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Product Description
The Reader Pocket Edition lets you access up to 1,200 of your favorite books from anywhere. Its smart, lightweight design is small enough to slip into a purse or jacket pocket, and features a full 5" clear touch screen with E Ink Pearl technology on its anti-glare screen for easy reading, even in direct sunlight. For added versatility, it supports multiple file formats, including ePub and PDF, offering access to more books from more places like the online Reader Store featuring over one million free public domain titles from Google Books.
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
85 of 86 people found the following review helpful
This is my second ebook reader, and I can see myself slowly turning into an ereader junkie. My first ereader is the white Aluratek Libre Pro, which uses a different screen technology - a reflective LCD screen rather than the e-ink of the Sony (and the Kindle, the Nook, the Kobo ereaders). I am still totally happy with that reader, but being a gadget junkie, I had to get one that uses the e-ink technology. I was planning on getting the new Astak Plus, but since that company is currently having difficulties getting its product to market, I went with the Sony - the silver pocket edition.
Let me just say, that some of the most esthetically-pleasing electronic devices I've had in my life have been Sony-designed devices, and the PRS-350 is another in that line. First of all, it is solidly designed; it has an aluminum frame/casing. It doesn't feel fragile. It is very thin, and the "pocket" designation is not a misnomer. The five control buttons on the front of the device are well-placed yet unobtrusive. The stylus fits neatly into a slot on the side of the ereader. The left side of the ereader has a slightly rounded and raised lip, like that of spine on a real book. It's just enough to give the leverage needed to hold the book firmly. The frame is brushed aluminum
The PRS-350 uses the new Pearl e-ink screen, the same one used in the latest version of the Kindle. I don't know how it compares to the other e-ink screens out there, but from the comments on the various ereader forums I belong to, the Pearl screen is sharper and provides greater contrast. I find it very easy to read in most lighting conditions. The PRS-350 also utilizes a touch screen. According to what I've read, it uses infrared technology around the rim of the screen, which eliminates the need for the extra screen that was used in Sony's previous touch screen, and which results in a crisper image. The touch screen is very responsive, and you can change the swiping direction from left-right to right-left, whichever is more convenient for you. The ereader doesn't have any audio capability, so you won't be able to listen to audiobooks on it. It also doesn't have an SD card slot, but really, it's not needed. E-book file sizes are relatively small, so the ereader can store hundreds and hundreds of books. I've currently got 336 on my Sony and still have plenty of free space left on internal storage.
Essential bits of information about this device:
- It has PDF reflow capability, so PDF text files are handled well
- It has 5 font sizes.
- It uses a 16-level gray-scale to display images
- It uses one serif font; there is no setting to change font styles
- It can handle DRM epub books
- Formats: .epub, .PDF, .lrf (BBeB), Microsoft Word, .rtf, .txt, .jpg, .gif, .png, .bmp
- Screen size is 5", ebooks can be displayed in portrait or landscape view
- It comes with 12 dictionaries pre-installed (2 Oxford dictionaries, English <> French,
English <> German, English <> Spanish, English <> Italian, English <> Dutch)
- It has a handwritten notes application, a text memo function, a picture gallery
- Charging is done via USB connection to a computer; a battery charge lasts about two weeks
- There is no WiFi or 3G capability
- Access speed is fast, the e-ink "black flash" that occurs with each page turn is not
distracting because the text flashing belongs to the new page
- You will need to buy a case for it - Sony doesn't provide one. Nor does it include an AC adapter; that also has to be bought separately
- Book collections are created from the meta-tags associated with each book
- There are multiple methods of organizing the books - by author, file name, date added, last read
- You can drag-and-drop books into the PRS-350 - you don't need to use the Sony Library software
- You can highlight text and create notes right onto the ebook page
- Screen can be operated with either a fingertip or the included stylus - neither seems to scratch the screen
- It recharges relatively quickly
My only quibbles with this reader is that I would like more zoom levels - another size between "medium" and "large" - that's where the largest zoom jump currently is, and I think that a midway font size between the two of them would be useful. I would also like the ability to change fonts. Also, as with all 5" readers, PDF files with a lot of images or special formatting are just a PITA to read because of the small screen size. If you will be primarily reading PDF files with a lot of charts and images, then I would recommend that you get one of the larger-screen ereaders; more information can fit on the screen easier. I got spoiled with the Aluratek; that ereader came with a USB cable, an AC adapter, a carrying case, a 2G SD card, 100 ebooks, and a set of earbuds - I didn't have to buy any extra accessories. Sony just gives you the bare minimum to operate the product and you have to buy the case and the adapter.
