Buying the Right Kindle Cover

So you bought a Kindle. Welcome to the new way to read. The Kindle is a phenomenal product that is revolutionizing the way we read and store books. On top of that, it's gaining even more traction as "cloud computing" becomes more and more mainstream and consumers look to digital consolidation for all of their reading materials. This is especially true for students and those who would need a large amount of reference material. But like all new implementations of portable electronic technology, the Kindle needs to be protected - unless you don't mind having to buy a new one if you drop it accidentally. We surveyed the landscape of Kindle covers and located 5 solid solutions that we really feel top the charts for users of all different walks of life:

The Librarian

We were absolutely blown away by the intricate detail and quality presented by the Oberon Design cases. From the real leather that's custom pressed with selected patterns, to the elastic and pewter clasp, this is the case that lets everyone know you are serious about books. There are unlimited combinations and you can select both the pattern and the color (we went with the The Medici Kindle 3 Cover in chocolate). When you wrap a Kindle 3 in this case you're expressing yourself in a way that truly communicates an old world charm mixed with a healthy respect for the advantages modern technology can bring to ageless tradition. These cases are exquisite, and worth every last penny.

Price: $69.99 | Buy It Now

The Executive

This case is meticulous in its fit, form, and function. The Marware Eco-Vue Case held the Kindle 3 like a glove and provided both protection as well as a beautiful leather cover that communicates a love for practical beauty. The best thing about this case was its attention to the details of using a Kindle in daily practice. The left side of the soft charcoal microfiber interior has a slot for credit cards or cash, and you can slip your hand into the elastic band to hold the Kindle comfortably while you're reading. If you're actually porting around the Kindle as part of your daily routine, this case has a fit and function that blows away everything else we've seen.

Price: $34.99 | Buy It Now

The Traveler

When protection and portability are equally important, look no further than the Kindle Lighted Leather Cover from Amazon.com. This is possibly the most elegant cross of beautiful aesthetics and practical form-factor we've seen in some time. The Lighted Leather Cover integrates a retractable LED light that runs off Kindle power, so you don't need to worry about replacing the batteries. This case really takes your Kindle and cradles it in a beautiful leather enclosure, giving you both form and function that's hard to beat or even match.

Price: $49.95 | Buy It Now

The Active Lifestyle

When you're on the go, you want something that you can pick up and take with you - hassle-free protection that's going to last and not add bulk to your Kindle. After all, the strength of a Kindle is that it reduces the amount of books and materials you need to take with you. The Marware SportGrip case gives you protection, and does it in a fun way that doesn't add anything you don't need. It's a cover that fits the active lifestyle - but doesn't sacrifice the natural beauty of the Kindle 3 in the process.

Price: $19.99 | Buy It Now

The Economist

Made from black faux leather and constructed using traditional bookbinding techniques, the DODOcase for Kindle 3 is made to look just like a book when its closed. It delivers protection and portability in an attractive, easy to use package. It's also a full 37% lighter than Amazon's case. The interior is made of bamboo, which gives the DODOcase a really high-quality feel, particular from the side. This is a Kindle classic-look case that gives you a nice aesthetic that is both portable and protective. If you're feeling particularly spendy, you can add a Monogram for an additional $10.

Price: $49.95 | Buy It Now