M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by D. Dawson : Almost perfect!

UPS just delivered my M-Edge Executive cover for the Kindle 3 about an hour ago, and I promptly put it to work. I previously had the leather version of the Executive cover on my Kindle 2 and really liked it, so it wasn't too hard a decision to go with the new model. Functionally, it's virtually identical to the previous version. The tab used to keep it closed still works the same way - you can fold the front cover back and use the tab to hold it in that position, which provides a very convenient handle to hold while reading. I was really hoping there would be a leather version of this cover for the Kindle 3, but my wife emailed M-Edge and they said they were sticking with a synthetic material that was still durable and would help keep costs down. It does feel very close to leather (if someone insisted it was real leather you'd probably believe them), and the inner lining appears to be the identical suede-like material as in the previous version. Unlike the old leather cover, though, the new cover has a stiff spine piece very much like a hard-bound book, so the front and back covers fold at well-defined corners between the hard spine and the covers. The previous leather version had a soft spine that folded in more of a curve. The new system seems like it would provide a little more crush protection when closed, at least along that edge, and I think I actually prefer the new design. The fabric trim around the middle of the cover has a very nice feel to it, and helps provide yet another edge for your fingers to hold when either carrying the Kindle or reading it. I also ordered a new M-Edge Illuminator 2 light for the new cover and I'm glad I did rather than re-use the light from my Kindle 2, since the new light is almost 1/2" shorter than the old one (the old KIndle 2, cover, and light are going to be a gift to my wife's mother, so I needed a new light anyway). If I put the old light in the new cover it sticks out the bottom just a tad. I've also noticed that the stiff spine doesn't allow any flexibility for the hinge of the light to swivel up, so if you choose to use the light in that way (my wife doesn't) then you have to slide the light out of it's mounting sleeve about an inch. Again, it's not a problem, but it's a little different. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the little straps in the corners do an excellent job of holding the Kindle 3 snuggly in position without getting in the way of any of the controls. I have no fear at all of my Kindle 3 slipping out of this cover accidentally. I specifically wanted to avoid any covers that use the little mounting notches in the Kindle 3 because I don't trust the durability of that system.

Overall I am very happy with the new M-Edge Executive cover for the Kindle 3. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it's not genuine leather, which is a feature I would have gladly paid extra for and which would have resulted in a perfect 5-star rating. I really like the feel of the previous version of this cover, and I know how leather is going to wear over time. The new synthetic material feels almost as good (but not quite), and I don't know how well it'll actually hold up over time and use. If I could give 4.5 stars I would. Also, if I notice anything significant that affects my opinion after I've had a chance to live with the new cover for a while I'll post an update.

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by Bob of QF : Almost exactly what I wanted.

I'll just re-post this here, as the review is as much about my M-Edge cover as it is about the M-Edge light. Comparison of the M-Edge to Amazon's lighted cover below the fold.

I've had my Kindle 3 since September, and I've already read more that I used to on my old Kindle 1 (now retired to a backup device). I was an early adopter of the 1, and it came with an Amazon cover (which after a week, I customized with white velcro.. still works well to this day).

The Kindle 3, obviously, came without anything, and after carrying it around, I grew more nervous about what would happen if I dropped the thing, and it landed on a corner, or if something heavy fell onto it while in my service truck...

... so when I spotted an M-Edge executive cover in a local shop, I was able to test it's fit & finish before purchase. I loved it, even though this would be the 3rd cover I purchased for my K3.... the first being a simple nylon zipper cover, the 2nd being a Speck-brand cover, and now the M-Edge (bright purple, to be easy to spot among clutter... <grin>).

Although I liked the Speck cover (red), and I loved it's built-in bookstand, it was too bulky-- I suspect it was simply a reworked Kindle 2 cover-- there was simply too much excess cover between the plastic cradle (that held the K3) and the actual cover itself.

The clincher for me buying the M-Edge was the light I could get to go with it. In fact, I purchased the M-Edge light first, and used it for several days with the Speck cover.... it worked well enough with it wedged between my K3 and the ABS plastic shell that cradled & held the Kindle. But it was not tucked neatly away when closed, and I was afraid the lovely little light might get snagged and lost. At $20, I was not casual about losing it, either.

So I got the M-Edge executive cover, which has a place to hold the light between the spine and the Kindle. The M-Edge was thinner when closed than my Speck cover, another plus. I especially liked the M-Edge exectutive's closing strap, keeping my K3 and my light securely in place when closed.

