Should you get a Kindle or Kobo? ANSWERED!

My thoughts on the great Kobo V. Kindle debate!
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Sources:
ereaderclub.co/compare/kobo-v...
www.telegraph.co.uk/recommend...
www.techradar.com/versus/kind...

[@DanielGreeneReviews]

Thank you to square space for sponsoring today's video: www.squarespace.com/danielgreene CORRECTION! The Kobo libra color does not come with the stylists! That is an additional $70ish purchase. Update: Kindle has updated to better accept epub, but still lacks some of the compatibility of Kobo. Ereaders mentioned: Kobo: Kobo Libra Color: Releasing April 30th Kobo Clara Color: Releasing April 30th Kobo Clara: amzn.to/4aC0qVt Kobo Libra: amzn.to/4b03vOG Kindle: Kindle (basic): amzn.to/3UbLw1k Kindle Paperwhite: amzn.to/3Q6OP8L Kindle Scribe: amzn.to/3TXSOFE

[@DragonHeart613]

@DanielGreeneReviews Hey Daniel, how come you didn't also add the Nook to this discussion? Never heard of Kobo before. Only 2 that I'm familiar with are Kindle & Nook.

[@levis1956]

Quick note on the magnets for the stylus, looking at some other reviews, it seems to be intended to attach to the side of the e-reader opposite to the page-turn buttons :)

[@cody7855]

I didn’t hear it mentioned and haven’t watched the other reader reviews. But the annoying load taking so long thing can be helped some by turned off page refresh. It can’t be turned off completely because of the e ink display but it can be delayed. I think kindle does have an off feature but kobo I think delays to the end of a chapter. I’ve never experimented with it as far as navigating through menus or the stores but the flashing black is a screen refresh so if it can be turned off or refreshed less often it should speed up the experience a little bit. Possibly enough to make it more bearable

[@readingwritingandstudyingh832]

Hey Daniel, Is it possible to attach voice notes to text as one reads? Is there a device like this?

[@jenslingspaint3523]

the "how they think we read" vs "how we read" is the most accurate and relatable case review.

[@AndrewBuis]

I only use the case "stand" when I'm eating dinner + reading at the same time. Having a near hands-free option is convenient in that edge case.

[@tengwarsenna]

Not gonna lie, I was expecting the thing that happens to me almost every long reading session at some point. The ol' device dropped onto face.

[@Nikkilodean19]

@@tengwarsenna try Strapsicle game changer

[@Jobiin]

Kobo in my region (Canada) lets you take out library books in e-book format, Kindle does not, so its an easy decision

[@The116thDoctor]

Misread “region” as “religion” and was like huh…

[@zacharymiller4261]

Libby(my library app) lets you connect your amazon account so kindle has easy access automatically.

[@gnomishviking3013]

Same. Loving my Libra 2

[@thepacksurvives71]

Kindle doesn’t allow you to read library books?

[@ThexImperfectionist]

​@@thepacksurvives71 It definitely does in the US (it's the primary way I read now). I have heard that Libby does not work with Kindle in Canada, not sure where else also has this problem.

[@Luumus]

5:40 I will just respectfully disagree with the cover thing and "How Kobo thinks we read". I like reading whilst I'm eating so having it propped up in a way I don't have to hold it or hunch over it if it's flat on the table, is a HUGE bonus to me. I love that cover because of it, it's a simple design with a great feature that you can use if you want to or ignore it all together if you don't.

[@bobgoblinn582]

I totally agree with this. Reading at a brewery is a somewhat regular occurrence for me and being able to place my device on a table at a useable angle has always been a struggle.

[@elise85391]

I don't have a Kobo, so I can't say for sure, but I had thought that it might be nice while watching the video. I read in bed a lot, but sometimes my hand will start to hurt, and if I'm on my side, my wrist is at a weird angle trying to hold the Kindle, but at a specific angle. For now I got a pop-socket for my kindle, but I wouldn't hate a case that doubles as a stand

[@ostelaymetaule]

I would like to have a Bluetooth or cable dongle with it for page turns

[@jaysemitchells497]

Also seems useful for sneakily reading in class or at work

[@Ottolineification]

I was thinking the same. I spend my days off on my cough munching on cookies with tea, and i usually prop my kindle on a phone stand, so such a case would be beneficial

[@sluper12345]

Bought a Kobo a few years ago because why would I support amazon when I don't have to? Still works like a charm after 3 years of heavy usage. But having the ability to read comics in color makes me at least consider an upgrade.

[@genghisgalahad8465]

Barnes & Noble Nooks don't factor in? One could have a souped-up Nook or maybe Kobo that have the Kindle app, comixology app, or Marvel apps? That way you could support the hardware purchase of your choice?

