Do ebook readers damage your eyes?

[Netvigator72]

Even if that were true, I imagine it could only be true of backlit ereaders which are basically tablets. Backlit ereaders are basically the same thing as smartphones, at least on your eyes.

Regular e-ink ereaders are very easy on the eyes. They look just like paper. They are not backlit, so it's not like staring into a TV screen as it is with smartphones, computers and actual TVs. I have to believe that using an e-ink ereader is better for the eyes than using a classic book made of paper. On the ereader, you can adjust the font-size and spacing to make it easier to read, and the lettering/paper doesn't get faded, smudged and bent.

I completely agree with you from using a kindle for many years. I’ve had people tell me that their eyes feel strain but that is completely possible from a physical book too. You need to give your eyes the rest they deserve because otherwise it will take a toll on your eyesight anyway.

[JustineSophia2]

Is there more recent research on this topic? I find that my eyes get far more tired reading on my Kobo or laptop versus paper. Then there is also the issue I need more light when reading a hard copy than I do with the e-reader. While I enjoy being able to carry more books on my Kobo I find there is nothing better than a hard copy book to read.

[Amy Murdoch Coleman]

I don't think they're any worse than reading small-print text. Either way, it doesn't stop me from using them.

[Amanda Nicole Newton]

I think it depends on the font size and brightness. The same with your phone. My husband's Kindle can have the brightness turned 100% off and still be read like it's a regular piece of paper. When you make the font larger, it's like reading a large font book, no strain at all.

[Zoe Luh]

I don't know the technical answer, but I have more difficulty reading online. It's harder for me to concentrate and my eyes begin to hurt after a while! Definitely prefer physical books, but I will read online if I have to.

[Honest-reviewer]

Well, it depends! I am very comfortable reading ebooks. You get to make a lot of adjustments with your screen light, font size etc. So I think It’s not all that damaging if you use it properly.

[Samuel Windybank]

I think reading for extended time, using any medium, will do damage to your eyes. I know when reading on my phone for too long, without taking breaks, I find it hard to focus my eyes.

[J_u_d_y26+]

Maybe true but I've not yet noticed it. I love using ebook readers I prefer it

[aruntr2001]

well reading through my iPad or computer screen and mobile device damages my eyes. Prolonged reading sometimes caused me an irritation to my eyes and headaches as well. but kindle reader never caused me any bad.

[Anngladys]

I'd go for adjusting the brightness on the electronic device, getting proper spectacles and extra screen protection. I don't know whether they still have those nowadays, but it would be a good option if needed.

However, taking breaks would be paramount!

Or even switching to audio books every once in a while.

[Chikom]

Spending much time glaring at screens with bad resolutions might interfere with one's ability to see clearly. I would recommend taking regular breaks while using e-readers so as to minimize concentration time on the screens.

[Fatima Saif]

I have heard on the news that ebook reader damage your eyes. What is your opinion on the matter?

Excess of everything is bad for you whether it's e-book or games. Balance is the beauty of life. You can use night light or less brightness to avoid eye redness and irritation. But who cares, when a book is so tempting that you can resist until you complete an interesting story. So, enjoy your book while turning on night light.

[Fatima Saif]

Those who are not used to e-book reading get irritated more than others who are addicted to e-books.

[readsbyarun]

It generally doesnt affect my eyes but reading under less lighting with the backlight will cause irritation to my eyes.

[Blessing O 2]

Using the phone or computer generally affects the eyes negatively but in using ebooks reader, I will either use a blue light glass or reduce its brightness using the eye care mode.