eBooks have become a staple for many readers, but nothing quite beats the nostalgic feel of a book. The different methods of reading have come to a head in recent years, with eBooks vs physical books becoming a never-ending debate. What are all the differences? And which is best for you? Let’s find out!
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Convenience vs tactile pleasure
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The biggest difference between eBooks and physical books has to be the convenience of digital books. You can lug as many books as possible out into the world without breaking your back. Even better, you can read during night-time load shedding!
Plus, we can’t ignore the ability to go from one book to the next in an instant – which makes binging a book series much more delightful!
While my Kindle has become an extended part of my being, nothing quite feels the same as a physical book. Nothing brings me joy quite like cracking open a book, flipping through the pages and letting the smell of old books lull me to sleep.
The battle of storage and accessibility
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The digital realm celebrates the minimalistic approach, advocating for the space-saving allure of eBooks. I can take as many books as I want when I go on holiday, or when I feel like working in a coffee shop, and to be fair, it feels a little less awkward reading an eBook in public (but that’s just me).
However, when I’m finished with an eBook, I don’t necessarily feel the same satisfaction as I do when I complete a physical book. I can snap the covers shut, and carefully slide it onto my bookshelf like a trophy.
Speaking of bookshelves, nothing looks as good as a full bookshelf, with stacks and stacks of books!
Sometimes, eBooks are cheaper.
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Now, don’t get me wrong, I love collecting books and placing them on my bookshelves. But we can’t ignore the reality that physical books have gotten on the pricey side. eBooks are a couple hundred rand cheaper these days, and there are a few subscription services available that allow access to books for a discounted rate!
Yes, if you want an e-reader, you’ll need to spend the upfront cost. But you’ll make that money back with all the affordable and cheap books you’ll be reading! (#GirlMath).
A coexistence of preferences
Yes, you might want to find the answer to the eBooks vs physical books debate, but neither is superior to the other. It’s all up to you and the kind of reader you are. I am both. I adore my Kindle, but I can’t help collecting the physical copies of the books that I loved reading.
That way, I can experience all the benefits of having the physical and digital copies!
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Featured image: Pexels
