If you save a lot of articles using Pocket, you can read them on Kobos. The Pocket integration was initially expected to go away in 2023, but Kobo has updated its system to ensure they still work, so this is no longer a concern. While you can’t annotate Pocket articles wherever you read them, you can import documents as PDFs to mark up on the Libra. As a writer, it’s enjoyable to revisit proofreading marks.
I also tried Kobo’s SleepCover ($40), which can be folded into a stand. Although I usually don’t use covers with e-readers due to their durability, I found this one too good to resist. It holds the device securely even when I’m jotting down notes.
In terms of the Right to Repair, using the Libra Colour for reading was mostly smooth, except for some “ghosting” in the notebooks, where faint traces of menus or erased text were visible. The issue usually resolved itself after a few seconds, but it was more pronounced compared to other e-readers I’ve tested recently. At $220, the Libra Colour is pricey, and adding the $70 stylus makes it even costlier for a color screen.
The Libra is waterproof and crafted from recycled plastics, with a battery life of around a month depending on your usage. I believe that the page-turn buttons included should be standard on all e-readers. Despite the high price, the good news is that the Kobo Libra Colour is repairable, offering long-term value. Kits for repairing the display, battery, motherboard, and covers are available through a partnership with iFixit. More details on repairs for the Clara Colour and original Clara e-readers will be released soon.
While Kobo e-readers may not have Amazon Kindle’s vast library, they are a great alternative if you’re looking to steer clear of Amazon. The new Libra Colour makes reading and writing in color a delightful experience.
