Kobo Clara BW - Best Non-Amazon E-Reader
Kobo Clara BW offers a premium reading experience with waterproofing and library access outside Amazon's ecosystem at an affordable price.
- +Latest E Ink Carta 1300 display technology
- +IPX8 waterproof rating at budget price
- +Direct library borrowing via OverDrive
- -Smaller 6-inch screen than premium models
- -No color display option
- -Limited accessory ecosystem
The Kobo Clara BW provides an excellent alternative to Amazon's ecosystem with its 6-inch E Ink Carta 1300 display featuring 300ppi resolution and adjustable color temperature lighting. Its IPX8 waterproof rating matches more expensive models, making it suitable for poolside or bath reading. The device stands out with native OverDrive support for direct library book borrowing without requiring a separate app. Storage is fixed at 16GB, sufficient for thousands of books, while the lightweight plastic body remains durable. Battery life lasts approximately 53 days per charge.
The interface is intuitive with access to Kobo's bookstore and supports EPUB files without conversion. While lacking the physical buttons of premium Kobo models, the touchscreen is responsive and customizable. The display offers excellent contrast and clarity, though some may prefer the larger screens available on more expensive devices. For readers wanting to avoid Amazon's ecosystem while maintaining access to libraries and a quality reading experience, the Clara BW delivers strong value with its combination of current-generation display technology and waterproofing at a mid-range price point.