Sony Prs 650 Review | 68 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£200
  • Screen size: 6 inches
  • Battery life: ?
  • Supported bookstore ecosystem: Sony Open Ecosystem

Sony Prs 650 review. Compare 68 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among ereaders and if it is worth buying.

5.1

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%

5.0

Technical Score

10.0%

6.4

User score

Good
5.0

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%

6.3

Reading

18.0%

6.8

Battery

14.0%

4.9

Hardware

12.0%

2.1

Connectivity

9.0%

6.5

Design

Good
6.4

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%

8.5

User reviews

30.0%

1.6

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.6
(3)
amazon
5.0
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)
amazon
4.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

Good
    • sony-prs-650
    sony-prs-650

    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 Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 features a 6-inch E Ink Pearl touchscreen with 800 x 600 resolution and 16 levels of grayscale, housed in a premium metal body weighing approximately 215g. It includes 2GB of internal storage, dual expansion slots for SD and Memory Stick PRO Duo cards (up to 32GB), and a 3.5mm headphone jack for MP3/AAC audio playback. Main advantages include its highly responsive infrared-based touch interface that eliminates screen glare, a fast processor for quick page turns, and extensive support for formats like EPUB and PDF alongside 12 built-in dictionaries. However, its primary drawbacks are the lack of Wi-Fi or 3G connectivity, requiring a USB tether for book transfers, and a higher launch price compared to contemporary competitors.

    Technical Specifications of eReader Sony Prs 650

    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%

    6.3

    Reading

    18.0%

    6.8

    Battery

    14.0%

    4.9

    Hardware

    12.0%

    2.1

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    6.5

    Design

    5.0
    Sony Prs 650 has a technical score of 4.96 points, which is lower than that of 83.6% 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%

    8.5

    User reviews

    30.0%

    1.6

    Popularity

    User score:
    United Kingdom
    amazon
    3.6
    (3)
    amazon
    5.0
    (2)
    amazon
    5.0
    (1)
    amazon
    4.0
    (1)

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    6.4
    Sony Prs 650 has a user score of 6.45 points, which is lower than that of 91.8% 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.
    1.6
    Sony Prs 650 has a popularity of 1.6 points, which is lower than 69.7% 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%

    5.1

    Overall score

    40.0%

    9.5

    Price

    6.4
    Sony Prs 650 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.4 points, which is lower than 86.9% 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

    Sony
    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

    6 inches
    Sony Prs 650 has a screen size of 6 inches which is smaller than 57.4% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 40.2% 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

    600x800 px
    Sony Prs 650 uses a screen resolution of 600x800 px, which is less sharp than that of 83.6% of eReaders and the same as that of 15.6% 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

    167 ppi
    Sony Prs 650 has a pixel density of 167 ppi which is lower than 77.9% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 10.7% 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
    Sony Prs 650 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

    6
    Sony Prs 650 supports 6 file types which is fewer than 89% 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
    Sony Prs 650 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
    Sony Prs 650 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
    Sony Prs 650 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
    Sony Prs 650 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

    ?
    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

    940 mAh
    Sony Prs 650 has a battery capacity of 940 mAh which is lower than 95.8% 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

    2 hours
    Sony Prs 650 takes 2 hours to charge which is quicker than 49% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 40.4% of eReaders.
    2 with optional AC adapter; may take significantly longer via USB
    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
    Sony Prs 650 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

    2 GB
    Sony Prs 650 offers 2 GB of internal storage which is less than 80.5% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 17.8% 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

    ?
    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 0.532 GHz
    Sony Prs 650 has a CPU base clock speed of 1 x 0.532 GHz, which is slower than that of 95.9% of eReaders and the same as that of 3.3% 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

    MontaVista Linux
    Sony Prs 650 runs MontaVista Linux, which is less advanced than that of 80.3% of eReaders and the same as that of 1.6% 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

    yes
    Sony Prs 650 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

    no
    Sony Prs 650 does not connect 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

