Top 10: 3G/4G Internet connected e-Ink e-readers

August 01, 2023 | Author: Dhaval Parekh
One significant advantage of 3G e-readers is their ability to provide a constant and reliable internet connection without the need for Wi-Fi or mobile hotspot access. These e-readers are equipped with built-in 3G connectivity, allowing users to download and access content from the internet virtually anywhere with cellular coverage. This feature enables seamless access to e-books, newspapers, and other digital content on the go, even in areas where Wi-Fi might not be available. For travelers, commuters, and those who frequently find themselves in areas with limited Wi-Fi access, 3G e-readers offer a convenient and uninterrupted reading experience. Additionally, the built-in 3G connection often comes at no additional cost, providing readers with the freedom to access content without worrying about data plans or Wi-Fi availability. This advantage makes 3G e-readers a preferred choice for those seeking constant connectivity and convenience for their digital reading needs.

Some of the most popular internet-connected e-readers are listed below.

See also: Top 10 e-Readers

2023. Bigme released new colour e-note S6 Color+


Bigme has unveiled its latest e-note, the S6 Color+, which comes with On-Cell Touch and boasts a vibrant 7.8-inch E Ink display based on the on-cell Kaleido 3 color e-paper technology. According to Bigme, this innovative color display incorporates fewer layers over the touch surface, resulting in improved light transmission and a brighter visual experience. Under the hood, the S6 Color+ houses a powerful octa-core 2.3 GHz processor, along with 6GB of RAM and a generous 128GB of internal storage. Should users require more storage space, the device supports expandable storage via an SD card of up to 1TB capacity. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and 4G; however, network support is currently limited to China. To enhance user experience, the S6 Color+ is equipped with dual speakers and a microphone. On the photography front, it features a 5 MP front-facing camera and an 8 MP rear camera setup. Running on Android 11 with preinstalled Google Play Store, the device offers access to a wide range of applications. Powering the S6 Color+ is a 3000 mAh battery, ensuring extended usage. The S6 Color+ by Bigme is available at a price of $459.99.


2022. Onyx Boox launched big e-Ink tablet with keyboard and stylus



Onyx Boox has unveiled its latest tablet, the Tab10, which serves as an e-note device and boasts a 10.3-inch display with a resolution of 1872 x 1404 and a pixel density of 227 PPI. Powering the device is a 2.0GHz octa-core Qualcomm processor paired with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, expandable up to 512 GB via external means. Running on Android 11, the Tab10 is equipped with a substantial 6,300 mAh battery, ensuring a battery life of at least a couple of weeks. It supports 2.4G and 5G dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, while a USB Type-C port is included for convenient charging and data transfer. The Power key incorporates a fingerprint unlock mechanism, enhancing the device's security. The Tab10 also features an integrated microphone, and the bundled Boox Pen2 offers an eraser function and attaches magnetically to the device. Weighing a mere 470 grams, the e-note delivers a lightweight and portable experience, and it is priced at $468.


2021. Kindle 3G internet will no longer work since 2022



In 2017, Amazon introduced the original Kindle, which offered 3G internet access. This feature allowed Kindle users to connect to the nearest cellphone tower providing 3G data, enabling them to access the bookstore and Wikipedia. However, starting from next year, this capability will become obsolete. Network telecommunication companies worldwide are beginning to shut down their 3G networks and repurpose the frequencies for 4G/LTE and 5G technologies.


2021. Hisense released Android-powered E Ink smartphone-reader A7 CC



Hisense, a Chinese electronics manufacturer, has unveiled the Hisense A7 CC, an Android-powered smartphone featuring a 6.7-inch color E Ink screen and 4G LTE connectivity. Operating on Android 10, this device does not include Google Play, similar to its monochrome counterpart. The color E Ink screen offers a refresh rate comparable to black and white e-paper. Although larger than a typical Kindle, the 6.7-inch E Ink screen has a distinct aspect ratio, resulting in a taller and narrower display. While the Hisense A7 CC is primarily available in China, select retailers like Cect Shop offer worldwide shipping, with the device currently priced at around $500 USD.


2016. Amazon unveils new Kindle Oasis



The latest addition to Amazon's Kindle lineup is the Kindle Oasis, offering an incredibly compact and lightweight design along with a unique handle for enhanced grip. With a thickness of only 3.4 mm at its thinnest point, the Kindle Oasis brings readers even closer to the tactile experience of holding a physical book. The one-sided handle grip is specifically crafted to simulate the sensation of holding a book's spine while indulging in your reading journey. Notably, this new Kindle model reintroduces physical buttons for page flipping, a departure from the touchscreens and keyboards of previous generations. Amazon has recognized the enduring appeal of buttons, and they have made a comeback based on user preferences. The Kindle Oasis is available in two versions: the WiFi model priced at $289 and the 3G model priced at $359.


2012. Txtr Beagle - e-Reader for $13


If you believed that the non-profit Kindle Paperwhite offered excellent value at $119, then prepare to be amazed by the Txtr Beagle e-reader, available for a mere $13. Admittedly, it lacks touchscreen functionality, 3G, Wi-Fi, and a built-in backlight, relying instead on two AAA batteries for power. Nevertheless, it delivers all the essentials for an enjoyable reading experience, boasting a 5-inch, 4.5-ounce E Ink screen and 4GB of storage. Additionally, its thickness of 5mm contributes to its portability and convenience. But how is it possible for this device to be priced similarly to a single ebook on Amazon's store? Here's the catch: The only way to add books to the Txtr Beagle is via Bluetooth through the Txtr app, available on Android or iPhone. Furthermore, books can only be obtained for the app by purchasing them from the Txtr book store.


2011. Amazon unveils Kindle Touch e-reader



Amazon delighted technology enthusiasts with their latest offering this morning, staying true to their commitment of delivering premium products at affordable prices. The Kindle Touch, a new e-ink e-reader, was introduced as a direct competitor to Barnes & Noble's Nook, priced at $99. While Amazon made few notable distinctions between the Kindle Touch and the fourth-generation Kindle, the most apparent difference lies in the bezel below the screen. The previous model's toggle switch and row of buttons have been replaced with a single home button consisting of four small horizontal bars. Although not the most visually striking option available, it serves its purpose effectively. Additionally, Amazon presented a 3G version of the Kindle Touch, which will be available for $149, along with a smaller and more affordable non-touch Kindle priced at $79. To enhance the reading experience, Amazon incorporated its Whispersync technology, enabling seamless delivery of digital books to the Kindle. Furthermore, customers of the device are offered free cloud storage.

Author: Dhaval Parekh
Dhaval possesses a strong passion for technology and actively stays informed about the most recent advancements in the tech industry and cutting-edge gadgets. He pays special attention to dedicated e-Ink eReaders, e-Ink note-taking devices and tablets. In addition to his writing pursuits, Dhaval enjoys immersing himself in books and audiobooks, indulging in movies and series. Each month, he devotes his time to reading 1-2 fiction and tech books, and he proudly owns a diverse collection of eReaders. Having previously worked at TechCrunch, Dhaval now shares his expertise by contributing articles to various tech portals. You can contact Dhaval via email dhaval@bookrunch.com