Introduction to the Kobo Clara BW
The Kobo Clara BW is a mid-sized e-reader that comes in two distinct flavors, one of which is the monochrome-screened sibling of the colorful Kobo Clara Colour. After spending time with both devices, it’s clear that the Clara BW is an excellent e-reader, but its existence is questionable due to its similarities to the Clara Colour.
Kobo Clara BW Specs
The Kobo Clara BW has the following specs:
- Size: 112 x 160 x 9.2mm
- Weight: 174 grams
- Display: 6-inch, 300ppi (black and white)
- Storage: 16GB
- Battery life: Up to 53 days
- Charging: USB-C
- Durability: IPX8
- Colors: Black
The Kobo Clara BW as an Excellent E-reader
The Kobo Clara BW is a well-crafted device with a sturdy black plastic build. Although it may look a bit boring, its portability and weeks-long battery life make it a great option for reading on the go. The 6-inch display is clear and crisp, with a 300 pixels per inch (ppi) resolution that makes reading a pleasure. The night mode and blue light filtering features also make it easy to read before bed. The audiobook experience is basic but works well for casual listeners.
Comparison to the Kobo Clara Colour
The Clara BW has a large shadow cast over it by the Clara Colour. The two devices are identical in terms of size, software, and look and feel. The only differences are the display tech, with the Clara BW having a longer estimated battery time, and the processor, with the Clara Colour having a more powerful dual 2.0 GHz processor. The Clara Colour also has a color display, which may be a major factor in choosing between the two devices.
The Issue of Price
The main issue with the Clara BW is its price. With a gap of only $20 between the Clara BW and the Clara Colour, it’s hard to see why anyone would choose the Clara BW. The Clara Colour offers a more powerful processor and a color display, making it a better option for most people. The only reason to choose the Clara BW would be to save $20, which may not be enough to justify the weaker processor and black and white display.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kobo Clara BW is an excellent e-reader, but its similarities to the Clara Colour and the small price gap between the two devices make it hard to recommend. Unless the price of the Clara BW is lowered to around $100, it’s difficult to see why anyone would choose it over the Clara Colour. The Clara BW is a victim of the Clara Colour’s success, and its existence is questionable due to the similarities between the two devices. Ultimately, the Kobo Clara Colour is the better option, offering a more powerful processor and a color display for only $20 more.
