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Tolino Shine Review | 68 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£110
Avg. price in US: ~$130
Screen size: 6 inches
Battery life: 24 hours
Supported bookstore ecosystem: Tolino Ecosystem

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

5.5

Good

5.2

Good

8.7

Excellent

Best prices in UK

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Verdict

The Tolino Shine (5th Generation) is a compact 6-inch e-reader featuring a high-resolution E Ink Carta 1300 display with 300 ppi (1448 x 1072 pixels) and smartLight technology for adjustable color temperature. Powered by a 1.0 GHz MediaTek MT8113L processor and 512 MB of RAM, it offers 16 GB of internal storage for roughly 12,000 eBooks and includes Bluetooth 5.0 for audiobook playback via external speakers. Its main advantages are its robust IPX8 waterproof design, lightweight 173g build made from 85% recycled plastic, and open ecosystem supporting EPUB, PDF, and TXT formats. However, it lacks built-in speakers and an ambient light sensor for automatic brightness, and users have noted a slightly 'hollow' plastic feel and occasional software lag during complex tasks like navigating heavy PDF files.

Technical Specifications of eReader Tolino Shine

Overall score

5.5

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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.

Display

5.9

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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

Tolino

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

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

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

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

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Reading

4.6

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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

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

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

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

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Battery

4.9

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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

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

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

Hardware

4.7

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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

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

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

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

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Connectivity

5.5

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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

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 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

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

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

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Design

5.0

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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

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

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

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

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

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Tolino Shine vs the average eReader

Why is Tolino Shine better than the average eReader?

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Includes memory card slot
Tolino Shine 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
Tolino Shine includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
More advanced operating system
Tolino Shine uses Android 2.3.4, a more advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
Android 4.4
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
Tolino Shine uses Android 2.3.4, a more advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.Android 2.3.4 vs Kindle OS
14.1% lighter
Tolino Shine is lighter than the average eReader (183 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
Tolino Shine is lighter than the average eReader (183 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.183 g vs 213 g
3 hours longer battery life
Tolino Shine offers longer battery life than the average eReader (24 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
Tolino Shine offers longer battery life than the average eReader (24 hours vs 21 hours). The average eReader offers 21 hours of battery life.24 hours vs 21 hours
Broader library support
Tolino Shine supports more library lending platforms than the average eReader (OverDrive, Onleihe vs OverDrive, Libby).
Requires Adobe Digital Editions or manual transfer steps.
What it is: Lists which public-library borrowing services can deliver books directly or indirectly to the device.
When it matters: When you borrow ebooks regularly and want that workflow to stay simple instead of relying on workarounds.
Importance: MEDIUM
Tolino Shine supports more library lending platforms than the average eReader (OverDrive, Onleihe vs OverDrive, Libby).OverDrive, Onleihe vs OverDrive, Libby
11.6 mm narrower
Tolino Shine is narrower than the average eReader (116 mm vs 127.6 mm). The average eReader width is 127.6 mm.
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
Tolino Shine is narrower than the average eReader (116 mm vs 127.6 mm). The average eReader width is 127.6 mm.116 mm vs 127.6 mm
54.5% cheaper
Tolino Shine is cheaper than the average eReader (£110 vs £170).
Tolino Shine is cheaper than the average eReader (£110 vs £170).£110 vs £170
Broader library support
Tolino Shine supports more library lending platforms than the average eReader (OverDrive, Onleihe vs OverDrive, Libby).
3 hours longer battery life
Tolino Shine offers longer battery life than the average eReader (24 hours vs 21 hours). The average eReader offers 21 hours of battery life.
Includes memory card slot
Tolino Shine includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
More advanced operating system
Tolino Shine uses Android 2.3.4, a more advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
14.1% lighter
Tolino Shine is lighter than the average eReader (183 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.
11.6 mm narrower
Tolino Shine is narrower than the average eReader (116 mm vs 127.6 mm). The average eReader width is 127.6 mm.

Why is Tolino Shine worse than the average eReader?

