Kindle vs Kobo ¿Which E-reader is the Best?

In this article, Kindle Vs Kobo, we present the main differences between Amazon’s e-readers called Kindle by the US manufacturer and its main competition in the market, Kobo, manufactured by the Japanese company Rakuten. Both manufacturers clearly dominate the e-reader market with very versatile, powerful devices and a wide range of models to adapt to the needs of any customer. Both manufacturers have similar models ranging from the most basic to the most advanced devices. In this comparison we will focus on the two most similar models, which are also best-sellers of both manufacturers, Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Clara HD.

Following we review all the characteristics of each of them, their functionality and main differences, so you can choose the Kindle or Kobo device that best suits you. What will be the best e-Reader? Kindle vs. Kobo. Let’s start!

Kindle Paperwhite Vs. Kobo Clara HD

KINDLE VS KOBO – COMPARISON CHART

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Kindle Paperwhite

The middle model in the Amazon Kindle range is this Kindle Paperwhite. It has touch screen with integrated light, brighter than the previous model and especially with much better resolution, 300 dpi. The battery life is similar to the Kobo Clara HD, about 6 weeks with a reading of half an hour a day. It is waterproof with an IPX8 degree of protection, that means it can accidentally fall into the pool and we are going to be able to continue using it.

We can choose between 8 or 32 GB of capacity, more than enough to store all the books that we can read in many years. It has Wifi connectivity and optionally we can acquire it with a free 4G LTE mobile connection, without monthly fees. It is similar in size to the Kobo Clara HD, being quite comfortable to hold with one hand while we read. The most outstanding features offered by this Kindle device are free cloud storage for Amazon content, a wide range of compatible formats (even so it supports fewer formats than its rival Kobo Clara HD) and adjustment of the font format. The version with Wifi only weighs 182 grams and 191 grams with 4G connectivity, in both cases it is heavier than its Rakuten rival. In this case we can choose to buy it cheaper if we let it show us ads when it’s blocked, the ads are related to books that we can buy on Amazon.

Amazon also sells other Kindle devices, being this Kindle Paperwhite its intermediate model. Other Kindle devices for sale: Kindle, Kindle Oasis. Here you can see a comparison of all Kindle models.

It’s perfect: as our main reading device. It’s possible to purchase it at a discounted price with Amazon Essential Kit that comes with a leather case and fast charging charger.

Kobo Clara HD

We are facing the best-selling Rakuten model, an intermediate model within its range and with a price very similar to its Amazon rival, Kindle Paperwhite. Like its brothers, it also has a touch screen, has an integrated light to read in the dark and its battery lasts for several weeks using it for half an hour a day and with an intermediate brightness. The screen resolution is 300 dpi, the same as the Kindle Paperwhite. In this case, it does not offer water resistance and this can also be seen on its design with an edge around the screen instead of a completely flat front like its rival.

It has a capacity of 8 GB and Wifi connectivity. Thanks to its size it is also possible to hold it with one hand comfortably. Regarding its functionality, its compatibility in terms of electronic book formats stands out, greater than the Kindle. It is available in black only and is lighter than its rival, weighing 168 grams. Unlike the Kindle Paperwhite, it does not show ads in its basic version.

Rakuten also sells other Kobo devices, placing this Kobo Clara HD model in the lower-middle part of its range. Other Kobo devices for sale: Kobo Nia, Kobo Lira H2O, Kobo Aura ONE, Kobo Forma.

It is perfect: to have a very good quality E-Reader at a good price. We will have no problem reading almost any e-book format.

¿Which is the best: Kindle Paperwhite Vs Kobo Clara HD?

After analyzing each of these two devices we see that both will undoubtedly be a very good buy. The Kindle stands out for its quality of materials, its resistance to water and its design, while the Kobo offers excellent compatibility for any e-book format. Both offer good value for money although we think that in this regard the Amazon device wins.

In both cases, its battery life is very similar, around 6 weeks, and its size and weight are also similar, although the Kobo in this case is somewhat lighter. As for the storage capacity, both offer a good capacity of 8 GB although the Kindle can be purchased with 32GB for about $20 more.

In summary we believe that both devices are worthwhile as primary reading devices but if we have to decide on one we would say that the Kindle Paperwhite is the best e-Reader.

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