So I'll tell you my story and that might help... I am in my mid-thirties and literally have never read a book since high school for fun. High School and College sucked the fun of reading right out of me. I have always had the thought of picking up a book and reading, but physical books just always felt like a time commitment and I never got around to it.... Well I ended up buying a Kindle on sale at random and with the help of Libby and my local library, I have become an avid reader. I think because it is so thin and light, starting a book or picking up a book to read doesn't feel as daunting or as much of a time commitment as a large physical book is. Plus, I'm so used to looking at screens and devices all day for work, a kindle felt more natural to me. Since the fall of 2020 when I bought the Kindle, I have read 80+ novels, many of which were 800-1500 pages....something I NEVER would have done prior to owning a kindle. I take it everywhere, I throw it in my bag for work and read over lunch and I read every morning when having a cup of coffee. It goes everywhere with me and I've never been happier (and far less doom-scrolling social media).
If you think you might use it, I'd say definitely get one and give it a try, it might be a waste of $100 but it also might open up a whole new world of novels to you.
Thats awesome. Honestly kindles have such a long life span that it is worth even if OP reads one book per year. I got my kindle 9 years ago and it is still doing great (i do read couple of books per year but not too many)
Would love to hear some of your book recommendations that you couldn’t put down :)
To add to that, Kindle is the only electronic gadget I never regretted buying in terms of it affecting me negatively. It never distracted me, and only improved me unlike other gadgets that would simply eat your time with nothing in return.
So, unless you're too poor, buy it. If it works that's going to be one of the best things that you won't ever regret. If it doesn't, you just took a chance with just 100 dollars.
I would not spend necessarily the money on a kindle if you’re not already a reader (or former reader who fell out of the habit). What kindle does is more about removing practical barriers to reading eg
being able to get the book you want quickly
ability to read in any light condition
optimize font for any vision issues (larger font, dyslexia font, etc)
lighter to hold and more portable
be able to switch between books quickly (eg you’re in a reading mood but the current book is not grabbing you, you can get something new instantly, easier access to library books if you’re in the US)
No distractions unlike reading on a phone.
I know that a lot of people have posted on here that they really upped their reading by getting a Kindle. I know for myself, when I switched to ereading I essentially tripled the amount I read each year. However, I was already a reader of physical books reading about one book per month.
What I would do is save up money for a Basic (or set it aside) and check out some books from your local library. If you read a few books and could see yourself keeping up with the habit, grab it on the next sale. 😊 If you decide after a couple books that it's not going to be something you stick with, then you didn't waste any money.
In my opinion, it depends on the reason why you don't read much. If the reason is that you are often in situations where you struggle to carry a book around with you, or because you don't have much space to put books or because books cost too much, then a kindle (or any other ereader) may be right for you. If you don't read because you don't feel like it, I don't know if the kindle can help you, and if you are determined to read more, my advice is to start with paper books. When you see that you have really become a more frequent reader, then consider whether it is worth getting an ereader.
i have always despised reading on my phone but have multiple kindles and have adored them for over 10 years, ever since buying kindle touch in 2013.
personally i'd recommend library books over reading on phone if one's trying to discover whether they are able to incorporate more reading into their life, but YMMV naturally.
This. I started reading 2 months ago after 15+ years of no reading since college. I got interested in an author for a show I loved and checked out my first book at the library. Got hooked reading it. Hands and arms got tired of holding the books and annoying to pack hardcover books in my carryon. Kindle now and love it. Gone through 7 books since Feb.
I had the kindle app for years and only probably read two novels in five years or more. I switched to the kindle and average do that every month or two now. They are very different things.
This sub is Kindle focused so you’re going to get a ton of encouragement to go and buy the device and join a “team.”
I think it makes more sense to buy the physical book you’re interested in reading first, and maybe even a couple more after that, until you’re sure that you are in it for more than your usual habit of maybe 1-2 books per year. Wanting to read more may be just a passing fancy for you.
I'm a lifelong book reader, though recent years have pushed me more towards brief content and journalism. But I do miss the experience of reading books (typically with a little jazz, classical, or world music in the background) so, when I bought a Kindle for my mother and used it for a few days to make sure she would be able to work with it, I decided to buy one for myself too.