[@sluper12345]

@@genghisgalahad8465 I'm sure there are plenty of options. Grateful for all suggestions. Haven't really done much research as I just got the idea of a possible upgrade when I watched this video this morning. Was not aware of Nook. Despite my name, I'm Swedish and B&N has no presence here in scandinavia. Maybe that's why I never heard of it or. I'll look into it.

[@warnerblair]

I’ve had a nook. Barely used it compared to kindle hated it

[@DragonHeart613]

​@@sluper12345Hope you don't mind me asking, why do you dislike Amazon?

[@federicogori9888]

Sure! If Amazon doesn’t make a color version of PaperWhite i’ll probably switch to Kobo

[@interstellardeskplant]

As someone who doesn't have their kindle connected to the internet and gets books solely using a wired connection be aware that Amazon recently changed their policy that you can no longer outright download the file from purchases to do with as you please. They only allow you to send it to a wired kindle registered to an account. Kind of beats the purpose of owning the file because YOU DON'T IF YOU CAN'T DO WHAT YOU WANT WITH IT.

[@lr4600]

Right, not owning the book is the biggest reason I tend to limit e-readers. Years ago Amazon removed 1984 from people's kindle because they lost the publishing rights or some shit. Not surprising they're closing off users work arounds.

[@IzzysTravelDiaries]

Why not just load it using Calibre? Though I usually just use my email to send books to my kindle nowadays.

[@Colaman112]

@@IzzysTravelDiaries I've found Drag and Dropping the file to the "send to kindle" website to be more convenient, especially if you're sending in bulk. You get to see which files are ready and if there is a problem in real time.

[@milliealderman9796]

Just like you don't really "own" digital movies you buy. Think of it more as a permanent rental. No, you can't do with it as you please and yes, they can remove it for whatever reasons.

[@colemushel2450]

I'll say this about standing cases, I bought a random standing case off Amazon for my Oasis and as someone who just had a kid it's awesome. I can hold/feed/rock her comfortably while still being able to read without hands. That's something that's really helped my ability to read more.

[@thecompanioncube4211]

In my country, on Amazon you can get Kindle cases for like $8-10, and Kobo cases are like $50 minimum. I don't know if no one makes cheap cases for Kobo, or Amazon pushes the cheap options far down below that they're not searchable. Given the state of the companies, both things are plausible

[@Masqueey]

The Apple vs Android comparison is actually really good and summarises the difference quite well 👌

[@agathoklesmartinios8414]

As a Kobo user, I don't really mind the "folding stand", when at work it can be useful to read hands-free during lunch hour while still eating. I may alter the font size if needed for easier readability. Other than that perhaps niche use-case, I do just hold it in my hands to read.

[@nicolet8186]

I’ve had the original Kobo libra for 3 years and I want to get the colour, but I can’t justify the expense when my current kobo still works great and does everything I need it to. 😅

[@Deni-mt9bj]

I feel your struggle. It the same for me.

[@Cynthia-vm3ee]

I have my kobo for 7 years and I read every day.

[@Wildflower1013]

I have the same struggle lol. my kobo libra works fine, but the color model looks so nice!

[@ilananl1004]

Same here... although the improved battery and faster cpu are really tempting, more so than the colour

[@user-wc6bl4zs4i]

Maybe you can sell your old one?

[@krthompson7519]

My grandma likes stands for her e-reader - I think it makes more of a difference for people with weaker grasp or joints! That said, the lack of adjustment for the viewing angle does sound like an issue.

[@QuestionablyNumb]

In the kobo subreddit there's at least one post that shows how you can set it up so you can use something extremely cheap with a couple buttons (on a ring or whatever) that connects to bluetooth so you don't actually need to touch the device at all. For those of us with accessibility needs or who just don't want to hold it, it's an interesting and useful thing to check out. Fwiw - gooseneck clamp set up in favourite reading spot also works either in conjunction with a bluetooth option for back and forward pages, or on it's own.

[@jakecarlstad6192]

I actually bought both but I hardly ever use my kindle. I like the library access and also the just the size of the kobo much more. One thing I really love about kobo is that the Page count will dynamically adjust to however large your font is so it's always accurate how much longer you have in a chapter.

[@ThexImperfectionist]

Not sure if we're talking about the same thing but I just figured out that the page number listed at the bottom of the Kindle corresponds to the printed book and doesn't change with your personal settings for text size or spacing. I assume so that you can compare notes with friends about how far you are or what happens on page 492 and you'll always be talking about the same point in the book, which I thought was cool.

[@quainintechnicolor1110]

WOAH this was a lot sooner than expected!