The light is quite bright-- too bright to look at directly for long, even with the dim setting. It uses a single AAA battery, available anywhere, which I consider a plus. There is just room at the spine in my cover for a spare battery, which I will do as soon as I can come up with a way to keep it there securely (Take note, M-Edge-- a pocket for a spare battery in the spine would be a real plus-- say a loop of elastic sewn in?).

I'm still on my first battery, after using the light several times for reading in darkened restaurants-- my favorite pastime, reading my K3 and eating. :)

The light has to have some sort of circuitry in it, to keep full-bright even after several hours of use-- and indeed, no LED lamp can run on less than 4 volts, so there must be some sort of voltage amplifier, to boost the 1.5v from the AAA. I have any number of LED flashlights, including industrial and professional ones costing $60 and more, and this little M-Edge is made as well as those, for the task it was created to do-- light up books for reading in dim light. I suspect it will keep the light on, until the AAA is dead-flat-- as many of my better flashlights (those with circuitry) do. There's no warning, either--no gradual dimming of the light output, just suddenly it won't light. I expect that from this little gadget, but as I said, I've yet to run it out. I'll report again when I do.

Strongly recommended as a general reading light, and especially with the M-Edge executive cover (also available from Amazon, as well as more and more frequently in local shops).

I would point out, that M-Edge markets a fairly wide range of covers, including several that put the light into an external pocket. While the light's little tab fits snugly into it's pocket, I, for one, would not be happy with an external pocket while carrying and/or traveling. I'd be afraid I'd snag the light and lose it. I'd look for an external zippered pocket, or a larger, over-cover in that case.

..........

One more thing I will add: A close friend of mine also has a K3. He also purchased a cover--only he opted for the Amazon's official lighted one. We got to visit last night, and compare the fit and finish of each of our purchases.

His official Amazon cover is a teensy bit thinner when closed, and certainly not as wide (mine needs the room to stow the light when folded down along the spine). The height for either is the same, and the weight of each is too close to tell without instruments. The Amazon's light was elegant-- it turns on when extended, and the K3 is not asleep, then politely shuts off when you do put the K3 to sleep. But, I do not like the notion of the light draining the K3's battery; some consider that a plus, but I do not. The M-Edge's light uses it's own battery, and I suppose if you wished, you could opt for rechargeable AAA's... these are as common as dirt nowadays. If someone ever produces a LiIon rechargeable in AAA form-factor, they will have a sale. I remain unimpressed with NMH and even less interested in NiCd rechargeable AAAs... 1.2 volts is too low to start. I've not had good luck with rechargeable alkalines either, so it's disposables for now.

The clincher for me going the M-Edge route against Amazon's cover (the price was the same) was the holding method between each design. Amazon opted for the (to me seriously flawed) little metal hooks at the edge of the Kindle device. Amazon's engineers came up with this kludge (as far as I'm concerned) with the K2 and the DX models, and carried it unimproved to the K3. A plastic shelled device (all Kindles) has no business trying to keep in place with tiny metal hooks at the very edge. The forces are too great, and easily breaking the shell is a distinct possibility.

My M-Edge holds the K3 by 4 corners, with color-matched, covered elastic loops. It holds it quite securely-- I tested it over my bed by holding the cover open and giving it a hard shake-- the kindle wiggled a tad, but never came close to dislodging--- perfect.

If you consider the forces involved in a dropped kindle? The elastic is perfect-- the initial shock is taken by the cover against the hard floor. As the forces are transmitted up through the cover, it must pass through the elastic bands--which will absorb more force, before the kindle itself strikes the floor. By that time (hopefully) the energy is low enough, that the Kindle emerges unscathed.

My whole point of having a cover, in the first place...

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by J. Parker : I don't understand the bad reviews

Now I have never owned a kindle before now, so this is my first experience with the cases as well. Having said that I do not understand the negative reviews because I love this case. As a vegan I bought a case that was not leather on purpose. So I guess for me that is not an issue. It feels very nice both inside and out and is well made. The kindle is very secure and it is easier for me to read and hold with the case than without it. I bought this for the light so I can't really say if the space would bother someone with out it. Overall I am very happy and my kindle is protected but most of all I am thankful I had the option of finding a case with a light and leather-free.

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by JAG : Good, but could be better

I just got my first kindle for my birthday. I ordered this cover knowing it wasn't leather. My wife has a kindle 2 with a M-Edge synthetic cover and it looks and feels like leather. This one for the Kindle 3 does not. It feels cheap and like it is made of vinyl. The inside does have a nice suede leather appearance and is soft.

