The e-book and e-reader market is starting to boom. The days of printed media are being threatened by portable e-readers that can hold hundreds of books and publications all in one device. The iPad, while not a device made only for the purpose of being an e-reader, stands toe to toe with the Kindle and Nook. Not only because the iPad can do so much more than its e-reader competitors, but because it is a high quality e-reader itself.

The hardware on the iPad is much more superior than the competition. The iPad is one of the only devices with a backlit screen, meaning no need for a separate book light. Most people would fear a backlit screen would mean a higher risk of eye-fatigue due to the brightness levels, but reviews have said the screen is just fine for hours of reading. The iPad boasts 132 pixels per inch on the high resolution 9.7 inch screen. The only complaint to be had over the competition is the glossy screen and case that can attract fingerprints easily. Make sure to keep a cloth or wipe nearby to wipe off annoying smudges.

The software choices on the iPad are what really set it apart. Having access to the App Store is great because you are not locked into using Apple’s e-reader program alone. Not that the native e-reader software is poor, but you at least have some choices. You can even download Amazon’s Kindle app if you are a fan of their reader program. Apple’s iBooks app offers a virtual page-turning animation that is natural and smooth by touching the bottom corner of the screen. Fonts are customizable to your liking with the ability to change the size and style of the text. You can look up words on the fly with a built in dictionary and thesaurus. Want a more realistic reading experience? In portrait mode you can view facing pages, just like a physical book.

While the iPad may not be the best e-reader on the market, it is by far the most versatile. It may be a little heavier and shinier than the competition, but it’s also the only e-reader that will let you check your e-mail, surf the web, and listen to music all in the same device. The inclusion of the iBooks programs that will allow you to read and buy books, newspapers, and other publications makes it an even more attractive package.

The best thing about the iPad e-reader still being new is that Apple needs testers across the U.S. to make sure the iBooks is working properly and its features are ahead of the competition. You can get one for free and keep it by just testing it out and letting them know your feedback. Click Here to get an Apple iPad for free by being a tester. Make sure you get on this quick though, because they are starting to limit the number of iPads they give out for free. Free Apple iPad