[@timelate]

Honestly I bought a kindle specifically thinking I could download ebooks from the library. I had no clue about kobo at the time and got most of my information from American reviewers. Big mistake, I live in Australia and kindle does not work with any of the library apps. So thank you for mentioning how outside the US kobo is mostly the better option! Yes I know kindle has their daily deals but I found buying books because they were cheap actually costed me more, than buying just a few full priced ebooks I was actually interested. I also don’t like Amazon and when I can afford it, I’m looking forward to switching to a kobo

[@OkamiRose]

Kobo also has daily deals to compete with amazon

[@timelate]

@@OkamiRose good to know thanks!

[@lthecatt9667]

I'm a relatively early adopter to Kobo (I bought mine in 2012), and it still holds up, if only slightly slower compared to 12 years ago. I mainly use it when traveling/train commute, so not the most intense usage, but it is so convenient (especially with the side-loading part)

[@Deni-mt9bj]

Thank you for thinking about readers outside of US. I can tell you that for someone who’s from Europe, kindle sucks in so many more ways. And it’s even worse if you love reading series. The reading itself is really nice and quick though. I couldn’t search anything on my old pocketbook because it was painfully slow.

[@lenasophie5455]

Depending on where you live, you can also check out Tolino. They’re the same hardware as the kobo 😊

[@kirstendickinson1361]

I've also decided to switch to Kobo simply because I want to get away from buying books from Amazon. Just going to wait for the new models to go on sale.

[@Marco_Onyxheart]

I wish I could get away from Amazon, but Whispersync for me is a must-have. We really should have an open source alternative for it.

[@deepmaxlore]

Thank you so much for reviewing manga and comics on the device! Tech reviews have been shockingly lacking in talking about the experience of reading comics or illustrated books on the color Kobo. I've got mine pre-ordered and I can't wait.

[@hakeemperring2699]

I've always been a Kindle guy, but that new Kobo colour is sublime. I'm so tempted to jump ship. The main issue I have is that I "own" (lol) so many books via the Kindle store.

[@Marco_Onyxheart]

I'm partial to Onyx Boox myself. Specifically because you can use both the Kindle and the Kobo platforms on it, as well as others. Runs Android but has eInk (and there are colour eInk options too).

[@gnomishviking3013]

You can use a program called Calibre to strip the DRM off of any ebook and put it on the device you wish.

[@WateryFire]

You can always read those Amazon books on Kindle and get Kobo for other books. Why would you need to jump ship? I’m from Europe so Kindle is for books in english (just cause it’s gorgeous) and Kobo for books in my native language and library. Easy peasy.

[@HankyUSA]

Are these books you "own" (never forget those quotes) on the Kindle store ones you're still planning on reading?

[@chaddaifouche536]

I personally never buy ebooks I can't strip the DRM from (I'm pretty sure it's legal where I am, for my personal use of course), I've been bitten by that too many time in the past. Using Calibre and DeDRM, it's pretty easy to do if you have an eink Kindle whether you use it or not (I bought the cheapest model exactly for that after Amazon ruined my previous protocol with Kindle4PC, I'm not even sure where it is by now). And Calibre is just the superior option to manage your ebook collection (good for comics or documents too).

[@alicepbg2042]

thank you Daniel. you made me way more confident in just buying a kobo. these things are expensive and when I get one, because I've been wanting one e-reader for a while, I'm gonna be stuck with it. so while I do not wanna support amazon, it's hard to say no to kindle. specially since I never even saw an e-reader that wasn't a kindle in person. gonna keep this video in mind and probably get myself a kobo for xmas.

[@levis1956]

You won't regret getting a Kobo, I've been using the same one daily for about 8 years and it's still going strong :)

[@WhatTheFunct]

Daniel, the Kobo website literally shows where the stylus is supposed to be placed... 😅 They have a cover designed to fit and close around the stylus to keep it secured to the device. It goes on the left. Where your hand was.

[@gnomishviking3013]

Got a kobo libra 2 recently. Amazing ereader and my consumption of books and manga has gone way up. Kobo is also awesome in Canada as I can link it to my library card which you can’t do with kindle in Canada.

[@mattsully5332]

That was a great conversation comparing and contrasting the two platforms, and I appreciate it greatly!

[@caelumfalls]

Watching you work on this yesterday and seeing the finished project today really makes me appreciate your uploads more. Always have. I finally caught an editing stream so now I'm like "aye i saw him do the 'click click move zoom in' on this" 😂 Edit: Now that ive finished the video, I'm probably gonna stick with my iPad Pro until budget allows for an e-reader. I was thinking Kindle Oasis but I'm feeling like getting a Kobo Libra Color or Sage. Amazon don't need my money.

[@tomjones353]

The Kindle Oasis, sadly, is no more!

[@RubenRodriguez-co9jx]

You're just supposed to put the stylus on your ear.

