I have the regular Nook. What I did not like about the color Nook: the larger size and the shortened battery life. For my own needs...I just wanted to be able to read books on it. I can listen to music on my phone or Ipod and I already have way too many calendars!!! I guess if I were wanting to surf the net and use it in all the ways already mentioned, I would just get an Ipad. My Nook is just the right size to slip into my bag and have something to read while I am waiting at places and to take on trips. Since I am not a big magazine reader, I would not use it that way, either. I probably would consider getting a color one if I had young children...but mine are all grown and we do not yet have grandchildren. Whatever you decide, I am sure you will love your Nook!