Sony eBook Readers Have the Right Price & Features: But I’m Not Buying Either One :-(

After reading the specs for these two new ebook readers in ZDNet…

Sony launches two new readers including a pocket-sized $199 device

…I know I am going to feel like a hypocrite for what I’m about to admit/write. Over the past couple of months I’ve written at least two “if-s” regarding Amazon’s Kindle ebook reader.

1. If the Kindle were under $200, I would buy it.
2. If the Kindle had a touch screen interface, I would have more of an incentive to buy it.

Well, ZDNet reports that the Sony Reader Pocket Edition is priced at $199. It has a 5-inch screen (smaller than the Kindle) and is designed to fit in a pocket (a big one though). But, I’m not going to buy it despite the fact that it meats “if #1″.

The Sony Reader Touch Edition will sell for $299 but, as its name implies, has touch screen. ZDNet doesn’t give its screen size. But, it looks a bit larger than the Reader Pocket Edition’s. And, oh yes, I’m not planning to buy this model either despite the fact that it meets the requirements for “if #2″.

So, what’s wrong with these two products? Probably nothing from what I can tell based on their description. The problem is I prefer to deal with Amazon for my ebook transactions despite their recent issues with the “1984″ pulled ebook fiasco. I have no experience with Sony’s ebook store. And, it probably won’t have the equivalent of WhisperSync to my iPhone/iPod touch (though Sony should be able to produce such an app).

I will admit one possibility under which I might buy one of these Sony ebook readers though. ZDNet says that one of the places that will sell these products is Costco. If Costco offers the Pocket Edition for $100 or the Touch Edition for $150, impulse buying might kick in.

Join Baratunde Thurston (left), The Onion’s Director of Digital and author of How to Be Black, for an entertaining look at creative social media campaigns in our Social Media Marketing Boot Camp starting February 16. Other speakers include Morin Oluwole (Facebook), Tim Devane (bitly), and SocialTimes' writer Devon Glenn.   Register now.