Review of readers with color display

Color pocket e-books with liquid crystal TFT-display – a hybrid of a contemporary E-Ink "reader" and a compact, fully functional tablet. However, their capabilities and autonomy are quite restricted, with only a handful of models featuring Wi-Fi modules and robust batteries. Moreover, it is not feasible to install custom applications on these devices. Although the capabilities of next-gen gadgets have advanced significantly, color "readers" are reluctant to relinquish their market position.

"Readers" of color – a choice for a captivating way to spend one’s time

The principle of operation of color e-books

For individuals who only utilize their acquired devices for simple perusal of written works, the inclusion of color is not a vital function. However, when employed as an electronic aide for decoding tables, intricate illustrations, graphs, diagrams, images, and other content, it is advantageous to utilize a color display. Contemporary devices come equipped with screens manufactured using two distinct technologies:

Just a decade ago, the concept of seeing something like this could only be imagined in a science fiction film.

We are referring to e-readers that utilize electrophoresis technology (E-Ink). The introduction of color displays has allowed these devices to inherit the best qualities from their monochrome predecessors:

• impressive battery life;
• compact size;
• outstanding color reproduction even in bright sunlight.

The most cutting-edge devices are now equipped with E-Ink Triton technology. By incorporating special filters, these devices can achieve color rendering comparable in quality to LCD displays, but without causing harm to our vision.

Manufacturers offer different functionalities in their e-readers, based on price point:

• support for numerous file formats;
• navigation through touch-sensitive keys;
• ample built-in memory (over 512 MB);
• compatibility with flash cards.

Equipped with a built-in media player, file viewer, and Wi-Fi module, the most advanced readers are able to offer an unparalleled reading experience.

An excellent illustration of the development of E-Ink display quality can be seen in the evolution of e-books equipped with color ink screens. In just a little over ten years, these displays have transitioned from low-contrast examples to state-of-the-art paper-like screens:

• The E-Ink Viz P lex, SiPix, and Pearl were among the first iterations of this technology, featuring a relatively low level of contrast. However, they have since been discontinued and are rarely found on the market;
• The E-Ink Pearl HD was the first display to offer a resolution close to full screen, with 1024×758 dots, allowing for a significant increase in quality. It boasts a contrast ratio of 12:1;
• The E-Ink Flex compensates for its lower contrast ratio of 10:1 compared to the most modern samples by utilizing plastic substrate technology. This has made the screen more durable and "stress-resistant".
• E-ink Triton, also known as "electronic paper", is the innovative technology that is revolutionizing the world of full-color readers. With its impressive range of 4096 shades and 16 grayscale, it truly represents the future of reader technology.

Top 5 E-Ink color "readers"

Pocket Book 641 Aqua 2

The most outstanding e-book available today is equipped with a vibrant color E-Ink display. It is an exceptional choice for travelers, as it incorporates cutting-edge protective technologies for the screen and case. One of its standout features is remarkable battery life, which allows for up to 2 months of usage without the need for recharging, or 24 hours of uninterrupted reading. Additionally, this extraordinary device offers a plethora of advantages:

• Diverse support for multiple formatting options;
• Inclusion of a Wi-Fi module and USB port for enhanced connectivity.

Don’t worry about salty sea water with the PocketBook 641 Aqua 2.

This e-reader features an advanced E-Ink Carta display that ensures no glare, even in the brightest sunlight. The manufacturer stands behind the quality of this device with a three-year free service and warranty repair.

The Pocket Book 801 is a flawless digital publication. With its outstanding color reproduction capabilities and complete lack of glare and flicker, it provides an experience akin to reading a physical page. Just like all devices in the Pocket Book series, the 801 is equipped with an incredibly long-lasting battery. The display screen can be flipped over 5400 times, ensuring hours upon hours of use without needing to charge. In fact, this amount of flips is sufficient for almost a month of continuous e-book reading.

Pocket Book Color Lux stands out as a prominent player in the realm of color e-books. In order to provide seamless connectivity, speedy downloads, and a wide range of content options, the developers have incorporated a range of fascinating services into the reader:

• ReadRate;
• PocketNews;
• BookStore.

Amazon Kindle Oasis 9 gen

Among the color "readers" with a color E-Ink Carta display, this model stands out as one of the most expensive options offered by the leading manufacturer. While it does not have a slot for adding extra memory, its built-in 32 GB capacity more than makes up for it. Additionally, the seven-inch screen is housed in a sturdy waterproof metal case. Thanks to the IP X8 technology, this device can be submerged in water up to a depth of 1m for up to 30 minutes without any negative impact on its performance.

Amazon is an icon of style.

The device is versatile, supporting multiple formats and featuring Wi-Fi connectivity, but without any special technological gimmicks. Those considering purchasing this technological marvel should be aware that there are at least twelve other models from different manufacturers that offer similar quality and functionality. The key is that Amazon is the Mercedes of the tech market: fashionable, top-notch, and quite expensive.

ONYX BOOX Darwin 4

A reader boasting a remarkable screen resolution of 1448×1072 and a pixel density of 300 dpi. The user of this device will encounter no difficulties when converting content, as it supports virtually all existing formats. The standout feature of the Darwin 4 is its integration of the Android operating system, which brings with it the added advantage of wireless communication and file transfer capabilities.

Darwin 4 is an exceptional model offered by ONYX BOOX.

Similar to numerous other cutting-edge e-readers, Darwin 4 boasts remarkable battery life. It can be conveniently charged via both a power outlet and a portable device. Its highly attractive price (below $170) has rendered the device highly competitive and immensely popular among enthusiasts of e-book reading.

Lugano, a city in Switzerland, stands out for its numerous high-quality multifunctional devices that it has released on the market. One of their notable products is the PocketBook 740, which boasts a large 7.8" display with a resolution of 1872×1404. Despite its relatively low battery capacity of 1900 mAh, the device makes up for it with its exceptional build quality and extensive range of features.

PocketBook 740 – a sizable and highly intelligent device

The device is incredibly user-friendly, thanks to the inclusion of touch buttons for navigating through images. It is extremely effortless and convenient to operate. A couple of minor drawbacks include the relatively limited built-in memory (8 GB) and a somewhat higher price tag of $260.

These electronic books featured in the ranking (with the exception of the Kindle) can be readily purchased in Russia. Given their longer lifespan compared to smartphones (5 or more years), selecting an e-reader should be approached with great care and deliberation. This will ensure a successful investment and an enjoyable way to pass the time.