When choosing an ebook reader is there such a thing as a perfect fit?
Most people I know have multiple devices, usually a phone, e-ink device or tablet, they alternate between dependent on need ie, circumstances, type of ebook etc. All have their pros and cons. However, as the majority of these users have good vision, then all the aforementioned devices are likely to be, if not a perfect fit, then at least a good fit.
So what makes a good fit if you’re a visually impaired user?
It’s important to note that for many VI users, access to ebooks is a major step forward in terms of both reading accessibility and choice. However, certain ebook reader features can definitely help with the reading experience, so it may be useful to check which of the features listed below is available on the device.
(As part of the checklist compilation activity, I tested an iPad and 2 Kindles: my Kindle keyboard, and a Kindle Touch -the only 2 e-ink Kindle models with audio capabilities)
I’ve included a PDF version of the checklist at the bottom of the post, for access in larger form.
Checklist of ebook reader features useful for VI access
*navigation mechanisms
- iPad -Table of contents (TOC), Search, slider, move to page, Xray with Kindle app and ebooks.
- Kindle Keyboard: TOC, Search, button activated move by chapter function (dependent on book), move to location.
- Kindle Touch: TOC, Search, finger swipe move by chapter function (dependent on book), move to location, Xray.
atechnotebook 
Very useful for dyslexic students too! Thank-you.
Katrina.
Another useful post very relevant to my work- so thanks again.
Amanda
Nice useful summary of features – well done.
Really like this. Very useful to share with schools who are thinking of getting some kind of e-reader too.
Very useful indeed. I’d recommend using Google Spreadsheets for this, though. That way you can invite others to collaborate on it and you can publish it and embed it on this page. That way, if you update anything in the Google Spreadsheet, it will automatically be updated here, too.