(no subject)

[the_rck]

I want to thank everyone who took time to comment on my post about e-readers. I learned a great deal and have a lot firmer footing as I consider whether or not to get one and which to get if I do get one. I may still respond to individual comments, but I'm feeling overwhelmed right now (There's so much useful information! I don't even know what questions to ask!). I did conclude that everybody who has an e-reader likes having one, so I'm more inclined toward buying one.

Comments

[kyrielle]

I didn't respond because I only use the Kindle app on my iPhone. I like that okay, but I prefer a real book. Looking at a friend's actual Kindle, and at actual Nooks - I didn't like the look/feel and didn't want to use them, so I didn't get one. They're too big: I'd not carry them with my all the time as I do my phone. And they're not pleasant-feeling and book-like to me.

Which is to say there may be confirmation bias, in that people that don't like them may not get them after checking them out.

[ceara.livejournal.com]

That's entirely possible, but I would point out that I didn't really want my Kindle until about a week after I got it for Christmas, at which point I realized it was much easier to hold/read/carry than at least half of the books I read (given that it is not unusual for them to weigh multiple pounds), plus also friendlier for eyestrain reasons than any book I've ever seen. I thought it would just be useful for going-out-of-town purposes in terms of lessened packing bulk, but it turns out it's actually pretty nifty in its own right.

I'm certain e-readers aren't for everyone, but my personal experience suggests they may be for more people than think they want them.

[the_rck]

I'm still nervous about getting an e-reader. It might be great, or it might end up being something I ignore. I can't predict. Maybe Scott or Delia could use it if I don't. ::dithers:: Oh, well, I'll decide eventually.

[kyrielle]

I mostly don't carry physical books with me either as they're too big to carry! Only if I'm traveling extensively by plane, really. I love books, but form-wise they're a pain in the behind, as are tablet computers and eReaders: they don't fit in a pocket or my purse (not that I have a small purse, I have too darned many other things that HAVE to be in there to add anything else without going to a backpack, which ain't happening).

And, like I said, I didn't like the look/feel at all. If I did, that might sell it, but...and granted this was a few minutes' exposure to each...I really really did not.

The phone, while smaller on display space, is at least always with me, and so much more likely to be used day-to-day. It's actually not too bad for reading but I know a lot of people who hate the limited display space. That doesn't bother me, except when reading one VERY badly converted technical book where sidebars simply displayed their upper left corner. Ugh. :P

[the_rck]

Good to know. Thanks!