    WiFi not supported
    Sony Prs 650 supports Wi-Fi WiFi not supported, which is older than that of 94.3% of eReaders and the same as that of 5.7% of eReaders.
    No Wi-Fi support.
    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

    no Wi-Fi
    Sony Prs 650 supports no Wi-Fi Wi-Fi bands, which is narrower than that of 94.3% of eReaders and the same as that of 5.7% of eReaders.
    No Wi-Fi support.
    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
    Sony Prs 650 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
    Sony Prs 650 supports Bluetooth N/A which is older than 59.3% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 40.7% 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

    215 g
    Sony Prs 650 weighs 215 g which is heavier than 51.6% 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

    9.6 mm
    Sony Prs 650 is 9.6 mm thick which is thicker than 76.7% 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

    168 mm
    Sony Prs 650 is 168 mm tall which is shorter than 57.4% 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

    118.8 mm
    Sony Prs 650 is 118.8 mm wide which is narrower than 68% of eReaders on this spec 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
    Sony Prs 650 does not have water resistance against splashes. 25% of eReaders have water resistance against splashes.
    Show more

    Sony Prs 650 vs the average eReader

    • Includes memory card slot
      Sony Prs 650 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

      Sony Prs 650 includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has page-turn buttons
      Sony Prs 650 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

      Sony Prs 650 has page-turn buttons, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has 3.5 mm jack
      Sony Prs 650 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

      Sony Prs 650 has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, while the average eReader does not.
    • Supports stylus
      Sony Prs 650 supports a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
      supplied stylus can be used for notes and page swiping
      What it is: Works with a pen for handwriting, sketching, selection, or precise markup.
      When it matters: When you annotate PDFs, write in margins, or use the reader partly as a digital notebook.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Sony Prs 650 supports a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
    • Includes stylus
      Sony Prs 650 includes a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
      Stylus included in the box.
      What it is: States whether a compatible pen is bundled in the box rather than sold separately.
      When it matters: When pen input matters and you want to know the real cost before buying the device.