It holds the Kindle very securely. I wanted the M-Edge because they are the only ones that have a place to keep a light tucked in the case and not just clipped on. I'm sure it will protect my Kindle just fine. Just wish they would have a leather option. I think it would hold up better.

I will keep this cover until I can find a better option.

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by xenos23 : Outstanding!

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Black (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation Kindle)

I ordered this jacket to replace the Kindle leather cover from Amazon. (The elastic band had become stretched out, no longer securing the cover.)

This cover is amazing. It holds the Kindle securely, and offers ample protection of the screen when closed.

When open and folded flat, it is easy to hold securely in the left hand alone because of the space allowed to enclose the M-edge proprietary book light within the cover. (about 1")

The tab serves to close the cover securely, and when open, to hold the cover flat.

If I did not know that this jacket was not leather, I'd never have guessed. The texture, fit, and overall quality is excellent.

If this jacket had been available when I ordered the Kindle 3, I would have bought it.

Highly recommended!

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by Glen K. : A must have!

I recieved my kindle 3 as a gift from my staff at our holiday office party. I was excited to say the least and couldn't wait to give it a test run when I got back home. I had 2 major concerns with the kindle 3 once I started using it: 1-It seemed as though it was very vulnerable to breakage having no protective case and 2-The eink screen that evryone had raved about in reviews still seemed too dim for me to read comfortably in any conditions having less than optimal lighting. I did a little research on the web and found the M-edge executive case and the light (each sold separately). The case is extremely well crafted, comfortable to hold, and specifically designed for the Kindnle 3 and the m-edge light. There's even two pockets,albebit extremely thin, on the the inside for storing a business card, favorite photo, or whatever thin piece of tag-a-long you might desire to have with your kindle. The outer case extends just enough beyond the borders of the kindle to offer "drop" protection without being a size burden to your hands while reading. They designed it so that when you are reading, the front cover folds over in reverse and can be strapped to the back cover so there are no dangling/loose parts to distract you while reading. Then there is the Medge light...It fits into a slot designed for it and when not in use perfectly fits into the spine area of the case. It has two brightness levels which is nice depending on how much you really need. Here was the kicker-for me at least...I've used lights for reading at night before, but there's something about how this little bulb truly enhances the eink screen to make it the contrast and readability that I imagined e reader should have. So much so that I even keep the light on during normal ambient light conditions. My only concern with it is that it seems to be made from rather cheap plastic and I just hope it doesn't break on me after prolonged use. It utilizes 1 AAA battery(not supplied). A nice feature would be to somehow have an elastic strap worked into the case for storing a backup battery. Buying this combo of case and light from M-edge is a must have, in my opinion, for every serious Kindle 3 owner! And no-they didn't pay me to say that :) I'm just a happy customer. Happy hollidays to all. I hope this helps.

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by Noel G. Rooks : A winner!

Love this. Many other Kindle cases I have seen feature clips that attach into the Kindle, which to me says It Will Break sooner or later. This case features 4 straps, in color to match the outside (nice touch). The top ones are stretchier than the bottom, which makes it easy to slide the Kindle in and out, but yet is quite secure. It has been accidentally drop tested already (small children + irresistible object = Kindle meets kitchen floor) and the Kindle did not move. The case is nicely padded without being bulky, light to hold - leather may have made it heavier - and holds itself shut even without the strap. The inside is a nice faux suede material and has a larger pocket and smaller pocket similar to what you find in portfolios for notes and business cards. It isn't leather, in or out, but honestly I could not really tell out of the box and I have pretty extensive knowledge of leather goods. In any case, it doesn't scream "fake!" to me and I have a well trained eye, in my opinion I'm not sure why some of the reviewers are hung up on it, it's sturdy and well done, and the average person probably won't notice. It is wider than the Kindle to accomodate the M Edge light, and is squared off in such a way that the light is protected too, also an excellent design. I definitely think the light add on makes the case, I'll probably order that soon. The other thing I love about it is the ability to make a "stand" out of it by folding the cover back and attaching the tab (see picture). Lastly, it matches EXACTLY the purple color of my Seidio case for my phone (I'm a big believer in good cases, I drop things a lot - Seidio Innocase Surface Case for Samsung Epic 4G (Purple)), and since they are quite often travelling together that was a nice added fashion perk. Totally worth the money.

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by Christy B : It isn't perfect, but it is the best choice for people like me...

I've recently "given up" and gotten the Kindle 3. Despite still doing the debate over which books are okay for just digital ownership and those that simply *must* be acquired in paper form, I'm pretty in love with the unit. After just a couple of weeks with the Kindle I realized I would have to get some kind of cover though.

