I am a sucker. The ads got me, and I preordered a Kobo Libra Colour just a couple of weeks before they were released. I hesitated, knowing that a color screen Kindle should be released next year, but I’ve been stuck on Kindles for the last decade and wanted to try something different. I’ve only had it a few days, but I can already pinpoint some things I do and don’t like about it.
First Impression
The Kobo Libra Colour is so pretty. I mean, the annotation with color highlights and being able to write on the pages (something you apparently cannot do with the Kindle Scribe) is next-level, I love the white option (which hasn’t been available on newer Kindles), and the notebooks are so neat. I love the eraser tip of the stylus, which I also purchased. The Libra Colour is lightweight and easy to hold. It feels fast with the exception of the store, which runs a little slower.
Cost
The Libra Colour is $219.99, a stylus is $69.99, and a clear case is $24.99. A Kobo Plus subscription is $7.99 per month for reading or listening, and $9.99 per month to read and listen, with over 1.5 million ebooks and over 150k audiobooks and a free 30 day trial.
Libra Colour vs. Paperwhite
The Libra Colour feels lighter and easier to hold than my Paperwhite, which is heavy and awkward enough to necessitate a popsocket. My Paperwhite has an option to wirelessly charge, while the Libra Colour charges only with a USB-C charger. The Libra Colour claims to last up to 40 days with 30 minutes of reading, while the Kindle Paperwhite Signature claims 10 weeks of battery life (which is not accurate in my experience). Kindle Unlimited costs $11.99 per month and includes some audiobooks, running more than Kobo’s subscription. A Kindle Paperwhite Signature costs less at $189.99 with no color screen, no stylus options, and the option to purchase a wireless charger for $32.99.
Overall
I am somewhat attached to Kindle Unlimited, but I will be reaching for the Kobo often for graphic novels, note taking, and annotating some of my favorite books. I think Kobo is a good option for those who are feeling tired of the ‘zon and want something that feels different.
