4. Digital Readers

Why you should wait to buy: Reader prices should shrink as interest and libraries expand.

Technologically speaking, there's plenty to recommend about the Sony Reader and Amazon's Kindle, says CNET's Carnoy. Both compact devices hold more than 100 books, making it easy for avid readers to pack a hefty portion of their library without triggering airline overweight baggage fees. But at prices of $299 and $399, respectively, plus an average $10 per book title, handheld readers are a steep investment. Buying one might make more sense next year, as these relatively new devices become more mainstream and more affordable.

Although future generations of the devices are sure to improve, the area with the most room for advancement is the affiliated e-book stores, where users purchase titles to download to their readers. "It needs to be more like a Netflix for books," says Carnoy. Even with thousands of titles available, there are still wide gaps in what's available (new releases, classics) and what's not (older or specialty titles).