I really like the Sony PRS-350. It is pleasing to the eye, and it works well. It's easy to carry in a pocket or a pocketbook. I still find that I don't need Wifi, so the fact that the Sony does not have that capability is no biggie for me. I don't think that there is a "perfect" ereader out there; they all seem to have their quirks and their pluses and minuses. The key is to figure out what your particular needs are and then find the reader that gives you ~most~ of what you want. I would recommend this Sony reader. I think that you get good value for your money.
Let me just say, that some of the most esthetically-pleasing electronic devices I've had in my life have been Sony-designed devices, and the PRS-350 is another in that line. First of all, it is solidly designed; it has an aluminum frame/casing. It doesn't feel fragile. It is very thin, and the "pocket" designation is not a misnomer. The five control buttons on the front of the device are well-placed yet unobtrusive. The stylus fits neatly into a slot on the side of the ereader. The left side of the ereader has a slightly rounded and raised lip, like that of spine on a real book. It's just enough to give the leverage needed to hold the book firmly. The frame is brushed aluminum
The PRS-350 uses the new Pearl e-ink screen, the same one used in the latest version of the Kindle. I don't know how it compares to the other e-ink screens out there, but from the comments on the various ereader forums I belong to, the Pearl screen is sharper and provides greater contrast. I find it very easy to read in most lighting conditions. The PRS-350 also utilizes a touch screen. According to what I've read, it uses infrared technology around the rim of the screen, which eliminates the need for the extra screen that was used in Sony's previous touch screen, and which results in a crisper image. The touch screen is very responsive, and you can change the swiping direction from left-right to right-left, whichever is more convenient for you. The ereader doesn't have any audio capability, so you won't be able to listen to audiobooks on it. It also doesn't have an SD card slot, but really, it's not needed. E-book file sizes are relatively small, so the ereader can store hundreds and hundreds of books. I've currently got 336 on my Sony and still have plenty of free space left on internal storage.
Essential bits of information about this device:
- It has PDF reflow capability, so PDF text files are handled well
- It has 5 font sizes.
- It uses a 16-level gray-scale to display images
- It uses one serif font; there is no setting to change font styles
- It can handle DRM epub books
- Formats: .epub, .PDF, .lrf (BBeB), Microsoft Word, .rtf, .txt, .jpg, .gif, .png, .bmp
- Screen size is 5", ebooks can be displayed in portrait or landscape view
- It comes with 12 dictionaries pre-installed (2 Oxford dictionaries, English <> French,
English <> German, English <> Spanish, English <> Italian, English <> Dutch)
- It has a handwritten notes application, a text memo function, a picture gallery
- Charging is done via USB connection to a computer; a battery charge lasts about two weeks
- There is no WiFi or 3G capability
- Access speed is fast, the e-ink "black flash" that occurs with each page turn is not
distracting because the text flashing belongs to the new page
- You will need to buy a case for it - Sony doesn't provide one. Nor does it include an AC adapter; that also has to be bought separately
- Book collections are created from the meta-tags associated with each book
- There are multiple methods of organizing the books - by author, file name, date added, last read
- You can drag-and-drop books into the PRS-350 - you don't need to use the Sony Library software
- You can highlight text and create notes right onto the ebook page
- Screen can be operated with either a fingertip or the included stylus - neither seems to scratch the screen
- It recharges relatively quickly
My only quibbles with this reader is that I would like more zoom levels - another size between "medium" and "large" - that's where the largest zoom jump currently is, and I think that a midway font size between the two of them would be useful. I would also like the ability to change fonts. Also, as with all 5" readers, PDF files with a lot of images or special formatting are just a PITA to read because of the small screen size. If you will be primarily reading PDF files with a lot of charts and images, then I would recommend that you get one of the larger-screen ereaders; more information can fit on the screen easier. I got spoiled with the Aluratek; that ereader came with a USB cable, an AC adapter, a carrying case, a 2G SD card, 100 ebooks, and a set of earbuds - I didn't have to buy any extra accessories. Sony just gives you the bare minimum to operate the product and you have to buy the case and the adapter.
