Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 Review | 68 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£270
  • Avg. price in US: ~$330
  • Screen size: 7.8 inches
  • Battery life: ?
  • Supported bookstore ecosystem: ?

Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 review. Compare 68 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among ereaders and if it is worth buying.

8.0

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%

8.1

Technical Score

10.0%

6.8

User score

Excellent
8.1

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%

9.0

Display

22.0%

8.6

Reading

18.0%

8.8

Battery

14.0%

4.6

Hardware

12.0%

8.3

Connectivity

9.0%

8.8

Design

Excellent
6.8

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%

7.8

User reviews

30.0%

4.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.9
(107)

(Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

Good
    • No image
    No image

    Best prices in UK

    Best rankings

    ?

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

    Verdict

    The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 is a premium 7.8-inch e-reader featuring the advanced E Ink Kaleido 3 display, offering 300 PPI for black-and-white text and an improved 150 PPI for 4,096 colours. Powered by a quad-core 1.8 GHz processor with 1 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage, it stands out for its IPX8 waterproofing, built-in speaker for audiobooks, and wide support for 25 different formats without conversion. Main pros include its eye-friendly SMARTlight with color temperature adjustment, physical page-turn buttons, and seamless cloud syncing. However, notable cons include a lack of expandable microSD storage, a screen that appears darker than standard monochrome displays—often requiring the front light even in well-lit areas—and occasional reports of slow UI navigation.

    Technical Specifications of eReader Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3

    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%

    9.0

    Display

    22.0%

    8.6

    Reading

    18.0%

    8.8

    Battery

    14.0%

    4.6

    Hardware

    12.0%

    8.3

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    8.8

    Design

    8.1
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a technical score of 8.14 points, which is higher than that of 89.3% 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%

    7.8

    User reviews

    30.0%

    4.5

    Popularity

    User score:
    United Kingdom
    amazon
    3.9
    (107)

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    6.8
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a user score of 6.81 points, which is lower than that of 80.3% of products in this category.
    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.
    4.5
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a popularity of 4.5 points, which is lower than 54.1% of smartphones.
    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%

    8.0

    Overall score

    40.0%

    9.1

    Price

    8.3
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.3 points, which is higher than 88.5% of smartphones.
    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

    Pocketbook
    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

    7.8 inches
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a screen size of 7.8 inches which is larger than 64.8% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 9% 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

    1404x1872 px
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses a screen resolution of 1404x1872 px, which is sharper than that of 73.8% of eReaders and the same as that of 17.2% 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

    300 ppi
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a pixel density of 300 ppi which is higher than 51.6% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 48.4% 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

    yes
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses 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

    25
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports 25 file types which is more than 91% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 4% of eReaders.
    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

    yes
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers 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
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 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
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 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

    yes
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers 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

    ?
    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

    2,900 mAh
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a battery capacity of 2900 mAh which is higher than 75.8% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.7% 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
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 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

    yes
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers wireless charging. 7.3% of eReaders offer wireless charging.
    Requires official Charge Cover.
    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

    32 GB
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers 32 GB of internal storage which is more than 57.6% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 23.7% 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

    1 GB
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers 1 GB of RAM which is more than 52.9% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 17.7% 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

    4 x 1.8 GHz
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a CPU base clock speed of 4 x 1.8 GHz, which is faster than that of 70.3% of eReaders and the same as that of 4.1% 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

    PocketBook OS
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 runs PocketBook OS, which is less advanced than that of 82.8% of eReaders and the same as that of 17.2% of eReaders.
    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

    no
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 does not have 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
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 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 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), which is newer than that of 58.2% of eReaders and the same as that of 40.2% 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+5 GHz
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports 2.4 GHz+5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, which is broader than that of 57.4% of eReaders and the same as that of 42.6% 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

    yes
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 connects 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

    5.0
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports Bluetooth 5.0 which is newer than 58.5% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 28.8% of eReaders.
    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

    270 g
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 weighs 270 g which is heavier than 70.5% of eReaders on this spec 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

    7.95 mm
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is 7.95 mm thick which is thinner than 62.5% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.7% 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

