Many new authors are allured by the apparent ease of self-publishing their book in electronic format on Amazon.com or iTunes. As such, one of their first topics of research is how to convert their work into an eBook. While we certainly do not discourage the self-publishing route, we can tell you that the conversion process is not as easy as clicking “File -> Save as” from your favorite word processing software.

There are a number of software programs that are making this process more intuitive, but there are some key problems that still remain. One such issue is that none of the online marketplaces can agree on a single and consistent file format. So to sell your book on more than one distribution channel, you are forced to reformat your book again, and again, and again! This is frustrating and, unfortunately, a problem that will be a thorn in every author’s side for the foreseeable future. With each major book seller having their own device and associated file format, no one standard will be victorious.

Digital books are becoming increasingly popular, and e-Readers are at the top of many Christmas lists this year. So what should you be looking for in an e-Reader? I’ve checked out the top brands to see how they stack up.

1. Kindle Fire HD

If you’re after an e-Reader that has access to Amazon’s extensive library of downloadable digital books, then look no further. The Kindle device is easy to use and manage, allowing you to make notes and bookmark pages and quotes, making it ideal for students. Not only does the Kindle Fire HD come in stunning high definition color offering fantastic picture quality, it provides all the benefits of a tablet computer, allowing you to play games and watch movies when you don’t fancy settling down with a good book.

2. Nook HD

The Nook HD makes for an ideal family e-Reader as it comes with the ability to create separate accounts for each family member. More than three million books are available for purchase from Barnes & Noble, ensuring you’ll never be at a loss for new material to sink your teeth into. It provides up to 10 hours of reading from a single charge.

3. Kobo Glo Wireless

The Kobo encourages you to read by including a rewards program when you reach several benchmarks. The E-ink display isn’t to everyone’s taste and is targeted at people looking for the feel of an authentic book. Less technologically advanced than some of its competitors, it lacks 3G capabilities, but this is reflected in the price. If you’re looking for a no frills e-Reader, this could be just the ticket.

4. iPad Mini

The iPad mini offers the largest selection of books of any e-Reader as well as an extensive choice of magazines and newspapers. The only downside is its glossy screen that makes it hard to read in direct sunlight. The device comes with access to the 270,000 apps you’d expect from an iPad, and in reality the e-reading function is only one of its many benefits. You can send emails, watch the latest films, and even use the satellite navigation feature for route planning. The iPad mini is much more than an e-Reader, and that is revealed in the price – overall a great choice if money is no object.

5. Kindle Paperwhite

The Kindle Paperwhite might not come with the mod cons of some other devices, but for an authentic feeling of reading words straight from paper you can’t beat it. The screen is ideal for inside or outdoor use as it’s designed to eliminate glare, and the extensive battery life makes it ideal for taking it away on vacation. Although it doesn’t have the benefits of audio or a detachable memory device, if you’re only interested in the pleasure of a good read, then the Paperwhite might be just what you’re after