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Less advanced E-Ink technology
Tolino Shine uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
Lower screen resolution
Tolino Shine supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (758x1024 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.
1 inches smaller screen size
Tolino Shine has a smaller screen than the average eReader (6 inches vs 7 inches). The average eReader screen size is 7 inches.
20% lower pixel density
Tolino Shine has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (212 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
Basic touchscreen technology
Tolino Shine uses infrared touchscreen technology, while the average eReader uses capacitive.
Limited bookstore ecosystem
Tolino Shine uses the Tolino Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
Thalia, Weltbild, Hugendubel, eBook.de, Osiander, Orell Fuessli, Libri partners, and Skoobe.
No PDF reflow
Tolino Shine does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
Limited DRM support
Tolino Shine supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).
12 limited file support
Tolino Shine supports fewer file types than the average eReader (3 vs 15).
No cloud sync
Tolino Shine does not support cloud sync, while the average eReader does.
Uses tolino cloud to store and synchronize eBooks, reading progress, and notes across up to five devices
No folder support
Tolino Shine does not support folders, while the average eReader does.
Organized via "Collections" feature, not a traditional file directory structure
No parental controls
Tolino Shine does not have parental controls, while the average eReader does.
Full Device Passcode/Password
4 fewer supported languages
Tolino Shine supports fewer languages than the average eReader (6 vs 10). The average eReader supports 10 languages.
1 hours longer charging time
Tolino Shine charges more slowly than the average eReader (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.
With a 10W charger
2% smaller battery capacity
Tolino Shine has a smaller battery than the average eReader (1500 mAh vs 1530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1530 mAh.
75% less storage
Tolino Shine offers less internal storage than the average eReader (4 GB vs 16 GB). The average eReader provides 16 GB of internal storage.
No USB Type-C
Tolino Shine does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
No Bluetooth audio
Tolino Shine does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average eReader does.
Older Bluetooth version
Tolino Shine supports an older Bluetooth version than the average eReader (5 vs 5.1).
1.6 mm thicker
Tolino Shine is thicker than the average eReader (9.7 mm vs 8.1 mm). The average eReader thickness is 8.1 mm.
8 year/s older release date
Tolino Shine is older than the average eReader (2013 vs 2021). The average eReader was released in 2021.
March 2013
Limited bookstore ecosystem
Tolino Shine uses the Tolino Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
Thalia, Weltbild, Hugendubel, eBook.de, Osiander, Orell Fuessli, Libri partners, and Skoobe.
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
Tolino Shine uses the Tolino Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.Tolino Ecosystem vs Android Open Ecosystem
Less advanced E-Ink technology
Tolino Shine 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
Tolino Shine uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.Pearl vs Carta Plus
No PDF reflow
Tolino Shine 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
Tolino Shine does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
Limited DRM support
Tolino Shine supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (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
Tolino Shine supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).Adobe DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP
No USB Type-C
Tolino Shine 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
Tolino Shine does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
12 limited file support
Tolino Shine supports fewer file types than the average eReader (3 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
Tolino Shine supports fewer file types than the average eReader (3 vs 15).3 vs 15
No cloud sync
Tolino Shine does not support cloud sync, while the average eReader does.
Uses tolino cloud to store and synchronize eBooks, reading progress, and notes across up to five devices
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
Tolino Shine does not support cloud sync, while the average eReader does.
No Bluetooth audio
Tolino Shine does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average eReader does.
What it is: Confirms that Bluetooth can be used specifically for wireless audio output, not just for generic accessories.
When it matters: When you plan to pair earbuds or a speaker for audiobooks or text-to-speech playback.
Importance: MEDIUM
Tolino Shine does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average eReader does.

Graphic comparison of Tolino Shine and other eReaders

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: April 2026)

What customers like about Tolino Shine?