I really like the Sony PRS-350. It is pleasing to the eye, and it works well. It's easy to carry in a pocket or a pocketbook. I still find that I don't need Wifi, so the fact that the Sony does not have that capability is no biggie for me. I don't think that there is a "perfect" ereader out there; they all seem to have their quirks and their pluses and minuses. The key is to figure out what your particular needs are and then find the reader that gives you ~most~ of what you want. I would recommend this Sony reader. I think that you get good value for your money.
46 of 47 people found the following review helpful
By PF
SUMMARY
I've owned the PRS350 since November. I love it (Maybe too much)! Much wife is passing snide remarks about how nice it must be to have so much free time for reading :-)
I researched the available eReaders, and concluded my priorities were:
1) EPUB support, which allows borrowing eBooks from libraries. I typically borrow books, not buy. It's not cost effective for me to pay over $100 for an eReader to buy 1 or 2 books per year. But to borrow 20 - 30 books per year on a device that's easier to carry than a paperback? Count me in...
2) Easy To Carry. I wanted something pocket size. Cell phone screens are just too small for reading and have poor battery life. The PRS350 is borderline pocket size. I can't imagine carrying anything larger on the road, unless you are willing to hand carry instead of putting in a pocket (I'd be paranoid about putting it down to free up my hands, and forgetting to pick it back up).
3) Good screen. This PRS350 has the latest and greatest e-ink screen. None of the current e-ink screens are as good as paper. The background is gray, not white like paper. But this screen is good enough. And I love the ability to change the font size from micro print to ridiculously large print.
4) Touch screen. I didn't think it would be a big deal, but the Sony touch screen is the difference between a good and a great reading experience. I like selecting books by finger tap, and changing pages by swiping my thumb across the screen. My older daughter loves being able to tap any word in a story and having the dictionary pop open. My youngest daughter loves drawing pictures while in the car (the worlds most expensive etch-a -sketch)....
CONS
1) Great build quality, but expensive. Understandable I guess, because Sony has not locked their owners into a proprietary bookstore. So they can't count on selling their readers at cost, and making their profit on ebook sales.
2) No wireless and/or 3G support for the PRS350. Surfing the net would be great. But most reviews say the web surfing experience on e-ink readers is poor. It's mostly useful for buying ebooks and looking up information on wiki sites (text only). I mostly borrow books, which requires connecting the ereader to my PC anyway. So lack of wireless is not a big deal.
3) No expandable memory. Would be nice to have the option. But the reader holds over 1,000 ebooks. Which would be over 20 years worth of reading (assuming 1 book per week x 52 weeks x 20 years). Assuming I can find a 1,000 books worth keeping on the reader, ready for immediate use...
4) No audio support. I have tons of MP3 music, and my library offers audible book downloads. Come on Sony!!!
5) No additional applications for sale. I don't carry a Smart Phone. This reader reminds me of an old Palm Pilot. I'd like to buy an application to add Calendar, Contact, Notes, and Email integration with my laptop. And how about a few simple games, crosswords, or brainteasers...
6) Not even a cheap cover included.
OTHER
I recommend installing CALIBRE (free) software on your computer to manage your eBook collection.
Join multiple library networks for free ePUB borrowing. My local library network only had 300 titles. The Boston library had thousands of ePUB's available. Most public libraries will allow you borrowing privileges, as long as you live in the same state. Check OVERDRIVE website for participating libraries.