    189.5 mm
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is 189.5 mm tall which is taller than 64.8% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.6% 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

    134 mm
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is 134 mm wide which is wider than 54.1% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.6% 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

    yes
    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has water resistance against splashes. 25% of eReaders have water resistance against splashes.
    Show more

    Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 vs the average eReader

    • 10 broader file support
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports a broader range of file types than the average eReader (25 vs 15).
      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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports a broader range of file types than the average eReader (25 vs 15).25 vs 15
    • Has color display
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a color display, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Shows color instead of grayscale only, usually through a color E Ink panel with more muted tones than LCD or OLED screens.
      When it matters: When you read comics, illustrated books, magazines, or documents that rely on color-coded charts and highlights.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a color display, while the average eReader does not.
    • 89.5% larger battery capacity
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a larger battery than the average eReader (2,900 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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a larger battery than the average eReader (2,900 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.2,900 mAh vs 1,530 mAh
    • Has splash resistance
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has splash resistance, while the average eReader does not.
      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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has splash resistance, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has page-turn buttons
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has page-turn buttons, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Adds dedicated physical controls for moving forward or backward without tapping the screen.
      When it matters: When you read one-handed, wear gloves, or want fewer fingerprints on the display.

      Importance: HIGH

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has page-turn buttons, while the average eReader does not.
    • Higher screen resolution
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports higher screen resolution than the average eReader (1404x1872 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px 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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports higher screen resolution than the average eReader (1404x1872 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.1404x1872 px vs 1072x1448 px
    • Has accelerometer
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has an accelerometer, while the average eReader does not.
    • More advanced E-Ink technology
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses Kaleido 3 E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
      Kaleido 3 E Ink's color filter technology
      What it is: States which E Ink generation or panel family the device uses, such as Carta or Kaleido.
      When it matters: When you compare newer and older readers for contrast, refresh behavior, or color performance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses Kaleido 3 E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.Kaleido 3 vs Carta Plus
    • Has color display
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a color display, while the average eReader does not.
    • Higher screen resolution
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports higher screen resolution than the average eReader (1404x1872 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.
    • More advanced E-Ink technology
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses Kaleido 3 E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
    • 19 more front-light LEDs
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has more front-light LEDs than the average eReader (24 vs 5). The average eReader has 5 front-light LEDs.
    • 13.2% higher pixel density
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a higher pixel density than the average eReader (300 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
    • 0.8 inches larger screen size
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a larger screen than the average eReader (7.8 inches vs 7 inches). The average eReader screen size is 7 inches.
    • Has auto-brightness sensor
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has an auto-brightness sensor, while the average eReader does not.
    • Supports auto-rotate
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports auto-rotate, while the average eReader does not.
    • 10 broader file support
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports a broader range of file types than the average eReader (25 vs 15).
    • Broader library support
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports more library lending platforms than the average eReader (OverDrive, Libby, BorrowBox vs OverDrive, Libby).
    • 89.5% larger battery capacity
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a larger battery than the average eReader (2,900 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.
    • Supports wireless charging
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports wireless charging, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has accelerometer
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has an accelerometer, while the average eReader does not.
    • Faster CPU base clock speed
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a faster CPU base clock speed than the average eReader (4x1.8 GHz vs 1x1 GHz). The average eReader has a CPU base clock speed of 1x1 GHz.
    • 2x more storage
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers more internal storage than the average eReader (32 GB vs 16 GB). The average eReader provides 16 GB of internal storage.
    • 0.49 GB more RAM
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has more RAM than the average eReader (1 GB vs 0.512 GB). The average eReader has 0.512 GB of RAM.
    • Supports USB OTG
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports USB OTG, while the average eReader does not.
    • Better Wi-Fi bands
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports 2.4 GHz+5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, while the average eReader supports 2.4 GHz.
    • 1 more speakers
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has more speakers than the average eReader (1 vs 0). The average eReader has 0 speakers.
    • Has splash resistance
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has splash resistance, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has page-turn buttons
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has page-turn buttons, while the average eReader does not.
    • 2 m higher waterproof depth rating
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 offers deeper waterproofing than the average eReader (2 m vs 0 m). The average eReader waterproof depth rating is 0 m.
    • 2 year/s newer release date
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is newer than the average eReader (2023 vs 2021). The average eReader was released in 2021.
    • No parental controls
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 does not have parental controls, while the average eReader does.
      Full Device Passcode/Password
    • 1 hours longer charging time
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 charges more slowly than the average eReader (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.
    • Less advanced operating system
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses PocketBook OS, a less advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
    • Older Bluetooth version
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports an older Bluetooth version than the average eReader (5 vs 5.1).
    • 26.8% heavier
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is heavier than the average eReader (270 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.
    • 16.5 mm taller
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is taller than the average eReader (189.5 mm vs 173 mm). The average eReader height is 173 mm.
    • 1 hours longer charging time
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 charges more slowly than the average eReader (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.
      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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 charges more slowly than the average eReader (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.3 hours vs 2 hours
    • Less advanced operating system
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses PocketBook OS, a less advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
      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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 uses PocketBook OS, a less advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.PocketBook OS vs Kindle OS
    • 26.8% heavier
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is heavier than the average eReader (270 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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is heavier than the average eReader (270 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.270 g vs 213 g
    • No parental controls
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 does not have parental controls, while the average eReader does.
      Full Device Passcode/Password
      What it is: Offers restrictions for purchases, browsing, content access, or child profiles.
      When it matters: When the reader will be used by children and you want tighter control over what they can open or buy.