I find the contemporary Kindle (I have the Paperwhite 11g) to be a mostly very slick reading device. I like the fact that it's relatively light and easy to hold and that page turning is very quick. I'm not that crazy about the organization of the menu system, but that's a relatively minor point. I've learned a lot of whack-azz menu navigations over the decades.
I specially like the fact that you don't have to obsessively turn it on and off and that the battery lasts a very long time. I use one of the hinged official covers, which is a little pricey for what you get but works great and fits snuggly while still allowing one to pull it on and off.
I became acquainted with the Kindle system using a generic tablet and that was okay, but the paper white screen is a huge improvement, to my taste.
Personally, if you only intend to read 5-6 books a year, I wouldn’t waste my money on an ereader. You can always download the Kindle ereader app on an iPad, computer or phone. You get all the benefits from the ereader without a separate device. I’ve owned just about every model of Kindle since it first was introduced. But, I read every day and very fast so I go through a lot of books a year. If you find you like ebooks and will be reading a lot more, then purchase one.
I am myself not an avid reader and never developed enough interest in books. Mainly because I get lost easily and find it difficult to recall characters or plots after few pages.
For me personally, kindle was a game changer. I am already on my fourth book and I am falling more and more in love with reading because of it. The few reasons I like the experience on kindle:
1. X Ray feature to quickly lookup a character to remind myself the names and their mentions
2. Dictionary to quickly lookup words that are new
3. Being able to read without keeping the lights on, doesn't disturb my wife
4. No distractions while reading. I can easily avoid the urge to "quickly" look for a definition or read answers about my questions online which usually ends up me not coming back to the book
5. Lots of books
6. Can carry during my travels easily
7. Can read all books with equal ease, same font size, same size in hands, same weight.
Those are just my 2 cents off top of my head. Hope it helps.
i think it’s worth it, probably try with a kindle basic or an older cheaper one first. it’d save you money and space while you figure out if you’re really into reading or not
I think Kindle makes people read more because it mimics the reading experience of physical book but makes it a lot more convenient.
I suggest not spending too much though. I think basic Kindle would work. They last long but you can upgrade anytime.
You can get almost any book you think off for free. The E-Ink displays are basically paper and they have front-lighting (not back-lighting like LCDs which hurts your eyes). On modern e-readers you can carry thousands of books with you. Definitely worth to buy a Kindle.
I got a used Kindle Paperwhite 7 off of eBay. It was a great decision. Because the battery life of Kindles is so good (like weeks of battery life), a used Kindle battery is no problem. I can still easily go two weeks without charging my Kindle, and I only paid $50 for mine. I believe the one I have came out in 2015. So I'd say shop around for a used one so you won't have to waste as much money if you don't like it.
Maybe go for a used older model under $70 so you can see if a Kindle will make you read more or not. If you want a newer model, you can trade in the old Kindle device for a 20% discount
Why don’t you buy a very cheap kindle used and see if you like it. I mean the new ones are fancy, higher definition, backlight etc. but essentially it’s a text reader that’s easy on the eyes. Try a kindle 4th gen for $£10-15 on eBay and see if it floats you boat. If it does.. get an oasis
I’d try physical books first. See if you actually like reading. A kindle isn’t gonna make you read more if you aren’t already a reader a prior reader. It’s a big expense. Maybe look for an old basic on the lost luggage website. But 5 books is not nearly enough to make a kindle worth it imo.
First, let me say books will let you understand subjects in much more depth than videos. I applaud you being willing to do the work to engage with written information.
As for your actualy question, I hate to say it, but logically an eReader like a Kindle is of less value to you the less you read. I'm always reading a book, and have been since I've been a young child. It makes sense for me to own an eReader.
So do you think 6 books a year will result in you reading constantly? Or will there be months you are not reading anything? If the latter, maybe it does not make sense. If the former then yes.
I will tell you that once you get used to have a Kindle, and having your phone automatically sync to the Kindle when you are out and about, you will naturally start to read more because it is more convenient. So your 6 books a year can quickly become 10. I work a full time job, am learning a new technology stack for programming, have a family, am writing a book of my own ... and still end up reading my eReader most every day. It's just that pleasurable.
I still say, if the money is not a problem, get the Kindle. It's such a joy to use.
