OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Barnes Noble Nook Color Review | 68 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price: ~£160
  • Screen size: 7 inches
  • Battery life: 8 hours
  • Supported bookstore ecosystem: Barnes Noble Ecosystem

Barnes Noble Nook Color review. Compare 68 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among ereaders and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the eReader's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best eReaders on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.6

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the eReader's technical performance, covering key areas such as display quality, reading features, battery life, format support, ecosystem, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare eReaders based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

25.0%

3.3

Display

22.0%

6.4

Reading

18.0%

4.9

Battery

14.0%

5.6

Hardware

12.0%

4.1

Connectivity

9.0%

2.2

Design

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the eReader.

When it matters: When you want to know how an eReader feels in daily reading and how reliable it is for screen comfort, battery life, and library management according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

    • No image
    No image

    Best prices in UK

      N/A~ £160

    Best rankings

    ?

    Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
    All: ranking among all products in the database.

    Verdict

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color is a hybrid e-reader and tablet featuring a 7-inch IPS LCD 'VividView' touchscreen with a 1024 x 600 resolution and 169 PPI. It is powered by an 800MHz ARM Cortex A8 processor with 512MB of RAM and runs on a modified Android 2.1/2.2 platform. The device includes 8GB of internal storage (approximately 5GB user-accessible), expandable up to 32GB via a microSDHC slot, and provides Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11b/g/n) but lacks a 3G option. Main pros include its vibrant 16-million color display ideal for magazines and children's books, a robust build with a rubberized back, and support for various formats like EPUB, PDF, and MS Office files. However, it is relatively heavy at 15.8 ounces, its approximately 8-hour battery life is significantly shorter than E-Ink competitors, and the screen suffers from poor visibility in direct sunlight.

    Technical Specifications of eReader Barnes Noble Nook Color

    Technical Score

    What it is: An assessment of the eReader's technical performance, covering key areas such as display quality, reading features, battery life, format support, ecosystem, and design.

    When it matters: When you want to compare eReaders based on technical performance and available features.

    Score components:

    25.0%

    ?

    Display

    22.0%

    ?

    Reading

    18.0%

    ?

    Battery

    14.0%

    ?

    Hardware

    12.0%

    ?

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    ?

    Design

    4.6
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a technical score of 4.58 points, which is lower than that of 94.3% of products in this category.
    User score

    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the eReader.

    When it matters: When you want to know how an eReader feels in daily reading and how reliable it is for screen comfort, battery life, and library management according to user feedback.

    Score components:

    70.0%

    0.0

    User reviews

    30.0%

    1.0

    Popularity

    ?
    Popularity
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the eReader.
    When it matters: When you prefer to choose an eReader reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
    1.0
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 70.5% of products in this category.
    Ratio quality/price

    What it is: An indicator that combines the eReader's overall rating with its cost.

    When it matters: When you are looking for an eReader with a good balance between reading comfort, features, and price.

    Score components:

    60.0%

    4.6

    Overall score

    40.0%

    9.7

    Price

    6.1
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 95.9% of products in this category.
    Brand name
    What it is: Identifies the company or ecosystem behind the device, which often shapes the store, software approach, and accessory support.
    When it matters: When you are choosing between Kindle, Kobo, Boox, PocketBook, or another ecosystem with different store access and software behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Barnes
    Screen size
    What it is: The diagonal measurement of the reading panel, usually given in inches.
    When it matters: When you are deciding between a small travel reader and a larger page that works better for PDFs, comics, or textbooks.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=7.8

    7 inches
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a screen size of 7 inches which is larger than 48.4% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 15.6% of eReaders.
    Screen resolution
    What it is: The total pixel grid shown on the panel, normally written as width by height.
    When it matters: When small fonts, diagrams, or dense page layouts need to stay readable without constant zooming.

