Kobo recently released a new lineup of e-readers: color versions of the acclaimed Libra 2 and Clara, along with an updated monochrome version of the Clara. After thoroughly testing these devices, I found that, for the majority of users, there is little incentive to upgrade. However, there is one notable exception.
The Allure of Color: Clara Colour and Libra Colour
The Promise and Reality of Color E-Paper
The introduction of color e-paper screens has been long-anticipated, with many eagerly awaiting vibrant displays suitable for reading comics, children’s books, and browsing websites. Kobo’s Clara Colour and Libra Colour utilize E Ink’s latest Kaleido 3 display, which represents a significant advancement from the technology available a decade ago. Yet, despite these improvements, the color reproduction remains subpar.
The colors are better than they ever were but still lack the vibrancy needed to make the reading experience enjoyable. For instance, while reading comics, the text appears too small on a 6-inch device, necessitating awkward zooming and panning. Furthermore, the colors often appear washed out, diminishing the overall visual appeal.
The Libra Colour: Slightly Better, Yet Still Lacking
The Libra Colour, a 7-inch e-reader, does offer marginally better readability due to its larger screen. However, the fundamental issues with the color display remain. Although the screen can display a variety of colors, the hues are desaturated, making them less appealing than on a traditional LCD screen.
Moreover, the addition of the color layer impacts the quality of black-and-white content. When comparing the Clara Colour to the monochrome versions, there is a noticeable reduction in contrast and overall brightness. This degradation is not subtle—it’s evident even without close scrutiny, making the color versions less attractive for those who primarily read text-heavy books.
The Monochrome Marvel: Clara BW
The New Default Recommendation
Despite the shortcomings of the color e-readers, the updated monochrome Clara BW stands out as a solid choice. Priced at $130, it is $10 cheaper than its predecessor, the Clara 2E, while offering modest improvements. The Clara BW features the Carta 1300 series screen, which provides slightly better contrast and faster page-turning speeds compared to the 2E.
During testing, the Clara BW showed a noticeable speed improvement when quickly flipping through pages, although this difference is less apparent during regular reading. The clarity and contrast of the screen are comparable to the Clara 2E, with a slight edge in favor of the newer model.
Practical and Reliable
The Clara BW also addresses some reliability issues observed in the 2E, such as frequent crashes when connected to a computer. This stability, combined with its affordability, makes the Clara BW the most practical e-reader for the majority of users. It supports sideloading of fonts and documents, includes a built-in library app, and offers ample room for customization.
Should You Upgrade?
If you already own a Clara 2E or even a Clara HD, upgrading to the Clara BW might not be necessary. The type quality has not significantly improved over the past few years, so the differences may not justify the cost for current owners. However, for new buyers or those looking for a reliable and affordable e-reader, the Clara BW is an excellent choice.
Accessories: Enhancing Your E-Reading Experience
The Value of a Good Cover
One accessory that I highly recommend is Kobo’s faux-leather “sleep cover.” This cover not only protects your device from scratches and scuffs but also doubles as a convenient stand. Available in various colors, the Cayenne Red variant is particularly useful for ensuring you never misplace it. Although it adds an additional $30 to your purchase, the protection and convenience it offers make it a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
A Call for Patience with Color E-Paper
While the advent of color e-paper is a significant milestone, it’s clear that the technology still has a way to go before it can match the vibrancy and usability of other display types. For now, the color e-readers from Kobo offer little advantage and come with notable drawbacks, such as reduced contrast and dimmer screens.
The Practical Choice: Clara BW
For those seeking a reliable and affordable e-reader, the Clara BW stands out as the best option in Kobo’s current lineup. It provides minor improvements over the Clara 2E, addresses previous reliability issues, and remains a practical choice for most readers. Existing Clara 2E or HD owners may not find enough justification to upgrade, but for new buyers, the Clara BW is a compelling option.
In conclusion, while Kobo’s new e-readers represent an evolution in e-paper technology, most users can skip the color versions in favor of the more dependable Clara BW. As technology continues to advance, we can hope for more significant improvements in the future, but for now, the Clara BW offers the best balance of functionality and affordability.