I've owned the PRS350 since November. I love it (Maybe too much)! Much wife is passing snide remarks about how nice it must be to have so much free time for reading :-)
I researched the available eReaders, and concluded my priorities were:
1) EPUB support, which allows borrowing eBooks from libraries. I typically borrow books, not buy. It's not cost effective for me to pay over $100 for an eReader to buy 1 or 2 books per year. But to borrow 20 - 30 books per year on a device that's easier to carry than a paperback? Count me in...
2) Easy To Carry. I wanted something pocket size. Cell phone screens are just too small for reading and have poor battery life. The PRS350 is borderline pocket size. I can't imagine carrying anything larger on the road, unless you are willing to hand carry instead of putting in a pocket (I'd be paranoid about putting it down to free up my hands, and forgetting to pick it back up).
3) Good screen. This PRS350 has the latest and greatest e-ink screen. None of the current e-ink screens are as good as paper. The background is gray, not white like paper. But this screen is good enough. And I love the ability to change the font size from micro print to ridiculously large print.
4) Touch screen. I didn't think it would be a big deal, but the Sony touch screen is the difference between a good and a great reading experience. I like selecting books by finger tap, and changing pages by swiping my thumb across the screen. My older daughter loves being able to tap any word in a story and having the dictionary pop open. My youngest daughter loves drawing pictures while in the car (the worlds most expensive etch-a -sketch)....
CONS
1) Great build quality, but expensive. Understandable I guess, because Sony has not locked their owners into a proprietary bookstore. So they can't count on selling their readers at cost, and making their profit on ebook sales.
2) No wireless and/or 3G support for the PRS350. Surfing the net would be great. But most reviews say the web surfing experience on e-ink readers is poor. It's mostly useful for buying ebooks and looking up information on wiki sites (text only). I mostly borrow books, which requires connecting the ereader to my PC anyway. So lack of wireless is not a big deal.
3) No expandable memory. Would be nice to have the option. But the reader holds over 1,000 ebooks. Which would be over 20 years worth of reading (assuming 1 book per week x 52 weeks x 20 years). Assuming I can find a 1,000 books worth keeping on the reader, ready for immediate use...
4) No audio support. I have tons of MP3 music, and my library offers audible book downloads. Come on Sony!!!
5) No additional applications for sale. I don't carry a Smart Phone. This reader reminds me of an old Palm Pilot. I'd like to buy an application to add Calendar, Contact, Notes, and Email integration with my laptop. And how about a few simple games, crosswords, or brainteasers...
6) Not even a cheap cover included.
OTHER
I recommend installing CALIBRE (free) software on your computer to manage your eBook collection.
Join multiple library networks for free ePUB borrowing. My local library network only had 300 titles. The Boston library had thousands of ePUB's available. Most public libraries will allow you borrowing privileges, as long as you live in the same state. Check OVERDRIVE website for participating libraries.
27 of 27 people found the following review helpful
By Max
I had my eye on these devices for some time, and with all these new products hitting the market, spent considerable time researching options. There are several websites that are dedicated solely to reviewing these products. When the price dropped to $149.00 for the PRS-350, I pounced. For me, the form factor of this light and sleek device, along with access to my local library's trove of current e-pub books, made this my choice. I am very happy with it, and it is a pleasure to use. The access to what are thousands of free books from the library system and Google books were also important factors for me. Just browsing through the offerings of my library's "Digital Doorway" system shows I won't run out of good reading material for some time. The ability to put PDFs on the device was another big factor. I am in the investment business, and often get large prospectuses and offering statements in PDF format, and I absolutely hate the discomfort of reading detailed, technical 75 page long documents on a desktop.
It IS actually pocketable. It fits through the side slash of just about any pants pocket and is thin enough to carry this way. The contrast on the display and the page-like quality of the background are very easy on the eyes. Shifting font size is quick and easy.
