RCA Tablet 7 Voyager: Your Genius Reading Companion Made Easy. Discover essential accessories and tips to transform this affordable tablet into the ultimate reading device.
Reading on a tablet is a fantastic way to enjoy books, articles, and more. But sometimes, it can feel a little… uncomfortable. Maybe your hands get tired, or the glare makes it hard to see. You might even worry about battery life cutting your reading session short. If you own the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager and dream of a more enjoyable reading experience, you’re in the right place! This guide will show you how to make smart choices to enhance your reading time. We’ll explore simple accessories and settings that turn your Voyager into a true reading essential. Get ready to relax and dive into your next great read!
RCA Tablet 7 Voyager: A Budget-Friendly Reading Gadget
The RCA Tablet 7 Voyager is often chosen by folks looking for an affordable way to get online, play simple games, or, importantly, read. It’s not a powerhouse tablet, but for basic tasks, it can be surprisingly capable. When it comes to reading, its compact size and budget-friendly price make it an attractive option, especially if you’re new to tablets or don’t want to break the bank. Think of it as your personal portable library.
It’s important to set expectations. The screen might not be as crisp as high-end tablets, and you won’t be running the latest demanding apps. But for flipping through e-books, catching up on news articles, or browsing digital magazines, the Voyager can do the job nicely. The key is making the most of what it offers and adding a few things to make the experience even better.
Why the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager is Great for Reading
There are several reasons why this particular tablet is a good fit for reading enthusiasts on a budget:
Portability: Its 7-inch screen makes it super lightweight and easy to hold for extended periods. It slips into a bag or even a large pocket with ease.
Affordability: You can often find the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager at a very low price point, making it an accessible entry into digital reading.
Simplicity: It runs a straightforward version of Android, meaning accessing reading apps like Kindle, Google Play Books, or Libby is typically a breeze.
Battery Life: While not record-breaking, it generally offers enough juice for a few hours of reading, which is usually sufficient for a commute or a quiet evening.
Of course, no tablet is perfect out of the box for every user. The screen might be a bit reflective, the built-in speakers might not be ideal for audiobooks, and holding it for a whole afternoon could still lead to wrist fatigue. That’s where optimizing your setup comes in, and that’s what we’re here to talk about.
Transforming Your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager: Genius Reading Essentials
Let’s dive into how we can elevate your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager from just a basic tablet to a truly “genius” reading essential. We’re talking about accessories and settings that make a real difference in comfort, convenience, and overall enjoyment.
1. Essential Software for Bookworms
Before we even think about physical accessories, let’s make sure you have the best reading apps on your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager. These apps are the gateway to your digital library.
Amazon Kindle App: If you buy e-books from Amazon, this is a must-have. It syncs your progress across devices and offers a clean reading interface. You can download it from your device’s app store.
Google Play Books: This is Google’s own e-book store and reader. It’s great if you prefer a more open ecosystem or want to read books purchased from other sources that you can upload.
Libby by OverDrive: This is a game-changer for library lovers! Libby allows you to borrow e-books and audiobooks directly from your local public library, all for free. All you need is a library card. Check out the Libby website for more details on how it works.
Pocket (or Instapaper): For saving articles you find online to read later, these apps are invaluable. They strip away ads and formatting, giving you a clean reading experience, perfect for those longer blog posts or news features. Pocket’s official site explains its usefulness.
News Apps: Whether it’s the New York Times, BBC News, or an app aggregating your favorite blogs, having a dedicated news app can provide a streamlined reading experience compared to browsing through a web browser.
2. Comfort is Key: Ergonomic Accessories
Holding a tablet for extended periods can get tiring. These accessories are designed to make your reading sessions more comfortable and hands-free.
The Mighty Tablet Stand
A good tablet stand is perhaps the most impactful accessory for comfortable reading. It props up your tablet at an angle on a desk, table, or even your lap, allowing you to read without holding it.
- Adjustable Angles: Look for stands that offer multiple viewing angles so you can find the perfect position for your eyes and posture.
- Portability: Some stands fold flat for easy transport, making them ideal for reading on the go, much like your Voyager itself.
- Stability: Ensure the stand has a sturdy base and grippy pads to keep your tablet secure and prevent slips.
