Manage updates with the Download AppCNET Editors' note: If you already have Microsoft Reader installed, it is recommended that you choose the Microsoft Reader Update installation option. If you choose to download the full installation, uninstall Microsoft Reader through the Add/Remove Programs control panel before you run the installation utility.
Publisher's Description
From Microsoft:
Microsoft Reader is designed to make your onscreen reading experience as close as possible to reading a printed book. In addition, it adds active reading capabilities, instant access to content, and a personal library. Features include high-resolution ClearType and an add-on dictionary, as well as the ability to bookmark, highlight, annotate, make notes and drawings, and much more. Version 2.1.1 includes a security update that closes known gaps in the Microsoft Reader security architecture.
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All versions:
3.5 starsout of 31 votes
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Current version:
3.5 starsout of 31 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"very useful"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
ease of use.
Cons
not any know at this time.
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"It is free."
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
I can read what I want in a convenient way.
Cons
Complicate to download and activate.
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"An average eBook reader"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
Microsoft reader will do an average job of reading ebooks.
Cons
Not comparable to the ebook readers from either Amazon of Barnes and Noble.
Summary
If you are not particular about your ebook reader you certainly can use this one, but I do not recommend it as there are better ones.
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"Like It Use On Laptop and Phone"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
I like the fact that I can read anywhere. I transfer bookmarks between laptop and phone.
Cons
Would like a new look.
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"simple,and its free!"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
does what it says..a very simple product to use..no hassle..
Cons
even if you activate it after working your ass off,won't open some books..
Summary
good for .lit forms..but if u are looking for the best option,this is not it!
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"not what I was looking for"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
It's a Microsoft product
Cons
doesn't do what I wanted it to do
Summary
I downloaded an epub book to my computer and I'll be damned if I can find a reader that will allow me to open anything that's already on my computer! All of the readers I downloaded (this one, Barnes & Nobles and eRead 6) all can only read books you've downloaded using their interface and don't have the ability to open a file on your hard drive (or if you can I sure as hell can't figure out how). Frustrated!
When trying to activate it I get this:
Updated on Jun 25, 2010
"Activation Error
The Activation process has failed because you do not have sufficient access. You need to run as a local administrator to activate Microsoft Reader."
Well I'm logged in as an administrator on my computer so this error message is total BS. I'm tired of beating my head against the wall. I'm running Internet Explorer 8 and Windows 7 Home Premium and logged into Microsoft Passport with my Yahoo email address. ***? -
"Basic book reader"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
No problem so far, able to read the books I wanted
Cons
Nothing bad, to troublesome to activate
Summary
I downloaded it because I need to read some Lit formatted book, Nothing great! have to activate and sign-up the Live! too troublesome, forget above it!
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"Okay not great"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
Free
Runs in windowsCons
doesn't run on linux
doesn't embrace many ebook formatsSummary
Reader is okay, but after trying it I use Calibre. Calibre seems easier, and more universal running on linux and windows, and supporting more ebook formats.
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"Gets the job done"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
Loads quick and has good reading settings.
Cons
Only can read .lit (MS Reader format), ugly interface, and no customization.
Summary
The only reason why I have this program is because some of the books I've gotten only come in .lit file. I don't really like reading with it much, but I could if I had to. It's an okay program, just not my style.
Scratch out "the only .lit reader"!! I found a new program called Calibre that is on the downloads page. Check it out! It's a manager, ebook reader, and ebook converter. All in one!
Updated on Jan 2, 2010 -
"Waste of time and effort"
Version: Microsoft Reader 2.1.1
Pros
Nothing - I can't get it activated and Microsoft has offered no worthwhile support, just a time-wasting runaround
Cons
It's difficult to activate, the instructions are useless and the support service even more useless
Summary
This much-criticised product is difficult to activate, especially outside the USA, and there is no worthwhile, real-time support available. Can't really evaluate it as a reader because, though it downloads in reasonable time, I just can't activate it. And nor can others
