Can’t Decide? eBook Readers vs. Reading Apps

In today’s rapidly changing world, eBook readers and reading apps have become convenient means of reading digital content. Harnessing the power wireless connectivity, they have turned learning into an efficient and engaging activity.

In essence, they both cater to the same purpose of facilitating screen-based reading. However, they are not the same thing and come with distinct features. For instance, digital textbook platforms like KITABOO provide online eBook readers that optimize readability and enable the sharing of eBooks among authorized users.

So, how do you select between an eBook reader and a reading app? First, you must dig deeper and understand their differences. This blog reveals the differences between eBook readers and reading apps to help you make an informed decision. 

Let’s get into the details.

Table of Contents

I. eBook Readers and Reading Apps: A Brief Introduction

II. eBook Readers vs. Reading Apps: Which One to Select?

1. Reading Device
2. Display Screen
3. Power Usage
4. Cost-Effectiveness
5. Functionality

IV. Conclusion

Technology has revolutionized the e-reading industry. According to market data, the world will have 1.2 billion eBook readers by 2029. The primary drivers for this growth include the increasing adoption of eBook readers and reading apps.

Let’s take a look at both these reading mediums.

An eBook reader, also known as an eReader, is a portable electronic device that enables you to read digital books. It functions on wireless connectivity and is solely designed to facilitate reading.

One of the main advantages of eBooks is portability. You can carry thousands of them in a single eReader. They consume minimal power and can operate for several hours at a stretch.

Most eBook readers depend on e-ink technology for their displays. This often results in black-and-white displays. While it is possible to opt for a color version of the e-ink, low-resolution black-and-white displays are more common.  

Reading apps refer to software applications that help to make your reading process hassle-free and more comfortable. They are designed for smartphones and tablets. These days, almost everyone uses a mobile phone or a tablet. A reading app allows you to access and read content right from your device.

Some online eBook readers even allow you to purchase eBooks straight from your reading app, optimizing the process of acquiring and reading eBooks. A reading app can be used to read eBooks, online newspapers, magazines, and other digital content.

Such apps offer a wide variety of features, including bookmarking, adjusting font sizes, offline reading, and more.

People read for two basic purposes: learning or leisure. In both cases, eReader devices and reading apps can open up a world of possibilities.

Let’s take a look at some of the shared benefits offered by these two reading mediums:

1. Accessibility: eBook readers and reading apps offer easy accessibility to digital books. They enable you to download, organize, and read your eBooks at your convenience.
2. Storage: With these reading mediums, you no longer have to worry about storage issues. You can carry around your whole library on your eReader device or smartphone.
3. Customization: When you use an eBook reader or a reading app, it’s easy to customize eBooks for an enhanced reading experience. For instance, you can change the text color, font size, background, line spacing, etc.

Given their common advantages, eBook readers and reading apps may come across as similar mediums for reading digital books. However, they have certain differences. Being aware of them will help you to make an informed choice.

An eBook reader is a dedicated device for reading eBooks. It is equipped with a built-in display screen that has been optimized for extended reading hours.

A reading app is a software application that allows you to access and read eBooks on a wide variety of devices. Such devices can include smartphones, tablets, iPads, etc.

The display of an eBook reader resembles the look of paper on ink. The e-ink display seems like you are reading a printed book. Such displays are easy on your eyes and glare-free. They also allow you to read your eBooks in full daylight.

However, reading under direct sunlight may not be so easy when you use a reading app. This is due to the LCD of your phone or tablet.

Another point is that the black and white display used in most eReader devices is ideal for books and newspapers. But if you have to read magazines, the colorful screens of smartphones and tablets may be a better trade-off. 

The low power usage of eBook readers lends them a long battery life. Once you charge your reader, you can enjoy uninterrupted reading for several weeks.

Sadly, the same can’t be said about your smartphone or tablet. This means your reading app won’t allow you such extended battery life.

eBook readers often come with a hefty price tag. Of course, you can find inexpensive models. However, they may not last long. So, you may have to invest in a more expensive model to enjoy a smooth reading experience.

A reading app may cost you almost nothing compared to it. You can download the app on your existing phone or tablet and start using it.

eReader devices are a great choice for reading eBooks. Beyond this aspect, their functionality is limited.

With reading apps, you may accomplish a lot more. For instance, some reading apps these days are integrated with social features. They allow you to share your reviews, recommendations, and reading progress with other users.

Some reading apps also incorporate interactive features and multimedia content to elevate the reading experience.

eBook readers and reading apps have redefined reading by ensuring easy accessibility, portability, and convenience for users. When you have to select between an eBook reader and a reading app, you need to consider two essential aspects. The first thing is whether you want a dedicated device for reading books or not. The second thing is the budget you can afford to invest for this purpose.

If you are looking for a reading solution without having to invest in the hardware, a reading app will be an ideal choice. If you are looking for such an app, you can consider KITABOO. It’s a digital textbook platform that offers an efficient online reading app.

To know more, contact us today!