      Importance: LOW

      Sony Prs 650 includes a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
    • Supports stylus
      Sony Prs 650 supports a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
    • Includes stylus
      Sony Prs 650 includes a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
    • Includes memory card slot
      Sony Prs 650 includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has 3.5 mm jack
      Sony Prs 650 has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, while the average eReader does not.
    • Has page-turn buttons
      Sony Prs 650 has page-turn buttons, while the average eReader does not.
    • Less advanced E-Ink technology
      Sony Prs 650 uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
    • No front light
      Sony Prs 650 does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
    • Lower screen resolution
      Sony Prs 650 supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.
    • 37% lower pixel density
      Sony Prs 650 has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (167 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
    • No color temperature adjustment
      Sony Prs 650 does not support color temperature adjustment, while the average eReader does.
      These models do not have a built-in front light; users needed clip-on lights
    • 1 inches smaller screen size
      Sony Prs 650 has a smaller screen than the average eReader (6 inches vs 7 inches). The average eReader screen size is 7 inches.
    • No glare-free screen
      Sony Prs 650 does not have a glare-free screen, while the average eReader does.
      uses infrared touch technology which eliminates the glare-prone layer of its predecessor
    • 5 fewer front-light LEDs
      Sony Prs 650 has fewer front-light LEDs than the average eReader (0 vs 5). The average eReader has 5 front-light LEDs.
    • Basic touchscreen technology
      Sony Prs 650 uses infrared touchscreen technology, while the average eReader uses capacitive.
    • Limited bookstore ecosystem
      Sony Prs 650 uses the Sony Open Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
      Sony eBookstore, Kobo, Google Books, and other Adobe DRM or DRM-free EPUB/PDF stores.
    • 9 limited file support
      Sony Prs 650 supports fewer file types than the average eReader (6 vs 15).
    • No cloud sync
      Sony Prs 650 does not support cloud sync, while the average eReader does.
      Requires a USB connection to a computer for content transfer; lacks Wi-Fi capability
    • No text-to-speech
      Sony Prs 650 does not support text-to-speech, while the average eReader does.
    • Limited DRM support
      Sony Prs 650 supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (Adobe DRM, BBeB Book vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).
    • No folder support
      Sony Prs 650 does not support folders, while the average eReader does.
      via "Collections" feature in Reader Library software, not direct file system browsing; third-party software like Calibre or PRS+ custom firmware offers direct folder browsing support
    • Limited library support
      Sony Prs 650 supports fewer library lending platforms than the average eReader (OverDrive vs OverDrive, Libby).
      Requires Adobe Digital Editions or manual transfer steps.
    • No parental controls
      Sony Prs 650 does not have parental controls, while the average eReader does.
      Full Device Passcode/Password
    • 3 fewer supported languages
      Sony Prs 650 supports fewer languages than the average eReader (7 vs 10). The average eReader supports 10 languages.
    • 38.6% smaller battery capacity
      Sony Prs 650 has a smaller battery than the average eReader (940 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.
    • 87.5% less storage
      Sony Prs 650 offers less internal storage than the average eReader (2 GB vs 16 GB). The average eReader provides 16 GB of internal storage.
    • Less advanced operating system
      Sony Prs 650 uses MontaVista Linux, a less advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
    • Slower CPU base clock speed
      Sony Prs 650 has a slower CPU base clock speed than the average eReader (1x0.532 GHz vs 1x1 GHz). The average eReader has a CPU base clock speed of 1x1 GHz.
    • No USB Type-C
      Sony Prs 650 does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
    • No Bluetooth
      Sony Prs 650 does not have Bluetooth, while the average eReader does.
    • No Bluetooth audio
      Sony Prs 650 does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average eReader does.
    • No OTA updates
      Sony Prs 650 does not support OTA updates, while the average eReader does.
    • No Wi-Fi
      Sony Prs 650 does not support Wi-Fi, while the average eReader does.
    • No web browser
      Sony Prs 650 does not include a built-in web browser, while the average eReader does.
    • 11 year/s older release date
      Sony Prs 650 is older than the average eReader (2010 vs 2021). The average eReader was released in 2021.
    • 1.5 mm thicker
      Sony Prs 650 is thicker than the average eReader (9.6 mm vs 8.1 mm). The average eReader thickness is 8.1 mm.
    • Limited bookstore ecosystem
      Sony Prs 650 uses the Sony Open Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
      Sony eBookstore, Kobo, Google Books, and other Adobe DRM or DRM-free EPUB/PDF stores.
      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

      Sony Prs 650 uses the Sony Open Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.Sony Open Ecosystem vs Android Open Ecosystem
    • Less advanced E-Ink technology
      Sony Prs 650 uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
      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

      Sony Prs 650 uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.Pearl vs Carta Plus
    • No front light
      Sony Prs 650 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

      Sony Prs 650 does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
    • Lower screen resolution
      Sony Prs 650 supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x800 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

      Sony Prs 650 supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px
    • 37% lower pixel density
      Sony Prs 650 has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (167 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

      Sony Prs 650 has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (167 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.167 ppi vs 265 ppi
    • No USB Type-C
      Sony Prs 650 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

      Sony Prs 650 does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
    • 9 limited file support
      Sony Prs 650 supports fewer file types than the average eReader (6 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

      Sony Prs 650 supports fewer file types than the average eReader (6 vs 15).6 vs 15
    • No cloud sync
      Sony Prs 650 does not support cloud sync, while the average eReader does.
      Requires a USB connection to a computer for content transfer; lacks Wi-Fi capability
      What it is: Keeps books, notes, reading position, or documents synchronized with cloud storage or companion apps.
      When it matters: When you switch between devices and want progress and files to follow you automatically.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Sony Prs 650 does not support cloud sync, while the average eReader does.

