wrong?
Cant agree more, I found myself using nook more than my EVO.
ncmt4g64 said:
My $.02 with data being so expensive for phones now I actually save money by using the nook everywhere and not using phone data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you please elaborate on that? I don't have a data plan for my phone because I have almost universal access to good WiFi networks, and it doesn't cost me any.
inportb said:
Would you please elaborate on that? I don't have a data plan for my phone because I have almost universal access to good WiFi networks, and it doesn't cost me any.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, you can always use both when there is wifi, I would choose nook everytime. But since I started using my nook so much, I reduced my phone data plan to 2.5gb instead of 5gb, mostly because I tend to hold off using my phone for internet and stuff especially on data since the nook is so much bigger and also my primary Android device now.
I watched about 4 hours worth of Archer on my NC while flying from Raleigh to Denver recently. Can't imagine doing that (enjoyably) on my phone. Video quality its pretty darn good on the Nook.
bagelicious said:
I watched about 4 hours worth of Archer on my NC while flying from Raleigh to Denver recently. Can't imagine doing that (enjoyably) on my phone. Video quality its pretty darn good on the Nook.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For frequent flyers who aren't trying to work on the plane, tablets are great, no question. Me, I take a 2-hour trip every month or two, and while it's not out of the question I would want to watch a movie, more often I end up reading or listening to music or audiobooks, and/or napping.
ncmt4g64 said:
My $.02 with data being so expensive for phones now I actually save money by using the nook everywhere and not using phone data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, $$ is still my primary concern, I'm no luddite (if that's not obvious from running a hacked nook), but the required data plans for phones add up to hundreds, sometimes thousands a year (eg; family). Personally, I'd rather spend that money on other areas (travel / retirement), so I'm seeing how long I can go for feature phone + nook.
NCKevo said:
I'm seeing how long I can go for feature phone + nook.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I was doing when I picked up the NC in May; no way was I getting a smart phone on contract. Since I ditched my contract, though, getting a smartphone actually lowered my phone bill, or at least forced me to look into my options and discover it could be lower. I was doing AT&T/GoPhone's $50 prepaid unlimited they introduced this summer, but they blocked my data when I got the X10, so I'm looking at what I can do, and they'd introduced another new plan last month, with 250 min. and unlimited texts for $25. I don't have to carry any data, but I got a 10MB/$5 "emergency" plan in case I need a map in a tight spot...or want to check Facebook at a bus stop
At any rate, I'm in love with my NC again, mostly because I found an app that handles both epubs and pdfs really well (Mantano) and another one that can read my rtfs (CoolReader). I'm still taking Mantano for a test drive, but I expect it will replace Aldiko and ezPDF. I swear I have about ten reader apps
You guys looking for cheap smartphones. Check out Virgin Mobile. $35 a month unlimited data, and texting with 300 minutes. It's on Sprints network so depends where you are but I have great coverage everywhere I go. Also its prepaid so no evil contracts!
---------------------------------
Sent from my LG Optimus V using Tapatalk
If this post helped you don't forget to say thanks!
Taosaur said:
Battery life is the upside of redundancy, for sure, but for reading at least, an e-ink device would have substantial advantages over the NC in that department. Something like the STR that can be rooted to display pretty much any document format and has some limited browsing capability might end up absorbing more of my juice-intensive activities than the NC. It's also somewhat relevant, for me, that the STR would be more efficient in terms of my personal power consumption, drawing much less juice off the grid.
I'm not decided on shelving the NC--I've had the phone less than a week, so I'll see how my usage patterns shake out. Still, it's tempting to go e-ink. It would also give me a new device to mod
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you'll find that once the novelty wears off you won't want to deal with the tiny screen unless it's your only option (ie at the dr, lunch etc.). I use my fascinate for phone calls, wifi hotspot and personal email and gchat at work (blocked on my work laptop) or when I have nothing else. The 7"screen is the right compromise between comfort and big enough text to be comfortable for extended use where the phone isn't, even with the beautiful amoled screen on the fascinate. I use the NC at home for most browsing and reading (and for tracking my fantasy football team on sundays).
Taosaur said:
At any rate, I'm in love with my NC again, mostly because I found an app that handles both epubs and pdfs really well (Mantano) and another one that can read my rtfs (CoolReader). I'm still taking Mantano for a test drive, but I expect it will replace Aldiko and ezPDF. I swear I have about ten reader apps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Holy hell! I LOVE mantano! It's an immediate new favorite over aldiko and already has all the things I loved about aldiko, but it handles the PDFs soooo much better. The hint on using coolreader for rtf's was also good, as i gave up looking for something that could handle that format.
Now i'm going to go whole hog and couple mantano to calibre and be in heaven...
A hundred shiny new internets to you for such a great find, sir!
koopakid08 said:
You guys looking for cheap smartphones. Check out Virgin Mobile. $35 a month unlimited data, and texting with 300 minutes. It's on Sprints network so depends where you are but I have great coverage everywhere I go. Also its prepaid so no evil contracts!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I considered them (and could have sworn it was $25 when I looked at it), but the only Android they had was the LG Optimus V, which didn't look so hot, and while their service is decent right where I live, it's extremely spotty everywhere else I go. "Unlimited" sounds great, but "enough" is just as good for all practical purposes, and the aftermarket for AT&T phones is quite solid.
skwalas said:
Holy hell! I LOVE mantano! It's an immediate new favorite over aldiko and already has all the things I loved about aldiko, but it handles the PDFs soooo much better. The hint on using coolreader for rtf's was also good, as i gave up looking for something that could handle that format.
Now i'm going to go whole hog and couple mantano to calibre and be in heaven...
A hundred shiny new internets to you for such a great find, sir!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mantano CS/development is very engaged, too, and making constant improvements. They're active in this thread over on mobileread: http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=131997
I wish I could find a rtf editor for Android. I don't have a keyboard for the NC right now, but it is my preferred medium for word processing, and I'm thinking about doing NaNoWriMo this year, so it would come in handy when I'm on the road around Thanksgiving.
Taosaur said:
I considered them (and could have sworn it was $25 when I looked at it), but the only Android they had was the LG Optimus V, which didn't look so hot, and while their service is decent right where I live, it's extremely spotty everywhere else I go. "Unlimited" sounds great, but "enough" is just as good for all practical purposes, and the aftermarket for AT&T phones is quite solid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it was $25 and I'm still grandfathered into that price. They do have other Androids now the Moto Triumph looks pretty good but they also got some HTC phone and the optimus slider.
---------------------------------
Sent from my LG Optimus V using Tapatalk
If this post helped you don't forget to say thanks!
Related
just looking for some input here. what does everyone think about the pros/cons of these two tablets? after everything's all said and done, which would you rather invest in?