    Importance: HIGH

    600x1024 px
    Barnes Noble Nook Color uses a screen resolution of 600x1024 px, which is less sharp than that of 82.8% of eReaders of eReaders.
    Pixel density
    What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display, expressed in ppi.
    When it matters: When you want text edges to look cleaner and serif fonts to resemble print more closely.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=300

    169 ppi
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a pixel density of 169 ppi which is lower than 77.1% of eReaders on this spec of eReaders.
    E-paper display
    What it is: Uses an electrophoretic panel designed to mimic paper rather than a conventional backlit phone or tablet screen.
    When it matters: When you read for long stretches and want lower glare and less screen-like fatigue than on LCD or OLED devices.

    Importance: LOW

    no
    Barnes Noble Nook Color does not use an e-paper display. 97.6% of eReaders have an e-paper display.
    Show more
    Supported file types
    What it is: Lists which ebook, document, image, or audio formats the reader can open without conversion.
    When it matters: When your library comes from mixed sources instead of one locked bookstore.

    Importance: HIGH

    ?
    PDF reflow support
    What it is: Can rearrange PDF text into a more readable, screen-sized layout instead of forcing the original fixed page.
    When it matters: When you read A4 documents, articles, or manuals on a smaller eReader screen.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Barnes Noble Nook Color does not offer PDF reflow. 55.4% of eReaders support PDF reflow.
    Annotation support
    What it is: Allows highlighting, handwritten notes, typed comments, or markup directly inside supported files.
    When it matters: When you study, review academic papers, or want your notes to stay attached to the exact passage.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Barnes Noble Nook Color offers annotation support. 100% of eReaders offer annotation support.
    Dictionary
    What it is: Provides built-in word lookup while you read.
    When it matters: When you read in another language or want quick definitions without leaving the page.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Barnes Noble Nook Color includes a built-in dictionary. 99.2% of eReaders include a built-in dictionary.
    Text-to-speech
    What it is: Converts on-screen text into spoken audio using a synthetic voice.
    When it matters: When you want to keep following a book while resting your eyes, walking, or multitasking.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Barnes Noble Nook Color does not offer text-to-speech. 64.2% of eReaders include text-to-speech.
    Show more
    Battery life
    What it is: Estimates how long the device can keep running between charges under normal reading conditions.
    When it matters: When you travel, commute, or want to finish books for days without thinking about charging.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=30

    8 hours
    Barnes Noble Nook Color offers 8 hours of battery life which is shorter than 100% of eReaders on this spec of eReaders.
    Battery capacity
    What it is: The amount of energy the battery can store, commonly expressed in mAh.
    When it matters: When you want a rough hardware indicator of how much power reserve the device has.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2000

    4,000 mAh
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a battery capacity of 4000 mAh which is higher than 93.3% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 0.8% of eReaders.
    Charging time
    What it is: The approximate time needed to recharge the battery from low to full.
    When it matters: When you often top up shortly before leaving and need the reader ready again quickly.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=3

    3 hours
    Barnes Noble Nook Color takes 3 hours to charge which is slower than 52.9% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 28.9% of eReaders.
    Wireless charging
    What it is: Can recharge on a compatible charging pad without plugging in a cable.
    When it matters: When you prefer drop-and-charge convenience on a desk or bedside stand.

    Importance: LOW

    no
    Barnes Noble Nook Color does not offer wireless charging. 7.3% of eReaders offer wireless charging.
    Internal storage
    What it is: The built-in space available for books, notes, audiobooks, apps, and downloaded documents.
    When it matters: When you keep large libraries offline or store a lot of PDFs and audio locally.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=32

    8 GB
    Barnes Noble Nook Color offers 8 GB of internal storage which is less than 54.2% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 11% of eReaders.
    RAM capacity
    What it is: The amount of working memory used for page rendering, multitasking, and keeping content active in the background.
    When it matters: When you open heavy files, switch between books, or expect the interface to stay snappy.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2