[@kombatwombat6579]

Bro, I've tried. The point hurts my brainy when I push it too far.

[@RubenRodriguez-co9jx]

@@kombatwombat6579 you guys push through the pain!

[@kombatwombat6579]

@@RubenRodriguez-co9jx SIR YES SIR.

[@crisnice1]

these videos are amazing. good work

[@nerd-jock]

Loooove my kobo - the ability to handle different formats is a huge deal breaker for me, and the easy library access rocks. I've read so many more books thanks to this.

[@keytwitchyPhD]

The Android to Apple comparison is so accurate. Picked up the Kobo Clara BW for my first eReader and I love it. Crisp, snappy, lightweight, and most importantly - heavy customization and open-source capabilities.

[@newdawn3301]

This was a great video. I have been using a cheap kobo the last couple of years and I might just upgrade to the colour one so I can finally read manga on my e reader. Thank you Daniel ❤❤

[@DryBooks]

Thank you for this

[@christopherdaley5617]

I have owned both Kobos and Kindles. I am currently reading on Kindles. I have a Paperwhite for travel and read on a Scribe at home. I have to say I have never had a problem checking out books on a Kindle from a library. I actually prefer it. Kobo has one really large drawback for me. It only allows one connected library at a time. In California you can get a LA and San Francisco library card without living in the city. Which means I actually have 3 libraries to check out books from at a time. The Libby app lets me look at all three libraries and I can check a book out or put a hold from whichever one I want. Then I just hit the read with Kindle and it sends me to Amazon and I check it out. I can have a book checked out and on my Kindle in under a minute.

[@ms-behaving]

Multi-library access is one of Kindle’s biggest advantages! If Kobo added the feature they’d be so much more competitive.

[@Dolores_Madil]

Thank you for doing this I have been hard debating on an eReader but as a Manga reader this definitely gives me an answer

[@Marco_Onyxheart]

If I may give you a little bit of doubt, I'm myself partial to Onyx Boox. It's an eInk Android device, so you can have both Kobo and Kindle and also have more options in terms of featureset.

[@skeezixcodejedi]

Really great up front scoping and caveat section to define the review; and the filmography lately has been top tier.. levelled up!

[@VikingSchism]

It's possible to stand the case up so the device is in vertical orientation and I get a lot of use out of that by reading on my lunch break at work - being able to read while only needing to turn the page by tapping the edge of the screen with a finger every so often is huge and lets me get more reading in where I otherwise couldn't

[@dragongrill1016]

I live in the US and after watching your first video on the Kindle I decided to look into it more. After extensive research I ended up choosing a Kindle because for where I am at I can get library books on my kindle as well as being able sync it to audiobook.

[@aaronnewton9398]

Great review! I like the direction epaper devices are headed, still not quite where they need to be for me though. Not sure comics will ever be a workable format for me on any of them given how prevalent and important double page splashes are.

[@adorabell4253]

I’m still rocking my ancient kobo from over 10 years ago. Had to toss my old cover, though as it disintegrated. I’m debating getting a new dresser but I mostly read on my phone as is so probably not.

[@susanpevensie-zn8gc]

Been waiting for this one thanks for an honest review

[@rattslayer]

Love my kobo libra 2. Put 200 days of reading time on my ClaraHD, then dropped something on the screen My Libra 2 has another 30 days of readong on it, and love it so much. Bought a case for it like yours, never use the stand up function, but live how it wakes whrn i "open my book"

[@DanTheMeek]

5:36 - Don't have that specific kobo, but the kindle case that does the same thing was a game changer for me in the past. Basically for years I used to ride my bicycle to my work office, it was about a 45 minute bike ride, so there was no reasonable way for me to get back home for lunch. As such, I'd usually either eat out, or brown paper bag it and eat at my desk. In either case, rather then just eat in silence, I would try to read books but had trouble both holding my books/turning pages while eating, and not getting my books covered with food bits. Then I got a kindle voyage which had that kind of stand and suddenly I could eat and read hands free. It improved my lunch experience 1000%. Consequently I made sure to get a similar case when I later upgraded to an Oasis. Now adays my work situation changed such that I'm not usually reading during my lunch breaks, and thus this feature of the case is less useful to me, but when I do it is still always a big value add. I legitimately do not think I'd read as much as I do if I didn't have this kind of case, and certainly not while eating.

[@kvan8046]

Yass keen for this

[@Wildflower1013]

lol tbh I do actually use the case stand on my kobo. usually when I want to have my hands free for something else like eating! The other pro of color is the ability add colored annotations. Some readers love annotating their books so that would be really convenient for them.

[@thequietegg]

Thank you for the very informative video! As someone who like to download books via wired connections, I think that would be an important thing to consider for many people. My next question would be how you feel nooks compare to the others!