The nook seems to have a much better screen and a more appealing form factor. it's also $130 cheaper.
the G tablet appears to have a mediocre screen but it already has the horsepower/expandability of tablets that will cost twice as much (ie. xoom). i know the xoom will shred this thing in benchmarks, but for all intents and purposes the g tablet can handle anything software-wise that's currently available with flying colors.
i'm assuming both will have a fully functioning port of honeycomb in the near future (whether official release or custom rom) so software-wise they will probably be pretty similar.
is the tegra 2 and added expandability of the g tablet worth the extra $ and putting up with the marginal display, or is the lower cost/better build-quality of the nook worth accepting the limited hardware? am i missing something in my comparison of the two?
would love to hear from the community on this debate.
How are you planning on using it?
I went with the Nook because I like the form factor, it has a great screen, and more than enough power for what I want it for (e-reader, browser, portable multi-media, simple games, etc). Lacking a mic port and decent sound are the only two real negatives, but headphones do sound quite good.
I don't yet consider tablets to be replacements for PC's or Laptops so far as doing any heavy lifting, but the NC can probably handle the majority of business and entertainment needs for most people (minus phone features, which *may* be partially remedied is Blutooth support is worled out by the awesome XDA people working on custom ROM builds...)
ColoradoPhoney said:
How are you planning on using it?
I went with the Nook because I like the form factor, it has a great screen, and more than enough power for what I want it for (e-reader, browser, portable multi-media, simple games, etc). Lacking a mic port and decent sound are the only two real negatives, but headphones do sound quite good.
I don't yet consider tablets to be replacements for PC's or Laptops so far as doing any heavy lifting, but the NC can probably handle the majority of business and entertainment needs for most people (minus phone features, which *may* be partially remedied is Blutooth support is worled out by the awesome XDA people working on custom ROM builds...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good question, and probably the main factor people will use to decide between the two.
for me, i originally liked the idea of the nook because i've wanted an ereader for awhile, and plan on using it to read magazines, books etc pretty often. but i also want to use it as a multimedia device- streaming video/movies etc. i like the idea of gaming on a device that is larger than my phone. i have lots of fun playing games on my droid x (my two faves are gun bros and dungeon defenders) and the potential for using a tablet device as a killer gaming console seems to be limitless. the G tablet seems to fit the multimedia/gaming niche better, but i think it will be inferior for e-reading because of the screen. i guess my question is: does the superior screen/e-reading capability of the nook (and lower price) outweigh the untapped hardware potential and video/gaming prowess of the G tablet?
I was shopping G-Tablet and Nook as well. In the end I wanted a smaller form factor that can be easily held for a period of time for reading. I'm not a big gamer so Nook is my choice.
I think you would miss Nook's screen if you pick the G-tablet! The IPS screen is just awesome.
Did you look at Tmobile G-Slate as well?
I've owned both... And honestly its hard to compare. Main reason is the size factor. That will ultimately be the deciding factor...
Reading on a 10 inch had its benefits, as well as drawbacks. Holding the Gtab for extended amounts of time is tedious. The quality of the screen (viewing angles) really does not affect ebook reading etc. Honestly unless its laying in your lap flat, you won't notice the loss of angle.
For gaming... There is no comparison. Tegra2 @1 ghz rocks even the most graphic intensive games.
So... I'd say the following in summary=
For heavy reading and light gaming, coupled with moderate productivity and light media... Go with the NC
For light reading, heavy gaming and moderate productivity & media... Choose the Gtab.
Its really a matter of personal preference... Depending on what your ideal usage looks like.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Bandage said:
I've owned both... And honestly its hard to compare. Main reason is the size factor. That will ultimately be the deciding factor...
Reading on a 10 inch had its benefits, as well as drawbacks. Holding the Gtab for extended amounts of time is tedious. The quality of the screen (viewing angles) really does not affect ebook reading etc. Honestly unless its laying in your lap flat, you won't notice the loss of angle.
For gaming... There is no comparison. Tegra2 @1 ghz rocks even the most graphic intensive games.
So... I'd say the following in summary=
For heavy reading and light gaming, coupled with moderate productivity and light media... Go with the NC
For light reading, heavy gaming and moderate productivity & media... Choose the Gtab.
Its really a matter of personal preference... Depending on what your ideal usage looks like.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
uggh... this sucks. i feel like i'm right in the middle of these two categories. maybe i should buy both and see which i like better...
Understandable... That's exactly what i did lol. Also have the Dell streak 7 heh.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
I'm coming off the G Tablet and still waiting for my Nook Color to come in, but I'll chime in with why I returned the Viewsonic.
Ultimately, it came down to cost and quality. There is a lot of hardware under the hood of the G Tablet, but for the $400 I paid, I regretted not just getting an iPad. It was really a build quality thing for me. I was willing to look past the horrendous viewing angles and the weird 3D effect in portrait mode, but I started getting some screen rippling, and the unit would kind of "creak" as if cheaply constructed. The rippling was so small that it didn't bother me, but it sure made me paranoid, because it showed up after just a week.
I will try to post after I've rooted my Nook and played with it a little while to give a comparison, but I'm pretty confident the screen is going to blow away the G Tablet. Probably build quality, too. I don't want it to come off as me hating on the G Tablet, because I really wanted to love it (it was a sweet cbr reader), but I couldn't risk having the thing crap out on me once the warranty ran out. For the money, if the NC dies after a year, I won't feel as duped out of my money and will still be able to replace it with whatever the new thing is.
I should also comment that I'll probably buy an iPad 2 later in the year so I have a big tablet for comics, movies and games and a smaller tablet for e-reading and light multimedia use. Because I do miss my G tablet for the multimedia uses.
cwininger said:
just looking for some input here. what does everyone think about the pros/cons of these two tablets? after everything's all said and done, which would you rather invest in?
The nook seems to have a much better screen and a more appealing form factor. it's also $130 cheaper.
the G tablet appears to have a mediocre screen but it already has the horsepower/expandability of tablets that will cost twice as much (ie. xoom). i know the xoom will shred this thing in benchmarks, but for all intents and purposes the g tablet can handle anything software-wise that's currently available with flying colors.
i'm assuming both will have a fully functioning port of honeycomb in the near future (whether official release or custom rom) so software-wise they will probably be pretty similar.
is the tegra 2 and added expandability of the g tablet worth the extra $ and putting up with the marginal display, or is the lower cost/better build-quality of the nook worth accepting the limited hardware? am i missing something in my comparison of the two?
would love to hear from the community on this debate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Quadrant benchmark for the Xoom is 1826. With Honeycomb and 1.1GHz overclocked kernel, I just got 1728 running the same benchmark on the Nook Color, so i'm not sure I'd call that "shredded"?
Side by side the NC screen destroys the gtabs mediocre screen. Dell streak 7 has a crappy 800x480 resolution and also bad viewing angles.
