Korean Job Discussion Forums

Swampfox10mm · Joined: 24 Mar 2011

I just got a Nook a few weeks ago, but I bought it for a friend who wanted it (and who said I could try it out). The Nook is the newest (small) touchscreen version with wifi, and the problem is that I don't want to give it up. I love how it will actually fit into my pocket, and seems quite sturdy (just avoid keeping keys in the same pocket, for the screen).

With my Nook, I have been able to download free books without a problem via wifi in Korea (haven't tried paid). Paid probably doesn't matter anyway, as I have a VPN and fool my computer into thinking it is in the USA. Can do the same with my Nook using my Android phone and VPN program.

In any case, I see torrents work with the Nook (EPUB files, and .PDF are useful) and I can add these via USB. Can I even do that with the Amazon Kindle, or am I still charged for Whispernet usage? As it seems, there are so many torrented E-books out there that work for the Nook, but how about Kindle? Anyone have luck with that?

Unfortunately, the Nook does not ship overeseas, and barring having someone ship it to me, there is no way for me to get one.

I see I can have an "international version" of the Kindle shipped to me by Amazon (NOT the US version). From what I read, however, is that Amazon charges people with the International version MORE to buy a book. Even charge you for FREE books ($2 international fee plus Whispernet fee). Also, it sounds as if they try to lock you into using their Whispernet service, and also charge you for use of that, too. This is a MAJOR turn-off.

Am I understanding this right? Even if you use basic wifi (no 3g or 4g or whatever) you STILL have to pay Whispernet service fees because the fees are built into a book?

I looks as if I may as well have someone ship me another Nook... but would entertain the Amazon Kindle if there were enough pluses.

SMOE NSET · Joined: 25 Feb 2010 Location: Seoul

Kindle does the exact same thing.

You can download torrents and then load them onto your Kindle through USB. I have never had to use the Whispernet service.

If the torrent files you download aren't in a format that the Kindle can read, you can change the format with a program named Calibre. The program will help you organize all of your books, load books onto your Kindle, format them to the format you want, add book covers, et cetera. It is very useful.

Skippy · Joined: 18 Jan 2003 Location: Daejeon

No to the whispernet charge. There is a free portion part. Whispernet means you will get everywhere, the free portion is you have to be on an open wifi link or one you have permission to be on and then you sync the Kindle (aka check for any new stuff). If file is sent to you like [email protected] yes charge but add .free and you save ie [email protected].

The thing is how you Kindle is registered. If you pay with a Korean credit card and your Amazon shipping address in in Korea you will likely be registered in Korea. But if you use an American card and change your address you can avoid the restrictions of being registered in Asia.

I am registered in Asia and I can not buy SOME books (Bill Fitzhugh - Organ Grinder and "The History of the World in Six Drinks" are two examples of not for sale here. Some magazine and newspaper subscriptions are also restricted, and blogs too (paid for).

Swampfox10mm · Joined: 24 Mar 2011

I'm registered with my credit card in the USA on my Nook. Maybe that's why it's working to download some stuff, at least (haven't tried much paid stuff, but I see it's available on the list, anyway).

Hmm.... the main reason I love the nook is that it's JUST small enough to fit into my pocket. From seeing the Kindle, I can see that it's not small enough (has a keyboard). Also, not that it matters at all, the Kindle has about a 5% darker color to the text. Otherwise, I also love being able to change pages on my Nook just by swiping my finger across the screen. I guess the main reason I'm considering Kindle is because I don't want to mess with the shipping problems of having someone ship me a Nook after they receive it.

BTW, there is rumor that Apple might by B&N, and the Nook would probably end production, if so.

DaHu · Joined: 09 Feb 2011

I got my Kindle because it was bigger than the Nook, as I would never carry it in my pocket. I don't like to read on the go.

Also, I don't like touchscreens, as a simple button the side of the Kindle is easier. Don't have to move anything, as I hold the Kindle with my finger right there on the button.

Sounds like the Nook will be gone soon as Apple buys up competitors.

Swampfox10mm · Joined: 24 Mar 2011

You're probably comparing to the older Nook.

Here is the new one I got:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/nook/features/index.asp

Touch screen size is the same as the Kindle. You can also use buttons on the side if you prefer not to swipe the screen. I use either, depending on what I'm feeling like.

The Great Toad · Joined: 12 Jun 2004

Where in Seoul can I buy a nook or Kindle? My sony ebook got sand in it when it was in my sand filled backpack from the beach from my sandy clothes and it died...

Swampfox10mm · Joined: 24 Mar 2011

www.enuri.com

That's a price comparison site for several sites in Korea (Auction, Gmarket, 11st, etc.) You can type in E-book.

If I were you, though, I'd probably buy direct from Amazon.com , as they ship an international version to you from the USA.