If you were to ask me, I’d give you the age-old spiel about how books are always better than their movie counterparts. Further than this, I’d tell you how I think traditional books are better than e-books. Nothing compares to the feeling of holding the books in your hands, of watching your books age with you, of the smell of ink on paper and bookstores.
Nevertheless, I am a reader and I’ll read a novel in any form, meaning I’ve tried all methods. I can confidently say that there are pros and cons to each, and it’s not easy to choose which you prefer.
| E-Books | Traditional Books | ||
| Pros | Cons | Pros | Cons |
| 1. Easier to travel with
2. Travel with multiple books 3. Eco-Friendly 4. Cheaper (sometimes free!) 5. Customizable |
1. Not every book has an e-book copy
2. The light from the screen can cause eye-strain (though e-reader companies have made efforts to minimize this) 3. Batteries die
|
1. The feel of the paper in your hands
2. Little to no eye strain 3. More resilient – slight water damage won’t damage a book like it might a device 4. Second-hand books are quite cheap 5. Books in general are available widely |
1. Not easily portable
2. Take up space to store 3. You need a light to read 4. Books deteriorate 5. Not eco-friendly |
I have a huge problem choosing between e-books and regular books. On one hand, I care greatly for the environment. On the other, I’m very sentimental and absolutely love the feelings associated with reading an actual book.
Ultimately, I don’t think it matters how you read, as long as you read.