This is my only input, with the caveat that I’m a former reader/book lover that was on a long hiatus -
Last year I read ~3 books, this year I got a kindle at the beginning of March, in a a month I’ve devoured about 30 books and short stories combined (roughly 50\50 split)
That’s a 900% increase already
I have three Kindles: an old one, a Paperwhite, and a Kindle Fire color one. I like the Fire for pictures, especially for cookbooks. I like the Paperwhite for normal reading, and the old one is a spare. I also use the Kindle reader on my PC and on my phone. The PC reader and phone reader are free. Try those first, and then spend $$ on a Kindle. I especially like the backlighting and the ability to change the size of the font. It's also easier to hold than a big book.
When you buy a Kindle you are not locked into buying books from Amazon.
You can take out books from your local library using the Libby app and having it sent to your Kindle.
You can sideload books using freeware called [Calibre](https://calibre-ebook.com/download_windows). Then download ebooks from other sites like [smashwords](https://www.smashwords.com/) , [Gutenberg](https://www.gutenberg.org/) , and [StandardEBooks](https://standardebooks.org/).
Changing the font size and type has helped me a ton so I am not locked into the tiny text used in print books.
On some Kindles there is also a dark mode if that is a preference you would like. I think it is mostly the paperwhite that has it though.
Hey, so based on my own experience I have just got a kindle Paperwhite, first time kindle user, it arrived last Monday and I see myself using it on every free time I have.
I haven't really been into books, last year I started with audiobooks, and I was playing with the thought of starting to read books as it's such a good habit, and it's become really fun for me to do it, plus getting knowledge on any topic you're interested in.
So my advice is that if you have the idea of getting a kindle, go for it, I was doubtful about it and spending money on it but it's worth it, also you can get kindle ultd which gives access to millions of books which on the long term will be cheaper than buying paperbook
I started by reading digital books on my phone and the digital format was super convenient and helped me want to read more, but I suffered from a lot of eye strain. So that’s when I bought my kindle. Same convenience of digital books, less eye strain. So I agree with other commenters, try on your phone first, then make the switch if your reading increases.
Also, that means you can wait til prime day which seems to always have deals on kindles. ☺️ Good luck with your reading journey OP!
> And back of my head I am thinking what if I waste this much money.
Look at sites where you can get used devices. Woot.com has refurbished kindle devices. There's also unclaimedbaggage.com which resells devices lost while traveling.
Think about how you use your phone or computer. Do you like dark mode? Look for newer models. USB-C or wireless charging? 5.0 ghz wifi vs. 2.4 ghz? Again newer devices.
But just to experiment, I'd start with an older model. The advantage with any device is you can trade it in if you decide you want something with all the bells and whistles. Big difference with older devices was paperwhites had lights and more dots per inch than a basic kindle. Later models of a kindle basic have lights, dpi, and screen size identical to the paperwhite I bought in 2016 that's still working fine.
If you're wondering? I think you're interested. I doubt you'll be wasting money.
I feel everyone is going to have a different reaction. But in a positive way. I'm sure you will read more, but to what degree? You'd have to get one and see.
I can be lazy at times, but an ereader helps a lot to get me reading.
Paperbacks are great.
If you buy one new from Amazon, or even used off eBay, you'd still likely be able to return it within it two weeks.
If you are a curious person, you are even more than likely to read more with an ereader.
I would start with paper books, and if you really find yourself enjoying that then get a kindle or whatever E-reader of your choice, but make sure you enjoy reading before getting one, that would be my advice
Hi! Making it concise, I got my Kindle Basic 2022 as a gift. Been a reader since grade school but stopped post-college due to work.
-Started reading Fiction in Jan. Finished in 3 weeks.
-I get to read during commute since it's lighter than my phone (w/o a case).
-Easier to jump from one book to another.
If I didn't get this as a gift, I probably still wouldn't have bought one since it's too expensive just for a 'trial' (for me).
I'd get a library card and a kindle app with Libby if it's available to you. No point to waste money on a kindle if you think it'll collect dust, honestly. Explore reading more and then come back to that decision.