Brands like Lamicall or Anker offer popular and sturdy options. A quick search for “adjustable tablet stand” will bring up plenty of choices. For instance, the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers tips on avoiding online shopping scams, which is good to keep in mind when purchasing accessories online.
Protective Case with Kickstand
If you prefer an all-in-one solution, a case with a built-in kickstand can serve double duty. It protects your tablet from accidental drops and scratches while also providing a hands-free viewing option.
- Durability: Choose a case that offers good protection, especially if you plan on carrying your tablet around frequently.
- Kickstand Design: Some kickstands are more robust than others. Check reviews to see how stable they are in various positions.
- Grip: A case can also improve your grip on the tablet, reducing the chance of it slipping from your hands.
Many generic cases are available for the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager. Look for cases explicitly made for 7-inch tablets, but always double-check the dimensions and reviews to ensure a good fit.
Comfortable Grip Accessories
For those who still prefer holding their tablet, a grip accessory can be a lifesaver. These attach to the back of your tablet (or case) and provide something to hold onto, reducing strain.
- Strap Grips: These elastic straps slide over your hand, allowing you to securely hold the tablet with just a few fingers.
- PopSockets or Similar: While often used for phones, PopSockets and similar collapsible grips can also be attached to tablets for a comfortable holding point. Ensure you use a strong adhesive or attach it to a sturdy case.
3. Eye Comfort: Reducing Strain and Glare
Reading for long periods, especially on a screen, can cause eye strain. Here’s how to minimize that with your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager.
Screen Protectors Designed for Eye Comfort
While most screen protectors are primarily for protection, some offer anti-glare or blue light filtering properties. These can make a noticeable difference during long reading sessions.
- Matte Finish: Anti-glare screen protectors have a matte surface that diffuses light, reducing reflections and making the screen easier to read in bright conditions.
- Blue Light Filters: These protectors can help reduce the amount of blue light emitted by the screen, which some studies suggest can interfere with sleep patterns and cause eye strain. For more on blue light, check out this American Academy of Ophthalmology resource.
Finding a specific eye-comfort screen protector for the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager might require some searching, but generic 7-inch tablet screen protectors with a ‘matte’ or ‘anti-blue light’ description should work. Always check dimensions.
Adjusting Tablet Brightness and Night Mode
This is a free and easy fix built right into your tablet!
- Lower Brightness: In well-lit rooms, the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager’s brightness can often be turned down significantly without affecting readability. This not only saves battery but also reduces eye strain.
- Use Night Mode/Blue Light Filter: Most Android devices, including the Voyager, have a built-in ‘Night Light’ or ‘Blue Light Filter’ feature. This warms up the screen color, making it easier on the eyes, especially in the evening. You can usually find this in your tablet’s Display settings. Some reading apps also have their own dark mode or warm color options.
Reading in Optimal Lighting
The tablet is only part of the equation. Your environment matters too!
- Avoid Direct Glare: Position yourself so that bright lights or windows aren’t directly reflecting off your screen.
- Sufficient Ambient Light: While a dark room with a bright screen is bad for your eyes, so is trying to read in very dim light. Aim for comfortable, diffused lighting. A bedside lamp with a warm bulb is often ideal for evening reading.
4. Powering Your Reading: Battery Life Boosters
Nothing kills a reading session faster than a dead battery. Here’s how to keep your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager powered up.
Portable Power Banks
A portable power bank is your best friend for extended reading sessions away from an outlet. They come in various capacities, allowing you to recharge your tablet multiple times.
- Capacity (mAh): Higher mAh means more charges. For a 7-inch tablet, a 5,000 mAh to 10,000 mAh power bank is usually sufficient for several full charges.
- Portability: Choose one that’s compact enough to fit in your bag easily.
- Fast Charging: If your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager supports it (check your device’s specifications if possible), a power bank with fast-charging capabilities can top up your battery quicker.
Reputable brands like Anker, RAVPower, and Aukey offer reliable portable chargers. For general advice on electronics and batteries, the U.S. Department of Energy has useful information on energy-efficient electronics.
Keeping Your Charger Handy
It sounds simple, but having your original charger and cable readily available at your favorite reading spots (bedside table, armchair) ensures you can plug in whenever needed.