      Importance: LOW

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 does not have parental controls, while the average eReader does.
    • Older Bluetooth version
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports an older Bluetooth version than the average eReader (5 vs 5.1).
      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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 supports an older Bluetooth version than the average eReader (5 vs 5.1).5.0 vs 5.1
    • 17.5% lower user score
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a lower user score than the average eReader (6.81 vs 8,000).
      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.
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 has a lower user score than the average eReader (6.81 vs 8,000).6.81 vs 8
    • 16.5 mm taller
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is taller than the average eReader (189.5 mm vs 173 mm). The average eReader height is 173 mm.
      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

      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is taller than the average eReader (189.5 mm vs 173 mm). The average eReader height is 173 mm.189.5 mm vs 173 mm
    • 58.8% more expensive
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is more expensive than the average eReader (£270 vs £170).
      Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 is more expensive than the average eReader (£270 vs £170).£270 vs £170

    Graphic comparison of Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3 and other eReaders

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    Third-party reviews

    United Kingdom

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    What customers like about Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3?

    • Vibrant Kaleido 3 color screen with improved 150 PPI resolution compared to previous generations
    • Full IPX8 waterproofing allows for safe reading at the beach or in the bath
    • Excellent wide-ranging format support (EPUB, PDF, CBR, CBZ, and more) without being locked into a single ecosystem
    • Crisp 300 PPI black-and-white text resolution for standard e-book reading
    • Convenient physical page-turn buttons that are easy to use
    • SMARTlight technology provides adjustable brightness and color temperature (warm vs. cool)
    • Includes a built-in speaker and Bluetooth for audiobooks and Text-to-Speech functionality
    • Long battery life that can last several weeks on a single charge

    What customers dislike about Pocketbook Inkpad Color 3?

    • Colors are noticeably more muted and desaturated compared to traditional LCD or OLED tablets
    • The screen is darker than black-and-white models due to the color filter, often requiring the front light to be on
    • System performance can feel sluggish, with slow UI navigation and some touch lag
    • Higher price point compared to standard monochrome e-readers
    • The plastic shell can feel less premium and is prone to fingerprints
    • Native Pocketbook store has limited English-language content compared to Amazon or Kobo
    • Fixed 32GB storage with no microSD card slot for expansion
    • Recessed screen design can act as a 'dust magnet' compared to flush-fronted competitors

    Expert reviews

    M
    mediaberry.co.uk
    17/02/2025

    The PocketBook InkPad Colour 3 features a 7.8-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 screen, providing vibrant visuals for comics, though it suffers from a recessed design that acts as a dust magnet. Key ergonomic benefits include a comfortable grip with trimmed corners and IPX8 waterproofing, but its 35% heavier weight compared to competitors can lead to fatigue. While the device excels with diverse...Read more

