Quote:
Originally Posted by robko
Reality is that VIRTUALLY all e-ink readers are relatively fragile. The reason is that they contain a nearly paper thin (literally -- do a search for substrate in the forums for pics) glass plate for the e-ink. The only way to get around this is to go for one of the few devices that have a plastic rather than glass substrate (i.e. the Kobo Forma). Kindle or other brands aren't likely to be any more sturdy than a Kobo (although you might occasionally get Amazon to replace a broken screen, whereas none of the others are likely to).
IMHO it's more often twisting/mild bending of the device that causes issues over time. If you do go for a case make sure it won't bend or it's minimal help.
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The plastic chassis on the PW3 feels more rigid than my Glo HD. I tend to be pretty careless with the Paperwhite (regularly roll over it while sleeping and once dropped it from the stairs landing and impact was hard enough it popped out of the case). Thankfully, none of my Kindles and Kobos have suffered from broken substrates. My old PRS-350 was pretty solid as well. Had an iRiver Story HD with broken substrate (within 1st month, I think) and that one received far, far gentler treatment than the PW3.
The current gen PW4 feels flimsier. Mind, my brother tossed my iPhone (in plastic case) directly on the PW4's screen and all it did was make a tiny dent.
E-ink displays may be fragile but the chassis design and materials can help reinforce it. Of course, there arestill going to be broken displays but at least a good chassis would reduce these incidents.