Tech Tip: Electronic vs. Print Guidebooks

I took my iPhone 3Gs with me to Europe last September and downloaded the Kindle version of Rick Steve's London guidebook to it.  I also took along the print version of Rick's book so I could determine the benefits of using each.

Since the Wimbledon tennis tournament is going on as I type this post, I'll use terms from that sport to compare the electronic and print versions of that guidebook. (Your experience with e-books from other publishers and using other e-reading platforms may differ).

Portability:  Advantage iPhone

Quickness in finding information:  Advantage print version

Links to Web sites: Game, set and match to iPhone

Always at the ready:  Advantage iPhone

Purchase price (excluding iPhone): Advantage iPhone

Replacement cost (including iPhone):  Game, set and match to print version

Readability: Advantage print version

Battery life: Game, set and match to print version

Championship trophy goes to:  A tie.
 
Each version has its own unique benefits.  If you are only visiting London during your European trip, take both.  If you're hopscotching your way across the Continent, lugging several printed guidebooks will be a pain in your backpack, and carrying mostly e-versions will be more practical.

(See this post for advice on taking your iPhone to Europe)