The Pocketbook Verse e-reader is now one of the best affordable e-readers available. But what are the differences compared to its predecessor, the Pocketbook Touch Lux 5?
If you recall, the Pocketbook Touch Lux 5 was the e-reader I recommended for anyone looking to start their digital reading journey with their first e-reader.
With its beautiful 6-inch e-ink screen and attractive price, it was an excellent device.
Since then, Pocketbook has launched its replacement with the excellent Pocketbook Verse. I decided to take a closer look at the differences between these two e-readers to see if this evolution is truly justified.
Quick Answer: Yes, surprisingly, the differences are quite significant!
Design and Build: Advantage Pocketbook Verse
To start, the design of the Pocketbook Verse is more compact with a shorter body, making it easier to carry.
The plastic used is of better quality and the e-reader feels more robust compared to the Pocketbook Touch Lux 5.
Of course, it still includes the 4 buttons below the screen, and even though the buttons on the Pocketbook Verse are smaller, they are easier to use thanks to a design that makes the two page-turning buttons easier to find in the dark (they have a "bumpy" style).
Overall, I prefer the new style of the Pocketbook Verse, which is more refined, more compact, and feels better finished.
USB-C Port: Advantage Pocketbook Verse
Quickly, the Pocketbook Verse features a USB-C port that is more reliable (and more durable) for regular use.
This type of port also allows for faster charging of the e-reader. It's a real benefit when you find yourself with a low battery, as charging the device for about twenty minutes can give you several hours of reading time.
Screen: Better Character Display
The screen used in the Pocketbook Verse is an electronic ink (or epaper) type provided by the company E Ink, referenced as "Carta."
To my knowledge, it is the same type of screen with the same resolution as that of the Pocketbook Touch Lux 5.
Logically, one should expect identical display quality, but in reality, this is not the case!
The lighting is different, with better brightness management on the new Pocketbook Verse, resulting in a more eye-pleasing display that also gives the impression of better definition!
Of course, when you closely compare the two screens side-by-side, this is not the case, since both e-ink screens display the same number of dots (or pixels).
The display on the Verse is also faster with a better refresh rate.
Nevertheless, I have to admit that reading on the Pocketbook Verse is more enjoyable when the brightness is set at 50%.
Which E-Reader to Buy?
If you are hesitating between a second-hand Pocketbook Touch Lux 5 and a Pocketbook Verse and your budget allows you to purchase the Pocketbook Verse, then I definitely recommend the latter.
However, if you find a good deal on the Pocketbook Touch Lux 5, you can still go for it as it remains a very relevant device.
You can also check out my buying guide for the best e-readers of the moment – this guide is updated every month.
