I can completely understand your point of view and would prefer the hard copy too.
I had the OEM service manuals for most vehicles I've owned during the 80s & 90s and might consider spending a few $ if there was a manual available for my RAM.
It's time to face the facts of our current existence, they're no longer available unless you're prepared to sell a kidney to buy one, if you can find it.
You don't need to drag your tablet under the truck while it's shedding road kill and local area feces or mash grease loaded fingers into the keyboard. LOL
Leave it on a nearby workbench, stretch a piece of saran wrap over the keyboard (external keyboard required for shop use) and find what you require.
An older used laptop is remarkably cheaper than a tablet but the tablet does sound more dramatic for this discussion.
If you really need to see the details while under the truck, print off the page and go.
The service manual for my last truck was priced at about $450. I got by with a virtual copy for free and printed pages when necessary.
The dealership was nearby and the parts guys would often print the pages I required.
We can all keep crying till the cows come home or just get on with it. We're here now and it's just easier to use the tools that are available instead of continuing to sob.
This post is not directed at any individual. Tulecreeper, your post was just a handy starting point for my rant.