When I read..and by that I mean fully immersive and I can't hear you calling my name from 2 feet away reading...I have no thought for anything else. I could easily drop it. Or it might fall off the bed if I accidentally fall asleep. And I definitely felt that carrying it in the pocket of my indoor jacket was an accident waiting to happen.

I chose this model because of the holders for the Kindle itself. Other models have the ones that click into the kindle itself and just didn't seem very durable or trustworthy to me. This one uses good, old fashioned bands.

As a note for those looking at this model due to the price difference between it and the Amazon Kindle covers: If you buy this with the light, as I did, it costs pretty much the same as the Kindle with built in light.

Since I also ordered the light at the same time, the cover and light arrived well boxed and safely packed very quickly. I immediately put my kindle in it and it does fit firmly and like a glove. It makes the Kindle significantly heavier but still not as heavy as a Stephen King paperback and the shape when the cover is folded back is just right for gripping while lying in bed. The soft interior of the cover has a nice and neutral hand feel while reading also.

The Kindle fits tightly into the jacket and no amount of shaking will dislodge it. This one isn't leather (and one of the reasons I chose it was this) but I actually had to peer very closely at it to make sure because it sure does look like leather to me. I got the friendly looking green color and I really do love the shade. It is just a tad brighter than the image on my screen but not in the neon sense, but rather a bit brighter in the friendly green sense.

It isn't perfect though. The light is where this cover hits a huge snag. The light, which is seperately purchased, slips into a pocket behind the Kindle near the top. In order to flip the light up into reading position, you have to rotate the base. Because there is no fold or bend in the cover at that location, you actually have to pull it out a bit in order to rotate it, then push it back in.

That may sound like it is just a tiny thing, but it isn't. The light pocket holds the light *very* tightly and you really have to pull. If you're not careful, you can wind up exerting an equal amount of force on the page buttons of your kindle, which can't be good for it. And then, once that pocket loosens up at some point, won't the light start slipping out?

While I do realize that the light is supposed to work with all the configurations of M-Edge covers, it is a no brainer to me that they create a bend in the jacket there. Or even better, have the rotation happen closer to the base of the light so not as much clearance is needed to rotate it.

The upside of that is that the light is replaceable in this unit, as is the battery. In the Amazon version with integrated light, the light is powered by the kindle, draining the battery. And if the bulb goes out you have to get a whole new cover. This one uses a simple AAA battery and is fully servicable and replaceable, leaving the cover still functional.

Overall, I like the cover for it's secure feeling, independence of light, ease of use, hand feel and very nice appearance. I like the light being independent of the cover and with replaceable batteries and I like the brightness of it as well. I just don't like the extra effort in order to get the light into position each night before bed. Oh, and definitely think about the green...it's just so cute!

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by J. Belcher : Quality Case

I received the M-Edge Kindle case as a Christmas present today, and I'm very happy!

It's made out of quality material, and you can tell. It has some weight, but it's negligible. The Kindle looks very sexy inside this sleek case too, which is a major plus!

Total width, shut - with Kindle 3G inside, is about 1 inch. Total weight (with Kindle 3G inside): 14 ounces (measured on my postal scale).

The front latch holds the case shut tight, but doesn't make opening it hard.

The only thing I'm not super happy about is the fold-over design, it makes it a bit bulky. I prefer reading it "open flapped" and not folded over.

I get no interference to my WiFi while it is in the case either, another plus.

If you're laying in bed at night, you don't need to have the cover on, but if your traveling or taking the Kindle places with you (Cafe), this case will be your new best friend, or your best friend's [Kindle 3G] new best friend...

It does a very good job protecting the Kindle and looks great while doing it, what more could you ask for? A $20 light? Probably not...

M-Edge Executive Kindle Jacket, Mocha (Fits 6" Display, Latest Generation)
Review by Lynn Ouellette : What a great Choice!

I purchased this cover after doing a whole lot of research on different covers for my kindle. It was worth being picky, I definitly made the right choice. The cover is made of nice sturdy material, and my kindle fits very snugly and securely inside. Also a plus...it looks great. I purchased the M-Edge light also. The light is wonderful as well, and if u position it correctly there is no glare on the screen at all, which was a major concern of mine! I like that it doesn't clip to the kindle and that the light doesn't work off the kindle battery! Plus it stores nice a neat inside the cover when it is closed, which is a nice touch. I'm so glad I got it! I highly recommend this cover and light!