[@juliagaylard4186]

So excited ❤

[@mahmoudoraby7222]

your content is legit evolving, great job love the skits

[@amandafalson8821]

Thanks for this video! It was really helpful! I’m leaning towards Kobo, I think because I’m in Australia and the library access is very appealing to me! 🙏🏾

[@JJsims5504]

Absolutely team kobo for not supporting amazon, library access, and the ease of uploading files onto it (great for reading textbooks I acquired through totally 100% legal means). Will say, though, they don't seem to be as robust as kindles. I have a kindle at home somewhere thats probably at least ten years old and still going strong, while my first kobo just randomly stopped working after two years. Both were the cheapest versions.

[@elise85391]

I just got my Kindle for Christmas in 2022 so I'm not in the market to upgrade yet. And, my mom, who also has a kindle, and is probably not looking for a new device, pays for KU, and I use her KU in addition to my library card through Libby. Which, may take more steps to set up, but once you've got it set up it's not that difficult to get your library books on your kindle. So for right now a switch doesn't make sense. But I see where the Kobo has it's appeal. And of course, not being from Amazon. But maybe in the future depending on their answer to KU, and getting access to more books through that subscription.

[@kindredspirit617]

This was amazingly helpful, thanks! This basically told me and what I already know, which is that I have no idea which one would be better for me! I prefer owning the books I enjoy (because I'm a chronic re-reader!), but when I'm bored or craving something new I prefer to check out my library first. I also listen to audiobooks a lot, so being able to sync between that and a book would be amazing! I definitely need to think about this more, but I might get a Kobo, and then if I can't get all the books I need on it, also a Kindle. Buying two devices would be really annoying though! 😡

[@kazirasostudio9660]

Thank you!

[@halloranelder]

As someone is Australia with lots of ebooks in various formats, I will be going with a Kobo. Thank you very much for this, it has been very helpful.

[@msdebruin.]

I have a kobo libra from 2020. Its great! I dont use it very intensive but will always accompany me while taking a nice bath. 🛀🏻 That folding cover is a MUST. Even when holding it I fold it to have more grip. 👌🏻

[@binglamb2176]

I have a year old Libra 2 and it is great but the colour version is tempting. My 6 year old Aura HD is still working fine but I upgraded for a larger screen and more memory. It is more user friendly in my opinion than a Kindle. I do have a Kindle basic but I rarely use it. And, as you mentioned, it works seamlessly with Libby in Canada.

[@JoeAuerbach]

I have a boox Palma. Love it. It's about the size of my phone, but it's a Paperwhite. It COULD run apps in a pinch, but it doesn't do it well, which is a perk for me. Reads like a book, carries like a phone, keeps me off social media.

[@graziellecarvalho4642]

I'm still thinking on getting a Boox Palma. It's just the perfect size and all

[@folaobitayo2678]

I know this commebr is late, but im new to the novel genre. I've mostly ready manga, manhwa, webnovels. You have been a great guide into this art form, thank you. I want to give a few must reads that you might bo have mentioned. 1. Usogui- manga 2. The beginning after the end- novel, but has an incomplete manhwa adaptation. 3. The climber- manga 4. Tower of god- manhwa, the art at the begining is nothing tk write home about but from season 2 it picks up. 5. Shadow slave - novel 6. Reverend insanity- novel 7. ORV- omniscient readers viewpoint- novel 8. Re zero- novel

[@paulrinder9040]

Thank you very much Daniel. I was not aware of the Kobo and found this very informative! I have been wanting to get into ereaders but am wary of Amazon as well

[@momojiji_radar]

ty been looking for this review esp with the color x manga coverage

[@RYDERBENABOUD]

I'm definitely getting a Kobo e-reader in the future. I like the color options.

[@worstbuddyreaderEddi3]

I fully plan on upgrading from my first gen Kobo Libra to a colour, mostly because well colour. Hopefully one of the local tech stores will have one on show. (They have had most of the kobo range on show for a while) Because I would like to see it in person, check the feel and the screen. (Thought you do a good job of showing how the colours look in this video!)

[@shardsofice]

Thanks. Have been using a 7nth gen Kindle for like a decade so was thinking of upgrading.

[@phantomofthelpac]

According to the photos on their website, the stylus for the Kobo Libra Colour apparently goes on the left edge, opposite the buttons. The magnets you showed it attaching to are probably for the cases which is why they don't line up right. It's odd to me (even as a lefty) that the stylus is on the left. In the right handed dominated world, it goes against the norm.