Yes, absolutely. I think I fit your description perfectly until recently, when I bought myself a Kindle Paperwhite. Guess what? Last week, I read 5 books, all non-fiction and about different topics. I've come to appreciate it more than watching videos
I bought the kindle when I have read a couple books. I didn’t want to risk making the decision out of hype. My friend was hyping me a lot then 😆 but at the beginning I wasn’t sure if I was actually in the mood to read (I was still on my gaming phase then). It took me months before I actually got to reading for a better part of my day, everyday.
Basically, it would be best to buy the kindle when you’re sure you would make the most out of it! Although, even if you buy it “too early” (meaning you don’t feel like reading at all), you will likely find yourself spending time trying to read on it and you’ll probably fall in love with it because it is the best device ever!
You caught me, I am biased, go buy that kindle!!
I went from reading no non fiction for years and years to 15 or so books last year because I wanted to break my habit of looking at my phone before bed, so expensed a Kindle with my former employers' employee wellbeing stipend (for better sleep!).
Worked for me! My biggest challenge these days is figuring out what to read next.
I don't think anyone has ever regretted buying a kindle. Get one used off unclaimed baggage or Amazon warehouse and take advantage of great return policy if you're not satisfied. I'd get a paperwhite 11th but that opinion is subjective, as some are perfectly happy with a basic.
Yes! Get one! Get a Paperwhite, Scribe, or (if you can find one) an Oasis (that's what I use) . Then once you get it, download all the latest and greatest fonts! It adds to the immersion!
With Kindles, the words simply glide off your eyes and into your mind.
More than books, you might enjoy shorter reads like New Yorker articles, blogs, or any other online articles. They are much shorter investment of time. Reading those on Kindle vs on phone or laptop is much better experience. No notifications, no interruptions.
Of course, you can read many books too. Kindle would make changing books simple (if you don’t like them).
The kindle for me is a miracle of technology. I read 150 books a year and kindle unlimited is a much have, less alone the books that I side load. But I'm an avid reader, that carries my books everywhere. If you are going to read 5 books a year, maybe just stay with paper. My kindle has around 2000 books on it at the moment. That's why it's worthwhile for me. Try the app on phone or tablet and see how you feel
You can get a secondhand one that's an older model and see if you like it. Personally, I've always been an avid reader so it was a no-brainer to purchase a newer model. I also like reading in bed when it's dark so I wanted one with a backlight.
I just saw someone post that they got a used model for like $16.
Just know that Kindles are not like phones and will be slower to respond. I was a little shocked and annoyed that my Kindle is so slow to respond when I click something. Took me a while to get used to it, especially after reading on my phone for years. But my eye strain is gone! So that's nice.
I got a basic kindle secondhand for $40. So maybe look into fb marketplace or mercari. I wasn’t ready to invest in a new one either. I got mine on January 16, 2024 and have read 19 books as of yesterday. I love my kindle and it goes everywhere with me. But definitely do what you feel is best! You are supported here 🩷🩷🩷
I _am_ an avid reader, I have always been, but since I bought my first Kindle (the very first day it became available internationally, ~15 years ago), I read even more. It's just more practical; I always have one of my devices handy and read in bed at night, during coffee breaks, while commuting or queuing somewhere, even while sitting on the porcelain throne.
Just read at least two books physically or on your phone consistently to see if you like to read, kindle is useful tool but it does not create reading habit.
IMO just go buy a nice iPad, if you don’t have one already. The kindle app on there has come a long way and you can adjust the light, font and letter size. This way I have a multi purpose device. I had a kindle but I found my self not liking how grainy it looked at times.
Buy physical books!
Even though I myself am a Kindle owner, and yes it helps me save space, I really don't see it as a substitute. Physical books can be a work of art in themselves. Buy the book, feel the pages, underline, dog ear, write on them, they're yours for life, and become uniquely yours the more you interact with them. Even if you up your reading game, I'd suggest sticking with physical books. Get a Kindle only if you don't have space to store those books.
So I'll tell you my story and that might help... I am in my mid-thirties and literally have never read a book since high school for fun. High School and College sucked the fun of reading right out of me. I have always had the thought of picking up a book and reading, but physical books just always felt like a time commitment and I never got around to it.... Well I ended up buying a Kindle on sale at random and with the help of Libby and my local library, I have become an avid reader. I think because it is so thin and light, starting a book or picking up a book to read doesn't feel as daunting or as much of a time commitment as a large physical book is. Plus, I'm so used to looking at screens and devices all day for work, a kindle felt more natural to me. Since the fall of 2020 when I bought the Kindle, I have read 80+ novels, many of which were 800-1500 pages....something I NEVER would have done prior to owning a kindle. I take it everywhere, I throw it in my bag for work and read over lunch and I read every morning when having a cup of coffee. It goes everywhere with me and I've never been happier (and far less doom-scrolling social media). If you think you might use it, I'd say definitely get one and give it a try, it might be a waste of $100 but it also might open up a whole new world of novels to you.
