When you buy an e-reader, chances are that you'll be laying out a bit more cash to accessorize your shiny new gadget. It may not be immediately; in fact, it might be better to wait for a few weeks to understand the ways in which you use your e-reader before you begin to load up on the bling. As with all portable electronics, the e-reader accessory market is huge. A cynic might argue that this is because e-reader manufacturers don't provide needed features out of the box, instead expecting their customers to shell out even more money to make their product usable. This really isn't the case though. While they do face significant pressure to keep purchase prices low, e-reader manufacturers usually release only a few models each, and between this small selection, the varying needs of a wide and varied consumer base must be met. Accessories are the only realistic way to make sure everyone is able to outfit their e-reader exactly the way they want.
For example, Amazon offers a compact Kindle with 3G, a less expensive model with Wi-Fi only, cheaper ad-supported versions of these two models and the much larger Kindle DX for those who really want a bigger display. Colors are limited to Graphite and White. There is no waterproof Kindle, no red Kindle, no Kindle with built in reading light, no impact resistant Kindle and no Kindle with a solar recharger. Trying to keep track of all these variants and price points would be a logistical nightmare and volume manufacturing advantages of having only a few models would be lost, resulting in higher prices across the board. All of these options — and many more — are available through accessories, allowing a customer to customize virtually any e-reader to meet their exact needs and individualize it if they wish.
E-reader accessories generally fall into several broad categories. Covers and cases are probably the most popular. Slipping your e-reader into a cover or case provides protection, might make the slab form factor more like a traditional book and offers opportunities to make your e-reader stand out. Reading lights are another category, one that is especially popular with E Ink based e-readers, since they have no backlighting and (like a traditional paper book) require a light source in order to be read in the dark. The third category for e-readers is really a catch-all for everything else: alternative power supplies, memory cards, styluses, screen protectors, cables and any other niche products that accessory makers might come up with.
Cases, Covers and Skins
For an introduction about why you might want to consider investing in some form of protection for your e-reader, 10 Reasons Why a Cover for Your E-Reader is a Good Idea is a primer about why covering up that gleaming e-reader makes sense — at least in some situations. Some people choose to leave their e-reader unprotected, while others go for the minimalist approach of a skin that adds some flair while protecting from scratches. Extreme readers might go all the way, opting for ballistic levels of protection, ensuring their e-reader will survive a drop from the roof. There are also specialty covers and cases to consider, such as the water and sand resistant versions that allow you to tote an e-reader to the pool or beach without fear. As we review e-reader cases, covers and skins, you'll find our thoughts on each below.
- Review: Cole Haan Leather Cover for 3rd Gen Kindle
- Review: Timbuktu Sleeve for 3rd Gen Kindle
- Review: GelaSkins for Various E-Reader Models
- Review: MyEdge Customized E-Reader Cover
- Review: Kindle Lighted Leather Cover (For Kindle 3rd Generation)
Reading Lights
If your choice of e-reading platform is an iPad (or other multi-purpose tablet computer), NOOK Color or any device that sports a backlit LCD display, then you don't have to worry about reading lights. However, for the majority of dedicated e-readers currently on the market, an E Ink display means a great view in the daylight, but no visibility in the dark. Just like a dead tree book. That's where accessory makers are happy to offer you a wide variety of reading lights. When we feature a reading light, you'll find it here.
- Review: M-Edge Illuminator Light for Various E-Reader Models
- Review: Kindle Lighted Leather Cover (For Kindle 3rd Generation)
Other Accessories
Cases, covers, skins and reading lights make up the majority of accessory purchases for e-reader owners. However, there are always other products being offered, covering a wide range of needs. For example, companies offer specialized styluses for touchscreen based e-readers, there are always power alternatives (including external battery packs and even solar powered rechargers), some people might be interested in a clear screen protector and there are always memory cards for additional storage. You can even choose to have many e-readers painted for the ultimate in standing apart from the crowd. As we come across these "other" e-reader accessories, you'll find articles and reviews listed here.