I returned the g tablet because of the screen and weight. I could have looked past the weight or delt with it but the screen angles were so bad it was a chore to use. anything beyond black text on white was almost impossible to see unless directly in front of your eyes. I really wanted it to work too...
now that I picked up a nc and running honeycomb I'm glad I made this choice. I am also really liking the size and portability of the nc. for $250 I just dont see how you could go wrong
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
ta2025 said:
The Quadrant benchmark for the Xoom is 1826. With Honeycomb and 1.1GHz overclocked kernel, I just got 1728 running the same benchmark on the Nook Color, so i'm not sure I'd call that "shredded"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
quadrant isn't an appropriate benchmark to use when comparing these two devices. besides, when apps start coming out that take full advantage of the tegra 2 it won't even be a discussion. that's not even taking into consideration what the dev's around here will be able to get out of the xoom.
Mikroft said:
Side by side the NC screen destroys the gtabs mediocre screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. Having owned one for a week, I'd say calling the screen mediocre is waaaaay too nice though. The NC is so much better.
While the Tegra2 destroys the NC's 530, it wasn't meant for that. I'd wait for the LG G-Slate pricing, etc. The XOOM is already a fail IMO due it's pricing, data plans and crippled wifi (until someone here at XDA remedies that). If either Tablet were to appear in a WiFi only capacity that'd be sweet too.
cwininger said:
uggh... this sucks. i feel like i'm right in the middle of these two categories. maybe i should buy both and see which i like better...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me reading in portrait mode on gtablet was horrible.Was too long and the horrible viewing angles made it impossible to get proper screen without weird viewing artifacts.....returned it and got the nook.
For flash though, the gtablet ran as well as my laptop
Bandage said:
I've owned both... And honestly its hard to compare. Main reason is the size factor. That will ultimately be the deciding factor...
Reading on a 10 inch had its benefits, as well as drawbacks. Holding the Gtab for extended amounts of time is tedious. The quality of the screen (viewing angles) really does not affect ebook reading etc. Honestly unless its laying in your lap flat, you won't notice the loss of angle.
For gaming... There is no comparison. Tegra2 @1 ghz rocks even the most graphic intensive games.
So... I'd say the following in summary=
For heavy reading and light gaming, coupled with moderate productivity and light media... Go with the NC
For light reading, heavy gaming and moderate productivity & media... Choose the Gtab.
Its really a matter of personal preference... Depending on what your ideal usage looks like.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tend to disagree with this. Hardware is hardware, but unless there is software and a medium for the user to take advantage of the hardware it is as good as a piece of poop in your hands.
Perhaps, with better software, the GTab is a great option, but the screen is still lacking, big time.
For $249 you can NOT do better than the Nook Color. And with the 1.1gHz OC, it flies! As far as a gaming it runs everything I throw at it currently. That being said I still game more on my iPhone and iPad. Not because of the hardware but because of the software selection.
When we start seeing games like "Infinity Blade" on Android ... then I will sell my Apple products, until then I keep both.
The screen and portability won me over
I currently own an ipad and nook and did own a gtab. The screen on the gtab was what killed it for me. It was blazing fast, but get a tiny bit off center and the colors go straight to hell, a little further off center and it becomes unusable. The ipad and nook have amazing screens. I prefer the nook though for its hackability and size. Both the ipad and gtab are a bit heavy and awkward to hold for any length of time. For the money, you really can't do better than the nook right now.
OP: Just curious what you ended up doing, as I'm in a similar situation.
I want an android tablet but I'm tired of waiting for the "really good" tablets to come out. I would like to get something in the mean time until my ideal tablet is released sometime in the future.
I feel like the G tab could last me longer because it has Tegra 2 and a 10 in. screen, but the screen isn't great and is missing gps. The NC has a great screen but older slower processor and the screen is smaller. I plan on using a tablet in a variety of ways. Probably about an equal amount of reading, browsing, gaming and video watching. Another reason the NC is tempting is because it's cheaper and I'm not sure spending more on the G Tablet is necessary if I'm just going to upgrade again in the near future.
Anybody have insight on which one has better battery life?
cwininger said:
just looking for some input here. what does everyone think about the pros/cons of these two tablets? after everything's all said and done, which would you rather invest in?
The nook seems to have a much better screen and a more appealing form factor. it's also $130 cheaper.
the G tablet appears to have a mediocre screen but it already has the horsepower/expandability of tablets that will cost twice as much (ie. xoom). i know the xoom will shred this thing in benchmarks, but for all intents and purposes the g tablet can handle anything software-wise that's currently available with flying colors.
i'm assuming both will have a fully functioning port of honeycomb in the near future (whether official release or custom rom) so software-wise they will probably be pretty similar.
is the tegra 2 and added expandability of the g tablet worth the extra $ and putting up with the marginal display, or is the lower cost/better build-quality of the nook worth accepting the limited hardware? am i missing something in my comparison of the two?
would love to hear from the community on this debate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I own both. If I were constrained to use only one, it would be the Gtablet. Here are the reasons:
1. Froyo is not stable on the NC. Some ROMs are okay but it's not completely stable.
2. The wifi is buggy. If you haven't encountered problems yet it's because you haven't been to a site with incompatible wifi routers. When I travel, I can't afford to have a device that won't allow me to connect. Do a search and you will see all the wifi problems. Here's one recently: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=986133
3. NC is stock eclair while Gtablet is stock froyo. Makes a big difference when it comes from the manufacturer. I know there are smart XDA guys/gals hacking at making froyo work on the NC. I doubt BN will have an update to Froyo - there's no business reason for them to do it.
4. Gtablet has a microphone and camera plus bluetooth.
5. If honeycomb (and I mean if) comes to NC and Gtab, the Gtab will have it in performance.
Good points. What is the most popular rom on the Nook Color?
I think froyo may be the most popular mainly because its safe. I for one love honeycomb. Even with all its little quirks and stuff but the pros far outweigh the cons to me
Sent from one of those missing Droids
Hey there boys and girls. As most of us, im getting tax return money pretty soon, and im of course thinking of the many way to spend it. Im considering getting the nook and putting Honeycomb on it. And im wondering, for those of you that have been using it, how well does it work, and is it worth it... or should i just get me somthing like the Galaxy Tab and wait for 3.0 there.
I had it installed on mine for about a day, then I went back to Froyo. Even though there has been great progress made by awesome devs in porting it to the nook, it remains very buggy.
The code is driverless and drunk.
I won't go into all the little ones, but a big bug was that it hosed my boot partition. Had to revert back to Eclaire before putting Froyo back on.
Bottom line:
A rooted stock eclaire nook color is damn close to a streamlined tablet. It's just missing Flash, also some performance issues.
Nookie Froyo is day by day closer to being the daily driver OS.
HoneyComb is a ways away from being reliable/usable
Hi everyone. First post here, and I think I may get some 'trolling' flack for what I'm about to say, but I gotta say it anyway: If you're considering buying a Nook Color, I would seriously reconsider and look at an Archos 70IT instead.
I actually own both of these devices, and I have to say that the Archos is hands down the better device. It runs Froyo out of the box, and has amazing media playback support. Basically, there ain't nuthin' the the NC can do that the Archos 70 can't do better and faster.