    Graphic comparison of Sony Prs 650 and other eReaders

    Attribute category
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    Third-party reviews

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    What customers like about Sony Prs 650?

    • High-contrast E Ink Pearl display with excellent clarity and minimal glare
    • Highly responsive infrared-based touchscreen interface
    • Compact, lightweight, and durable build quality
    • Broad file support including EPUB, PDF, and library ebook compatibility
    • Expandable storage via SD and Memory Stick Duo card slots
    • Faster page turns and performance compared to previous models
    • Integrated 10 dictionaries and versatile note-taking with a stylus
    • Good battery life of up to two weeks on a single charge

    What customers dislike about Sony Prs 650?

    • Lacks wireless connectivity (no Wi-Fi or 3G), requiring USB for transfers
    • Higher price point compared to contemporary competitors like the Kindle or Nook
    • No wall charger or protective cover included in the box
    • PDF handling can be inconsistent depending on document layout
    • Annotations cannot be easily exported to other applications
    • Limited text size and appearance customisation options compared to rivals

    Expert reviews

    S
    smartbitchestrashybooks.com
    12/10/2010

    In a review on Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, SB Sarah highlights the Sony Touch PRS-650 for its superior display quality, utilizing an infrared-based system that eliminates previous screen murkiness. This design offers a crisp, clear, and responsive Pearl e-ink display. Smart Bitches, The device is praised for its durable yet lightweight, compact, and premium metal build....Read more

    C
    cwl.cc
    28/10/2010

    The CWL review highlights the Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 for its superior ergonomics, lightweight design, and high-clarity 6-inch E Ink Pearl display. It features a highly responsive infrared touchscreen, allowing for easy navigation, and dual memory expansion slots for SD and Memory Stick Duo cards, which enhance the internal storage. Key cons identified include the lack of...Read more

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    expertreviews.co.uk
    13/10/2010

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 Touch Edition is a smooth-operating device featuring a high-contrast E-ink Pearl display and a responsive infrared touchscreen that eliminates glare issues. It excels in handling diverse document formats, including EPUB and PDFs, and includes a library "rental" feature alongside expandable SD/Memory Stick storage. However, critical drawbacks include a...Read more

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    uk.pcmag.com
    17/05/2014

    The PCMag review of the Sony Reader Touch Edition (PRS-650) highlights a significant upgrade over previous models, featuring a 6-inch E Ink Pearl screen that offers high contrast, sharpness on par with the Kindle, and a responsive infrared touch system that eliminates glare. The device is praised for its sleek, lightweight aluminum design, increased internal storage (2GB), dual...Read more

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    pocket-lint.com
    16/04/2013

    The Sony Reader Touch PRS-650 features a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display with 16 levels of grey, delivering high-contrast, sharp text that remains clear in direct sunlight. Its infrared touch technology allows for a responsive experience without the glare typical of older resistive screens, while the lightweight, compact metal casing includes a stylus for note-taking. Key pros include...Read more

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    trustedreviews.com
    21/04/2011

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 Touch Edition is lauded as a premium, 215g e-reader featuring a high-contrast 6-inch E Ink Pearl display with infrared touch technology. Its superior screen clarity and lightweight design offer a better reading experience than many competitors, supported by an intuitive interface and expandable memory. The device features wide format support for EPUB and PDF...Read more

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    the-gadgeteer.com
    28/09/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, utilizing an E Ink Pearl display to deliver exceptionally sharp, high-contrast text without the glare found in previous models. It features a fast, responsive touchscreen, a refined interface with physical navigation buttons, and added functionality including dictionaries, note-taking, and audio...Read more

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    cnet.com
    08/11/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 is lauded for its "clear touch" infrared technology, which maintains excellent contrast on the 6-inch E Ink Pearl display without the glare of previous models. The device offers a responsive, high-contrast reading experience ideal for direct sunlight, combined with intuitive menu navigation and note-taking capabilities. Key advantages include a...Read more