    A
    allesebook.de
    23/10/2025

    The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 features a 7.8-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 display, offering 300 PPI for black-and-white and 150 PPI for color, providing improved saturation over previous models. Key advantages include IPX8 waterproofing, physical page-turn buttons, and support for over 25 formats, along with SMARTlight for adjustable, comfortable, and versatile reading. However, the 32 GB...Read more

    C
    chip.de
    17/10/2024

    The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 is a 7.8-inch e-reader featuring a Kaleido 3 screen, providing 150 PPI for color and 300 PPI for black-and-white, making it ideal for illustrated content. Key design advantages include a 270g weight, IPX8 waterproofing, and physical, ergonomic page-turn buttons. It offers Bluetooth 5.0 and speakers for audiobooks, though users may find the screen, which...Read more

    C
    computerbase.de
    20/01/2024

    The ComputerBase review of the PocketBook InkPad Color 3 highlights a significant upgrade to E Ink Kaleido 3 technology, offering 150 PPI color resolution and 300 PPI black-and-white text for vibrant, sharper content. Featuring a faster 1.8 GHz processor for improved responsiveness, this 7.8-inch e-reader delivers a superior, snappy performance compared to its predecessor. Key pros...Read more

    H
    heise.de
    22/05/2024

    A Heise review evaluates four E Ink Kaleido 3 color e-readers—PocketBook Era Color, PocketBook InkPad Color 3, Tolino Shine Color, and Boox Note Air 3 C—highlighting their suitability for illustrated content and, for the PocketBook/Tolino models, superior outdoor readability with IPX8 waterproofing. A key limitation (con) of this technology is a darker, less crisp screen compared to...Read more

    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    09/12/2024

    The Vivlio InkPad Color 3 is a premium 7.8-inch e-reader featuring a compact design with a 74.4% screen-to-body ratio and thin bezels, utilizing E Ink Kaleido 3 technology for enhanced color resolution. It offers high versatility with IPX8 waterproofing, physical navigation buttons, 32 GB storage, and broad file support (EPUB, PDF, CBR, CBZ). While ideal for manga and color content,...Read more

    T
    test-achats.be
    15/01/2024

    The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 features a 7.8-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 display, offering 300 PPI for black-and-white and a 50% improvement in color resolution (150 PPI) for comics and manga. Key advantages include IPX8 waterproofing, physical page-turn buttons, and support for 25+ file formats without conversion, while the 32GB internal storage lacks a MicroSD expansion slot. While the...Read more

    L
    liseuses.net
    12/11/2024

    The Vivlio InkPad Color 3 is a high-end, 7.8-inch e-reader featuring E Ink Kaleido 3 technology, which offers improved resolution and contrast for 4,096 vibrant colors, making it ideal for manga and illustrated books. It boasts premium features including IPX8 waterproofing, 32GB storage, a built-in speaker for audiobooks, and physical navigation buttons, all while remaining...Read more

    M
    microsiervos.com
    27/11/2023

    The Microsiervos review highlights the PocketBook InkPad Color 3 as a strong, versatile e-reader featuring a 7.8-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 screen, offering 150 PPI for color and 300 PPI for black and white, ideal for comics and children's books. Key advantages include support for 25 file formats, seamless cloud integration, physical page-turn buttons, and IPX8 waterproofing, along with...Read more

    A
    altroconsumo.it
    29/09/2025

    The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 features a 7.8-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 screen, offering 300 PPI for black-and-white and 150 PPI for color content to enhance comics and illustrated media. Key pros include IPX8 waterproofing, robust support for 25+ file formats, and SMARTlight technology for adjustable color temperatures. However, notable cons involve sluggish UI performance due to limited...Read more

    I
    icreatemagazine.nl
    31/05/2024

    The PocketBook InkPad Color 3 is a premium 7.8-inch e-reader featuring E Ink Kaleido 3 technology, offering a 50% increase in color resolution (150 PPI) for improved rendering of comics, manga, and children's books. It boasts a high-quality display that remains readable in direct sunlight, offering an eye-friendly, glare-free experience, though colors are more muted than on...Read more

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