Now, the major complaint with the Archos is shoddy build quality (at least in comparison to the NC), and there's no doubt that that's absolutely true. But I have to say that contrary to what you might think, this is actually an advantage. Yep, an advantage, and here's why: It's waaay lighter. I use my tablet mostly for reading, both books and internet, and I do a lot of that reading either lying on the couch or in bed. And I do it with one hand. Because of the lightness of the A70, I can hold it up for pretty much as long as if I were holding a paper novel, but I cannot say the same for the NC. It is a veritable brick in comparison. With the NC, I constantly have to adjust it in my hand, or change hands altogether, to avoid cramping.
I pretty much only use the NC for amusing myself with custom firmwares (Honeycomb was fun, but as others report, very buggy). When it comes time to actually pick up a tablet for 'real' use, it's the A70 every time.
It's just too bad the A70 isn't getting anywhere near the love that the NC is (i.e. Honeycomb), but I suppose it's no matter anyway because using a different firmware destroys the A70's superb, factory-supplied multi-media experience.
My 2p. Flame away.
I do not own an Archos, but I tend to agree with the last post. If you want a tablet, buy a tablet.
If you want an e-reader, buy the Nook as it can function as both a tablet and a reader.
The Nook lacks several features that most tablets have.
The Nook is a fantastic and capable device, but it is always best to buy something for its native purpose.
@spikey911: But the Archos also works as an e-reader, and for the reason I stated above (lightness), does it better than the NC. I have 3 reader apps installed: Kindle, Nook, and Aldiko, and they all work great.
Another point about the A70 is that contrary to reason, the plastic body is stickier than the spongy rubber coating applied to the back of the NC, and thus it doesn't have a tendency to slip out of my grasp when holding it with one hand. Go figure, but it's true.
Oh ya, and when I wanna watch a movie in bed, I just swing out the A70's kickstand and plunk it down...no need to hold it up. It's a thing of beauty.
I would get the Nook...cheaper and works great!
Slashdot123 said:
I would get the Nook...cheaper and works great!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But not as comfortable to use for reading, has horrible video playback support, and lower CPU speed (without OC). It's cheaper for a reason.
Gotta make sure the OP makes the right decision. Decide what you want to use it for, and if the answer is:
1) as an Android tablet with full Market support
2) as a versatile e-reader
3) as a multi-media device
4) under $300
Then the A70 wins hands down.
My final words. Good luck, Oskiee.
I just got a Nook Color this week and currently have it set up to dual-boot Honeycomb or the stock OS (for video playback). So far I'm pretty happy with it, and it's definitely a very hacking-friendly platform. Honeycomb works surprisingly well and looks slick. It has known issues, but works fine for many essential applications such as the browser, Google Reader, and Fruit Ninja.
According to the Engadget review (engadget.com /2010/12/24/archos-70-and-101-internet-tablet-review/ - remove the space, I'm not permitted to make a link) the Archos 70 has a very glossy screen with poor viewing angles and questionable build quality - I haven't seen it myself. The NC screen is excellent and it feels very solid.
Overall, I'd recommend the Nook Color if you enjoy OS hacking and are willing to put up with some glitches, or if you're satisfied with its out-of-the-box functionality (but then you'd probably not be reading this forum). If that's not what you're looking for, you'd probably be happier with one of the alternatives, but you'll have to make compromises either way in this price range.
imacmill said:
Hi everyone. First post here, and I think I may get some 'trolling' flack for what I'm about to say, but I gotta say it anyway: If you're considering buying a Nook Color, I would seriously reconsider and look at an Archos 70IT instead.
I actually own both of these devices, and I have to say that the Archos is hands down the better device. It runs Froyo out of the box, and has amazing media playback support. Basically, there ain't nuthin' the the NC can do that the Archos 70 can't do better and faster.
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Click to collapse
Lower resolution destroys ever wanting one of them for me. NookColor wins in my opinion because of that.
Also, the nook color weighs less than 1/10th a pound more. Actually im reading conflicting results, so im not really sure on the weight difference
MattJ951 said:
Lower resolution destroys ever wanting one of them for me. NookColor wins in my opinion because of that.
Also, the nook color weighs less than 1/10th a pound more. Actually im reading conflicting results, so im not really sure on the weight difference
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Granted, the NC has higher rez, but they're pretty close, and in practical terms, the difference is fairly meaningless. How will you make use of that minor rez difference? For video, with software decoding? In that case, the NC's slower CPU will have to push more pixels...not good. Don't get me wrong. I'd love for the A70 to have the NC's screen, but for my money, the difference is not worth worrying about.
As for weight...since I own both, I'm in a position to say, without citing pound values, the A70 is tangibly lighter than the Nook. Enough so to make one-handed reading comfortable on the A70, but untenable on the NC. Of course this is completely dependant on a person'S hand strength, and while i don't claim to have kung fu grip hands, I'm no weakling either. Your mileage will vary.
I firmly believe that if someone was given the opportunity to use each device for 24 hours, the majority would choose the A70. Since this is not an option for most, they will likely fall victim to the A70's 'questionable build quality, crummy screen' argument (neither of which are accurate), and buy the NC.
imacmill said:
But not as comfortable to use for reading, has horrible video playback support, and lower CPU speed (without OC). It's cheaper for a reason.
Gotta make sure the OP makes the right decision. Decide what you want to use it for, and if the answer is:
1) as an Android tablet with full Market support
2) as a versatile e-reader
3) as a multi-media device
4) under $300
Then the A70 wins hands down.
My final words. Good luck, Oskiee.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Except that the A70 doesn't have the market any more than the Nook Color does. And it's not exactly a tablet for gaming, if that's important to anyone. It does have bluetooth at least.
I will chime in on what swayed me to the Nook.
I look at the what ifs as well as the daily uses. If something goes bad with my Nook, I have a 3 physical BN stores within 25 minutes I can return the nook to. On the very unlikely chance that I have a bricked nook, that does me no good. But I could possible feign ignorance and return it anyway.
With Archos...they have a notoriously horrible track record for warranty work. That is the main reason I went with the nook. I have read over and over again horror stories of working with post sale issues on the Archos line...now take that with a grain of salt because I have not had personal experience...just what I read at other places.
All that said...I love my nook and it does 98% of what I want it to do. The lack is the flash. As for video...I have no issues. I already had many pre converted movies I could plop on it and view. As for a kickstand...there are so many cheap or free things you can do for a stand.
On final thing to consider is outputs...the nook doesnt have them...unless you just want 3.5mm headphone jack. The Archos does.
Good Luck
So my original nook has sadly died and it is out of warrantee. So now the question is go with the old school nook or with the nook color.
I love the look of the new device but the battery life leaves a lot to be desired. I have an epic 4g and the Xoom already so I know just how the peeps here at xda do with improving such things. What are the general opinions on how that is going for everyone? Is it worth buying with the xda enhancements or should I stick with what i had?
magoo5289 said:
So my original nook has sadly died and it is out of warrantee. So now the question is go with the old school nook or with the nook color.
