Affiliations: SUNY College of Optometry, New York, NY, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Mark Rosenfield, SUNY College of
Optometry, 33 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036, USA. E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The use of electronic reading devices has increased
dramatically. However, some individuals report increased visual symptoms when
reading from electronic screens. OBJECTIVE: This investigation compared reading from two electronic
devices (Amazon Kindle or Apple Ipod) versus hardcopy text in two groups of 20
subjects. METHODS: Subjects performed a 20 min reading task for each
condition. Both the accommodative response and reading rate were monitored
during the trial. Immediately post-task, subjects completed a questionnaire
concerning the ocular symptoms experienced during the task. RESULTS: In comparing the Kindle with hardcopy, no significant
difference in the total symptom score was observed, although the mean score for
the symptoms of tired eyes and eye discomfort was significantly higher with the
Kindle. No significant differences in reading rate were found. When comparing
the Ipod with hardcopy, no significant differences in symptom scores were
found. The mean reading rate with the Ipod was significantly slower than for
hardcopy while the mean lag of accommodation was significantly larger for the
Ipod. CONCLUSIONS: Given the significant increase in symptoms with the
Kindle, and larger lag of accommodation and reduced reading rate with the Ipod,
one may conclude that reading from electronic devices is not equivalent to
hardcopy.
