The Sony Reader PRS-505 was released by Sony on Oct 2, 2007.   It has been a big success since, primarily because there hasn’t been a whole lot of competition.

Specs

• Weight - 9 oz (250 g)
• Thickness - 0.3″
• Size – 6.9″ x 4.8″
• Screen Size - 6″
• Battery Life - 7500 page turns
• Storage – 256 MB internal + MMC/SD/SDHC/Memory Stick Pro Duo expansion slots
• Price - $250

The screen on the PRS-505 is very easy on the eyes. This is likely due to a 20% improvement in contrast from the last Reader (the 505).

Sony also made improvements to the controls, which have been rearranged to that the menu list is aligned with the buttons.  This definitely improves the usability of the PRS-505.

Direct page access is now possible simply by pushing a number button.  The numbers cycle around the three digits shown on the screen, so if you accidentally select the wrong button just keep pushing the page number.  Again, this a noticeable improvemnet over the previous general Reader.

Here’s a few more features that Sony added new to the PRS-505:

• USB mass storage – The internal memory can be accessed just like any mass storage device.
• Menu power off – You can now turn the device completely off simply by using the menus.
• Updated design – Comparing the 505 and 500 side by side, it’s obvious that the 505 looks like a newer, more attractive design.

Summary

The PRS-505 is a huge improvement over its older sibling.   The better contrast ratio, the improved button design, and the addition of USB are a few changes that make a large difference in user experience and enjoyment.  You’d be hard pressed to find a better portable ebook reader for the price.

Editor’s Note – [June 2009] The rating of the PRS-505 has been updated to reflect its comparison against current ebook readers.

Rating:
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