I love the look of the new device but the battery life leaves a lot to be desired. I have an epic 4g and the Xoom already so I know just how the peeps here at xda do with improving such things. What are the general opinions on how that is going for everyone? Is it worth buying with the xda enhancements or should I stick with what i had?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have a xoom already then I would not buy the nook color. I mean, you already have a pretty bad ass tablet, so there really would be no point in rooting it; unless you want two tablets. If your just going to use it as a ereader, then the nook 1 would be a good enough. Hell even the kindle looks cool with its electronic ink, and they just dropped the price on em.
This is just my opinion, but if you already have a xoom then I'd assume you're using your Nook for reading books. Seems the Nook Color and the Xoom can function basically the same -- so one option is to load Nook and Kindle apps on the Xoom and be set. No idea how the Xoom does 'reading' in the sun... so if you really want a dedicated reader, I'd almost vote for going with the original - can be found refurbished for about $100.
That said, the Nook Color does everything I'd want and more. I can read in the sunlight at the kids ball games, I can run CM7 on the SD card and do anything android does... A few minutes ago my daughter and I got a N64 emulator running and played mario kart just for kicks.
Thanks for the input all, I'll stick with the B&W. I gotta say the battery life on the Xoom is amazing. I was running heavy for three days before I even realized it does not charge off of the USB but rather off of a dedicated wall charger. Guess instruction manuals do serve a purpose sometimes.
It's already been pretty much said, but if you got a xoom, pretty much no point. That said, I would vote for the kindle, as much as I like my nook color... I do find the kindle excellent for reading during the day, and it's definitely a lot nicer than lcds are to the eyes.
That said, I've never played with an original nook so I don't know how they compare.
Gin1212, magoo's going with the original monochrome Nook -- it has the same easy reading screen as the Kindle, but none of the Kindle's stupid downsides, like not being able to borrow a library book or use other ePub content.
But what I'm thinking is that if magoo can afford a Xoom then he or she just might want to get a Nook Color instead of a Nook -- the extra $100 might be worth it for occasionally reading color magazines or using tablet features when he or she's not carrying around the big Xoom.
xdabr said:
But what I'm thinking is that if magoo can afford a Xoom then he or she just might want to get a Nook Color instead of a Nook -- the extra $100 might be worth it for occasionally reading color magazines or using tablet features when he or she's not carrying around the big Xoom.
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Click to collapse
I have both the nook color and the original e-ink and wouldn't want to give up either. For reading the e-ink wins hands down for me. Reading on the color is very unenjoyable for me. If I read on my notebook or color before trying to go to sleep at night (the time when I do most of my reading) I toss and turn for over half an hour before finally falling asleep. Reading a real book or the e-ink nook I doze right off almost as soon as my head hits the pillow.
The color is a great device and an incredible budget tablet that's almost completely replaced my notebook as a living room computer. But for me it's no replacement for the e-ink classic nook as a reading device.
As for the magazines I've subscribed to two (Rolling Stone and Food Network) But will probably be dropping them both soon as I find the experience of reading them on the color to be very disappointing. The max zoom leaves you with images smaller than if you had actually bought the paper magazine, and I have to keep zooming in to read (or switch to article mode which defeats the whole point of having a color magazine since it strips it down to just text which I'd rather read on my e-ink nook.) then once zoomed in panning around to follow articles I often end up accidentally going back or forward a page...which means having to re-zoom. I spend more time fussing with the display than actually reading and for me that's no fun.
The kids books are nice...but the B&N offerings are overpriced and under featured compared to the kids books available in the standard android market. My daughter is just barely 11 months old but she's already having a lot of fun "reading" the kids books I've bought and loves exploring the page finding different things she can touch to get a response.
I know other people don't mind reading on an LCD device, but for me it's a deal killer as a reading device. I spend all day staring at a LCD so when I get home and relax the last thing I want to do is stare at another.
If I could afford a xoom I'd probably go that route instead of the nook color, I could live without the magazines and as I already mentioned I find the kids books in the android market to be much better than B&N's. But I'd still keep my e-ink nook for when I put the toys away and am ready for a good read at the end of the day.
jhitesma said:
...As for the magazines I've subscribed to two (Rolling Stone and Food Network) But will probably be dropping them both soon as I find the experience of reading them on the color to be very disappointing. The max zoom leaves you with images smaller than if you had actually bought the paper magazine, and I have to keep zooming in to read (or switch to article mode which defeats the whole point of having a color magazine since it strips it down to just text which I'd rather read on my e-ink nook.) then once zoomed in panning around to follow articles I often end up accidentally going back or forward a page...which means having to re-zoom. I spend more time fussing with the display than actually reading and for me that's no fun.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My experience exactly, you really nailed it. It's funny, I bought an e-reader and I use it for everything BUT reading books and magazines. I bought a couple of issues of Consumer Reports, and I've just found it difficult to read for the reasons you listed.
I loved the design and hardware of the Nexus 7 but unfortunately, I barely used/am barely using the tablet; I know it's wasn't exactly expensive but I use my PC a lot to the point where tablets and even mobile phones don't really get much use. I am getting a full refund from Tesco. I played the odd game but apart from that I've done everything else on my PC. I feel the exact same as I did before I bought it; I want to get rid of it because I barely use it but I don't want to get rid of it at the same time (It's hard to explain)
Anyone else in the same position?
Yeah kind of.. I was reading a thread about 7 exchanges for numerous faults when I spotted a dead pixel, so I thought I would go for a replacement, the replacement has light bleed. Now I am just thinking about getting a refund. I barely use it and I bought the 8 GB version which really does not have enough space. I like the tab, but I feel I have no real need for it. If Google can't sort it out soon I will get my money back..
Either way I am not too bothered.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Tricky103 said:
Yeah kind of.. I was reading a thread about 7 exchanges for numerous faults when I spotted a dead pixel, so I thought I would go for a replacement, the replacement has light bleed. Now I am just thinking about getting a refund. I barely use it and I bought the 8 GB version which really does not have enough space. I like the tab, but I feel I have no real need for it. If Google can't sort it out soon I will get my money back..
Either way I am not too bothered.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is exactly how I feel. Mine has no issues whatsoever; It's a 'perfect' device. I don't know if it's just a case of sticking with it and trying to find a use for it or just get a refund while I can.
It depends on your usage. For just general browsing I was using my computer which was fine but I'd have to sit down and plug it in all the time. This allows me to be more efficient and get other things down while reading the news and stuff.
Sent from my paranoid Nexus 7.
I use my desktop most of the time when I'm home, but I do find the Nexus 7 nice when I'm walking about, traveling, and etc.
Sorry to hear that. I also prefer to use the PC as well - much faster to get things done.
Have you considered it for sofa/bed use?
Whats the point of this thread ?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Salty Wagyu said:
Sorry to hear that. I also prefer to use the PC as well - much faster to get things done.