    0.512 GB
    Barnes Noble Nook Color offers 0.512 GB of RAM which is more than 27.7% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 24.4% of eReaders.
    CPU base clock speed
    What it is: The baseline operating frequency of the main processor under normal load.
    When it matters: When you compare readers for faster menu navigation, indexing, and handling of larger documents.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    1 x 0.8 GHz
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a CPU base clock speed of 1x0.8 GHz, which is slower than that of 76% of eReaders and the same as that of 14.9% of eReaders.
    Operating system
    What it is: The software platform that drives the interface, reading apps, and deeper system capabilities.
    When it matters: When you care about app availability, customization, and how flexible the device can become beyond basic reading.

    Importance: HIGH

    Android 2.2
    Barnes Noble Nook Color runs Android 2.2, which is more advanced than that of 71.3% of eReaders of eReaders.
    Android 2.1
    Memory card slot
    What it is: Accepts removable storage so the library can expand beyond the built-in capacity.
    When it matters: When your collection will outgrow internal storage or you move files between devices manually.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Barnes Noble Nook Color has a memory card slot. 43.1% of eReaders have a memory card slot.
    Show more
    Wi-Fi connectivity
    What it is: Connects the reader to wireless networks for book downloads, syncing, updates, and online services.
    When it matters: When you buy books directly on the device or keep your library synced without using a cable.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Barnes Noble Nook Color connects over Wi-Fi. 93.5% of eReaders have Wi-Fi.
    Wi-Fi version
    What it is: Specifies which wireless networking standard is supported, such as Wi-Fi 4, 5, or 6.
    When it matters: When router compatibility, wireless stability, or faster transfers on newer home networks matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
    Barnes Noble Nook Color supports Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), which is newer than that of 10.7% of eReaders and the same as that of 46.7% of eReaders.
    Wi-Fi bands supported
    What it is: Shows whether the reader can use 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or both wireless bands.
    When it matters: When crowded apartment Wi-Fi or 5 GHz-only setups make band support matter at home or in the office.

    Importance: LOW

    2.4 GHz
    Barnes Noble Nook Color supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi bands, which is broader than that of 6.6% of eReaders and the same as that of 50% of eReaders.
    Bluetooth
    What it is: Provides short-range wireless pairing for headphones, speakers, keyboards, page turners, or other accessories.
    When it matters: When you listen to audiobooks, use a remote page turner, or want cable-free accessories around the house.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Barnes Noble Nook Color does not connect over Bluetooth. 60.2% of eReaders have Bluetooth.
    Bluetooth version
    What it is: Identifies the supported Bluetooth generation, which affects efficiency, codec support, and compatibility.
    When it matters: When you pair newer headphones and want a more stable, lower-power wireless connection.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=5.0

    N/A
    Show more
    Weight
    What it is: The mass of the device, usually measured in grams.
    When it matters: When one-handed comfort matters and you do not want the reader to feel tiring during long sessions.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <=200

    450 g
    Barnes Noble Nook Color weighs 450 g which is heavier than 87.7% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 0.8% of eReaders.
    Thickness
    What it is: The depth of the body from front to back, usually measured in millimetres.
    When it matters: When grip comfort, sleeve fit, or how slim the reader feels in the hand matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=8

    12 mm
    Barnes Noble Nook Color is 12 mm thick which is thicker than 98.3% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 0.8% of eReaders.
    Height
    What it is: The vertical size of the body, usually measured from top to bottom in millimetres.
    When it matters: When you are checking whether the reader will fit a bag, jacket pocket, or small stand.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=160

    210 mm
    Barnes Noble Nook Color is 210 mm tall which is taller than 76.2% of eReaders on this spec of eReaders.
    Width
    What it is: The side-to-side body measurement, usually given in millimetres.
    When it matters: When one-handed reach and how much space the reader takes in a bag or bedside setup matter.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=130

