Sony Reader PRS-700
Additional Model Numbers: PRS-700BC

The Sony Reader PRS-700 is a sleek version of its predecessors, although largely similar, but the PRS-700 incorporates a 6-inch touch screen. This a huge improvement for navigation and the user interface. The newest reader also boasts faster operation, expanded internal memory, and a built-in LED reading light. There are still some flaws related to the new screen that may hold back this otherwise great digital reader.

The PRS-700 weighs only 1-ounce more than previous Sony readers (10 oz) and users will find it only slightly thicker. As with previous models, the PRS-700 comes with a leather protective cover that adheres to the device magnetically and is available in a couple of colors.

The best feature of this model is the touch screen, which completely changes the dynamics of the device. The screen itself hasn't changed from the preceding models. It's still a 600×800-pixel, monochrome screen that measures approximately 4.9 inches tall by 3.6 inches wide and uses the “E Ink” technology print, but the touch screen and swiping action to turn pages is a nice, almost homey touch. Granted, most people will probably continue to use the well-placed hard buttons for page changes. The screen is not as sensitive to touch as most Iphones. Users must learn to press firmly on the screen. Much to users' dismay, the PRS-700's screen is not glare resistant and there is no way to adjust the contrast. With the Size button, you can choose among five font settings. You can also switch between landscape and portrait mode. The PRS-700 also has an annotation and notes feature, giving you the ability to highlight portions of your book and make notes using a virtual keyboard.

The PRS-700 has the added feature of an LED "reading light." This is not to be confused with backlighting, but is more of “screen periphery” lighting. This substitute lighting isn't uniform, but it does allow users to read in darker environments. Sony also sells the optional Flex-Neck LED Reading Light PRS-LIGHT01 ($15) for those who do a lot of night reading.

The PRS-700 does not come with an AC adapter and the unit may only be charged through the USB port on your computer. If you happen to own a Sony PSP, the charger for this device will work on your Reader. The unit will operate for several days on a full charge, but use of the audio playback will decrease that time.

Sony has remodeled their e-book store and it is much improved. The Reader is delivered with eBook Library 2.5 PC software. This software is far more user friendly than previous versions. Downloading a purchased book is a two-step process and requires USB connection to a computer. The Reader is capable of displaying text, RTF, Word, BBeB Book files, and EPUB files, as well as PDFs. Previously, you couldn't zoom in on your PDF files, but now you can. The PRS-700 model has double the amount of internal memory from the PRS-505 (256MB), which allows you to store around 300 books. You can gain more memory from the addition of an optional memory card (SD or Memory Stick Pro).

Sony has made a lot of good choices with the PRS-700. It is definitely faster due to its faster processor. It definitely has a cleaner and easier-to-use interface with the touch screen simplifying navigation. However, as far as a reader goes, the screen is important and the screens on previous models (PRS-505) were definitely better. Although Sony's PRS-700 takes one-step forward for Sony digital readers, the screen may cause it to take a couple of steps back as well.