[@SpikeSpiegel29]

Thank you so very much for this video. This made my decision so much more easy. I am into manga and comics and I have one or two stores for DRM free books that are using some of those supported formats from Kobo. To be fair it will not be the Kobo but slightly different version of the Kobo device which does come with some upsides mainly that it does seem to have it's own version of whispersync or at least thats what the preorder page says. And as much as I think Kindle is a great piece of hardware it is very restrictive and coming from europe thats even more the case. I think you did do a wonderful job at working out the usecases for both ereaders. Subscription well earned.

[@crazyexplorer]

Great video! Have you tried any PDFs on them? With regards to how they handle the layout and pages and such?

[@yeastov5470]

This video has been really helpful. I've been thinking about e-readers for a while but I have a special distain for Amazon, especially after they closed Book Depository. I've also had issues with digital media in the past being randomly locked behind a subscription even though I purchased it years before. Annoyingly the biggest thing holding me back from getting a Kobo is the fact that Amazon locks up their e-books and can't be transferred, I don't have many e-books because I mainly use them to plug gaps in series that are out of print or difficult to get, but I just bought a few e-books on the kindle store to read on my phone, and learning that I won't be able to transfer them to a Kobo if I buy one is very annoying.

[@BlackBerryFromMars]

There's a very niche little thing that I like about the Kobo, specifically the Libra, that I think is such a pleasant feature for me as a reader who likes to read in bed, before falling asleep, sideways... and that is that I can turn the Kobo upside down and the buttons switch... so whatever button is down keeps being the one who turns the page forward. It is such a tiny little detail that makes a world of a difference for me

[@bennydreamly]

Kobo is more of an open ecosystem. You aren’t restricted to the Amazon ecosystem.

[@bennydreamly]

They actually run Linux!

[@Marco_Onyxheart]

​@@bennydreamly Kindle actually also runs Linux. I hacked mine when I had one. Later switched to Onyx Boox though which runs Android.

[@mrc-rrn]

i'm using a kindle and i'm not restricted to amazons ecosystem (kindle software is also based on linux)

[@jeffersonkamdon9857]

Oh no! I just bought a Kobo the day before this was uploaded 😢 but I’m still quite happy to see you cover this topic :D

[@etienneouellet4724]

Don't worry, you made the right choice ;)

[@thisisjeff9845]

I have an old Kobo that I got back when the company was still owned by Indigo. I don't use it much anymore because it's no longer supported.

[@CrystalShyFox]

Sincerely appreciate your honest thoughts and your drive to be as unbiased as possible (while still taking a firm stand on what you’re going to do) 😊

[@MrNagano00]

I installed Koreader on the Kobo because I didn't like the default reader. It's an amazing e-book reader which is compatible with other devices as well (like Android). Extensible and easy to use, I can sync progress and manage my library without ever having to plug into the pc. With the Kindle (unless it's a really old model) this sort of freedom just isn't an option.

[@abhijeet1in]

Saw the video and went looking for a Kobo and I see that it is now available in India officially through a couple of online retailers (ironically one of them being amazon). I would look to replace my kindle with a kobo. I do wish we got some idea of how long the software support is going to be.

[@kay_hush]

I have a Libra 2, Kindle Paperwhite, Fire 7 and 8, and Pocketbook Era. Libra 2 is still my favourite overall reading experience (hand feel, screen size and dimensions, clarity of font, etc.), and especially with library integration (I'm in Canada). I use my Kindle frequently though, as I'm a sucker for Kindle Unlimited. Love the Pocketbook Era for its excellent Text-to-Speech and integration across ereader, mobile app, and browser. That being said, I'm looking forward to grabbing the Libra Colour on release day because obviously I'm running low on ebook devices and need another one desperately.

[@Kim_Miller]

I bought a Kindle when they were first released here in Australia, about 2010 I think. My wife was so impressed we bought a second one for her. They were the keyboard model with the tiny round keys. Last year I updated to a new reader but checked out other brands, including Kobo. I ended up with a Boox Leaf2 instead. I mostly side load ebooks but the Boox readers run on Android and the Kindle app works fine on them. Kindle, Kobo and Nook seem to be the only options in a lot of review and comparo sites, but other brands are out there.

[@PabWho]

Great video. Just into the bone. Question: how long does the pen battery lasts? I've bought a Kindle Scribe a year ago, and my experience was not so good. As you mention, the whole system is pretty closed. I live outside US and that is a huge. In the other hand, the pencil and writing experience is superb. I assume that it's because of Wacom technology. Now that color ebooks are appearing, I'm considerig going with Kobo Colour. Plus I like to underline while reading, and Kobo allows this. And that is really bad in kindle :(.

[@TheMe9595]

I was really excited when I saw the color kobo. I've wanted to get into reading comics and manga more, want easy sideloading than my old kindle, and want better library integration, and it sounds like the kobo is perfect for me.

