Which C-Pen? Choosing between the Reader 2, Reader 3 and Exam Reader 2

Choose the C-Pen Exam Reader 2 for tests and exams, the C-Pen Reader 2 for everyday reading support that works fully offline, and the C-Pen Reader 3 when a learner also needs more languages, a touchscreen or Bluetooth audio. All three scan printed text and read it aloud in Australian English. The differences are in what else they do.

Download the C-Pen data sheet (PDF)

The three models compared

C-Pen Reader 2: dependable offline support

The Reader 2 is the simplest everyday choice. It needs no Wi-Fi, app or account, which makes it easy to approve in schools with strict device policies. Students scan a word or line, hear it read aloud, and look up definitions from built-in dictionaries including the Oxford Primary Dictionary. They can save what they scan and copy it to a computer by USB, and record voice notes for revision.

Choose it for students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties who need reliable support across subjects, at school and at home.

C-Pen Reader 3: more languages and connectivity

The Reader 3 does everything the Reader 2 does and adds a colour touchscreen, Wi-Fi for 40+ reading and translation languages, over-the-air updates and Bluetooth audio. Five languages work offline: English, French, Spanish, Italian and German.

Choose it for:

• EAL/D learners who benefit from translation to and from English
• students who use Bluetooth earbuds or compatible hearing aids
• learners who find a touchscreen easier than buttons.

Its Wi-Fi works on 2.4 GHz networks using WPA2-Personal or, on current firmware, WPA2-Enterprise. It does not connect to 5 GHz-only or WPA3-only networks, so check with your IT team first. The pen still works offline if Wi-Fi isn't available (see Reader 3 school Wi-Fi setup).

C-Pen Exam Reader 2: built for exams

The Exam Reader 2 reads printed text aloud and does nothing else. It has no dictionary, no translation, no Wi-Fi and no storage, so it keeps exam conditions secure. It can be used in Australian senior exams and NAPLAN when the school applies for and is granted the relevant provision (see reading pens in Australian exams).

Choose it for any student with an exam reading provision, and for class tests where dictionaries are not allowed. Schools often keep a small set for exam periods.

Quick guide: which pen for which learner

What any reading pen can't do

A reading pen is the right tool for printed text. It is not the right tool for:

• Screens. A C-Pen cannot read text on a computer, tablet or phone. Use built-in screen readers for digital text.
• Handwriting. Handwriting is too variable to scan reliably.
• Maths symbols. C-Pen advises against relying on the pen for symbols. It reads the words in a maths question well.
• Whole pages. It scans one line or a few lines at a time.
• Very small or large print, decorative fonts and coloured paper. It reads print from 7 to 22 point and works best on plain fonts and light backgrounds.

Funding and trials

Schools usually fund reading pens as a reasonable adjustment. NDIS participants may be able to use their plan funding when the pen supports daily life (see funding a C-Pen).

Frequently asked questions