I'm thinking about getting an iPad for the purpose of reading textbooks for what I'm studying (VitalSource format). I still have a lot of doubt because of the LCD screen which may be straining. I'd like to ask if anyone here has read ebooks on the iPad for hours at a time, and how did you feel about that? I'd probably need to zoom in to read my books, which may mean a lot of panning.

Other e-readers are no good for me due to a lack of support from my textbook provider.

I've spent a few afternoons reading without issue. Of course I was on the front porch enjoying a mystery. that's not the same as consuming a detailed textbook.

Originally Posted by username

I'm thinking about getting an iPad for the purpose of reading textbooks for what I'm studying (VitalSource format).

I've read both e-books and e-scores on my iPad for up to 30-40 mins at a time, including on moving vehicles, without any problems.

However, with textbooks I'd probably prefer dead-tree printed copies simply because they're that much easier to write notes and diagrams in the white-space and margins, attach handouts/Post Its and highlight sections, than an electronic copy. (But that's just the way I study, of course.)

I've read several books, including the entire Jurassic Park series, Battlefield Earth and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Universe, a couple from WEB Griffin and found the experience enjoyable, and practical.

I've read for a few hours at a time while my guy was out fishing... best way to spend time on a lake! I have to admit though, its easier to read for longer periods on my Blackberry which I didn't expect!

Writing and reading here is no different from reading a book, it's still the same display. Still, you need good lighting in the surroundings to prevent fatigue, just like watching a television. I've read many books so far and it's no different than reading paper or ink. In fact I haven't used my Sony reader since I got the iPad.

The real drawback from the iPad is leaving the book because you remembered some subject to research on Internet. First thing you know is that it's too late to go back to the book. That's why I read less than I used to since I got it, not for any discomfort whatsoever.

I have a kindle and a ipad. I have read two complete books on ipad and around 100 on kindle. I think the ipad is too heavy for extended reading. I think the screen is ok, but the kindle is less straining. I prefer the ipad at night, but much prefer the kindle during the day. Like iVan, the biggest benefit of the kindle vs the iPad is that the kindle doesn't do anything else. I can't easily check twitter or email, so I actually read.

The screen is nice for video and images, so if your textbooks are going to have video or lots of color charts, then the ipad will probably do that well. If you are a lit major, then I would say Kindle over iPad.

Or buy both.

I have read several books so far on my iPad with more books in the queue. I am getting to the point where I prefer to read on the iPad rather than real paper books. Why? Well, I like the fact that I can adjust the light, the font, and the font size. I don't have to be in a well-lit place to read either. I don't have to carry books with me as my iPad is always in my purse. Love it!

I've read several using the kindle app.
About as long as 3 hours at a time with no problems.
Never have any problems with the weight because I rarely hold a book unsupported while reading anyway.

Ebooks and e mags is the main reason I bought the iPad. Wouldn't be without it.