    127 mm
    Barnes Noble Nook Color is 127 mm wide which is narrower than 51.6% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 2.5% of eReaders.
    Water resistance (splashproof)
    What it is: Can tolerate light splashes, damp hands, or brief accidental contact with water.
    When it matters: When you read by the bath, at the pool, or outdoors where light moisture is realistic.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Barnes Noble Nook Color does not have water resistance against splashes. 25% of eReaders have water resistance against splashes.
    Show more

    Barnes Noble Nook Color vs the average eReader

    • 2.61x larger battery capacity
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a larger battery than the average eReader (4,000 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.
      What it is: The amount of energy the battery can store, commonly expressed in mAh.
      When it matters: When you want a rough hardware indicator of how much power reserve the device has.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Good value: >=2000

      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a larger battery than the average eReader (4,000 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.4000 mAh vs 1530 mAh
    • Includes memory card slot
      Barnes Noble Nook Color includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Accepts removable storage so the library can expand beyond the built-in capacity.
      When it matters: When your collection will outgrow internal storage or you move files between devices manually.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Barnes Noble Nook Color includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has 3.5 mm jack
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Includes a standard analog audio port for wired headphones or speakers.
      When it matters: When you listen to audiobooks and do not want to rely on Bluetooth or a USB-C adapter.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has accelerometer
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has an accelerometer, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Detects motion or orientation changes so the software can react to how the reader is being held.
      When it matters: When you rotate the device often and want the screen to adapt naturally in your hands.

      Importance: LOW

      Barnes Noble Nook Color has an accelerometer, while the average eReader does not.
    • More advanced operating system
      Barnes Noble Nook Color uses Android 2.2, a more advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
      Android 2.1
      What it is: The software platform that drives the interface, reading apps, and deeper system capabilities.
      When it matters: When you care about app availability, customization, and how flexible the device can become beyond basic reading.

      Importance: HIGH

      Barnes Noble Nook Color uses Android 2.2, a more advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.Android 2.2 vs Kindle OS
    • 1 more speakers
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has more speakers than the average eReader (1 vs 0). The average eReader has 0 speakers.
      Built-in speaker count reflects onboard audio hardware.
      What it is: Has built-in speakers so audio can play directly from the device without external headphones.
      When it matters: When you want spoken content or quick audio playback without reaching for extra gear.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Good value: >=1

      Barnes Noble Nook Color has more speakers than the average eReader (1 vs 0). The average eReader has 0 speakers.1 vs 0
    • Supports auto-rotate
      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports auto-rotate, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Switches page orientation automatically when the device is turned.
      When it matters: When you alternate between portrait and landscape for manga, PDFs, or left-handed reading positions.

      Importance: LOW

      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports auto-rotate, while the average eReader does not.
    • Supports auto-rotate
      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports auto-rotate, while the average eReader does not.
    • 2.61x larger battery capacity
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a larger battery than the average eReader (4,000 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.
    • Includes memory card slot
      Barnes Noble Nook Color includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has accelerometer
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has an accelerometer, while the average eReader does not.
    • More advanced operating system
      Barnes Noble Nook Color uses Android 2.2, a more advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
    • Has 3.5 mm jack
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, while the average eReader does not.
    • 1 more speakers
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has more speakers than the average eReader (1 vs 0). The average eReader has 0 speakers.