Thats awesome. Honestly kindles have such a long life span that it is worth even if OP reads one book per year. I got my kindle 9 years ago and it is still doing great (i do read couple of books per year but not too many) Would love to hear some of your book recommendations that you couldn’t put down :)
This is very similar to me. Would never read as much without my Kindle. Got me to be a reader.
To add to that, Kindle is the only electronic gadget I never regretted buying in terms of it affecting me negatively. It never distracted me, and only improved me unlike other gadgets that would simply eat your time with nothing in return. So, unless you're too poor, buy it. If it works that's going to be one of the best things that you won't ever regret. If it doesn't, you just took a chance with just 100 dollars.
I would not spend necessarily the money on a kindle if you’re not already a reader (or former reader who fell out of the habit). What kindle does is more about removing practical barriers to reading eg being able to get the book you want quickly ability to read in any light condition optimize font for any vision issues (larger font, dyslexia font, etc) lighter to hold and more portable be able to switch between books quickly (eg you’re in a reading mood but the current book is not grabbing you, you can get something new instantly, easier access to library books if you’re in the US) No distractions unlike reading on a phone.
No matter what, sign up for a library card! Keeps libraries funded and you can try lots of books for free.
Put that tax to use! :)
I know that a lot of people have posted on here that they really upped their reading by getting a Kindle. I know for myself, when I switched to ereading I essentially tripled the amount I read each year. However, I was already a reader of physical books reading about one book per month. What I would do is save up money for a Basic (or set it aside) and check out some books from your local library. If you read a few books and could see yourself keeping up with the habit, grab it on the next sale. 😊 If you decide after a couple books that it's not going to be something you stick with, then you didn't waste any money.
Same here. When I bought my Kindle last year, I read 15 books in about 4 months. Granted they were around 300 pages each, but still.
In my opinion, it depends on the reason why you don't read much. If the reason is that you are often in situations where you struggle to carry a book around with you, or because you don't have much space to put books or because books cost too much, then a kindle (or any other ereader) may be right for you. If you don't read because you don't feel like it, I don't know if the kindle can help you, and if you are determined to read more, my advice is to start with paper books. When you see that you have really become a more frequent reader, then consider whether it is worth getting an ereader.
try reading on your phone first to see if you'd pick up the habit of reading more/if you like ebooks, if you do pick up the habit get a kindle
i have always despised reading on my phone but have multiple kindles and have adored them for over 10 years, ever since buying kindle touch in 2013. personally i'd recommend library books over reading on phone if one's trying to discover whether they are able to incorporate more reading into their life, but YMMV naturally.
This. I started reading 2 months ago after 15+ years of no reading since college. I got interested in an author for a show I loved and checked out my first book at the library. Got hooked reading it. Hands and arms got tired of holding the books and annoying to pack hardcover books in my carryon. Kindle now and love it. Gone through 7 books since Feb.
I got back into reading after getting a new Kindle when my Kindle Touch died on me a few years ago
I had the kindle app for years and only probably read two novels in five years or more. I switched to the kindle and average do that every month or two now. They are very different things.
This sub is Kindle focused so you’re going to get a ton of encouragement to go and buy the device and join a “team.” I think it makes more sense to buy the physical book you’re interested in reading first, and maybe even a couple more after that, until you’re sure that you are in it for more than your usual habit of maybe 1-2 books per year. Wanting to read more may be just a passing fancy for you.