- Genuine Chargers: Always try to use the charger that came with your tablet or a reputable replacement to ensure safe and efficient charging.
- Cable Quality: A durable, good-quality USB cable can prevent charging issues and last longer.
5. Enhancing the Audio Experience (for Audiobooks and More)
If you enjoy audiobooks or ever want to listen to podcasts while reading, the built-in speakers on budget tablets can sometimes be a bit weak.
Bluetooth Headphones or Earbuds
Wireless earbuds or headphones offer the best convenience and sound quality. They allow you to immerse yourself in audio without being tethered by wires.
- Comfort: Choose earbuds or headphones that are comfortable for long wear.
- Sound Quality: Even budget-friendly options can offer decent sound. Read reviews to find good value.
- Battery Life: Ensure the headphones have enough battery life to match your reading sessions.
Brands like Anker Soundcore, JLab, and Skullcandy offer great affordable wireless audio options. For an overview of Bluetooth speaker technology, you can check out resources from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) outlining wireless communication standards.
Compact Bluetooth Speaker
If you prefer not to wear headphones, a small, portable Bluetooth speaker can also be a good option for sharing audio in a quiet room.
- Size and Weight: Look for something small and light enough to place on a table nearby.
- Sound Clarity: Focus on clear audio rather than booming bass for spoken word content.
6. Storage Solutions: More Room for Your Library
While the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager likely has limited internal storage, you might be able to expand it.
MicroSD Cards
Many RCA tablets, including potentially the 7 Voyager, feature a microSD card slot. This is a fantastic way to increase your storage capacity for downloads—especially e-books, audiobooks, and offline articles.
- Capacity: Check your tablet’s specifications to see the maximum supported microSD card size (e.g., 32GB, 64GB, 128GB).
- Speed Class: For faster loading of apps and files, opt for cards with higher speed classes (e.g., Class 10, U1, U3).
Reliable brands include SanDisk, Samsung, and Kingston. Always buy from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit cards.
Quick Comparison: Everyday Reading vs. Enhanced Reading
Let’s put it all together. What’s the difference between just using the tablet as-is and using it with these essential accessories?
| Feature | Standard RCA Tablet 7 Voyager Reading | Enhanced RCA Tablet 7 Voyager Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Holding the tablet, potential hand fatigue. | Hands-free reading with stands/grips, reduced strain. |
| Eye Strain | Possible glare, direct light discomfort. | Reduced glare with matte screen protector, adjustable brightness/night mode, better ambient light. |
| Battery Life | Limited by internal battery, requires frequent charging. | Extended reading sessions with power banks. |
| Audio Experience | Basic, potentially weak built-in speakers. | Immersive sound with Bluetooth headphones/speakers. |
| Storage | Limited by internal storage. | Expanded storage for larger libraries via microSD. |
| Overall Enjoyment | Functional, but can be less enjoyable for long periods. | Significantly more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. |
Setting Up Your Reading Nook with the Voyager
Creating a dedicated reading space can really amplify the benefits of your RCA Tablet 7 Voyager and its accessories.
Choose a Comfortable Spot: Find a place where you can recline or sit comfortably without distractions. This could be an armchair, your bed, or even a cozy corner.
Optimize Lighting: As mentioned, good lighting is crucial. A good reading lamp that can be adjusted is ideal.
Keep Essentials Nearby: Have your charger, power bank, or any drinks within easy reach.
Minimize Distractions: Turn off unnecessary notifications on your tablet using “Do Not Disturb” mode. Close apps you aren’t using for reading.
A Note on Tablet Health and Longevity
While the RCA Tablet 7 Voyager is an affordable device, taking care of it ensures it lasts longer.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your tablet in a hot car or direct sunlight for extended periods.
Handle with Care: Even with a case, try to avoid dropping it.
Keep it Clean: Wipe the screen and body regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Software Updates: When prompted, install software updates. They often include performance improvements and security patches. For general tech maintenance tips, resources like those gathered by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) can be very helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
* Q1: Can I use my RCA Tablet 7 Voyager for reading textbooks for school?
A1: The RCA Tablet 7 Voyager can work for lighter textbook reading, especially if the PDFs or e-books are not too complex. For heavy academic use with demanding features, a tablet with a more powerful processor and higher-resolution screen might be better
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