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    stuff.tv
    11/01/2022

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 is a refined, slim 6-inch e-reader featuring a high-contrast Pearl E Ink screen that significantly boosts performance and reduces glare compared to previous models. It is praised for its lightweight, attractive design and faster page-turning, making it an excellent device for traditional, dedicated reading. However, the review notes that the touchscreen lacks...Read more

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    cnet.com
    06/09/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 is a high-performance 6-inch E Ink Pearl display e-reader featuring infrared technology that provides excellent contrast and removes the screen glare found in previous models. The device boasts a premium, lightweight design with an aluminum chassis, offering extensive functionality such as EPUB support, stylus annotation, and dual memory card...Read more

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    uk.pcmag.com
    02/12/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition (PRS-650) is lauded as a premium 6-inch E Ink Pearl device, offering superior contrast and a responsive, infrared, glare-free touchscreen over previous models. Pros include a sleek aluminum design, dual memory card slots, and note-taking capability, making for an excellent reading experience. However, the lack of Wi-Fi or 3G requires manual USB...Read more

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    netzwelt.de
    01/10/2010

    The Sony PRS-350 and PRS-650 feature high-quality E Ink Pearl displays with responsive infrared touchscreens, offering exceptional contrast without the glare of previous models. Both devices deliver fast, "zippy" performance and support popular ePub formats, along with built-in dictionaries and note-taking capabilities. However, a major disadvantage is the lack of wireless...Read more

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    newgadgets.de
    08/10/2010

    The NewGadgets.de "Grandmother Test" of the Sony Reader PRS-650 highlights the device's exceptional ease of use, as a non-tech-savvy user successfully navigated menus, opened PDFs, and utilized the infrared touchscreen without prior experience. Key advantages include the high-contrast E Ink Pearl display for glare-free reading, responsive touch technology, fast processing, and...Read more

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    hifitest.de
    16/05/2011

    The Sony PRS-650 Touch is a premium 6-inch e-book reader featuring a high-contrast Pearl E-Ink display, providing sharp text and a paper-like reading experience. Its infrared touchscreen technology ensures a glare-free, highly responsive interface without needing a resistive overlay. Key advantages include extensive format support (EPUB, PDF, library e-books), dual memory expansion...Read more

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    connect.de
    28/01/2011

    The Sony PRS-650 features a high-contrast E Ink Pearl display with improved infrared touch technology, removing the glare-prone plastic layer found in previous models. It is praised for its durable, lightweight metal construction (215 grams) and responsive interface. Pros include excellent text clarity, extensive format support (EPUB, PDF, MP3), and dual memory card slots, while...Read more

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    spiegel.de
    11/11/2010

    The Spiegel review of the Sony Reader Touch Edition (PRS-650) praises the device for integrating infrared touch sensors, which allows the E Ink Pearl screen to remain sharp and matte without the glare of previous models. Key pros include an incredibly responsive interface, fast page turns, high-quality build, and support for EPUB/PDF formats. Conversely, significant cons include a...Read more

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    lesen.net
    19/10/2010

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 Touch Edition is highly regarded for its superior 6-inch E Ink Pearl display and responsive infrared touchscreen, offering excellent contrast and a glare-free reading experience. Its premium, lightweight metal design, along with native EPUB support, allows for easy integration with library systems, making it a versatile option compared to its contemporaries....Read more

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    netzwelt.de
    01/10/2010

    The Netzwelt review of the Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 highlights the device's 6-inch E Ink Pearl display, offering superior contrast and sharpness over previous models. Utilizing infrared technology, the screen eliminates glare and improves responsiveness without requiring a bulky plastic overlay, providing a paper-like reading experience. Its functionality is characterized...Read more

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    01net.com
    15/11/2011
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    lesnumeriques.com
    28/11/2010