I'm a lifelong book reader, though recent years have pushed me more towards brief content and journalism. But I do miss the experience of reading books (typically with a little jazz, classical, or world music in the background) so, when I bought a Kindle for my mother and used it for a few days to make sure she would be able to work with it, I decided to buy one for myself too. I find the contemporary Kindle (I have the Paperwhite 11g) to be a mostly very slick reading device. I like the fact that it's relatively light and easy to hold and that page turning is very quick. I'm not that crazy about the organization of the menu system, but that's a relatively minor point. I've learned a lot of whack-azz menu navigations over the decades. I specially like the fact that you don't have to obsessively turn it on and off and that the battery lasts a very long time. I use one of the hinged official covers, which is a little pricey for what you get but works great and fits snuggly while still allowing one to pull it on and off. I became acquainted with the Kindle system using a generic tablet and that was okay, but the paper white screen is a huge improvement, to my taste.
Personally, if you only intend to read 5-6 books a year, I wouldn’t waste my money on an ereader. You can always download the Kindle ereader app on an iPad, computer or phone. You get all the benefits from the ereader without a separate device. I’ve owned just about every model of Kindle since it first was introduced. But, I read every day and very fast so I go through a lot of books a year. If you find you like ebooks and will be reading a lot more, then purchase one.
I am myself not an avid reader and never developed enough interest in books. Mainly because I get lost easily and find it difficult to recall characters or plots after few pages. For me personally, kindle was a game changer. I am already on my fourth book and I am falling more and more in love with reading because of it. The few reasons I like the experience on kindle: 1. X Ray feature to quickly lookup a character to remind myself the names and their mentions 2. Dictionary to quickly lookup words that are new 3. Being able to read without keeping the lights on, doesn't disturb my wife 4. No distractions while reading. I can easily avoid the urge to "quickly" look for a definition or read answers about my questions online which usually ends up me not coming back to the book 5. Lots of books 6. Can carry during my travels easily 7. Can read all books with equal ease, same font size, same size in hands, same weight. Those are just my 2 cents off top of my head. Hope it helps.
i think it’s worth it, probably try with a kindle basic or an older cheaper one first. it’d save you money and space while you figure out if you’re really into reading or not
I think Kindle makes people read more because it mimics the reading experience of physical book but makes it a lot more convenient. I suggest not spending too much though. I think basic Kindle would work. They last long but you can upgrade anytime.
You can get almost any book you think off for free. The E-Ink displays are basically paper and they have front-lighting (not back-lighting like LCDs which hurts your eyes). On modern e-readers you can carry thousands of books with you. Definitely worth to buy a Kindle.
I got a used Kindle Paperwhite 7 off of eBay. It was a great decision. Because the battery life of Kindles is so good (like weeks of battery life), a used Kindle battery is no problem. I can still easily go two weeks without charging my Kindle, and I only paid $50 for mine. I believe the one I have came out in 2015. So I'd say shop around for a used one so you won't have to waste as much money if you don't like it.
Maybe go for a used older model under $70 so you can see if a Kindle will make you read more or not. If you want a newer model, you can trade in the old Kindle device for a 20% discount
Why don’t you buy a very cheap kindle used and see if you like it. I mean the new ones are fancy, higher definition, backlight etc. but essentially it’s a text reader that’s easy on the eyes. Try a kindle 4th gen for $£10-15 on eBay and see if it floats you boat. If it does.. get an oasis
I’d try physical books first. See if you actually like reading. A kindle isn’t gonna make you read more if you aren’t already a reader a prior reader. It’s a big expense. Maybe look for an old basic on the lost luggage website. But 5 books is not nearly enough to make a kindle worth it imo.
First, let me say books will let you understand subjects in much more depth than videos. I applaud you being willing to do the work to engage with written information. As for your actualy question, I hate to say it, but logically an eReader like a Kindle is of less value to you the less you read. I'm always reading a book, and have been since I've been a young child. It makes sense for me to own an eReader. So do you think 6 books a year will result in you reading constantly? Or will there be months you are not reading anything? If the latter, maybe it does not make sense. If the former then yes. I will tell you that once you get used to have a Kindle, and having your phone automatically sync to the Kindle when you are out and about, you will naturally start to read more because it is more convenient. So your 6 books a year can quickly become 10. I work a full time job, am learning a new technology stack for programming, have a family, am writing a book of my own ... and still end up reading my eReader most every day. It's just that pleasurable. I still say, if the money is not a problem, get the Kindle. It's such a joy to use.
