Ebooks Vs Printed Books? Considering the crossroads of development that the world stands at present, this is a confusion. After all, it is safe to say that Human Civilisation has successfully entered the ‘grand digital era’. As a result, most of the working of the world today takes place’ online’. Be it large-scale transactions, education, travel bookings, Medical consultations, Corporate meetings, or physical training. The online platforms have been utilized at a successful rate. However, there are still strong remanets from the previous era that we refuse to let go of, such as print books. Books are and continue to remain a major aspect of our civilization. But, the current new generation has already taken a dip into the digital world. For them, the ‘e-world’ is the new normal; because, let’s face it, online is a comfortable space. One might just Plug-in to Log-in, and you have an entire plethora of Digital services easily available. Likewise, 19 November 2007 will be etched in the History of Human civilization for the launch of ‘Kindle.’ This ‘rectangular-shaped device’ was more like a window to an infinite universe of unlimited reading. Thus, the age of E-books was officially announced, with the Kindle being sold out within hours of its launch on Amazon. Priced at $399, it offered access to over 90000 books and was available only in the US. Now, you could ‘swipe’ through the pages instead of ‘flipping,’ and it could slide easily into your purse or backpack when on the move. But, this did not completely ‘dislodge the popularity of the print books. We continue to find plenty of them and cannot overcome our love for the same. Why? Let us explore.
The invention of paper has been one of the breakthroughs for Human civilization. It catapults the ‘time’ into a progressive mode that led to the invention of ‘paper money. You no longer had to carry ‘bags of gold’ everywhere you went, as pieces of monetary value on paper were easy to carry about. This led to the further refinement of our civilization, as trade was never the same. Likewise, scriptures soon slid onto paper and could be easily carried about. Now one did not have to toil away ‘carving scriptures’ on stones, skin, and barks of the tree. This led to ‘shaping the education system’ as we know it. Learning was no longer an expensive investment, most could afford it. Soon, paper was a commonly found commodity and was widely used for just about everything. This way, the ‘books’ became a vital part of our lives and culture; something we clutch onto our chests even today. So, what is it about the print books that makes them though to ‘go away:
1. The Touch
One cannot deny the fact that it ‘feels so good. Flipping through the pages is fun and nostalgic at the same time. Of course, we all have fond memories of having the ‘bedtime’ stories read to us. Most of us also have a collection of ‘fairy tale books from our childhood still with us. Because it ‘feels so good to flip through time as we skim through the same books once again. The best part is you can do so for many years to come.
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2. Hand Me Downs
For a vivid reader, a collection of books is a prized possession. It is nothing less than a part of one’s legacy that can be lent to the next generation. Also, sharing a Print book is a simple and hassle-free task. It does not involve having to share your account details or any other legal aspects. You simply have to ‘hand it over and be done with it. Also, a book is much easier to be considered for sharing when required—still wondering which is better: Ebooks or Printed Books? Read on.
3. It Lasts
Of course, the print books last much longer. These do not need to be charged or require electricity for their usage. Thus, the books are anyways much more durable and easily accessible for people of all backgrounds. A student in a Village in India with next-to-no electricity will find a Print book a better option for studies and references. Also, Print books can be borrowed by students from financially challenged backgrounds as compared to E-books.
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4. Easy on the Eyes:
Print books do not subject the users to unwanted prolonged screen time or Blue-light. They do not cause much damages to the eyes as they do not ‘glow.’ Research shows that the radiation from the E-Books is known to affect our Circadian rhythms. The print version does not require the reader to ‘adjust’ when under the sunlight. You can simply pull out a book and read where ever you like.
5. Pocket Friendly
Books are easy to buy from anywhere at any time by anyone. Simple. You do not have to weigh the pros and cons when purchasing a Paperback. Anyone can buy a print copy either first hand or second hand. Thus, a Print book is the first option for people from all backgrounds alike, hence gaining points between Ebooks Vs Printed Books.
The Ebook Era
Not quite, but almost. The Ebooks are knocking at our door at the moment. Meanwhile, some have also let them in. A Kindle is a common fixture found in several homes today. Despite having faced a major fight from the ‘all favourite print books, the Ebook has survived. Why? Let us find out:
1. Access to Infinite
With the Ebook in hand, you have unlimited access to millions of books at a time. Also, these are available almost at an instant. You need not have to stand in a queue to get a grab on your favourite first edition at a store nearby. With the Ebook at hand, the edition is just a click away.
2. On The Move
Yes, it simply slides into your Pockets and does not makes a single sound! Your Ebook travels with you anywhere and can be easily pulled out whenever you wish to read. It is portable, lightweight, and easy to move about with.
3. Easy on the Wallet
Lately, Ebooks have grown more affordable than you think. Also, these are available on a lending service at most public libraries. Despite the initial charges, the Ebooks are a huge bargain as they offer you access to unlimited books from then on.
4. Easy Function
The Ebooks makes reading an easy task, especially for some Classics that are heavy on literature. The device assists the reader when it comes to a better understanding of certain words, phrases, and their origins. The function of the Ebook allows you simple application like a simple ‘pop’ on the word for its meaning. Also, aspects like ‘books marks’ are available on a digital version that allows the user to pick up from wherever they have left.
5. Fully Flexible
The Ebooks are lightweight, thus making them easy to handle with a single hand. You might be reading a classic like Shakespeare, but an Ebook allows you to access it sans the ‘heavy weight’. Now you could be holding a baby in one hand, but you can still enjoy a good read with your other hand holding on to an Ebook. Also, you simply have to swipe with a finger to go to the next page and no more folding the book to read a page.
What is the difference between a printed book and an ebook?
Now that we have skimmed through the details, let us take a look at some of the prime differences:
EBOOK | PRINT BOOK |
This is the electronic version of the Print book. The Ebook is a handheld device for an 'e-reader' | This is a literary publication that comprises print pages that are bound together |
Only the Front Cover present | Both Front and Back cover are present in Print Books |
The Layout is Dynamic | The Layout is Static |
Is Expensive | Comparatively cheaper |
Has only End-note | Contains both footnotes and End-notes |
Is simple to store in a tiny space | Need space and storage to maintain |
Loading time required | Can start reading instantly |
Only a single account supported | Simple to share |
Is lightweight | A heavyweight in comparison as per volume |
Conclusion: Will ebooks replace traditional books?
Not quite and not completely. It has been reported that $940 million Ebooks have been sold as compared to the $3 Billion worth of Hardcover and $2.5 Billion worth of paperbacks, as per a survey conducted in the year 2019. However, when it comes to Ebook Vs Print books, which is a winner? That depends upon who and when you ask. While the current and the future generation are well-acquainted with the Ebooks, a vast population still prefers a Print version. A hybrid is preferred, where both the Ebooks and Print versions co-exist. This maintains a fine balance and a link between the two eras. As the world continues to evolve into a more confined space, the pleasures of reading from a Print should not be ruled out completely. Reading has its pleasures and must be maintained to cater to those who love it.