Apple iPad iBooks on the Apple iPad

It's not clear how reading ebooks on the iPad will stack up against the Amazon Kindle experience.

The two readers use different ‘ink’ technologies. Text looks pretty crisp on the iPad but, for a definitive view, we'll have to see how the iPad fares in our tests.

As well as the iPad’s overall test, we’ll also be featuring the results of its ebook reader performance alongside our next batch of ebook readers on test – results of the first batch are due soon.

The iPad's screen measures 9.7 inches - the same as the Amazon Kindle DX - so should lend itself well to reading newspapers and text books.

Check out our ebook reader report for more information.

The iBook interface looks terrific. iBooks are purchased similarly to the way that iTunes are purchased and, rather like the cover flow on an iPod, a bookcase on the screen helps organise your library with an attractive visual aid.

Turning the pages of an ibook is also more satisfying than turning an ebook's page. The graphics on the iPad are compelling, and a swipe of a page creates a nice curled page and shadow effect. That said, the basic page-turning of an ebook reader is part of the reason why an ebook reader's battery will outlast an iPad's.

The iPad is expected to last for about 10 hours between charges, while an ebook reader can last for several weeks.

iBooks video review