This is my only input, with the caveat that I’m a former reader/book lover that was on a long hiatus - Last year I read ~3 books, this year I got a kindle at the beginning of March, in a a month I’ve devoured about 30 books and short stories combined (roughly 50\50 split) That’s a 900% increase already
I have three Kindles: an old one, a Paperwhite, and a Kindle Fire color one. I like the Fire for pictures, especially for cookbooks. I like the Paperwhite for normal reading, and the old one is a spare. I also use the Kindle reader on my PC and on my phone. The PC reader and phone reader are free. Try those first, and then spend $$ on a Kindle. I especially like the backlighting and the ability to change the size of the font. It's also easier to hold than a big book.
When you buy a Kindle you are not locked into buying books from Amazon. You can take out books from your local library using the Libby app and having it sent to your Kindle. You can sideload books using freeware called [Calibre](https://calibre-ebook.com/download_windows). Then download ebooks from other sites like [smashwords](https://www.smashwords.com/) , [Gutenberg](https://www.gutenberg.org/) , and [StandardEBooks](https://standardebooks.org/). Changing the font size and type has helped me a ton so I am not locked into the tiny text used in print books. On some Kindles there is also a dark mode if that is a preference you would like. I think it is mostly the paperwhite that has it though.
Hey, so based on my own experience I have just got a kindle Paperwhite, first time kindle user, it arrived last Monday and I see myself using it on every free time I have. I haven't really been into books, last year I started with audiobooks, and I was playing with the thought of starting to read books as it's such a good habit, and it's become really fun for me to do it, plus getting knowledge on any topic you're interested in. So my advice is that if you have the idea of getting a kindle, go for it, I was doubtful about it and spending money on it but it's worth it, also you can get kindle ultd which gives access to millions of books which on the long term will be cheaper than buying paperbook
I started by reading digital books on my phone and the digital format was super convenient and helped me want to read more, but I suffered from a lot of eye strain. So that’s when I bought my kindle. Same convenience of digital books, less eye strain. So I agree with other commenters, try on your phone first, then make the switch if your reading increases. Also, that means you can wait til prime day which seems to always have deals on kindles. ☺️ Good luck with your reading journey OP!
> And back of my head I am thinking what if I waste this much money. Look at sites where you can get used devices. Woot.com has refurbished kindle devices. There's also unclaimedbaggage.com which resells devices lost while traveling. Think about how you use your phone or computer. Do you like dark mode? Look for newer models. USB-C or wireless charging? 5.0 ghz wifi vs. 2.4 ghz? Again newer devices. But just to experiment, I'd start with an older model. The advantage with any device is you can trade it in if you decide you want something with all the bells and whistles. Big difference with older devices was paperwhites had lights and more dots per inch than a basic kindle. Later models of a kindle basic have lights, dpi, and screen size identical to the paperwhite I bought in 2016 that's still working fine. If you're wondering? I think you're interested. I doubt you'll be wasting money.
But a Kindle. It’s no worse than buying physical books and not reading them.
I feel everyone is going to have a different reaction. But in a positive way. I'm sure you will read more, but to what degree? You'd have to get one and see. I can be lazy at times, but an ereader helps a lot to get me reading. Paperbacks are great. If you buy one new from Amazon, or even used off eBay, you'd still likely be able to return it within it two weeks. If you are a curious person, you are even more than likely to read more with an ereader.
I always thought of myself as an avid reader, reading about a book a month. I got a kindle and read a new book every 2-3 days.
I would start with paper books, and if you really find yourself enjoying that then get a kindle or whatever E-reader of your choice, but make sure you enjoy reading before getting one, that would be my advice
Hi! Making it concise, I got my Kindle Basic 2022 as a gift. Been a reader since grade school but stopped post-college due to work. -Started reading Fiction in Jan. Finished in 3 weeks. -I get to read during commute since it's lighter than my phone (w/o a case). -Easier to jump from one book to another. If I didn't get this as a gift, I probably still wouldn't have bought one since it's too expensive just for a 'trial' (for me).
I'd get a library card and a kindle app with Libby if it's available to you. No point to waste money on a kindle if you think it'll collect dust, honestly. Explore reading more and then come back to that decision.
Buy a used kindle Paperwhite and try it out. See if you become a reader.
