I’m always surprised that more families and schools don’t use reader pens for dyslexia. They are a great piece of assistive technology and will change the way any child with dyslexia learns – they are a total gamechanger!

What is a reader pen?

A reader pen (also known as a dyslexia pen reader) is a portable and compact device designed to encourage and enable independent reading for anyone who struggles with dyslexia and other literacy based learning difficulties. They are designed to feel like a large pen and feature OCR technology (Optical Character Recognition) which enables the user to scan and highlight any text (both typed and handwritten). It will then read it aloud to the user in real time. They can be used with editing software and dictionary programs to assist with reading comprehension and even help the user learn a foreign language.

What are the benefits of reader pens for dyslexia?

Dyslexia pen readers have a number of distinct and extremely useful functions that other assistive tools (scanning pens, note-taking app, speech programs, text readers etc.) can’t do. These include:

  • They work in real time
  • They can also be used as dictionaries to help with learning a foreign language
  • They (usually) require no wifi
  • They have internal storage – to save text and audio recordings.
  • They are really quick and simple to use
My top 5 reader pens for dyslexia (click on the link to find out more):

The Scanmarker Air (#ad) is one of the best e-readers on the market and our personal favourite. It offers several useful features, including:

[amazon box = “B01N07J2AE”] (#ad)

  • Wireless Connectivity
  • Multiple Language Recognition: The device recognizes and scans text in over 40 languages, making it a versatile tool for international users.
  • Quick and Accurate Scanning: The Scanmarker Air scans text quickly and accurately, reducing the time and effort required to manually copy text.
  • Multiple Font Recognition: It can recognize and scan text in a variety of fonts and styles, including cursive and italicized text.
  • Text-to-Speech Conversion: Perfect for kids with dyslexia
  • Compact and Portable: The device is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around and use on-the-go.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: The Scanmarker Air is compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

****SALE**** Get your Scanmarker Reader for just $149! Reduced from $249

The C-Pen Reader 2 (#ad) is one of the more expensive options on the market but, comes with some excellent features including:

[amazon box = “B0BGPNM5B4”] (#ad)

  • Text-to-speech: The C-Pen Reader 2 has a natural-sounding voice, making it easier for users to comprehend and retain information.
  • Translation: The device can translate text in multiple languages, making it useful for people who need to read materials in different languages.
  • Dictionary: The C-Pen Reader 2 has a built-in dictionary that can define words and provide context for better understanding.
  • Voice recorder: Users can record their own voice and save it as a voice memo for future reference or study.
  • Scan and store: The C-Pen Reader 2 can scan and store up to 10,000 pages of text, allowing users to access and review information later.
  • Easy to use: The device is designed to be simple and intuitive, with a lightweight and ergonomic design that makes it easy to hold and use for extended periods of time.
  • Rechargeable battery: The C-Pen Reader 2 has a long-lasting rechargeable battery that can provide up to 6 hours of continuous use.

The NEWYES Scan Reader Pen 4 (#ad) is excellent value and you can choose between American or British accents. Other features include:

[amazon box = “B0CJ4YP26M”] (#ad)

  • Adjustable speed and pause time of each word
  • Scan and read function
  • Phonetic recognition
  • Photo translation – (translate text from an image) with a built in camera
  • Real-time Extraction – see the scanned text appear simultaneously on your phone, tablet or computer
  • ability to export into .txt, .doc. and pdf formats
  • Translation into 112 languages available
  • Built in Collins dictionary

The Rocket Reader Pen (#ad) is popular with kids with dyslexia. It offers a number of features including:

[amazon box = “B0B8TS14RX”] (#ad)

  • A playback text to speech feature – no amount of text will be too hard to understand or difficult to read
  • Translation available
  • Text scanning option
  • Helps with spelling
  • No wifi required

The PenPower WorldPenScan Reader Pen is one of the more affordable options. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s in any way inferior. Some of the most useful features include:

[amazon box = “B098NQ685V”] (#ad)

  • Text to speech function
  • Speech to text
  • Scan to translate function with 55 languages supported
  • Standalone and wireless

I recommend all five of these reader pens for all kids with dyslexia. They will help them to overcome any block they may have with reading and ensure that they develop a love of all things literature. Unlock their imagination with the chance to sit and read on their own. They deserve the chance to learn in an inclusive environment.

Dyslexia does not need to hold your child back. Yes, they may have to work slightly harder, yes they will require additional support, however they have just as much chance to fly as any other child in their class.

Click here for my top tools for dyslexia.

***As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases***

However, this has in no way influenced my choice of what I have listed in this post.