Open ecosystem allowing easy side-loading of EPUB, PDF, and TXT files via Calibre or USB-C
Robust and waterproof design (IPX8 rating) suitable for reading in the bath or at the beach
High-quality Carta 1300 display on newer models providing sharp, paper-like text with 300 PPI
ComfortLight PRO system effectively adjusts brightness and colour temperature for night reading
Compact and lightweight build that is comfortable for one-handed reading
Native support for the Onleihe public library system in German-speaking markets
Cloud synchronisation across devices (smartphone/tablet) via the Tolino app

What customers dislike about Tolino Shine?

Sluggish software performance and touch responsiveness compared to tablets or competitors like Kindle
Poor PDF handling, with slow rendering and laggy pinch-to-zoom functionality
Clunky built-in web browser and integrated shop experience on the e-ink screen
Battery life can be inconsistent, especially when using high brightness or Wi-Fi
Software bugs and occasional crashes, particularly after recent firmware updates
Limited dictionary and note-taking features compared to more advanced e-readers
Hardware can feel 'cheap' or 'hollow' due to the use of recycled plastic in some versions

Expert reviews

galaxus.at

16/10/2024

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine 5: compact e-reader in a handy format

The fifth-generation Tolino Shine is a compact, waterproof (IPX8) e-reader featuring a crisp 300 ppi E Ink Carta 1300 display with smartLight technology, marking a shift to a Kobo-based Linux operating system. Pros include its robust build, improved file format support (EPUB/PDF), and Bluetooth capability for audiobooks, all at a lower price point than its predecessor. However, the device suffers from premature software, specifically lacking hyphenation in justified text, alongside a sluggish browser, occasional bugs, and a plastic, "hollow" feel.

3rd-strike.com

07/04/2015

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine – Hardware Review

The Tolino Shine is a compact, entry-level e-reader featuring a matte, rubber-like coating for a comfortable, premium grip. It boasts significant storage for over 1,000 books, expandable via a mini SD card, and integrates directly with digital bookstores for easy synchronization across devices. While providing long-lasting battery life for casual reading, the device is less powerful than higher-end models like the Tolino Vision 2, leading to slight sluggishness and frequent screen flickering during operation. 3

allesebook.de

07/03/2013

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine 1: In-depth Review

The 2013 Tolino Shine (1st Generation) launched as a major German competitor to the Kindle, featuring a 6-inch E-Ink Pearl display with 1024x758 resolution and a built-in front light. Key advantages include an open system supporting EPUB/PDF with Adobe DRM, along with a Micro SD slot for storage expansion up to 32 GB. Operating on a modified Android system, the device offers 4 GB of internal storage and provides free access to Deutsche Telekom hotspots for on-the-go downloads. It is noted for its lightweight 190-gram design and a battery life that can last up to seven weeks. Conversely, the device suffers from slow, dated performance, with page turns and menu navigation lacking the speed of modern E-Ink Carta screens. Other drawbacks include a non-functional web browser and a lack of advanced light management (blue-light reduction) found in later models. You can find more information about this device on the ALLESebook website.

allesebook.de

(2014 era)

Summary of the review

Screen Comparison: Tolino Vision vs. Tolino Shine [Video] YouTube

The Tolino Vision, featuring E-Ink Carta technology, offers superior contrast, a whiter background, and a responsive, flat-fronted capacitive screen compared to the older Tolino Shine’s recessed E-Ink Pearl display. While the Shine's infrared touch avoids extra screen layers, it suffers from significant shadow formation at the edges, whereas the Vision boasts improved, more even front lighting and a slimmer, lighter, and more modern design. Ultimately, the Vision is the superior device for screen clarity and usability, though the Shine remains a functional, budget-friendly option despite its dated, bulkier design.

literaturcafe.de

08/12/2015

Summary of the review

In-depth Review: Tolino Shine 2HD and Tolino Vision 3HD (Including historical context of the 2013 original)

