When it comes to e-readers, the most mentioned brand is probably Kindle. But a brand called Kobo is giving Amazon's flagship product a hard time. Indeed, Kobo e-readers offer better readability, better contrasts, greater robustness, the ability to read ePub files as well as a much more permissive policy than Kindle on the management of formats and free access books. Kobo Aura, Clara, Nia, Forma or Libra, which one to choose? You'll find out in this guide.
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Our selection
"If you are looking for the best alternative to Amazon's Kindle e-readers, the Kobo Clara HD Black is the most obvious choice. Indeed this e-reader…"
"The Kobo Nia Comfort Light offers an excellent grip for readers. This e-reader, the cheapest in the brand's catalog, has the basic but no less…"
"The Kobo Clara differs from the Kindle Oasis in that it is larger and has a nicer backlight. In addition, Kobo is much more permissive…"
"Try the Libra H2O, a nice Kobo e-reader at a good price. The brand wanted to offer to the readers an asymmetrical reader, able to…"
If you are looking for the best alternative to Amazon's Kindle e-readers, the Kobo Clara HD Black is the most obvious choice. Indeed this e-reader has everything: readable screen, huge autonomy, practical touch function...
87,99 £ on AmazonThe Kobo Clara HD Black has the following dimensions: 15.7 x 11.1 x 0.83 cm. The weight of this e-reader for a weight of 166 g. The Lithium-ion battery can provide up to 60 days of autonomy. As for the 6-inch screen, it displays a resolution of 1072 x 14448 at 300 dpi. Its touch screen embeds E Ink Carta as display technology. For the neophytes, know that this process offers more contrast for better readability and no longer requiring a complete refresh of the pages for a better reading experience.
The micro USB 2.0 port allows you to connect and recharge the device. With the operating system already installed, the available storage capacity reaches 6.85 GB. There are 50 numbers of font sizes and 11 numbers of possible fonts on this e-reader. Of course, this e-reader has Wi-Fi connection (Wi-Fi 802.11 b, Wi-Fi 802.11 g, Wi-Fi 802.11 n) and a web browser has been pre-installed on the Kobo Clara HD.
The Kobo Nia Comfort Light offers an excellent grip for readers. This e-reader, the cheapest in the brand's catalog, has the basic but no less necessary features.
80 £ on AmazonThe Kobo Nia Comfort Light measures 112.4 x 159.3 x 9.2 mm for a weight of 172 g. Equipped with a 6-inch screen, this e-reader benefits from a 1024 x 768 resolution with 212 dpi definition. To improve the comfort of reading, the device embeds E-Ink Carta HD, a display e-paper even more contrasted for better readability. The micro USB interface allows to recharge and connect the device. It is also equipped with ComfortLight technology, useful to adjust the lighting of the screen.
Apart from the operating system, the storage capacity available to the user is 6.85 GB. You are free to choose 12 fonts, including the OpenDyslexic dedicated to dyslexic people, on this e-reader. Moreover, the Kobo Comfort Light can read 9 e-book and text formats: e-pub, e-pub3, PDF, adobe DRM e-pub, mobi, txt, HTML and rtf as well as JPEG, gif, PNG, bmp and TIFF image formats.
The Kobo Clara differs from the Kindle Oasis in that it is larger and has a nicer backlight. In addition, Kobo is much more permissive than Kindle on format management and open access books.
175 £ on AmazonThe Kobo Forma takes on the Kindle Oasis openly. Larger than Aamazon's top-of-the-line e-reader, it measures 17.77 x 16 x 0.85 cm and weighs 197 g. Its autonomy can reach 42 days thanks to the 1,200 mAh lithium-polymer battery. The 8-inch screen supports a resolution of 1440 X 1920 for 300 dpi. In addition, this reader is waterproof. Here, the E Ink Carta display makes sense. Indeed, unlike a Kobo Aura, the reading of manga is very pleasant and the backlighting in warm light is very practical to read in the dark. But even novels are more pleasant to read on this reader.
In addition to the 8 GB storage, you will be entitled to 512 MB of RAM. If you're hesitant to get it because of the price, it's well worth it with a backlight that's more pleasing to the eyes and a Kobo policy that's much more permissive than Kindle's on managing formats and books available for free access on the Internet.
Try the Libra H2O, a nice Kobo e-reader at a good price. The brand wanted to offer to the readers an asymmetrical reader, able to really follow you everywhere, since it is light and waterproof. Successful bet!
