Digital reading has evolved impressively in recent years, and today eReaders are one of the most popular and practical ways to consume books in electronic format. Within this universe, two brands stand out above all others: Amazon's Kindle and Rakuten's KoboIn 2024, both brands have launched models that improve their previous versions, giving users new options to choose the best reading experience.
In this article, we're going to take a closer look at the key differences between the Kindle and Kobo devices. Whether you're in the market for a new eReader or just curious about which brand offers the best features, we'll break down the most important aspects, from screen quality to format compatibility, to key aspects like comfort, weight, and the unique features of each of these devices.
Screen and visual experience
The screen is clearly one of the deciding factors when choosing an e-reader. Both Kindle and Kobo devices use e-ink technologies that simulate reading on paper, and while both brands have implemented recent improvements, there are differences that may influence your decision.
Let's start with the Kindle Basic 2022, which has taken a big step forward by moving from a resolution of 167 dpi in previous versions to a 300 dpi displayThis means that text on the screen looks much sharper and more defined, allowing for a more comfortable reading experience without straining your eyes. However, one weak point of the basic Kindle is that it does not have light temperature adjustments, something that is found in higher-end models.
In the case of Kobo, its most recent models, such as the Kobo Libra Color and Kobo Clear 2E, stand out for offering a warm light setting thanks to ComfortLight Pro technology. This is particularly useful for those who read at night, as the screen temperature can be adjusted to reduce eye strain. Additionally, Kobo tends to offer larger screens on some of its models, which can be ideal for those who prefer more visual space.
Design, ergonomics and weight
When it comes to reading for long periods of time, the design and comfort of eReaders are important aspects. In this regard, Kindle and Kobo They also have slightly different approaches that are worth considering.
El Basic Kindle 2022 has improved its design, being more compact and lighter than before. This device weighs around 174 grams, making it a truly portable option. On the other hand, Kobo Libra 2 weighs a little more, approximately 215 grams, but it makes up for it with its asymmetrical design that makes it easy to use with one hand and the possibility of rotating the device to adapt to the reading posture.
A notable feature of the Kobo Libra Colour is that it includes physical buttons to turn the page, something that many readers appreciate for the extra convenience it offers. In comparison, the most recent Kindles rely on full touch screens, which also has its advantages in terms of clean design, but some users still prefer the physical buttons offered by Kobo.
Storage and format compatibility
A key aspect when choosing an eReader is the storage capacity and compatibility with different types of files. Here, both Kobo , the Kindle They have their strengths and weaknesses.
El Basic Kindle 2022 arrives with a capacity of 16 GB, which is more than enough to store thousands of books. However, it should be noted that, although you can upload personal documents, Kindle is more closely tied to the Amazon ecosystem, and does not natively support the format ePub, which is one of the most widely used formats on other reading platforms. Although Amazon offers the option to email documents to your Kindle, these documents are automatically converted to Amazon's own format, which can sometimes lead to minor inconsistencies.
On the other hand, the devices of Kobo are much more flexible in terms of format compatibility. The Kobo series is compatible with PDF, ePub, MOBI and other popular formats without the need for conversions. In addition, in the most recent models, such as the Kobo Clear 2E, is offered 32 GB storage, twice that of the basic Kindle, making it an ideal choice if you prefer to have an extensive digital library or if you consume a lot of illustrated books or comics, which take up more space.
Water resistance
Reading by the pool or while taking a nice relaxing dip can be a very pleasurable experience, but it can also be dangerous if your device isn't water-resistant. Fortunately, both Kindle and Kobo offer waterproof models, albeit with a few key differences.
The Kobo Libra 2 has certification IPX8, which means it can be submerged in water up to 2 meters for 60 minutes without damage. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for greater peace of mind when reading on the beach or by the pool.
In the case of Kindle, the most advanced models, such as the Kindle Oasis, they also feature water resistance with the same IPX8 certification, ensuring that the device remains safe even in occasional immersion situations.
Additional features and eco-friendly options
Aside from being simple reading devices, both Kindle and Kobo have begun to introduce additional features that enhance the user experience. For example, Kindle has integrated features such as sending documents to the cloud and the ability to sync notes and highlights between devices. This is ideal for those who use different reading platforms, as you can pick up exactly where you left off from your smartphone or tablet.
For its part, Kobo continues to bet on sustainability with its devices manufactured with recycled plastics. The model Kobo Libra Color It stands out particularly in this regard, as it is made from 85% recycled plastics, thus contributing to the reduction of plastic waste.
Prices and value for money
Another important difference between these devices is the prices. Today, the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition It is presented on the market for a price of 299,99 Euros, Whereas the Kobo Libra Color can be found for around 229 Euros. The cheaper version from Kobo with color screen, the Kobo Clara Color, is located around 159 Euros, offering a more affordable option for those looking to explore new color displays without spending a lot of money.
It is important to consider that, although the Kindle is still more expensive, its battery has a much greater autonomy, with up to 56 days for use with a single charge in the case of Kindle Colorsoft. In turn, the models of Kobo, although a little cheaper, offer features such as physical buttons and a more open interface, which may be more appealing to some users.
Both Kindle and Kobo have released solid options for 2024, each with their own unique features that cater to different types of readers. While Kindle devices stand out for their integration with the Amazon ecosystem and the simplicity of their design, Kobo remains a strong contender with its flexibility of form factors, sustainability options, and attention to ergonomic details.