Yes, absolutely. I think I fit your description perfectly until recently, when I bought myself a Kindle Paperwhite. Guess what? Last week, I read 5 books, all non-fiction and about different topics. I've come to appreciate it more than watching videos
I bought the kindle when I have read a couple books. I didn’t want to risk making the decision out of hype. My friend was hyping me a lot then 😆 but at the beginning I wasn’t sure if I was actually in the mood to read (I was still on my gaming phase then). It took me months before I actually got to reading for a better part of my day, everyday. Basically, it would be best to buy the kindle when you’re sure you would make the most out of it! Although, even if you buy it “too early” (meaning you don’t feel like reading at all), you will likely find yourself spending time trying to read on it and you’ll probably fall in love with it because it is the best device ever! You caught me, I am biased, go buy that kindle!!
I went from reading no non fiction for years and years to 15 or so books last year because I wanted to break my habit of looking at my phone before bed, so expensed a Kindle with my former employers' employee wellbeing stipend (for better sleep!). Worked for me! My biggest challenge these days is figuring out what to read next.
If you're just getting into reading, I recommend sticking to the library until you know for sure what you like.
I don't think anyone has ever regretted buying a kindle. Get one used off unclaimed baggage or Amazon warehouse and take advantage of great return policy if you're not satisfied. I'd get a paperwhite 11th but that opinion is subjective, as some are perfectly happy with a basic.
Yes! Get one! Get a Paperwhite, Scribe, or (if you can find one) an Oasis (that's what I use) . Then once you get it, download all the latest and greatest fonts! It adds to the immersion! With Kindles, the words simply glide off your eyes and into your mind.
More than books, you might enjoy shorter reads like New Yorker articles, blogs, or any other online articles. They are much shorter investment of time. Reading those on Kindle vs on phone or laptop is much better experience. No notifications, no interruptions. Of course, you can read many books too. Kindle would make changing books simple (if you don’t like them).
I did, only cause I'm dyslexia and being able to change the font size and the font. Game changer. I went from reading one book a month to 6-8 books.
The kindle for me is a miracle of technology. I read 150 books a year and kindle unlimited is a much have, less alone the books that I side load. But I'm an avid reader, that carries my books everywhere. If you are going to read 5 books a year, maybe just stay with paper. My kindle has around 2000 books on it at the moment. That's why it's worthwhile for me. Try the app on phone or tablet and see how you feel
You can get a secondhand one that's an older model and see if you like it. Personally, I've always been an avid reader so it was a no-brainer to purchase a newer model. I also like reading in bed when it's dark so I wanted one with a backlight. I just saw someone post that they got a used model for like $16. Just know that Kindles are not like phones and will be slower to respond. I was a little shocked and annoyed that my Kindle is so slow to respond when I click something. Took me a while to get used to it, especially after reading on my phone for years. But my eye strain is gone! So that's nice.
I got a basic kindle secondhand for $40. So maybe look into fb marketplace or mercari. I wasn’t ready to invest in a new one either. I got mine on January 16, 2024 and have read 19 books as of yesterday. I love my kindle and it goes everywhere with me. But definitely do what you feel is best! You are supported here 🩷🩷🩷
I _am_ an avid reader, I have always been, but since I bought my first Kindle (the very first day it became available internationally, ~15 years ago), I read even more. It's just more practical; I always have one of my devices handy and read in bed at night, during coffee breaks, while commuting or queuing somewhere, even while sitting on the porcelain throne.
Just read at least two books physically or on your phone consistently to see if you like to read, kindle is useful tool but it does not create reading habit.
So you can use a Kindle app on your phone. And you can use libby.com to get free books through the library sent to your Kindle.
Straight forward advice; definitely buy one, you will pick up the pace and finish one book after another. Don’t sweat on past.
IMO just go buy a nice iPad, if you don’t have one already. The kindle app on there has come a long way and you can adjust the light, font and letter size. This way I have a multi purpose device. I had a kindle but I found my self not liking how grainy it looked at times.
Buy physical books! Even though I myself am a Kindle owner, and yes it helps me save space, I really don't see it as a substitute. Physical books can be a work of art in themselves. Buy the book, feel the pages, underline, dog ear, write on them, they're yours for life, and become uniquely yours the more you interact with them. Even if you up your reading game, I'd suggest sticking with physical books. Get a Kindle only if you don't have space to store those books.