Key difference: The Nook is an E-Reader from Barnes & Noble. It is based on the Android platform. Mainly there are only three differences between the Nook Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi/3G: connectivity, aesthetic, and weight.

The Nook is an E-Reader from Barnes & Noble. It is based on the Android platform, and supported Android version 1.5, when it was launched. The Nook 1st Edition was first announced in October 2009. It was first available in the Wi-Fi and 3G model, and a Wi-Fi only model was eventually launched.

The Nook 1st Edition included Wi-Fi and AT&T 3G wireless connectivity, a six-inch black-and-white E-Ink display, and a separate, smaller color touchscreen. The touchscreen was the primary input device. It supported arrow buttons on each side of the Nook, which could be used to turn the pages. It can connect to Barnes and Noble's digital store in order to buy and/or download books. The connection could have been either through Wi-Fi or through AT&T's 3G network. However, an active connection to the store in not required for reading the ebooks.

The Nook also had a MicroSD expansion slot for extra storage, a user-replaceable rechargeable battery, and a USB port to be used for charging. The device also includes a web browser, a built-in dictionary, Chess and Sudoku, an audio player, speakers, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Mainly there are only three differences between the Nook Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi/3G: connectivity, aesthetic, and weight. The Nook Wi-Fi supports only Wi-Fi connectivity, whereas the Nook Wi-Fi/3G supports both Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity. Aesthetically, the Wi-Fi model was available with a white back, while the 3G had a grey back. Furthermore, the Wi-Fi model weighted 11.6 ounces while the Nook Wi-Fi/3G weighted 12.1 ounces.

However, both versions of the Nook 1st Edition have been discontinued. Currently, there are three models available from Barnes & Noble: Nook Simple Touch (E-paper, 2nd Edition), Nook HD (LCD), Nook HD+ (LCD).

Image Courtesy: the-ebook-reader.com