Does anyone use an iPad mini as an e-reader?

[SteppinOutwithMyBaby]

I've always been a very very keen reader - 5 or so books a week. Over the last decade, I have had to start using e-readers because of hand problems. The first one I had was a Laser, and then when they went out of production, I bought a Kobo - and have had several, which I quite liked to use but found them to be unreliable. So I switched to a Kindle.

Over the last couple of years I've noticed that my interest in reading is waning, and even books which I once would've loved fail to completely engage me. Last week however I had to read the new Harlan Coben book on my iPhone, and enjoyed it very much. It wasn't just the content, but I physically enjoyed reading it far more than I have been of late. I think the bright screen had something to do with it.

It made me wonder if it is worthwhile trying an iPad mini - 7.9 inch model - as an e-reader. Has anyone does this? Does it hurt your eyes? Can you read without any problems for about two/three hours straight. Does it interfere with sleeping? I know they say you shouldn't use a screen for an hour or so before you sleep.

Has anyone tried this? Thanks.

I've used a kindle, I pad mini and iPhone over the years. Agree with the kindle - I have the paper white version - it can be A little....flat (?) or uninspiring I suppose. I also finding it a bit clunky probably because im so used to the slick swipe function of the Apple products. I only use it for holidays now where I can load it with a dozen books. The iPad mini does have a bright screen and I do find it strains my eyes after a while and also takes me longer to "switch off" at night after using it. Especially if you have been reading in low light/the dark

Thanks for that. I have an iPad mini 4 that I mainly use for streaming and playing Township (a bit sad). However, I can't seem to get it to recharge any more so I can't try it. I was thinking of buying an old refurbished one and dedicating it to reading.

But you're right about the Apple features, the phone seems to zing along so smoothly and pleasurably – even though it's a little iPhone SE, so doesn't have a very large screen and you have to keep on scrolling or flicking. And I know it's not supposed to be the best thing to do, but I do like the hard, bright white light for reading, but I wondered how it would go long-term.

Unfortunately, as I mentioned, the condition of my hands really prevents me from reading paper books with any real comfort.

My ipad 2018 ( bigger than the mini but very light) has a function which automatically dims the light at night so it's softer and a bit yellower /creamy rather than bright white.

Thanks, I haven't considered one of the larger iPads at all. I'll have to look at their weight to compare.

I've always found the iPad mini the ideal size for streaming, but thinking about it the larger screen would have advantages when reading.

I have a MacBook that I use for most things, so don't really need a really good iPad.

I find my paperwhite much more comfortable to read on for longer periods - I don’t mind reading on my phone/iPad for a bit but several hours would hurt my eyes. You also can’t read on a phone/tablet in bright sun easily whereas you can on an ereader.

I have been reading on my iPad every night for years. On the kindle app I have it set so it is white writing on a black background and quite dim. Love not having to have the light on! If i was reading on eg the beach I’d buy a paper book.

Yes I read from my ipad. I also use Libby. The Library app to borrow books from my local library, all you need is a library card.

I am in many book groups on FB and I see a lot of people asking about what is the best kindle to buy, You can download the kindle app to your ipad. But you can not buy books from the ipad you have to use a main PC / laptop.

You can buy kindle books using an iPad, you just need to use the Amazon app or go to the Amazon website on safari. You just can’t buy them via the Kindle app.

@SecondLifeGamer

Yes I read from my ipad. I also use Libby. The Library app to borrow books from my local library, all you need is a library card.

I am in many book groups on FB and I see a lot of people asking about what is the best kindle to buy, You can download the kindle app to your ipad. But you can not buy books from the ipad you have to use a main PC / laptop.

Are you sure? I always buy books on my phone.