Have you considered it for sofa/bed use?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah sure. But also have a s3,
....
Actually I probably would miss it a bit. Xmbc works well and I can also hear Tune In Radio whilst in the shower (which I can't on the s3). I knew before I bought it that it would be switched off more than it was on.. I thought the internet was supposed to stop impulse buying but this was my first . It is only £168 and in a years time I will have a 7" tab running the next OS.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Salty Wagyu said:
Sorry to hear that. I also prefer to use the PC as well - much faster to get things done.
Have you considered it for sofa/bed use?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I'm honest, I don't really spend a lot of time downstairs/on the sofa and I don't really like using gadgets in bed. For me, my bed is for sleep and that's it. I currently don't have a mobile phone and to be honest, it's not like I need the money from the refund, I just don't think that the amount I will use it justifies me having it.
Yeah there a big toy for me, I have a gaming pc, a laptop, and a smart phone. I don't need one but they are fun mess with lol
Sent from my HTC PH39100 using Tapatalk 2
Yeah I mean, it's not like I hated using it; It's really fun to use but honestly, I prefer using my PC for like 90% of tasks.
>Anyone else in the same position?
+1. I think N7 hardware is great, even if missing a few features. The problem is that Android underwhelms me. It's been two years since 2.x, 1.5 years since the first official Android tab, and there isn't much new functionality. HC was a beta, ICS unifies phone+tablet, and JB adds some UI speed (and a Siri-alike). Multiuser is still missing along with networking, periphs support, etc etc. App support is still abysmal. It's still pretty much a phone OS, just like iOS.
I think my largest disappointment was from this year's I/O, where the main pitch was Google peddling its Play store wares, and the N7 was basically a kiosk for that--ie a carbon copy of Amazon's strategy. There's nothing about the tablet as a future computing device, just a consumption device (of Google content).
Gadget lust aside, my uses for Android tabs given their present limitations are pretty sparse as well. E-reading is great, and light web browse. My ultraportable does everything else, albeit with a bit less portability.
I'll probably pick up another tab or two this fall when more stuff shows up. But Android isn't a lock. the rumored iPad mini is appealing, and I'm also in a holding pattern to see how WinRT/Win8 toys pan out.
>Xmbc works well
I prefer vids on a big screen, so am aiming for a settop or a stick PC for this.
I don't really like using gadgets in bed. For me, my bed is for sleep and that's it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
.
Someone doesn't get laid.
I'm the opposite. My netbook and top of the line desktop PC's are hardly ever used anymore. I take my tablets with me everywhere I go, and only use the desktop when I really have to.
I'm using mine frequently enough, but only when I could be reading instead, which would be healthier and a better use of my time.
That's true for the desktop as well to an extent, but before I had a tablet reading before bed was part of my routine. Lately I've been streaming over the network or watching Netflix instead. And that's not a good way to fall asleep.
It's like those instant versus delayed gratification studies where people choose to watch Mrs. Doubtfire today and Schindler's List tomorrow.
http://youarenotsosmart.com/2010/10/27/procrastination/
So I guess I'm sort of having the opposite problem. I should be reading Confederacy of Dunces in bed, but I'm watching Deadwood and Archer on my Nexus instead, regardless of my priorities.
If I can't trust my own preference for when I choose to use it, then what's the point of having it.
You must retrain your mind and think of the tablet as a read-only device.. Use it to read news, rss feeds (using pulse), books, mags, anything/site that doesn't require a lot of interaction, etc.. It's not made to replace your computer, or even be used the same way.. Once you get in the habit of using it for what it makes faster, it ends up saving you time.. On the other hand if you sit and force yourself to do things on it that are normally done faster on a PC/Notebook (ie. typing a lot of emails, or really anything to do with a lot of typing) - you will not be getting any advantage.
Perfect use examples..
Pulling up a manual, and working on something w/ it there next to you.. it fits in places a notebook/pc just aren't practical.
Monitoring Blogs via RSS (using pulse reader where you can see a lot of blogs/posts at the same time, and skim fast)
Monitoring News, etc using widgets on home screen.. real time data from multiple sources updated and presented on a single screen.
Texting using Google Voice
Reading emails - writing them is not always fun.
GPS navigation using tethered phone in car.
Slacker, Pandora, etc in car using tethered phone - the screen size makes for easier to use interface when driving (if you have the right mount, etc)
Reading books / mags, etc of course (helps get rid of that paper / mag clutter in your home)
Makes for the perfect thing to manage tasks, and calendar, etc - (use Gtasks to sync with gmail's built in tasks)
Start off by training yourself that its a Read-only device and delegate those tasks to it, and you will "Get it"..
Just some thoughts!
>think of the tablet as a read-only device
Yes, "content consumption." The question is whether your consumption is such an overriding need that you must have access everywhere. If you don't do much social media, or online news/RSS, much of the tablet's advantage is obviated.
That's not to say that tablets won't be popular. They obviously are, if iPad (and plateauing laptop) sales are any indicator. But I take it to mean that for most of the population, "consumption" is and has been their main use for PCs, not "computing" per se.
I work in IT, work in computers all day long, sit at a desk a lot. So when I get home, I do spend some more time at my desktop. But I love having a tablet, so I can get away from the desk and keyboard. I like to grab my tablet, stretch out on the sofa or on the lawn chair on the back porch and just surf the web or watch YouTube or something.
Ravynmagi said:
I work in IT, work in computers all day long, sit at a desk a lot. So when I get home, I do spend some more time at my desktop. But I love having a tablet, so I can get away from the desk and keyboard. I like to grab my tablet, stretch out on the sofa or on the lawn chair on the back porch and just surf the web or watch YouTube or something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
My tablet has pretty much replaced my laptop for general web viewing. And since it's uber portable, I find myself having it in places I used to take my GS3 and usually wouldn't take my laptop. Yeah, I could just use my phone, as I did for years for most things, but the tab is a lot easier on my eyes.
One place I really wanted to use my tab is at school. But after using a stylus for the first time, I'm not sure that I can use it for serious note taking, which sucks as I would love to get rid of paper notebooks.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
I guess I'm sort of in two minds as to whether I should keep it or not.
Hi all,
I am a big Android fan. I currently have a new Note 2 that I replaced my iPhone 5 and iPad mini with (had an S3 and Tab 2 before that). I bought this in the hopes of using the "phablet" as an all-in-one device instead of having both a tablet and a phone. So far its been awesome. Here is my dilemma....
I have just become an avid e-book reader. I gave up paper books when I got the iPad mini. I am finding that the Note 2 is just a little too small to read e-books on. Plus I feel kind of stupid trying to read a book on a phone.
I went out and bought a basic kindle. A button was broken out of the box, and my house doesn't have good enough lighting to see the screen well, so I exchanged it for a kindle paperwhite. I love the paperwhite, and it is insanely easy to read on, especially at night, but I am a little miffed that I spent $120 on something that does one task only, and berates me with advertisements. For $80 more I could have a N7.