    Total
    Display
    Battery
    Hardware
    Connectivity
    • No front light
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
    • 36.2% lower pixel density
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (169 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
    • Lower screen resolution
      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x1024 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.
    • No color temperature adjustment
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support color temperature adjustment, while the average eReader does.
      Only offers brightness adjustment
    • No glare-free screen
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not have a glare-free screen, while the average eReader does.
      features a special laminate layer to cut down on glare, though as an LCD screen it is not completely immune
    • No e-paper display
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not use an e-paper display, while the average eReader does.
    • 5 fewer front-light LEDs
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has fewer front-light LEDs than the average eReader (0 vs 5). The average eReader has 5 front-light LEDs.
    • Limited bookstore ecosystem
      Barnes Noble Nook Color uses the Barnes Noble Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
      Barnes Noble bookstore ecosystem.
    • Limited DRM support
      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (B&N DRM, Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).
    • No PDF reflow
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
    • No text-to-speech
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support text-to-speech, while the average eReader does.
    • 9 fewer supported languages
      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports fewer languages than the average eReader (1 vs 10). The average eReader supports 10 languages.
    • 13 hours shorter battery life
      Barnes Noble Nook Color offers shorter battery life than the average eReader (8 hours vs 21 hours). The average eReader offers 21 hours of battery life.
    • 1 hours longer charging time
      Barnes Noble Nook Color charges more slowly than the average eReader (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.
    • Slower CPU base clock speed
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a slower CPU base clock speed than the average eReader (1x0.8 GHz vs 1x1 GHz). The average eReader has a CPU base clock speed of 1x1 GHz.
    • 50% less storage
      Barnes Noble Nook Color offers less internal storage than the average eReader (8 GB vs 16 GB). The average eReader provides 16 GB of internal storage.
    • No USB Type-C
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
    • No Bluetooth
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not have Bluetooth, while the average eReader does.
    • No Bluetooth audio
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average eReader does.
    • No OTA updates
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support OTA updates, while the average eReader does.
    • 2.11x heavier
      Barnes Noble Nook Color is heavier than the average eReader (450 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.
    • 3.9 mm thicker
      Barnes Noble Nook Color is thicker than the average eReader (12 mm vs 8.1 mm). The average eReader thickness is 8.1 mm.
    • 11 year/s older release date
      Barnes Noble Nook Color is older than the average eReader (2,010 vs 2,021). The average eReader was released in 2,021.
      November 2010
    • 37 mm taller
      Barnes Noble Nook Color is taller than the average eReader (210 mm vs 173 mm). The average eReader height is 173 mm.
    • Limited bookstore ecosystem
      Barnes Noble Nook Color uses the Barnes Noble Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
      Barnes Noble bookstore ecosystem.
      What it is: Shows which built-in store or content platform the device is tied to for buying or downloading books.
      When it matters: When store selection, regional catalog access, or ecosystem lock-in will shape what you can read most easily.

      Importance: HIGH

      Barnes Noble Nook Color uses the Barnes Noble Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.Barnes Noble Ecosystem vs Android Open Ecosystem
    • Limited DRM support
      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (B&N DRM, Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).
      What it is: Shows which copy-protection systems the device can open, such as Adobe DRM or store-specific protection.
      When it matters: When you buy or borrow books from multiple stores and need them all to open on one reader.

      Importance: HIGH

      Barnes Noble Nook Color supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (B&N DRM, Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).B&N DRM, Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP
    • No PDF reflow
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
      What it is: Can rearrange PDF text into a more readable, screen-sized layout instead of forcing the original fixed page.
      When it matters: When you read A4 documents, articles, or manuals on a smaller eReader screen.

      Importance: HIGH

      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
    • No front light
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
      What it is: Adds built-in illumination that shines across the screen so the page stays readable in dark environments.
      When it matters: When you read in bed, on flights, or anywhere ambient light is too low for an unlit screen.

      Importance: HIGH

      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
    • No USB Type-C
      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
      What it is: Uses the reversible USB-C connector for charging and, on some models, wired data transfer.
      When it matters: When you want one shared cable standard for your reader, phone, and other travel gear.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Barnes Noble Nook Color does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
    • 13 hours shorter battery life
      Barnes Noble Nook Color offers shorter battery life than the average eReader (8 hours vs 21 hours). The average eReader offers 21 hours of battery life.
      What it is: Estimates how long the device can keep running between charges under normal reading conditions.
      When it matters: When you travel, commute, or want to finish books for days without thinking about charging.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=30

