Kindle vs Books - Which one should you choose?

Kindle has revolutionised reading in unique ways. Millions of users vouch for the advantages that come with a Kindle and why every reader needs to own one. Keeping the price factor out of the equation, many readers are hesitant to switch to e-books for the fear of losing the pleasure of reading.

If you are an avid reader and are wondering if a Kindle is worth it - I went through this dilemma for four years, and here is an honest review of Kindle Paperwhite vs an actual book.

Where does a Kindle Win?

Portability: Undoubtedly, Kindle wins hands down! 

I am someone who always budgeted space for books in my backpack. Occasionally, on long flights, it would mean a hardbound, heavy book stuffed in a way that my bag's zipper appears as if it'd give up on me any minute. Kindle is a true savior on this front.

Also, if you are someone who shifts houses frequently, Kindle saves a lot of time that would otherwise be spent on packing and caring for those precious books.

Space and Maintenance: If space is a constraint or you do not have the luxury of owning and maintaining a home library, Kindle is for you. Collect as many e-books as you need, delete the ones you don't like anymore and the best part - you don't have to dust any shelves or cover any of your valuable books from damage.

Bedtime Reading: Backlight that is not too harsh on the eyes is one of the best Kindle features. It offers the privilege of reading late night without annoying roommates or co-passengers.

How many times have you dozed off on your book with the lights on? Or, (if you do not have a reading lamp), looked at the switchboard longingly, hoping someone would turn off the lights for you? Well, Kindle saves you the trouble.

E-book Collection: With Kindle, you are spoilt for choice. Name a book and you can buy it from Amazon within seconds. No more long waits for the book to get delivered home or for the next bookstore visit. 

"Mail to your account" feature makes it very straightforward to load books into Kindle from other devices. From your laptop/phone that has your e-book, you can now email to a specific address. As long as your Kindle stays connected to the internet, your book gets auto-downloaded. No more rummaging for cables to load a book!

Inbuilt Dictionary: Many of us read to improve our vocabulary. Or at least we believe we do. In reality, every time we come across an unfamiliar word while reading, we promise to look up the word at the end of the chapter (or sometimes the book). A promise that is never kept.

With Kindle, a single long-press on a word pops up its meaning and elaborate usage. Thanks to the inbuilt dictionary, no more procrastination.

Where does a Book Win?

Experience: With books, each one leaves you with a unique experience. The experience is defined not just by the book's contents, but also by the cover, the pages and the smell of the book. It is a complete package that leaves you thrilled. With a Kindle, every book is the same. No fresh smell from a new book or no margin scribbles/dog ears (gross!) in a borrowed one. 

I certainly miss this the most.

Comfort: After a long day in front of a laptop or mobile screen, a book is refreshing to the eyes. It gives the feeling of "switching off" from the day and drifting to another universe. The comfort a book offers is unparalleled. A Kindle, though subtly designed to mimic an actual paper, is another screen with digital print at the end of the day.

Socialising: Most of the interesting conversations that I have had to date with strangers revolve around books. It begins with spotting an actual book in hand. Not a Kindle.

Books open up a common topic to discuss and allow readers to connect easily. Walking in a bookstore and receiving voluntary suggestions from other readers is something that I enjoy. 

Worth the Wait: Often, with actual books, the logistics of buying/borrowing can make the reader wait for it impatiently. When the book arrives, the excitement to read it right away forms an integral part of the whole reading experience. I still remember how I waited until late on the day Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows got released. It gets etched as fond memories when you recollect the reading experience.

Verdict

After debating for 4 long years, I decided to get a Kindle. I enjoy the benefits that come with it. Kindle has, for sure, won as my irreplaceable companion during travels.

Having said that, there are days when I long for an actual book. I still stock hardbound books and read them when at home. I believe it is my way of staying loyal to books.

While it is one's own choice, the factors mentioned in this post will hopefully help you make an informed decision.

Happy Reading!😁