Astak's e-book reader beats rivals in price
(Credit: Astak)Another day, another e-book reader. There must be something in the air, because in the last week alone we've seen new releases of Endless Ideas' "Bebook," the iRex "Book Edition," and now Astak's "Mentor."
The latest runs on Windows CE 5.0 and has a 6-inch screen that's similar to the displays on the Amazon Kindle and Sony Reader, as well as the Bebook. Unlike the competing readers seen in the last few days, however, Astak's offering includes Wi-Fi connectivity, uses e-ink technology, and has a lower price than all of those mentioned above, reportedly coming in under $200. (Astak is also releasing two other models, with 5-inch and 9.7-inch displays.)
Given all this competition, combined with the dearth of titles available to load on them, it might be worth sticking with pulp for awhile to see if prices go even lower.
The prices are finally getting to a point that I wouldn't feel bad if they dipped lower.
Around $150 is the right price point for me.