      Barnes Noble Nook Color offers shorter battery life than the average eReader (8 hours vs 21 hours). The average eReader offers 21 hours of battery life.8 hours vs 21 hours
    • 36.2% lower pixel density
      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (169 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
      What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display, expressed in ppi.
      When it matters: When you want text edges to look cleaner and serif fonts to resemble print more closely.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=300

      Barnes Noble Nook Color has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (169 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.169 ppi vs 265 ppi
    • 2.11x heavier
      Barnes Noble Nook Color is heavier than the average eReader (450 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.
      What it is: The mass of the device, usually measured in grams.
      When it matters: When one-handed comfort matters and you do not want the reader to feel tiring during long sessions.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: <=200

      Barnes Noble Nook Color is heavier than the average eReader (450 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.450 g vs 213 g
    Total
    Overall
    Display
    Reading
    Battery
    Hardware
    Connectivity
    Design

    Graphic comparison of Barnes Noble Nook Color and other eReaders

    Attribute category
    Attribute
    No results found

    Third-party reviews

    What customers like about Barnes Noble Nook Color?

    • Vibrant 7-inch IPS LCD screen with 16 million colors, ideal for magazines and children's books
    • Backlit display allows for reading in total darkness without external light
    • Support for a wide variety of formats including ePub, PDF, and Microsoft Office documents
    • Expandable storage via a microSD card slot (up to 32GB)
    • Responsive capacitive touchscreen with multi-touch support for web browsing
    • Built-in Wi-Fi and a functional WebKit-based web browser
    • Premium build quality with a soft-touch, rubberised back for better grip
    • Access to the extensive Barnes & Noble ecosystem and 'Read In Store' features

    What customers dislike about Barnes Noble Nook Color?

    • Short battery life (approximately 8 hours) compared to weeks on e-ink devices
    • Relatively heavy at 15.8 ounces, making it tiring to hold one-handed for long periods
    • LCD screen is difficult to read in direct sunlight due to glare
    • No physical page-turn buttons; navigation is entirely touch-based
    • Proprietary charging requirement—often will not charge with standard micro-USB cables unless the original B&N adapter is used
    • Lack of 3G connectivity; relies solely on Wi-Fi for downloads and browsing
    • Software can feel 'closed' or limited compared to full Android tablets, with no access to the standard Google Play Store
    • Sideloaded content (non-B&N books) is often relegated to a separate 'My Files' folder, complicating organization

    Expert reviews

    T
    thewsreviews.com
    18/01/2011
    Barnes and Noble Nook Color - `thews reviews

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color is presented as a well-constructed, affordable hybrid device that bridges the gap between traditional e-readers and tablets. Key pros include a solid build quality, a high-quality color screen, and an open system that allows easy drag-and-drop file management, functioning similarly to an 8GB thumb drive. However, the review highlights critical cons...Read more

    R
    reviewed.com
    16/11/2010
    Barnes & Noble Nook Color Tablet eBook Reader Review

    The Reviewed.com review highlights the Barnes & Noble Nook Color as a versatile hybrid device bridging the gap between a dedicated e-reader and a tablet, praised for its high-quality IPS display, solid build, and expandable storage. Key pros include vibrant screen quality for magazines and books, responsive capacitive touch, and easy access to the B&N ecosystem. However, noted cons...Read more

    G
    gizmodo.com
    16/11/2010
    Barnes & Noble Nook Color Review: A Screen Caught Between Two Worlds

    The Gizmodo review defines the $249 Barnes & Noble Nook Color as a "conflicted device" bridging the gap between E Ink readers and full-fledged tablets, featuring solid construction with a soft, rubberized back. A major pro is the high-quality 7-inch IPS LCD, which excels in color for magazines, though the screen suffers from heavy glare and the unit is nearly twice as heavy as...Read more

    W
    wired.com
    16/11/2010
    Nook Color: Hands-On Review and Thoughts for the Future

