Check the number of lines in the display and whether you’re able to adjust the font size on the screen. Screen: The right LCD screen is one that’s easy to read in all light conditions and large enough that even those with poor eyesight can use the device. If this is a feature you desire, verify that the voice is clear and easy to understand. You’ll be more likely to find voice capabilities in a device that includes a translation function. Text-to-speech, or voice, is pretty rare in devices of this type, but it does exist. Standard in electronic dictionaries, a spellchecker can help you to find words that you’re unsure of by offering suggestions as you type. You also want to compare the entries for other content, such as an encyclopedia or thesaurus. A device with fewer words may be more geared toward homework and younger users. We’ve seen electronic dictionaries with 60,000 words up to almost 300,000, so there is quite a range from model to model. One of the primary ways that these devices differ from each other is in the number of words they contain in the dictionary database. If your electronic dictionary’s LCD screen isn’t backlit, it may be difficult to use in low-light situations. A crossword solver is also a function that’s available on most of these. Depending on the device, some common functions you may find include a calculator, currency or measurement converter, quotation dictionary, anagram solver, world clock, spelling games, and name/address organizer. Other: Some manufacturers load other content and functions onto their electronic dictionaries. A text-to-speech ability is also helpful to have here. If you want a device with this capability, be sure it supports the languages you want to use with it. Translation: This isn’t as common, but some electronic dictionaries can also translate commonly used words or phrases.
With a thesaurus, you gain easy access to both synonyms and antonyms for many of the words in the dictionary. Thesaurus: This is a standard feature on most electronic dictionaries. Check the number of entries in the encyclopedia before deciding if this is something you need. Know which one you’re buying.Įncyclopedia: While generally fairly limited, an encyclopedia can provide you with the ability to research a variety of topics even when you don’t have an Internet connection. Note that some of these are geared toward adults, while others offer fewer words and features and a simpler interface better suited to younger users. Any device you purchase should be set up so you can easily and smoothly switch between its various functions. Most of these devices also include other content and functions, making them more of a complete reference source than just a dictionary. Some of these devices are known to drain batteries fairly quickly. It’s also helpful to know how long you can use the device before having to swap out the batteries for fresh ones. With any electronic dictionary you consider, you should not only know how it’s powered but also whether you need to supply your own batteries upon purchase. AAA batteries are common, while some use slightly more exotic ones, such as CR-2032 batteries. Most of these are powered by batteries, though some also have ports for an AC adapter. If it does, be sure that any hinges or clasps are durable and hold the lid securely closed. (How often do you drop your phone?) The housing may also have a cover to protect the keyboard. Plastic housings are standard here, but the case should be rugged enough to withstand the occasional mishap that plagues items like these. If you have larger hands, you might want to choose a slightly larger option, because more compact ones may be difficult to use. These devices are designed to be held easily in the hand, and as such are fairly compact, making them easy to fit into a pocket and take with you.
If your electronic dictionary includes a crossword puzzle solver, you can use it to find words of various lengths that you have some letters for.
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