Many will be disappointed with the lack of Wi-Fi or 3G. It should not be a factor for most people. For one, choosing a book is a more deliberate purchasing process, and not neccesarily one you'll be doing away from home or where there happens to be access. And feeding another broadband pipe on a monthly basis is not something I'm willing to do. Transfer rates are very fast through the USB: 300 page books download over in mere seconds to the Reader desktop software, and get dropped into the Reader itself instantaneously by drag and drop.
It also occurs to me I have never been disappointed with any Sony product I have ever purchased. They cost more than other brands, but the build quality and the feature set of just about anything they make- camera, TV, car audio, even my old Walkmans- are certainly worth it. No doubt cheaper and better units will be offered as time goes on- that's tech- but I was happy to start indulging myself with this device.
It IS actually pocketable. It fits through the side slash of just about any pants pocket and is thin enough to carry this way. The contrast on the display and the page-like quality of the background are very easy on the eyes. Shifting font size is quick and easy.
Many will be disappointed with the lack of Wi-Fi or 3G. It should not be a factor for most people. For one, choosing a book is a more deliberate purchasing process, and not neccesarily one you'll be doing away from home or where there happens to be access. And feeding another broadband pipe on a monthly basis is not something I'm willing to do. Transfer rates are very fast through the USB: 300 page books download over in mere seconds to the Reader desktop software, and get dropped into the Reader itself instantaneously by drag and drop.
It also occurs to me I have never been disappointed with any Sony product I have ever purchased. They cost more than other brands, but the build quality and the feature set of just about anything they make- camera, TV, car audio, even my old Walkmans- are certainly worth it. No doubt cheaper and better units will be offered as time goes on- that's tech- but I was happy to start indulging myself with this device.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best ereader
This ereader is the most sturdy of all the ones I have, with an aluminum case. Nice size for carrying around in a purse.
Published 4 months ago by Serena
5.0 out of 5 stars
LOVE love love!!!
I've been using this EVERY DAY since I bought it. It doesn't go online, it doesn't allow you to put in a SD card. Read more
Published 4 months ago by cathryn gardiner
5.0 out of 5 stars
My "On The Go" reader
This is my second PRS 350 reader. Very handy. Fits into any purse or any pocket. It is always with me wherever I go. The first one lasted two and a half years. Never any problems. Read more
Published 6 months ago by Alexandra Zibrov
4.0 out of 5 stars
Very nice
Love this little eReader. It's the perfect size and weight. Fits right into my front jeans pocket with no problem. Read more
Published 7 months ago by Alfredo Pardo
4.0 out of 5 stars
Best Size for Readers
I have had the 350 for a year now, and I am very happy with it overall. Other reviews have said much--here are my observations:
CONS: Buggy Sony Store software has... Read more
CONS: Buggy Sony Store software has... Read more
Published 11 months ago by Michael S. Valle
4.0 out of 5 stars
Amazingly simple, wonderful gadget.
I have owned this Sony eReader for well over a year and have not had an ounce of trouble with it.
This is the fifth style of Sony eReader I have purchased and this one is by... Read more
This is the fifth style of Sony eReader I have purchased and this one is by... Read more
Published 12 months ago by devlyn
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good things never last
I have the pink version of this ereader and I loved it. It is very user friendly. I had a Kobo before this one and it was a pain in the ass to get books on and off the reader. Read more
Published 13 months ago by Kerry
5.0 out of 5 stars
OMGoodness this e-reader is SOOOO MUCH MORE USER FRIENDLY THAN MY...
I've spent days trying to download library books to my Mother's new (old) Kindle, no luck. A friend of hers gave her this Kindle, so it didn't come with instructions, I've been to... Read more
Published 13 months ago by Stephanie L. Zimmerman
4.0 out of 5 stars
Leap year BUG for Sony PRS350 Firmware
My reader worked fine until february 29 2012, since then, the internal calendar offsets the day of the week but not the number of the day of the moth(i.e. Read more
Published 14 months ago by Jorge T.
3.0 out of 5 stars
Can be charged from computer only
I'm using PRS350SC for about a year. General impression: very good hardware but user unfriendly. For instance, the Reader can not be charged from USB wall charger, only from... Read more
Published 14 months ago by Dimitri
