Tolino Shine Color Review – Part 1

Discussing the Tolino Shine Color today, we focus on its hardware specifications and design in this first part of our review. We examine the device's 6-inch color E Ink display, assessing its resolution, color depth, and overall visual quality. The review covers the Shine Color's physical attributes, including its dimensions, weight, and build quality. We also explore the e-reader's storage capacity and its implications for storing color content, which typically requires more space than traditional e-books.

Technical Analysis and Market Assessment

Overview

The Tolino Shine Color (2023) represents Tolino’s entry into the mid-range color e-reader market, bringing color E Ink technology to their popular Shine series. This model balances color capabilities with affordability, targeting readers who want color functionality without premium pricing.

Technical Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Display6-inch E Ink Kaleido 2
Color Resolution440 x 588 (100 ppi for color)
B&W Resolution1322 x 1764 (300 ppi)
Storage8GB (approximately 6,000 books)
RAM512MB
Processor1.2GHz NXP i.MX 6
LightingComfortLight Pro (white + amber)
Battery1500 mAh Li-Polymer
ConnectivityWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
PortsUSB-C
Dimensions153 x 114 x 8.4 mm
Weight182g
Water ProtectionNone
Supported FormatsEPUB, PDF, CBR, CBZ, TXT

Shine Series Comparison

FeatureShine ColorShine 3Shine 2 HD
DisplayKaleido 2CartaCarta
Color SupportYes (4096 colors)NoNo
Resolution300/100 ppi300 ppi300 ppi
Storage8GB8GB4GB
LightingComfortLight ProComfortLightBasic
Release Year202320182016
Key FeatureColor displayEnhanced lightHD display
Price at Launch€189€149€129

Display Technology

The Shine Color features E Ink Kaleido 2:

Color Features:

  • 4,096 color palette
  • 100 ppi color resolution
  • 300 ppi monochrome
  • Color filter layer
  • Mode switching
  • Enhanced contrast

Reading Experience:

  • Color for comics/magazines
  • Sharp B&W text
  • Color saturation control
  • Dual mode support
  • Indoor optimization
  • Reading mode selection

ComfortLight Pro System

Dual-color lighting system:

Features:

  • White and amber LEDs
  • 20 brightness levels
  • Color temperature control
  • Manual adjustment
  • Reading presets
  • Even distribution
  • Eye strain reduction

Connectivity & Ports

Standard connectivity options:

Physical Connections:

  • USB-C port
  • Standard charging
  • Data transfer
  • Improved durability
  • Modern connection

Wireless Features:

  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Cloud synchronization
  • Online bookstore
  • Over-air updates
  • Device sync
  • Network stability

Software & Reading Features

Adapted software platform:

Reading Enhancements:

  • Color mode options
  • Comic viewer
  • Magazine support
  • PDF color handling
  • Basic note-taking
  • Multiple views
  • Format support

Navigation Features:

  • Color interface
  • Library management
  • Comic browser
  • Collection support
  • Progress tracking
  • Cloud backup
  • Search function

Value Analysis (2023)

At its 2023 release price of €189:

Market Position:

  • Mid-range segment
  • Color capability
  • Basic features
  • Standard build
  • Competitive pricing

Value Factors:

  • Color display
  • Modern connectivity
  • Standard storage
  • Regular updates
  • Ecosystem access

Current Market Comparison

Current market position:

Strengths:

  • Color capability
  • Affordable pricing
  • Good display
  • USB-C port
  • Regular updates

Limitations:

  • Basic features
  • No water protection
  • Limited storage
  • Color resolution
  • Battery life

Continue reading Part 2 for historical comparison, known issues, and final assessment