128 £ on AmazonThe Kobo Libra H2O is just magic! Its 7-inch screen with 1680 x 1264 resolution for 300 dpi with E Ink Carta display technology has impressive and perfectly adapted Comfort Light. Its autonomy is great, up to 60 days. Note the automatic rotation of the screen which for once is really effective. There is even a magnetic case to turn it on automatically, super well thought.
Moreover, Kobo keeps its readers up to date for years, which is exceptional. In addition, enthusiasts have developed patches to further customize the device. Very robust, this Kobo e-reader does not fear falls of less than 2 m or immersion in water. What to make the ideal vacation reader. Finally, the price is quite reasonable compared to competitors. What more could you ask for?
Any specific needs?
The best entry-level Kobo e-reader
The best high-end Kobo e-reader
The take-anywhere Kobo e-reader
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE LINE | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Kobo Clara HD Black
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Kobo Nia Comfort Light
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Kobo Forma
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Kobo Libra H2O
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If you are looking for the best alternative to Amazon's Kindle e-readers, the Kobo Clara HD Black is the most obvious choice. Indeed this e-reader has everything: readable screen, huge autonomy, practical touch function...
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The Kobo Nia Comfort Light offers an excellent grip for readers. This e-reader, the cheapest in the brand's catalog, has the basic but no less necessary features.
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The Kobo Clara differs from the Kindle Oasis in that it is larger and has a nicer backlight. In addition, Kobo is much more permissive than Kindle on format management and open access books.
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Try the Libra H2O, a nice Kobo e-reader at a good price. The brand wanted to offer to the readers an asymmetrical reader, able to really follow you everywhere, since it is light and waterproof. Successful bet!
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Display technology
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E Ink Carta
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E Ink Carta
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E Ink Clara
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Waterproof ?
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Non
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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Storage
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8 GB
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8 GB
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8 Go
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8 GB
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Screen size
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6 inches
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6 inches
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8 inches
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7 inches
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Autonomy
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60 days
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14 No
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42 j
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60 days
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The autonomy refers to the duration of operation of the e-reader without being connected to a power source. To fully enjoy your reading, the battery capacity is one of the most important criteria to know before making a choice. Concerning Kobo e-readers, the autonomy varies from 14 to 60 days at a rate of 2 to 3 hours of reading per day. Of course, this autonomy will depend on the chosen model (Aura, Clara, Forma...), the brightness of the screen and if the Kobo e-reader is connected to the Internet or not.
TheKobo e-readers have a screen size ranging from 6 to 8 inches. This is still smaller than tablet screens, but it rivals the Kindle e-reader screens without any problem. We note that the screen size has an impact on battery life. Apart from the size, you will also have to consider the screen resolution and its definition in dots per inch or dpi. At Kobo, this resolution ranges from 1024 x 768 to 1440 x 1920 with a definition of 200 to 300 pp.
Itis on this point that Kobo readers present more interest than Kindle readers. Indeed, where Kindle does not read ePub formats (Amazon wanting to impose its home format), Kobo allows it. And the brand does not stop there since Kobo readers can also read ePub3, PDF, adobe DRM ePub, mobi, txt, HTML and rtf formats as well as JPEG, gif, PNG, bmp and TIFF image formats. Not to mention a more permissive management of books available in free access on the Internet.
Beforebuying a reading device, you should first know the type and intensity of the screen lighting. Even if the majority offers an option to adjust the brightness, keep in mind that its role is to simplify your reading and not to tire your eyes. At Kobo, they rely on E Ink Carta HD, an even higher contrast e-paper display for better readability. It's also equipped with ComfortLight technology, useful for adjusting the lighting of the screen.
Tobe able to store data, the e-reader embeds an internal memory. Kobo is no exception to the rule and generally offers 8GB of storage. As for smartphones and tablets, you have to deduct from this storage space the space reserved for the operating system. This means that in reality, you will have just over 6.5 GB of effective space. An e-book takes up about 1 MB, so you can save about 4500 to 5500 books on 6.5 GB.
To give your Kobo e-reader more battery life, here are some helpful tips. It all depends on your reading habits. To get the most out of your e-reader, here are some tips to keep your Kobo e-reader going a little longer without being plugged in
We all have this bad habit of overcharging our electronic devices, especially at night. There's no need to charge your e-reader to 100%, as this reduces its battery life considerably. You can just charge it up to 90 or 95% and then remove it.
Waiting until your e-reader is completely flat to charge it will have a detrimental effect on the life expectancy of a battery. Once discharged, some components of the battery will no longer be able to store an electrical charge. It is better to turn off your e-reader once you reach 10 or 15%.