The Tolino Shine 2HD and Vision 3HD both offer a significant upgrade with 300 ppi E Ink Carta screens, delivering a crisp reading experience on par with physical books. Key pros include a unified, open software ecosystem with excellent library (Onleihe) support, although a significant con for both models is the removal of the microSD card slot, limiting storage to internal memory and cloud. The Vision 3HD distinguishes itself with a premium, flush-front design and IPX8 waterproofing for bath reading, whereas the Shine 2HD features a slightly cooler screen backlight and a recessed screen design. Ultimately, the review finds that for users not requiring waterproofing, the Shine 2HD offers superior value, providing the same high-resolution display as the more expensive Vision 3HD.

galaxus.fr

16/10/2024

Summary of the review

The Tolino Shine 5 is a solid, high-quality compact e-reader

The Tolino Shine 5 is a robust, compact 6-inch e-reader featuring a high-quality 300 ppi Carta 1300 display, a textured, fingerprint-resistant recycled plastic casing, and an IPX8 waterproof rating. It boasts a Kobo-based operating system for enhanced, customizable reading and includes Bluetooth support for audiobooks, alongside smartLight technology for automatic, time-based color temperature adjustments. While the 1 GHz processor is slower than predecessors, it remains adequate for reading, and the device offers a faster, more stable UI compared to older Tolino models. However, key cons include the lack of automatic hyphenation, leading to poor justified text formatting, along with occasional software bugs regarding font rendering. Additionally, battery life is shorter than competitors, and the web browser is deemed sluggish. Overall, the Shine 5 is positioned as a solid, budget-friendly option that brings premium features to an entry-level device. It successfully combines physical durability with modern software, making it a strong, albeit imperfect, competitor in the e-reader market.

digitec.ch

16/10/2024

Summary of the review

The Tolino Shine 5 is a solid, high-quality compact e-reader

The Tolino Shine 5 is a compact, 6-inch e-reader featuring a durable, IPX8 waterproof, 85% recycled plastic housing, while adopting a new operating system shared with Kobo. It boasts a high-quality 300 ppi E-Ink Carta 1300 display and introduces Bluetooth for audiobooks, despite using a lower-spec 1 GHz processor that, while slower, may improve battery efficiency. Although praised for its robustness and competitive price, the device faces minor criticism for occasional software bugs, a hollow-feeling chassis, and limited, beta-level web browsing capabilities.

galaxus.ch

02/12/2022

Summary of the review

The Tolino Shine 4 is a fast little performer – but its apps are a puzzle

The Tolino Shine 4 is a compact, eco-friendly e-reader featuring a sharp 6-inch E Ink Carta HD display, a fast quad-core processor, and IPX8 waterproofing. The device, constructed with over 85% recycled plastic, offers 16 GB of storage, a USB-C port, and automatic smartLight technology for improved reading comfort. However, the experience is hindered by a frustrating software ecosystem, particularly with Skoobe integration and library syncing, alongside a buggy browser and a lack of proper hyphenation. While it excels in hardware, its, poor selection of French titles and complex setup make it best suited for users within the German Tolino ecosystem, suggest reviewers.

galaxus.it

02/12/2022

Summary of the review

The Tolino Shine 4 is small and fast, but its apps are enigmatic. Do you need specific technical details on one of these Tolino Shine generations?

The Tolino Shine 4 is a compact, 6-inch e-reader featuring a significantly faster quad-core processor and increased 16 GB storage, while adding IPX8 waterproof protection. Despite these upgrades, the device lacks physical page-turn buttons and has a polarizing back-mounted power button. While the SmartLight feature provides excellent automatic,, color-adjustable lighting, the software remains sluggish, particularly regarding the web browser.

digitec.ch

16/10/2024

Summary of the review

The fifth Tolino Shine has almost no weaknesses

The Tolino Shine 5 is a compact, 6-inch e-reader featuring a robust, waterproof (IPX8) design, a sharp 300 ppi E Ink Carta 1300 display, and USB-C connectivity. Pros include excellent ergonomics for one-handed reading and the inclusion of Bluetooth for audiobooks, making it a durable, portable device. Conversely, the device suffers from a downgrade to a 1 GHz single-core processor, resulting in sluggish performance when navigating shops or browsing, according to the Digitec review. Additionally, the new Kobo-based operating system currently lacks proper hyphenation, causing irregular text spacing. Despite software limitations, the Shine 5 excels as a versatile, budget-friendly reading tool with SmartLight technology and support for open formats like EPUB and PDF. It serves as a strong alternative to the Kindle, even while lacking the physical page-turn buttons found on higher-end models.

