EReaders or Tablets (Alternative for Laptop)

Yes, you can read books on both kinds of devices. Most tablets can load apps to read various formats of books too.

E-readers, like the Kindle, use a screen technology called E-Ink. This is very different from a computer screen that lights up so you can see it. E-Ink screens are very paper like. They reflect the light around you, just like paper. In fact, the screen doesn’t even have power flowing through it while you are reading. It only uses power when you turn pages. This makes them very easy on the eyes. E-Ink screens are also very visible in direct sunlight, if that’s a factor for you.

Tablet screens light up, just like a computer screen. The big factor for eye strain with tablets is the quality of the screen. Although a $49 or even a $149 tablet may be tempting, the manufacturer just can’t afford to put a higher quality screen in a device at that price. That will translate into more eye strain.

That’s one reason Apple’s iPads might feel more expensive than competing products—all of their devices have very nice screens. Most of their competitor’s tablets with higher quality screens are similarly priced.

Another factor to consider is if you want a tablet that has a keyboard option. For example, some of the iPads have a keyboard case. If one purpose is to replace a laptop then you may want to have a physical keyboard as an option.

Most tablets do have some form of parental controls available. Getting distracted and being protected from stuff on the internet are going to be more about the habits and rules you establish for your household, though. You’ll want to think about when and where devices can be used as a starting point.