Worth It to Get an eBook reader?

Use this forum to talk about ebooks and ebook readers. Whether you have an ebook reader, are considering getting one or never plan on getting one and want to talk about why you think traditional books are better, use this forum for anything to do with ebooks or ereaders.
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Natalie Frank
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Worth It to Get an eBook reader?

Post by Natalie Frank »

Hi All. I am looking for advice on whether getting an eBook reader at this point is worth it. I read things fine on my phone, but would like a bigger screen when reading for a long time. My laptop is fine at home but it's too big to shlep out to the beach or wherever I want to sit and read a book. Now that eBook readers are so cheap, I'm just wondering if it's worth it to invest in one or whether I'd be better putting my money towards a regular tablet since there are now apps for Kindle and a tablet can do so much more. I have seen a bunch of Fires on sale but have no idea what one would get me over a tablet other than cost. Advice appreciated.
Erika Kay
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Post by Erika Kay »

I say yes. I purchased my kindle back in 2016 or so and it has been great. I toggle between reading physical, audio, and e-books, but I LOVE my e-reader. It is super light weight, holds a charge well, and doesn't hurt my eyes.

I've never enjoyed reading on my phone because it hurts my eyes, the screen is too bright or dims easily, and I get distracted. Using an e-reader actually feels like reading a book. The biggest perk for me is that when I go on a trip, I can load up however many books I want, and they fit in my purse ❤🙌
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Lizzie Mustard
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Post by Lizzie Mustard »

I say no. I have a laptop and a smartphone. Amazon has a free kindle app for the phone and a different one (from their website not your usual app store) for the laptop. So if you have either of these devices, there is no need to purchase a stand-alone kindle.
Nele Ma
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Post by Nele Ma »

Absolutely! It's been incredibly helpful for me these past years for several reasons. Firstly, ebook readers are lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry your entire library with you. Secondly, they often have adjustable fonts and built-in lighting, making reading comfortable in any environment. Additionally, ebook readers often offer access to a vast library of books instantly, saving both time and money. Lastly, they're eco-friendly, reducing the need for physical books. So, yes, investing in an ebook reader is definitely worth it!
Ika Apo
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Post by Ika Apo »

I think it is definitely worth it, as it reduced costs of books and they are easier to carry. They can fit almost as many books as you want them to.
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Patience Reign
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Post by Patience Reign »

Ooh yes! It is totally worthy to get an ebook reader because you can download any book free or paid option and just read anywhere
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echoesofmj
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Post by echoesofmj »

I think it's kind of worth it, depending on how much you plan on reading. Personally, I have an iPad mini that I love the size but when I read too much on it, it strains my eyes. This doesn't happen on my e-reader because it has an e-ink display. For me, it was worth it as I'm a pretty avid reader and I could pack a lot more books whenever I went on vacation!
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AsterAlder
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Post by AsterAlder »

I feel like it is worth it to get an ereader that is waterproof. That way you can read while poolside. Other than that, I usually end up reading on my phone even though I have a great little e-reader. I tend to read on my e-reader when it is with me, but I read on the go most of the time, in which case my phone is more convenient/with me already.

I think maybe evaluate when and where you will be reading and decide based on that.
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FelinaAlpuertoPittman2859+
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Post by FelinaAlpuertoPittman2859+ »

It is a very good idea to purchase an E-book reader. Some of the young, contemporary writers often publish their first literary work as an electronic book and then later on as a hardcopy or paperback. So the trend is going digital for upcoming/new authors. It also very convenient and more economical in the long run since you can buy the e-books faster online than going physically to a bookstore. There is also a matter of storage and space. You can store more books in a KINDLE and it can function like an automated library, thus giving you more precious space in your living area for other important stuff.
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Kat D 1
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Post by Kat D 1 »

Yes, I think it’s worth purchasing an ebook reader if you read ebooks. I love the convenience of having all of my ebooks and audiobooks in one easy to carry place. Most ebook readers can easily fit in a purse or lightweight bag but not all laptops can. Plus you have to bring your laptop charger. And reading on your phone, if you read frequently, drains your battery.
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Wiggy Marie
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Post by Wiggy Marie »

I say yes, but with the caveat that you should borrow one from a friend, library (depends on the branch if they'll have them), or even just check one out in a Best Buy if there's one nearby to see how you like the e-ink display. For me, this is much easier on my eyes than any other type of screen, and it's my preferred way to read books now. One of the biggest benefits is you can customize font size and type, plus you'd be able to adjust the backlight and warmth to see what settings are best for your eyes.
Garret Lindemuth
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Post by Garret Lindemuth »

I enjoy my Ereader because I can borrow from libraries using their ebook library and also get books from Amazon and Barnes and Noble easily. Also I know from me personally I can get pretty distracted on my phone so having a dedicated e reader means the phone or computer get put to the side and I can just read. Has helped me disconnect while reading versus trying to read while having text, calls, and work staring back at me.
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