    The Nook Color is a 7-inch Android-based tablet featuring a high-resolution VividView IPS display that excels at rendering color content like magazines and children’s books, though it sacrifices the long battery life and outdoor readability of traditional E-ink devices. The hardware is durable and includes a microSD slot for expansion, with a user-friendly interface that offers...Read more

    U
    uk.pcmag.com
    10/10/2011
    Barnes & Noble Nook Color - Review 2011

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color is a highly rated 7-inch device that bridges the gap between an e-reader and a tablet, featuring a vibrant 1024-by-600 resolution LCD screen, Android 2.1 OS, and a robust 8GB of internal storage with microSD expansion. Key pros include excellent color display capabilities for magazines and children's books, alongside intuitive navigation and social...Read more

    T
    thislamp.com
    08/06/2011
    Nook Color (A Review with Images)

    In a 2011 review, This Lamp characterizes the Nook Color as a "deceptive" device that functions as a versatile Android 2.2 tablet disguised as an e-reader. Key advantages include a high-quality 7-inch IPS LCD screen for color content, a sturdy build, and an open file system allowing easy "drag and drop" of PDFs and media files. However, the review notes significant drawbacks,...Read more

    W
    wired.com
    11/04/2011
    Is the Barnes & Noble NOOK Color Right for Your Family?

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color serves as a versatile, budget-friendly hybrid, bridging the gap between a dedicated e-reader and a tablet with its vibrant 7-inch IPS touchscreen. Key strengths include its durable build, suitability for children's interactive media, a microSD card slot for expanded storage, and the social "LendMe" ebook sharing feature. Conversely, the device faces...Read more

    A
    arstechnica.com
    16/12/2010
    It ain't heavy, it's my e-reader: a review of the Nook Color

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color serves as a transitional 7-inch device bridging e-readers and tablets, featuring a high-quality IPS display ideal for color content, but with limited battery life and poor outdoor visibility [Ars Technica]. The device boasts a premium build, including a unique "lanyard" corner, but is constrained by a heavily modified Android 2.1 interface [Ars...Read more

    L
    laptopmag.com
    15/11/2010
    Barnes and Noble Nook Color Review

    The Laptop Mag review identifies the Barnes & Noble Nook Color as a "reader's tablet" featuring a vibrant 7-inch IPS capacitive touchscreen that excels at displaying magazines and children's books. It is praised for an intuitive, well-designed interface and a strong ecosystem of color-rich content, serving as a solid "tweener" device between basic e-readers and full tablets....Read more

    T
    techcrunch.com
    16/11/2010
    Review: Barnes & Noble NookColor

    The TechCrunch review characterizes the Barnes & Noble NookColor as a high-end, color-capable e-reader designed primarily for visual content, rather than a versatile tablet. Featuring a 7-inch VividView touchscreen and a sturdy design by Yves Béhar, the device offers excellent, responsive performance for magazines and children's books, with significant advantages in display quality...Read more

    U
    uk.pcmag.com
    16/11/2010
    Barnes & Noble Nook Color - Review 2010

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color is a pioneering 7-inch IPS LCD device bridging the gap between an e-reader and a tablet, featuring a vibrant, responsive touchscreen designed for media-rich content. The device is highly praised for its excellent design, sharp text rendering, deep social integration, and ability to read comfortably in dark environments. However, notable drawbacks...Read more

    P
    pcworld.com
    16/11/2010
    Nook Color: Barnes & Noble Makes Its Mark With the First Color E-Reader

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color is a 7-inch Android-based device, priced at $249, that functions as a hybrid e-reader and tablet, highlighted by a high-quality 1024-by-600 VividView LCD screen suitable for color content. Key pros include a responsive interface, expanded storage, support for ePub/PDF, and excellent color content display for magazines and children's books. Significant...Read more

    C
    cnet.com
    12/08/2012
    Barnes & Noble Nook Color review

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color serves as a bridge between traditional e-readers and tablets, highlighted by a vibrant 7-inch "VividView" IPS touchscreen with 1,024x600 resolution and a solid build. Key advantages include "zippy" performance, 8GB of onboard memory, a microSD expansion slot, and built-in Wi-Fi. However, the device is heavy at 15.8 ounces and suffers from a relatively...Read more

    T
    technologizer.com
    16/11/2010
    Engadget's Nookcolor Review Are you looking for help with technical troubleshooting for this specific model, or are you comparing it against newer Noo...

