Are physical books better than e-books?
Tangible
Books are real, tangible objects. As opposed to e-books, which are essentially a digital file.
Smell
Who doesn’t love the smell of a new book? You won't get that with an e-book.
Eye strain
If you’ve ever used a tablet, smartphone, or a computer to read a book, you know how it can strain your eyes. E-readers are far superior, but this is not applicable to physical books.
Price
E-books are, in most cases, cheaper than printed books. You do need a more expensive device to read them, but you probably have it already (e.g. phone).
Physical progress
You can physically visualize your progress while reading a book. You will get closer to the end at each turn of the page. E-books won’t give you the same experience.
Distractions
This is particularly true for e-books with interactive elements. A study found that these were more distracting for children, compromising the learning process.
Artifacts
You find books in museums and old libraries. Some are indeed historical artifacts with an historical weight that e-books don’t have.
Skim reading
This is more accentuated when reading e-books, which can be useful, but it’s different from reading something at a deeper level, connecting emotionally, and using critical analysis.
Books make great gifts
A book is still a great present and, of course, you can write a personal note on it.
Privacy
The beauty of e-books is that you don’t have to worry about other people knowing what you’re reading.
Physical books are a great way to switch off
This is particularly true if you’re reading on your smartphone or laptop, where you can get easily distracted with notifications.
Tech annoyances with e-books
You know, the page that doesn't turn, the device that crashes, the formatting problem, software updates, among many others. In a physical book, these things won't occur.
Exclusive information
Books are old, very old, so there is some information that you can only find in them.
Used books
Though you can easily share a copy of an e-book with a friend and keep reading yours. No paper wasted.
