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I made the decision to buy my first Kindle back in 2010. We were overseas, and getting ready to travel back to the US. The idea of having a Kindle sounded amazing to me. I could carry so many books all on one device and could download a new book the second it came out if I wanted to. Little did I know how much of a game-changer the Kindle would be.
I think I am on my 4th Kindle. I use the Kindle Paperwhite and I love everything about that little device. I couldn’t imagine not having one. I am in a lot of book-related groups on Facebook and one question that comes up over and over is, is a Kindle worth it?
My response is always, “Yes, 110% worth it!”
But do you have to give up paper books?
The first thing to know about getting a Kindle is that you don’t have to give up paper books. I am not sure why we think buying a Kindle means we have to do that. You can still read both types of books, you can read however you want to read. So, don’t feel like buying a Kindle means you will never read a traditional book again. That simply isn’t true.
I read on my phone
Another question that tends to come up is, “I read on my phone just fine, do I need a Kindle?” When I hear this question it reminds me of the scene in the Wizard of Oz when Dorothy steps out into Oz and everything is in color. Yes, reading on your phone works but once you get your Kindle, your reading life is going to change.
For one thing, reading on a Kindle and reading on a phone are completely different experiences. Reading on your phone is like reading on a mini-computer, but the Kindle is not. The Kindle uses e-ink, which is much better for the eyes. There is no glare when you take it out in the sun, and if you have the Paperwhite, it lights up in the dark but without the phone-like glow. Because of all this, I feel like “playing on my phone” and “reading on my Kindle” are two very different things. And I like it that way.
The great thing about the Kindle app on your phone is if you are in a pinch and find yourself without a book, you can still read but the Kindle e-reader is the way to go.
I have the Kindle Fire, do I need a Kindle E-reader too?
Yes, 100%, yes! A Kindle Fire is similar to a phone. A Kindle e-reader is just for reading. Reading on a Kindle is a different experience and easier on your eyes. You won’t get as distracted by games or the internet when using the Kindle e-reader.
How would I get books? I usually go to the library
One of the best things about a Kindle is how easy it is to get free and discounted books, straight to your device. Your library will most likely have a digital library where you can download Kindle and audiobooks for free. I use Libby for this and the app is perfect for checking out digital holds. There are also new Kindle Deals every day, and you can also sign up for Kindle Unlimited. Kindle Unlimited is where you pay a monthly fee and are able to download up to 10 books at a time from the Kindle Unlimited library. You can start your free trial here, and also check for specials.
What else is so great about a Kindle?
I could go on and on about how much I love my Kindle. It is easy to stick in my purse so I always have something read. I also enjoy cuddling up with my Kindle at night, using the light to read which is much easier than a book light with a traditional book. I love how quick and easy it is to get books on your Kindle, and you can always download a sample of a book before you make the decision to buy one.
If you travel a lot, you will also get a lot of use out of a Kindle. Instead of having to pack a lot of books, load up your Kindle and you are good to go. I have found the Kindle the perfect item to throw in your carry-on to make sure you always have something to read.
And if you like to read a lot of longer brick-type books, having a Kindle makes reading them a lot easier.
Kindles are a book lover’s dream so if you have been asking yourself if a Kindle is worth it, they are. There are also a few different options based on what works best for you. I love the Paperwhite myself.
- Kindle Paperwhite (8 GB) – Now with a 6.8″ display and adjustable warm light
- Kindle Oasis – With 7” display and page turn buttons
- Kindle Scribe (16 GB), the first Kindle for reading and writing, with a 10.2” 300 ppi Paperwhite display, includes Basic Pen
- More Kindles
As you can see, a Kindle is worth it. If you love to read, want to read more, or are just curious about what a Kindle can offer you, go for it and get your Kindle today. You will be glad you did.