Aluratek Libre, a first entry from the electronic outfit Aluratek, Inc, is set to battle other ereaders not with an armory of special features but with insanely low price. Coming with a price tag of $179, a virtual library pre-filled with 100 ebooks, and faster refresh rate, it’s a solid device at a solid price.

Features- Hardware and Software

Aluratek, Inc is a CA-based electronics company specializing in computer peripherals and digital electronic devices. Even as they step into the ever-growing ereader world, there’s no jumping into the e-ink bandwagon. Instead, the company is outfitting their device with a 5-inch  LCD display. Unlike regular LCDs, however, Aluratek Libre’s reflective monochromatic screen panel has no back or front light. Users still get the same no-glare, no-eyestrain quality of EPDs. At the same time, users  enjoy faster page turns and better resolution and contrast than e-ink devices. Extensively called “Libre eBook Reader PRO,” Aluratek Libre leans on the heavy and thick end of the ereader scale; it weighs 8 ounces and measures 6.06 inches long, 4.33 inches wide, and 0.53 inches thick.

For a device that uses LCD display, Aluratek Libre’s battery life is impressive: users can read for 24 straight hours before recharge indicator lights up. The device can last 2 weeks to a month when on standby mode.

One of Aluratek Libre’s strengths is its capability to display both DRM and non-DRM content. Integrated with Adobe Digital Edition Software (DRM/nonDRM), it can display PDF and ePUB formats without the help of a conversion software. It also supports TXT, FB2, MOBI, PRC, and RTF  digital formats, as well as MP3 and standard image formats.

Aluratek Libre is compatible with MAC or PC. On-board storage can be expanded up to 32GB by inserting an SD or SDHC card into the expansion slot.

The New Kindle 3. From Only $139. Order Now! Discover The New Amazon Kindle!
The Bottom Line

Aluratek Libre doesn’t boast of any special or experimental features. Rather, the device is not focused in contend with – but to provide a more affordable alternative to – Kindle, Nook, and other fancy models. People looking for a more cost-effective way to experience the ereading revolution should take a look.

The New Kindle 3. From Only $139. Order Now! Discover The New Amazon Kindle!