PocketBook Verse Pro Color: The New 6-Inch Color eReader with Kaleido 3 Display and Enhanced Features
The fact that e-readers with color displays have now reached mainstream status became evident, at the latest, with the early launch of the PocketBook InkPad Color 3. The InkPad Color 2 was so successful that it resulted in a supply shortage of the then-used Kaleido Plus displays.
Subsequently, PocketBook introduced the Era Color and InkPad Eo, and now, the fourth model with a color display, which fills the previously missing size segment, has arrived.
We are talking about the PocketBook Verse Pro Color, unveiled today, which completes the PocketBook lineup.
Compact 6-Inch with Color
The standout feature of the new Verse Pro Color is the eponymous E-Ink Kaleido 3 display. This is the same technology found in the other devices mentioned, as well as in competing products within the same size category, such as the Tolino Shine Color.
The Verse Pro Color features a 6-inch display, making it just as compact (15.6 x 7.6 x 0.8 cm) as the two black-and-white models, Verse and Verse Pro, which are among the most convenient 6-inch e-readers on the market thanks to their slim bezels. It should be noted, though, that all devices in this size segment are now quite handy. Weighing in at 182 grams, the device is every bit as light as the Verse.
Kaleido 3 technology provides the familiar two resolutions: a high-resolution 300 ppi for black-and-white content and 150 ppi for color. The reason for this is that an RGB filter is placed directly on the screen, which by its nature results in a lower resolution than the E-Ink Carta display beneath it. This display technology can present up to 4,096 colors.
Performance of the color display is expected to match other Kaleido models, meaning colors appear somewhat paler than what users might be accustomed to from smartphones, and the display is darker without lighting compared to a grayscale e-reader. However, activating the built-in front light can easily compensate for this drawback. The lighting is also adjustable in color temperature.
For more information about the display: In the detailed test of the InkPad Color 3, I explore the essential details of E-Ink Kaleido 3 display technology.
Familiar Features with an Upgrade
What distinguishes this e-reader from most other PocketBook models and rival brands is the presence of mechanical buttons below the display. This feature has become increasingly rare, yet it remains highly desirable among users, in my opinion.
The PocketBook Verse Pro Color also offers the same range of features familiar from the regular Verse Pro: 16 GB of internal storage, Bluetooth for audio playback via compatible headphones or speakers, and built-in IPX8 water protection.
Largely familiar features with an updated CPU
Although I personally would have liked to see more storage space, the Verse Pro Color is at least consistent with its competition, as the Tolino Shine Color also offers 16 GB with no expansion options.
The most notable upgrade over the black-and-white Verse Pro lies beneath the surface: The PocketBook Verse Pro Color is powered by a quad-core processor, unlike the regular model’s dual-core CPU. This enhancement is necessary, as the E-Ink Kaleido display setup appears to require more processing power than a monochrome E-Ink Carta display. Thankfully, PocketBook did not cut corners here, ensuring a satisfying user experience.
Price and Availability
The PocketBook Verse Pro Color will be available in mid-July at a suggested retail price of 169 euros.
Interestingly, the price matches that of the regular Verse Pro, which is surprising, since color models have historically been more expensive than their grayscale counterparts.
The price is typically 20 euros above that of the Tolino Shine Color, but with the allesebook discount code, you can still save 10 percent (and support ALLESebook.de with your purchase – thank you!). This brings the price down to 152.10 euros, leveling it with its Tolino rival.
Some long-overdue reviews for the Verse, Verse Pro, Era Color, and the new Tolino models are coming soon. A test of the Verse Pro Color will also follow as soon as it becomes available.
