Sony Touch Edition PRS-600 Review
#3 E-Book Reader
Summary: Great reader with amazing screen, but no read-to-me, no wireless & cost more than the Kindle
Pros: Very light, Expandable memory, Multiple file formats, Can be used internationally, Highlighting, drawing and note taking features
Cons: No Free 3G support (still have monthly fees and need to hunting for Wi-Fi), No Text-to-Speech, More glare than the Kindle
Rating:
4/5
Why we like The Reader Touch Edition
Our first impressions of the new Sony eReader PRS-600, are good. It is very easy to use and to read. Although the new Sony Reader is lack of free 3G support, the design and desktop syncing software is defiantly raise the bar for ebook readers market. Another great thing about the touch edition is that, similar to the new Kindle (since Oct 19), the Sony Touch can be used internationally.
Books from Many Different Sources
Another big thing is that the Sony readers are compatible with many file formats aside from just PDF's. Many public libraries offer now ebook lending that can be used with the Sony readers. The multiple file formats also allows you to buy books from many different stores, not just Sony or Google. Using the free downloadable program Calibre, Sony owners can also get newspapers that are updated periodically and sync to the reader very easily. While I tested the Sony eReader. I really enjoy the free epub books from my library and the Sony accesses these very easily.
I can
Keep notes
One of the coolest features the Prs-600 has is the
highlighting, and also have writing! and the on-screen
keyboard! It even lets you write yourself a notes
and save it, draw yourself a picture, while
reading a book.
No Wireless??
In December Sony will offer a $399 model that can wirelessly download books rather than needing a connection to a computer, but for now the Sony Reader Touch does not offer free wireless like Amazon does. Therefore, you still have to deal with monthly fees, service plans, and hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots.
Also, compare to Kindle 2.0, it has more glare/clarity, because of the touch screen layer. The glare is more noticeable in a dark room with a single light source, but you can easily resolve the issue by adjusting the angle. In addition, compare to a real book, the contrast is not as good, but it is comparable to almost every readers ( maybe except Kindle DX).
Another con is that the new Sony reader can carry only up to 350 book. this issue also can be solved because Sony has expandable memory that makes them comparable in size to the Kindles.
Bottom line
Will this replace real books in my life? No, but it does make reading and carrying books much more convenient. Sony PRS 600 is a great Reader and you will enjoy the multiple file formats, the flexibility in where to buy books, and the ability to use the library to loan out books for free. If you looking for other features like free wireless and books in under 60 second, you should try the Kindle too.
