Kindle Device vs. Free Kindle App: Which One Should You Use?
In this age of technological advancements, readers are no longer limited to carrying around heavy physical books. With the rise of ebooks, readers have a multitude of options to choose from when it comes to reading. One of the most popular options is the Kindle device, which was introduced by Amazon in 2007. However, with the Kindle app being available for free on all mobile devices, readers are left confused about which option to choose. Here, we take a closer look at the Kindle device vs. the Kindle app, and help you decide which one to use.
Kindle Device: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
– E-Ink Technology: The Kindle device boasts of an e-ink screen that replicates the experience of reading an actual book. The display does not strain the eyes even after long hours of reading.
– Battery Life: The Kindle has a long battery life, which means you can go days or even weeks without charging the device.
– Storage: A Kindle device can store thousands of ebooks, which will come in handy especially if you’re a voracious reader.
– No Distractions: A Kindle device is solely for reading. It does not allow for any other distractions like notifications, emails, or social media updates, which can be quite helpful for staying focused while reading.
Disadvantages
– Expensive: At around $90 for the basic model, the Kindle device can be a bit pricey.
– No Backlight: While some newer models of the Kindle do come with backlighting, older models still lack this feature. This can make it difficult to read in poorly-lit environments.
– Single Purpose Device: Although the Kindle device is great for reading, it cannot compete with other tablet devices when it comes to other tasks like streaming videos and playing games.
Kindle App: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
– Free: The Kindle app is completely free, which means readers can access thousands of ebooks at no cost.
– Available on All Devices: The Kindle app is available on all mobile devices, including iOS, Android, and Windows Phone. This makes it a convenient option for those who do not want to carry an additional device for reading.
– Adjustable Backlighting: The Kindle app allows readers to adjust the brightness and contrast of the screen, which makes it easier to read in different lighting conditions.
Disadvantages
– Eye Strain: Reading on a mobile device screen can cause eye strain, which can lead to headaches or difficulty in reading for long periods.
– Distractions: Reading on a mobile device can lead to distractions from notifications, emails, and social media updates.
– Battery Life: The battery life on mobile devices is significantly less than that of a Kindle device, which means you will need to charge your device frequently if you’re an avid reader.