New Competitors in the E-Reader Market

Shortly after Amazon refreshed its Kindle lineup, PocketBook has stepped into the ring with two new devices: the PocketBook Verta and the PocketBook Verta Color. These 6-inch e-readers aim to differentiate themselves from the competition by offering unique customization options that Amazon’s hardware currently lacks.


Design and Customization

While the devices launch in specific base colors—Obsidian Black for the standard Verta and Dark Brown for the Verta Color—PocketBook is providing additional personalization through five interchangeable back panels. This allows users to switch the aesthetic of their device whenever they choose.


Key Specifications

Both models share a robust set of hardware features, including:

  • 6-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1072 x 1448
  • Integrated front light for comfortable reading
  • 1,500mAh battery providing up to two months of usage per charge
  • 16GB of internal storage and 1GB of RAM
  • IPX4 water resistance rating
  • Support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and text-to-speech, alongside a wide range of file formats

The devices utilize a proprietary operating system that supports the Libby app for library loans. Furthermore, users can access an extensive digital library that offers “the world's most comprehensive English-language UK digital eBook library, with its user-friendly LCP DRM-protected content of 4.5 million eBooks and 90,000 audiobooks.”


Display Differences

The primary distinction between the two models lies in their display technology:

  • PocketBook Verta: Equipped with a grayscale E Ink Carta 1300 screen.
  • PocketBook Verta Color: Features a color E Ink Kaleido 3 display.

Pricing and Availability

Both e-readers are scheduled for release in November. The PocketBook Verta is priced at $185 / £159, while the Verta Color is listed at $195 / £169. These prices position the Verta series as strong alternatives to current Kindle models, with the Verta Color particularly standing out as a budget-friendly option compared to premium color e-readers.


However, prospective buyers should note that color e-ink screens often appear darker than their grayscale counterparts. Additionally, the Verta Color’s resolution drops to 536 × 724 when displaying color content. For those who prioritize sharp black-and-white text over color capabilities, the standard Verta may remain the more practical choice.