That being said, I bought an N7 when it first came out, and wasn't too impressed. The device itself is awesome, but I noticed I kept going back to my laptop to get any real work done. I only used it to check emails occasionally or watch netflix in bed. It was too small to read PDFs on for class, or do any intense internet browsing/research. Essentially it was a $200 toy, so I got rid of it. I thought it was stupid to have a smartphone, tiny tablet, and macbook air. Now I am seriously considering getting rid of the paperwhite and picking up an N7 instead.
Budget is a real issue here, as I am a student. I have read on here and other forums that people felt having a note 2 and N7 was pointless as the devices are pretty redundant, and the difference in screen size is negligible. Does anyone here have both? If so, how do you feel you use the two devices? Do you regret purchasing them together?
Also, how much bigger is the N7's actual, usable screen space? With the nav buttons at the bottom and the status bar at the top, they seem to take up a pretty big chunk of an already small tablet screen.
Mainly though, how is the N7 as an e-reader? No one can seem to agree on whether or not there is an eyestrain problem with LCDs and whether they cause insomnia when compared to e-ink, so its hard to really make that determination. Is it really worth the extra $80 to get the N7 over the kindle paperwhite, or would I be wasting money as the size is essentially the same as my note 2?
I have a Kindle Keyboard I bought in mid-2011. The main things I hated about it were A) no backlit screen making reading in the dark with a little booklight a chore, 2) inability to display photos and pics in books (some drawings display, but often too small to be useful). I did like the long battery life and the anti-glare screen, but eventually I wanted something that did more. I mostly got the N7 for books and magazine reading, but being able to play games and fly my drone with it are a major bonus. I would never waste money on a dedicated reader again. I gave the Kindle to my mom since she's easily overwhelmed by anything with multiple uses.
Miami_Son said:
I have a Kindle Keyboard I bought in mid-2011. The main things I hated about it were A) no backlit screen making reading in the dark with a little booklight a chore, 2) inability to display photos and pics in books (some drawings display, but often too small to be useful). I did like the long battery life and the anti-glare screen, but eventually I wanted something that did more. I mostly got the N7 for books and magazine reading, but being able to play games and fly my drone with it are a major bonus. I would never waste money on a dedicated reader again. I gave the Kindle to my mom since she's easily overwhelmed by anything with multiple uses.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree that the kindles without a built in light are very difficult to read on. The paperwhite is an entirely different beast though. My main problem with it is that I don't want ads when I paid a $120 for a product, yet Amazon has managed to really squeeze every last little inch of the screen with ads, which is extremely frustrating. I am just hesitant to drop $80 more on a device that may not be as good for reading on, and is not that much bigger than my Note 2. Do you happen to know what the usable screen size is on the N7?
I read a lot on my seven. I like it. Easy to read on... I like it although it don't mind reading on my s3,either with the aldiko app. It's a solid device, but rasping outside or stain the Beach or whatever is easiest on the reading devices.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
As far as reading goes, the usable screen of the N7 is larger than that of a page in the average paperback book. At night I like to use white text on a black screen because it is easier to read in the dark and causes less eye strain. I don't think the Kindle offers that option.
Miami_Son said:
As far as reading goes, the usable screen of the N7 is larger than that of a page in the average paperback book. At night I like to use white text on a black screen because it is easier to read in the dark and causes less eye strain. I don't think the Kindle offers that option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you think it would be redundant with a Note 2? The Kindle is technically only .5 inches bigger than the Note 2, but the square screen makes it easier to read than a 16:9 aspect ratio where you are constantly moving your eyes vertically.
Nexus 7 for sure. You have more options and more media
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
androidairlinepilot said:
Do you think it would be redundant with a Note 2? The Kindle is technically only .5 inches bigger than the Note 2, but the square screen makes it easier to read than a 16:9 aspect ratio where you are constantly moving your eyes vertically.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't read with the N7 horizontally, only vertically, because I wear progressive lenses and a wide screen makes me have to turn my head from side to side or my eyes will move beyond the reading portion of my glasses. The Note 2 is only 5.5", so I'm not sure why you're comparing the N7 to it. The only advantage I can see is that the Note is also a phone, but my N7 does not require a separate data plan and I can easily tether it to my S2 by turning it on as a wifi hotspot. I forgot to mention that white text on black also uses less battery on the N7.
If you're wanting something that can do more but don't wanna spend $200 for a nexus 7,get a nook color and put cm10 on it. My wife asked for a simple ereader for christmas and I instead got her a nc and put cm on it and she loves it. Granted it won't give you the same level of performance the n7 will, but it is a great ereader and has a screen designed to reduce eyestrain. Advantages of cm? Simple 1 bookstore vs all bookstores, and you can rent books through amazons library system on it and overdrive.
Hardware is a bit dated for extreme web browsing and high definition media but if you just want an ereader with a little more punch than a simple e ink one, a cm powered nook color is perfect! I got hers refurbished for $100 off overstock.com.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
Well if your leaning towards the nexus 7, and only going to do reading and simple stuff. It might be worth it look around craigslist for a eight gig model.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
If you want to read books mainly on your device, get a kindle, any kindle. Because reading on a tablet (or a pc) ruins your eyes, that is a fact.
So you need to decide your purpose about buying the device you'll buy. If it's for book then get a kindle or nook. If it's for apps and little amount of reading get Nexus.
I hope you don't ignore my warning about eyes, any screen other than e-ink ruins eyes, you'll end up with glasses before you're old.
Another option. You can pickup a refurb NookColor for $140 or less.
Its an old platform, for sure, but its still getting Dev support on XDA. I am currently running 4.1.2 on my 2yo NC. Build quality is outstanding.
This is a very versatile device. You can run dual boot from a SD card, you can Manual Nooter (run stock & android from internal ) or you can just run a custom ROM from internal. If you're lazy, you can buy an SD card already programmed for you.
And it accepts an SD card up to 32gb. Plus you have the option of OTG storage for movies.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Dharkan said:
If you want to read books mainly on your device, get a kindle, any kindle. Because reading on a tablet (or a pc) ruins your eyes, that is a fact.
So you need to decide your purpose about buying the device you'll buy. If it's for book then get a kindle or nook. If it's for apps and little amount of reading get Nexus.
I hope you don't ignore my warning about eyes, any screen other than e-ink ruins eyes, you'll end up with glasses before you're old.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22762257
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
I'm using my N7 to read books and it is in no way straining my eyes (I could tell if it did, my eyes are very sensitive to brightness, too much of it and they physically hurt).
Cool Reader is the program I go with in terms of reading, and I set it to a black background and light grey letters on screen.
Granted, that makes it harder to read in sunny conditions, but when I go to work it is usually still dark, so that is not really a concern for me.
Dharkan said:
If you want to read books mainly on your device, get a kindle, any kindle. Because reading on a tablet (or a pc) ruins your eyes, that is a fact.
So you need to decide your purpose about buying the device you'll buy. If it's for book then get a kindle or nook. If it's for apps and little amount of reading get Nexus.
