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The Aluratek Libre Pro Reader tackles digital reading a bit differently. Most monochromatic eReaders use eInk screen display while color eReaders use LCD. The Aluratek Libre also uses LCD, but it decided to stick to the black and white world of books. The screen is not as clear as eInk display’s (in fact it looks more like the screen of Palm PDAs), but it does help cut the costs down. Also, it offers better refresh rates than eInk screens. For someone who doesn’t require high-end features like wireless connection, the Aluratek Libre Pro handles reading well without the exorbitant price.

Features – Hardware and Software

Aluratek Libre Pro Reader sports a 5-inch screen with 640 x 480 VGA and 16 shades of gray. Like EPDs, the screen is not backlit, allowing you to read even in direct sunlight. Also, it does not suffer from flash between turns found on eInk devices. However, battery life is impacted; you only get 24 hours of reading time per charge.

The Aluratek Libre Pro Reader measures 6.0 inches long and 4.25 inches wide. It feels a bit chunky in the middle; girth measures 0.5 inches. Even so, the device feels light as it weighs 8 ounces only.

Interface is simple and intuitive. There are three ways to turn pages: you can use the page turn buttons found on the bottom left and right sides of the device or you can use the slider on the left side of the screen. The device also has an auto-page turning option. Fonts can be resized up to 6 times, and font style can also be modified (2 font types are available). Meanwhile page can be manually rotated to landscape mode.  The device supports PDF, FB2, MOBI, ePUB, TXT, PRC, RTF, BMP, JPG, GIF, and MP3.

The Aluratek Libre Pro Reader supports up to 32GB SD cards.

The Bottom Line

This Aluratek Libre Pro eReader is surprisingly solid and capable. If you are looking for an eReader that you can use in both low light conditions and under direct sunlight, the Aluratek Libre Pro is affordably priced from $99 – $189. The device is available from various retailers like Amazon and Overstock.

Pros

The Aluratek Libre Pro sports a black plastic casing that is smudge- and fingerprint-resistant. The reader also feels solid to hold. Also, the device comes with a lot of freebies including a 2GB card and 100 free preloaded books. Sure, you get can download these books online for free, but it’s still wonderful to have already a library of books in your library so you can start reading right away.
Cons

Because of its small screen size, the Aluratek Libre Pro Reader is not ideal for viewing PDFs. Also, it is unable to display some PDF files. The device suffers from freezes, too, particularly when loading or displaying JPG image or when using the Find feature. Although the Aluratek Libre Pro Reader has bookmarking feature, it does not support annotation. There’s no wireless connection, too. To get books, you need to plug the Aluratek Reader to a desktop. Regardless of file size, the Kindle can download books in less than 60 seconds. On the Aluratek Reader, loading time depends on size of the material, but it usually takes time. However, once loaded, you don’t experience lags in page turning. But perhaps the Aluratek Libre’s weakest point is its short battery life. You need to charge it every two days or one to continue using it. eInk readers, on the other hand, give you two weeks to a month of reading time on a single charge.

What’s in the box:

• eBook Reader PRO
• 2GB SD card filled with 100 books
• USB Cable
• Power Charger
• Hand Strap
• Earphones
• Carrying Pouch
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty & Registration Card

Main Features

• 5-inch monochromatic LCD
• Dimension: 6.0 x 4.25 x 0.5 inches
• Weighs 8 ounces
• 24-hour battery life (24 hours on standby)

Key Features

• Light and pocketable barebones eReader
• Charcoal-black casing
• Comes with numbered buttons for selecting books from list view or for entering search terms.

Bonus Features

• 100 free preloaded classic titles