Intense cold or heat affects the battery cells of your e-reader. This exponentially reduces the longevity of your battery. Please keep your e-reader at the right temperature in a safe place.
Avoid using counterfeit chargers. If you have forgotten your charger, it is best to consult the manufacturer for advice or a new purchase. Other chargers do not meet the standards that could damage your e-reader. In any case, the battery life of your device will be reduced.
In terms of display, Kobo e-readers have nothing to envy to the Kindle e-readers. Indeed, Kobo benefit from the E Ink Carta technology, which offers a striking contrast. This ensures that your eyes do not get tired while reading. In addition, you can adjust the lighting as you wish. In addition, Kobo e-readers offer more compatible formats, especially the ePub format, which is very popular for e-books but which Amazon does not allow to read on its Kindle e-readers. And when it comes to sturdiness and waterproofing, Kobo has a lot to offer. Too bad it's not as popular as the Kindle brand.
Kindle has allowed Amazon to dominate the e-reader market. Indeed, it is the first brand that comes to mind when one mentions devices that allow reading electronic books. Kindle e-readers allow access to countless e-books from Amazon's catalog for a fee. The robustness of the American giant's e-readers is well known. However, Kindle cannot read certain files, especially ePub files, although there are apps to get around this restriction. And Amazon often forces you to pay to take full advantage of its catalog, knowing that free e-books are not very interesting.
If you plan to read a wide variety of e-book formats and have more flexibility on free books on the Internet, Kobo e-readers are the way to go. If you can afford a subscription to the Amazon catalog and are looking for a popular e-reader, consider the Kindle brand.
It's no secret that if you're going on a trip, it's more convenient to bring a reader instead of a bunch of books. Your luggage will be lighter and yet you can enjoy your favorite chapter.
You may have thought "why buy a Kobo e-reader, I already own a touch tablet, I can read digital books." Unlike the e-reader, tablets at all do not have the benefit of e-ink technology. It allows you to read for a long time without getting a headache or eye strain. It looks like a carbon copy to a real sheet of paper put in better.
If books can be easily torn and wet, e-readers indeed have the ability to remain intact even if used by a child. Some e-readers are even able to resist water.
You can also enjoy the reading light in the daytime, even in bright sunlight. Also, it can be read in the middle of the night with a built-in user-friendly light. You won't wake up with a headache and your sleep will remain healthy.
Compared to the Kindle e-reader, the Kobo e-reader supports ePub formats. If you need to change the format on the computer to the Kindle, you won't waste the time to do it on the Kobo e-reader.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Check water resistance
If you are likely to go to the pool or the beach, when choosing your Kobo e-reader, make sure you choose a tested and certified waterproof e-reader. Some models are not, so it's best to find out more to avoid accidents.
Keep away from hazardous materials.
Areading light is one of the sensitive and highly flammable products. It is better to store it in a safe place to avoid the risk of fire or violent reactions.
Clean your Kobo device
Ifyou're cleaning the body of your Kobo device, we recommend using a damp cloth to wipe it down. To clean the device's screen, you can use swabs soaked in 75% alcohol for best results.
Protect your e-reader's screen
There areseveral ways to protect your e-reader screen. But we suggest two. One, you can stick a small protective film on the screen. This protects it from breakage and scratches. On the other hand, you can also protect it with a case. It offers full protection of the device and also aesthetics.
Add lighting to your e-reader
WithComfort Light, you can adjust the brightness of your screen. During playback, just swipe up or down along the left edge of the screen. Or you can go directly to the Comfort Light menu.
Using the USB cable provided with the e-reader , connect your e-reader to your computer. A notification appears on your e-reader, tap to continue. All you have to do is choose the book of your choice and copy it to your device.
Beforedownloading any book, make sure you are connected to a Wi-fi point. Then, simply select on the cover. A notification of the download status will appear in a corner of the screen. Once the book is downloaded, touch its title or cover to start reading it.
Ifyou forgot your chargeror need to replace your cable, visit a specialty store that sells such equipment. Make sure the cable is compatible with data transfer, as some cables are only for charging.
Here'sa list of file formats compatible with a Kobo e-reader. For books: EPUB, EPUB3, PDF, ePub and MOBI. For documents: PDF. For images: JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP and TIFF. For texts: TXT, HTML and RTF. Finally for comics: CBZ and CBR.
First,plug your e-reader into your PC and then look for a reader called Kobo eReader. Then, drag the PDF or ePub file to the Kobo eReader. Finally, eject your e-reader. To do this, right-click the Kobo eReader and select Eject.
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