    The Sony Reader Pocket Edition PRS-350 is lauded by Les Numériques for its exceptionally compact, premium aluminum design and high-quality 5-inch E Ink Pearl display. It features highly responsive infrared touch technology and excellent, fast-loading performance for diverse file formats, including PDF, according to the review. However, the device notably lacks Wi-Fi or 3G...Read more

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    lemondenumerique.ouest-france.fr
    11/03/2011

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 is a premium 6-inch e-reader featuring a highly contrasty E-Ink Pearl display and an infrared touchscreen for clear, glare-free reading, housed in a robust, lightweight aluminium chassis. Key advantages include exceptional responsiveness, broad file format support, and extensive storage options via both internal memory and dual SD/Memory Stick...Read more

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    lesnumeriques.com
    26/11/2010

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 Touch Edition features a high-contrast Pearl E Ink screen with infrared touch technology, removing the need for a reflective layer for improved readability, while its 215g design includes physical page-turn buttons. It supports diverse formats like EPUB, PDF, and MP3, boasting excellent PDF rendering with zoom capabilities, 2GB of internal storage, and dual...Read more

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    clubic.com
    21/04/2011

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 features a refined, lightweight metal design and a significantly improved Pearl e-ink display for high contrast, utilizing an infrared touch system that eliminates glare. It stands out with extensive functionality, including 12 built-in dictionaries, a music player, dual memory expansion slots, and excellent PDF handling with annotation capabilities. However,...Read more

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    ebookreaderitalia.com
    27/10/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 is praised for its premium aluminum design and 6-inch E Ink Pearl touchscreen, which offers excellent contrast, clarity, and a responsive reading experience. The device is highly versatile, featuring dual memory card slots, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and support for multiple formats, including EPUB and PDF. However, the unit lacks built-in Wi-Fi or...Read more

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    tvtech.it
    21/10/2010

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 Touch Edition features an E-Ink Pearl display with an infrared touchscreen, offering improved contrast, reduced glare, and high responsiveness. Housed in a lightweight aluminum body, the device provides 2GB of internal storage, dual memory card slots for expansion, and supports various formats, including EPUB and PDF. While praised for its premium build and...Read more

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    ebookreaderitalia.com
    11/11/2010

    The Sony Reader PRS-650 Touch Edition features an E Ink Pearl display with 16 levels of greyscale, providing a high-contrast, glare-free, and sharp reading experience. Utilizing an infrared touch system, the device improves text clarity by removing the resistive screen layer and offers a highly responsive interface. Key advantages include its premium build, fast performance,...Read more

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    portablegear.nl
    25/04/2026

    The Sony PRS-650 Reader Touch Edition features a high-contrast 6-inch E Ink Pearl display with an infrared touch system, offering exceptional screen clarity and a durable aluminum build. It provides a responsive user experience with fast page turns, built-in dictionaries, and broad file support, including EPUB and library ebooks. However, a significant drawback is the lack of...Read more

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    tweakers.net
    05/10/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 (Red) features a 6-inch Pearl E-ink display with infrared touch technology, offering superior contrast and a highly responsive, glare-free reading experience. Housed in a premium aluminum chassis, the device includes expandable storage via SD and Memory Stick Duo slots, along with improved software performance and robust PDF handling. However,...Read more

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    consumentenbond.nl
    Unknown

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 features a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display that offers excellent contrast, superior sharpness, and a glare-free, paper-like reading experience. Utilizing infrared touchscreen technology, it eliminates the hazy screen overlay found on previous models, while supporting wide format compatibility (EPUB/PDF) and providing zippy performance for navigation...Read more

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    ereaders.nl
    30/09/2010

    The Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS-650 is a robust, stylish 6-inch e-reader featuring a high-contrast E Ink Pearl display and an infrared touchscreen for responsive navigation. It boasts a durable, lightweight metal design, 2GB internal storage, dual card slots for expansion, and fast page-turning speeds, alongside integrated dictionaries. While praised for its performance, the...Read more

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