    The Barnes & Noble Nook Color ($249) bridges the gap between e-readers and tablets, featuring a high-quality 7-inch VividView IPS screen superior for color content, though it is heavier and has shorter battery life (approx. 8 hours) than dedicated E Ink devices. While the Android 2.1-based software offers perks like Pandora integration, a smooth browser, and "LendMe" book sharing,...Read more

    E
    engadget.com
    26/10/2010
    Nook Color first hands-on! (updated: with video)

    The Nook Color marks a shift from E-ink to a 7-inch IPS touchscreen with 1024 x 600 resolution and a "classy," sturdy build. Running a customized Android 2.1, it features a specialized interface for color-rich magazines and books. The device boasts vivid colors and excellent viewing angles, ideal for multimedia, while offering Wi-Fi and the "LendMe" feature. However, it suffers from...Read more

    G
    golem.de
    03/06/2026
    Nook Color - Golem.de Topic Overview

    The Nook Color bridges the gap between a dedicated e-reader and a tablet, featuring a 7-inch IPS LCD (1024x600) display that provides vibrant colors and sharp text for media-heavy content, running a customized, simplified version of Android 2.2. The device is lauded for its premium build quality, a high-quality, low-reflection LG screen with good viewing angles, a functional web...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    B
    bellaswonderworld.de
    14/08/2012
    Nook Color™ Review

    The Nook Color functions as a hybrid device bridging e-readers and tablets, featuring a 7-inch IPS LCD screen praised for its sharp, vibrant display quality, especially for children's books. Its design is noted as sturdy and comfortable to hold, combining premium build quality with a unique, practical aesthetic. Key advantages include versatility, supporting formats like PDFs and...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    T
    tweakers.net
    12/03/2012
    Barnes & Noble Nook Color Black - phizzie - Product reviews

    The 2012 Tweakers review by user phizzie highlights the Barnes & Noble Nook Color as an excellent "entry-level" hybrid, blending e-reader functionality with a 7-inch IPS display suitable for color content, and solid, rubberized build quality. A key pro for users is the device’s ease of "flashing" with custom Android ROMs to bypass stock restrictions, alongside capable...Read more

    (Translated)Show original

    Video reviews

    Best alternatives

    pocketbook-era-color
    Pocketbook Era Color

    eReaders

    7.9
    No image
    Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2021

    eReaders

    6.9
    onyx-boox-go-6
    Onyx Boox Go 6

    eReaders

    7.3
    amazon-kindle-paperwhite-2024
    Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024

    eReaders

    7.2
    No image
    Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

    eReaders

    6.8
    pocketbook-verse-pro-color
    Pocketbook Verse Pro Color

    eReaders

    7.5
    amazon-kindle-paperwhite-signature-edition-2021
    Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition 2021

    eReaders

    7.1
    pocketbook-era-64gb
    Pocketbook Era 64GB

    eReaders

    7.9
    amazon-kindle-paperwhite-signature-edition-2024
    Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition 2024

    eReaders

    7.5
    kobo-libra-colour
    Kobo Libra Colour

    eReaders

    7.4
    kobo-libra-2
    Kobo Libra 2

    eReaders

    7.0
    kobo-libra-h2o
    Kobo Libra H2o

    eReaders

    6.1

    Compare Barnes Noble Nook Color with other eReaders

    VS
    VS

    Compare