I think it's a mix of both. Honestly I vastly prefer Reader mode's presentation than any other layout, and especially any layout which changes if I interact with it (resize window, move mouse, click mouse button, press key, send window to background, whatever).
I have seen some sites that completely break when using Reader mode. I have seen sites that are very well done in Reader mode complete even with pictures.
I have seen some sites that completely break when using Reader mode. I have seen sites that are very well done in Reader mode complete even with pictures.