[@campidor]

In Germany we have the Tolino, which these days is just a rebatched Kobo it seems. They have the new colour one on preorder now.

[@shinumi85]

I own a Boox Nova3 colour e-ink tablet, it was Boox's second colour device in 2021 and I still love it, yes, the newer devices look better, I still love it, I'm struggling with the fact that Everand is glitching, still love it. Even if Kindle was a much better device, I would choose Kobo

[@ojpowermake]

Maybe my Kindle is just old, but my biggest issue is images appearing small and not being able to zoom. A good example is the sketchbook pages and maps in The Way Of Kings. They appear on Kindle as small images instead of full pages (like in real books). Even when changing settings it still appears small and not full screen.

[@kilendil]

Can you review the eink color Boox ereader? Onyx Boox Note 3 color? Or the mini? Both are a ton more expensive than a Kobo, and I can't tell if it's because it can download apps, or if it's actually superior. I want to take notes but also have color and be able to use a Kindle app and a Kobo app etc would be fantastic.

[@ellens.bookishcollection]

I have a kindle paperwhite, and I love it. But I'm in Canada, and I would love to be able to use my kindle for both audio books and library books. So I think I might grab the Kobo Clara Colour and see if I want to continue with Kindle. Love the review!

[@MonicaTRodriguez]

Could you review the new Nook coming out in May? I believe it's also adding color but keeping the eInk for regular B&W text - I think? I'm considering it to replace my ancient tablet. Would love to see it compared to either of these.

[@cassandrathomas6015]

I have a kindle oasis which has the clicky buttons like the kobo, and also has a lovely aluminium body which makes it very sturdy and premium feeling. I have a case that stands it up just like the kobo colour, and I use it to read whilst I'm eating dinner at the table.

[@michaelbodell7740]

I don't use a strict e-reader but instead really enjoy the Kindle Fire HD 10 (and FIRE HDX 8.9 before that) and do my reading on that. High res color screen, general android tablet device able to do web and other things, and I enjoy the cover/stand for reading while eating which is where I do more than half my reading. I think the fire tablets are worth considering if you are interested in color and/or a combined tablet and reader. The HDX 8.9 lasted me 4.5 years and I'm 5 years into the HD 10 so pretty decent lifespan for electronic devices too.

[@ania96157]

I have an old Kindle from 2016 and that has no problem loading different files on it. I didn't have internet accsess on my Kindle and bought all of my books from other places and just loaded then up. Not sure if the side load issue is just with the newer models, but great video.

[@davidw2744]

On sideloading Kindle does have an advantage... if you use send to kindle it is an easy drag to drop and then sync... BUT then it is in your cloud and you can sync your progress between your phone and your kindle. You can't do that on Kobo.

[@ChrisBalcom]

What is the tiny one you set down right at the beginning of the video and then never mentioned?

[@biankatoth1786]

I'm from Hungary, living in Austria. We have Kindle here but I use a Tolino which is a German brand if I'm not mistaken. It's my second one, after the first one died after 6 years. I'm not sure that it knows as much as a Kindle but if you only use it for reading and taking notes then it's fine and I'm sure it's much cheaper than a Kindle.

[@frannook]

The *second* I saw the kobo libra colour... it was a no brainer for me. Never pre-ordered/purchased something so fast in my life.

[@davidwilcock2416]

Great video. I've had a kindle for years, but watching this I've concluded I'd probably prefer a kobo. However, I have a massive tbr sitting in my kindle library - of books I've picked up when on offer. How easy is it to move my library from kindle to kobo? Is it going to take hours converting formats and break my brain?

[@chaddaifouche536]

Depends a lot on the size of your library. The superior solution to manage your ebook collection is Calibre. It does it all : - tags, series, summary, covers, it handle all kinds of sorting and filtering, can go download them from configurable sources ; - converting between formats, one at a time or by large batches ; - importing from whatever file or folder (I recommend configuring the auto-import folder and just dropping the file into this folder) ; - transferring to your ereader (Kobo is well supported) ; - stripping the DRM so that it can do the conversion (it can manage the DRM ebooks but you won't be able to read them anywhere but your kindle) if that's legal in your country, with the appropriate plugin : look for DeDRM and the easiest way is to possess an eink kindle (you do) and use its serial number. If you have thousands of ebooks in your library, it won't be fun but it can be done with enough patience.

[@bollywoodgirl21]

Since I'm allready deeply embeded in the Amazon eco System with kindle and audible I just stay there and wait for there comic book/manga option. Right now I read those on my tablet anyways for Resolution reasons

[@geektesse]

Look, I love my kindle and I didn't even know Kobo before this review. I just had this video on in the background while doing something else, but know I want a Kobo...first of: Manga in an eReader, how cool is that? And second, the library access sold it to me. Thanks for your review!

