Usually, the discussion around physical books and ebooks is based on which one is better than the other.

And therefore, which one you should commit to going forward.

However, there are numerous benefits to using both formats to get the most out of your reading experience.

An ereader against a stack of physical books

You’re feeling the pages as you turn them, and hearing the crinkle as they move.

If there’s any interesting covers or illustrations as well as any font and style choices.

If the book you’re reading is new then you’re smelling that oh-so-satisfying “new book” smell.

Two hands holding an open book

Present Physical Problems

Despite their positives, there are challenges that come with using physical books.

Namely, their two biggest problems are capacity and wear-and-tear.

No travelling to a book store or waiting for a delivery to arrive.

A stack of books with the top book open in black and white.

Can Be Read Anywhere, Anytime

Ereaders are designed to be read anytime, anywhere.

They’re incredibly portable, perfect for taking on your travels and for both short and long commutes.

Their storage allows you to take thousands of books with you wherever you go.

Person reading a Kobo ereader with their feet up

As well as the overall orientation.

This is especially useful if you have reading preferences or any reading disabilities, such as dyslexia.

It can sometimes be tricky to adjust to ereaders.

Two hands holding a Kindle with a physical book in the background

Simply put, it’s a different format of reading.

Having your entire library in your hand can be surreal in both a good way and a bad way.

You could love the convenience and efficiency of this or find it seriously overwhelming.

Physical Books vs. Ebooks: Read Both!

Physical books and ebooks both have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

But instead of picking one over the other, they should be seen as complementary to each other.

One’s weaknesses are often the other’s strengths and vice versa.