I hope you don't ignore my warning about eyes, any screen other than e-ink ruins eyes, you'll end up with glasses before you're old.
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Really? And by what authority do you make such a statement? Are you an optometrist? Do you have some clinical studies to back up your broad statement? What a crock.
From Brian's link above:
CONCLUSIONS:
It is not the technology itself, but rather the image quality that seems crucial for reading. Compared to the visual display units used in the previous few decades, these more recent electronic displays allow for good and comfortable reading, even for extended periods of time.
© 2012 The College of Optometrists.
Yeah I never have suffered eyestrain from my phone or tablet.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Kindle or N7? Neither
From what it sounds like, your only real beef with the Kindle is the ads. Get yourself a Nook Touch With Glowlight. 1 - no ads. 2 - it's Android based - so if you want to root it, and do some goofy stuff with it (or just clean it up to look as nice as possible using whatever reader you want - like I did) you have that option. It's also more comfortable than the Kindles, less likely to slip out of your hands (with rubberized back). I've seen a *slight* difference between the screens, as far as contrast, but either will look perfectly fine.
As far as the eye strain is concerned. To each their own, I suppose, but I've noticed when I stopped reading on my Nook, and started reading on my N7, my eye strain did increase. After my 2 hour reading sessions are over, the N7 did make my eyes feel a little bit more worn. To be fair, it could be the font size, or spacing, or any of a number of other issues, but I tried to set the N7 to have the most comfortable sizing, just like on my Nook, but I still feel like the Nook is the better way to go between the two strictly for reading. Now my N7 is delegated to gaming, watching Netflix, and helping me with writing ideas on the go (was doing that with my phone, but the N7 is easier to mess with in that regard).
All that said, I *LOVE* my N7, and am always finding new fun uses for it, and will continue to enjoy it until it stops getting updates from Google (prime reason I GOT the Nexus instead of another tablet), nor would I ever give up my Nook, unless it's to get a better e-ink reader.
There's one other PHENOMENAL reason to have an e-ink reader... my Nook 7 has about an 8 hour battery - ish... my Nook - I only have to charge it every few weeks, and even then, it's just because I don't like fully discharging Lithium Ion batteries... I do believe the eink displays are fully capable of 2 month battery life.
androidairlinepilot said:
I agree that the kindles without a built in light are very difficult to read on. The paperwhite is an entirely different beast though. My main problem with it is that I don't want ads when I paid a $120 for a product, yet Amazon has managed to really squeeze every last little inch of the screen with ads, which is extremely frustrating. I am just hesitant to drop $80 more on a device that may not be as good for reading on, and is not that much bigger than my Note 2. Do you happen to know what the usable screen size is on the N7?
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I got both the paper white and Nexus 7. I prefer reading on paperwhite.
As for the add you can pay $20 the difference between the add free and add paperwhite to get ride of ads
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
I've read lots of books on the Kindle Paperwhite, the Nexus 7 and the LG Nitro HD. All have strengths and weaknesses depending on the reading conditions.
The Kindle Paperwhite is outstanding in the daytime both outside and inside. It can be jailbroken and alternate fonts can be added. I like Chinacat and Koorkin Pro fonts (and yes, I purchased a license to the latter). They both have a smooth line texture. I don't like the LED color. It is too blue. Amazon should use warmer color LEDs which cost only a few more pennies. Additionally, the lux distribution is not uniform like a backlit LCD. Hopefully Amazon will obtain newer better light pipe/films on future models.
The Nexus 7 is good at night with white or gray characters on a black background. I don't really like the black letters or the sepia setting. The letters don't seem very sharp... Lots of jaggies... However, for browsing online articles it is great.
The LG Nitro HD is superb indoors in low light or at night. The color scheme is precise and accurate. The fonts are pristine - maybe the 326ppi is the reason. I wish LG would release a 7 inch tablet with a similar quality IPS display. I don't care about looking geeky. I wish I was ignorant so that I could experience sustained bliss.
I must be getting old because I'm about to say - I've been reading on computer monitors for 30 years without any eye strain or vision deterioration. My vision is 20/15 in both eyes. All of these devices are excellent. I read with all of them.
In other words, you can't go wrong with any of these devices...
Tl;dr - N7 is a good buy if you want to do more than read books. If you want to continue using your note 2 for that, just use the paperwhite. ALSO. Make sure you go and play around with the N7 in store for a while before deciding. That might change your mind.
Oh snap. I was about to post this exact topic 2 days ago. I caved and ended up getting a n7 last night. It's just better in my opinion and a few reasons I decided on it. I am an avid reader. I tend to read light novels, manga, novels, textbooks etc. I was all for the paperwhite, but it doesn't seem to handle pdfs all that well and it also can't run the kindle edition of one of my books which is a print replica. So that pretty much threw me towards the n7. The eink display and battery life was really what had me going for the paperwhite, but I charge my devices once a day anyway and if it can last me the day then it's fine. The main purpose of the n7 I bought for myself is to read textbooks in class as well as using it at home instead of my phone. Even though I have a galaxy note, the difference in the screen size is very noticeable. I would recommend the eink reader if you really want something that lasts for 80 hours, want a screen that can be read in any lighting, and do not want to do anything besides reading.
Budget is a real issue here, as I am a student. I have read on here and other forums that people felt having a note 2 and N7 was pointless as the devices are pretty redundant, and the difference in screen size is negligible. Does anyone here have both? If so, how do you feel you use the two devices? Do you regret purchasing them together?
Also, how much bigger is the N7's actual, usable screen space? With the nav buttons at the bottom and the status bar at the top, they seem to take up a pretty big chunk of an already small tablet screen.
Mainly though, how is the N7 as an e-reader? No one can seem to agree on whether or not there is an eyestrain problem with LCDs and whether they cause insomnia when compared to e-ink, so its hard to really make that determination. Is it really worth the extra $80 to get the N7 over the kindle paperwhite, or would I be wasting money as the size is essentially the same as my note 2?
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I'm also a student and bought the N7 over the paperwhite. The screen size difference is definitely NOT NEGLIGIBLE. Whoever told you that probably has not used both of them side by side. Although I feel I might switch out my galaxy note for a s3, but I might already be used to the size of the phone to downgrade the screen size. I do not regret purchasing and owning both.
I think someone said it's like 60% bigger or something like that (off the top of my head what I remember seeing in another thread). Also, if you use expanded desktop mode, you can get "hide" the nav buttons and if you're using paranoidandroid, you can use PIE which should help. I already said I use the N7 primarily as a e-reader. I use mantano reader and feedly most of the time and to reduce eye strain, I use lux auto brightness (you can also use screen filter). If you think that computer screens give you eye strain, you probably don't use f.lux on your computer. I wish there was a android version of it, but Lux auto brightness is the closest thing. Also, from the pricing that I saw, they came out to be equal so I went with the n7 (paperwhite 3g + no ads vs n7 16gb).