smartworld.it

09/02/2017

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine 2 HD review

The Tolino Shine 2 HD is a compact 6-inch e-reader featuring a sharp 300 PPI E Ink Carta display and a matte, ergonomic design, aiming to compete with the Kindle Paperwhite. Its lightweight 184-gram build and an efficient front-light system ensure a comfortable, even reading experience for extended periods. Performance-wise, the device offers smooth page turns, wide format support (ePUB, PDF, TXT), and useful, integrated software features like note-taking and dictionary support. However, the device has notable cons, including slow performance with complex PDFs, potential delays when changing fonts, and the lack of a MicroSD slot or audio functionality. For the full, detailed review, visit SmartWorld.

galaxus.it

16/10/2024

Summary of the review

The fifth Tolino Shine has almost no weaknesses

The Tolino Shine 5 is a durable, 6-inch e-reader featuring a recycled plastic, fingerprint-resistant body and IPX8 waterproofing for submersion protection. It is lightweight (173g) and includes Bluetooth for audiobooks, though its build has a slightly hollow, "cheap" feel. Performance is driven by a 300 ppi E Ink Carta 1300 display with automatic SmartLight adjustments and a 1 GHz single-core processor that yields impressive, long-lasting battery life. Software-driven by Kobo, the interface is modern and fast, but the transition has introduced issues, including lack of hyphenation, small default fonts, and a sluggish web browser. The audiobook player can also be inconsistent, occasionally failing to save the user's last position. Despite these flaws, the review concludes it is a, robust, and affordable entry-level device.

consumentenbond.nl

Onbekend

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine: Tests, Reviews & Prices

The 5th generation Tolino Shine is a compact, entry-level 6-inch e-reader featuring a sharp 300 ppi Carta 1300 display, IPX8 waterproofing, and Bluetooth support for audiobooks. It supports an open ecosystem (EPUB/PDF) and utilizes 85% recycled plastic, though the build can feel cheap and the 1 GHz processor is a downgrade for improved efficiency. While offering adjustable smartLight warmth, the device faces software issues including slow performance in large files, unreliable Wi-Fi, and a basic, beta web browser. For more details, visit Galaxus.

ereaders.nl

05/01/2015

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine Review | eReaders.nl

The 5th generation Tolino Shine is a compact, 6-inch e-reader featuring a sharp 300 ppi Carta 1300 E Ink display and ComfortLight PRO for adjustable color temperature. Built with a rugged, waterproof (IPX8) housing from 85% recycled plastic, it serves as a robust alternative to Kindles, particularly for European markets. Key advantages include an open ecosystem supporting EPUB/PDF/TXT, Bluetooth for audiobooks, and seamless integration with public library services. However, the review highlights significant drawbacks regarding software and performance, including bugs like poor syllable division/hyphenation and a sluggish web browser that makes on-device shopping tedious. Although the Linux-based system is functional, the 1 GHz processor is a downgrade from the previous 1.8 GHz model. The device is ultimately praised for its portability and library compatibility, despite these technical limitations.

techpulse.be

08/10/2015

Summary of the review

Tolino Shine Review: The Flagship Killer - TechPulse

The TechPulse review identifies the latest Tolino Shine as a "flagship killer," offering premium features like an IPX8-rated waterproof design and a high-quality 6-inch E-Ink display with SmartLight technology at a competitive price point. Key advantages include an open ecosystem supporting EPUB/PDF formats, 16 GB of storage, and added audiobook support, making it a versatile alternative to Kindle. However, the device is hindered by sluggish software performance, frequent "please wait" prompts, and subpar color display sharpness on the Shine Color model.

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