[@aaronlandry3947]

I do have to disagree with the fold-over cover. I prop my phone up to read books while eating quite a lot. This way I can enjoy the content of the book while keeping my hands free to do something that my eyes don't need to be used for. So I would find the fold-over covers very useful in how I consume my book content.

[@playlistenthusiast]

When I got a Kobo (Clara HD) the deciding factor was easy side loading. The battery life isn't supposed to be a problem but I do have issues with it shutting off at 40 percent. The issue is not a problem with every Kobo but might be less common with Kindles. From what I hear, Amazon has better quality control with batteries, but my Kobo still lasts long enough to read through 2 books despite that. Although I rarely use my Kindle account I do have unread Kindle books from giveaways and freebies that can't be read on Kobo so that's slightly inconvenient.

[@BananaGeekLord]

I currently plan on switching once my Kindle dies. Especially now that I'm seeing that one you showed for comics and manga. But my big deciding factor is things like not wanting to support Amazon, using different formats, etc. I got a Kindle early on. I think I might have jumped in with the 2nd edition of them. I've been loving them ever since. I do the vast majority of my reading on it. So as long as I have an eReader, I'm fine. And since I can still just go online and buy the book I want, I don't see it really changing for me. I also don't use Kindle Unlimited. I've considered it a few times, but generally I don't mind just spending the money for a book here or there. I also don't have as much time to read between things like having an elderly dog that requires a lot of attention and work, so I don't feel like I would be able to fully utilize it. But just the idea of being able to load up my comics on it and it being a good screen for that is and of itself is a good sale. It's actually kind of tempting to switch now, but I also feel like I would then be ditching a perfectly fine Kindle that still has probably a few years left in it. But once I do feel like it's time to upgrade, I'm gonna go over to the Kobo. Or a Nook. Either way.

[@Rika24]

I struggled with deciding on a new Kobo since my current one is pretty old (I have the Aura One with the 7.8in screen). I saw people saying the color had bad contrast compared to the Libra 2 and the text wasn’t as sharp, so I ended up getting the Libra 2 (especially since it looks like Kobo is discontinuing it now, so once they sell out they aren’t restocking). Now I’m wondering if it’ll regret it though. I guess I’ll wait and see if they release a Kobo Sage Color eventually.

[@GarryTheThird]

Im Kindle Paperwhite for books, and Ipad Pro for Comics/Manga. The screen is so nice on the Ipad. And the access to Viz, Marvel Unlimited, and DC Infinite are just too good to pass up. Even an Ipad Mini would be good for Manga fans.

[@TheCrazyCanuck420]

The only reason I'm holding onto my kindle is so that I can download my kindle books and strip the DRM out of them 😂

[@ThexImperfectionist]

What is that?

[@TheCrazyCanuck420]

@@ThexImperfectionist Most kindle and audible books are encrypted which means you are locked to their hardware which can decrypt it. I strip that encryption (DRM) so that I can view the content I paid for on whatever device I want (e-readers, Linux, Windows, etc..) It means I own the thing I bought (imagine that 😀) so that if Amazon ever went under, or if they pull the title from my library due to licensing then I still have the book/audible files backed up locally. If you have heard of other digital copies of movies, TV shows, and video games becoming inaccessible to the customer, that is the reason why I strip the DRM out. The reason why I keep my Kindle device is because Amazon allows you to download DRM encrypted ebooks (which I strip the DRM out of). The reason they allow it is because the file is encrypted with you Kindle e-reader key which ties it to your device and is not useable anywhere else. I think audible allows downloads for all users since they are not really tied to the hardware. For the ebooks I use an e-reader application called Calibre (with a script), and for audible audio books I use a website that figures out the decryption key then you feed it into FFmpeg (i.e. Google it to learn how).

[@themandoLAUREN]

How does one do that 👀 😅

[@NateNakao]

Great review! I've been using Kobo for several years now, after starting with the Barnes & Noble Nook and then using a Kindle for a short time. I had the original Kobo Libra H2O, and then upgraded to the Sage for the larger screen, but it has honestly felt like a downgrade in a lot of ways. The Libra was so much more comfortable to hold and could last at least a couple weeks longer on a charge than the Sage can. Still, it's a nice device, but I'll probably sell it once the Libra Colour arrives.

[@mattwatrud2617]

I’ve still been using Nook from BN for 15 yrs. It works with Libby and is also in color. They had a “paper white” screen even before kindle and still have new models that I think will rival kindle.

[@bogread3r]

I’m in Canada and have been using my Kobo for a couple years now with Libby. I’ve got about 400 hours of reading now on my Kobo without having to spend a single penny on ebooks 😁 definitely saves me a lot of money