For this edition of of "Buy This not That," I will be comparing the amazon kindle ebook reader with the Sony PRS-505.

If you are in the market for an eBook reader: Buy This: Amazon Kindle Not That: Sony PRS-505. The Amazon Kindle's features support the user experience and are more thoughtful from start to finish. It is just a better piece of hardware.


Amazon Kindle Pros:

• Large, 6 inch E-ink screen.
  


• EVDO Wireless Cell connection (nearly) anywhere in the US (WhisperNet).
  


• Free wireless delivery of eBooks.
  


• Hundreds of thousands of eBook in library.
  


• Instant delivery of dozens of magazines and newspapers.
  


• Easy conversion of all PDF, JPEG, and Word Documents.
  


• Storage expandable via SD Card.
  


• Host system independent (no Apple or Windows PC Required).
  


• Basic web-browsing over EVDO WhisperNet .
  

Amazon Kindle Cons:

• DRM Protected books
  


• Unique (some call ugly) form factor
  


• First Generation Device
  

Sony PRS-505 Pros:

• Large, 6 inch E-ink screen.
  


• Sleek and slim form factor with metallic casing.
  


• Second generation device
  


• Storage expandable via SD Card.
  


• $60 cheaper than Amazon Kindle ($299 vs. $359).
  

Sony PRS-505 Cons:

• No wireless technology.
  


• Windows PC required - very limited support for Apple or Linux systems.
  


• Limited Content Library.
  


• DRM Protected books.
  

The similarities are striking between these two units with the price, form factor, and hardware revision being the only standouts in favor of the Sony PRS-505. I own the Kindle and cannot stress how amazing the wireless connection is. Because it is free, it more than makes up for the difference in cost.

If you have already taken the plunge and decided that an eBook reader is for you - buy the Kindle. Yes the form factor is unique and will take some getting used to, but the expansive library, wireless connection, and the fact I don't need Microsoft Windows to load data on it make it a clear winner.