What I Use Instead of My Kindle | Kobo Clara Colour Review
Eileen's Behind The Scenes
Expert Pick #07
Kobo Clara Colour.
A 6-inch Kaleido 3 display brings color to affordable e-reading. Lighter and more pocketable than the Libra Colour, with Kobo's open ecosystem and no ads.
The Verdict.
9.1/ 10
Gavler Meta-Score
“The Clara Colour is proof that you don't need to spend $230 to get a high-quality color e-reader. At $160, it undercuts the Kindle Paperwhite while adding color capability and open ecosystem support. The 6-inch display is smaller, which is a feature, not a bug — it's lighter, more pocketable, and requires less hand strain. For budget-conscious readers who want color and don't need the absolute best screen real estate, this is the value leader in color e-reading. Pair it with a library card (free Libby access) and you have a complete reading solution for under $200.”
The Gavler Verdict
Where to Buy.
Prices checked regularly
Best price$160
90-day price history
Price History
Steady at $160 for the entire 90-day tracking window — no increases, no discounts, across 84 tracked days.
Tracked daily across retailers. Vote Want itabove and we’ll alert you the moment the price drops.
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Precision Engineering
6-inch Kaleido 3 Color Display
Same color technology as the 7-inch Libra Colour in a smaller, lighter package. Perfect for readers who prefer portability over screen real estate.
Open Ecosystem
Sideload DRM-free ePubs, use Libby/OverDrive for library books, install multiple reading apps. No vendor lock-in, no ads.
Lightweight & Pocketable
Smaller size means lower weight and better one-handed reading comfort during extended sessions.
Technical Specifications
Screen Size6 inches
Display TechnologyE Ink Kaleido 3
Storage16 GB
WaterproofingIPX8
ChargingUSB-C
The Scoreboard
Expert Consensus88%
Community Rating89%
Community loves the value proposition and open ecosystem. Experts note the screen size is smaller but adequate for the price point. Library integration via Libby is highlighted as major advantage.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think Kobo Clara Colour deserves the #7 spot in Best E-Readers?
Global Critique
“Best value in color e-readers. $160 for this quality is a steal.”
TechRadar
“The 6-inch size is perfect for commuting. Lighter than the Libra, easier to hold for long reading sessions.”
The Verge
“Kobo's open approach combined with library integration makes this a no-brainer for library card holders.”
Engadget
Watch
Reviews from YouTube
Hand-picked from creators we trust — playable inline.
Kindle Colorsoft Review! Get Kobo Clara Colour Instead?
Tom’s Guide
Kindle Paperwhite vs. Kobo Clara Colour: Which One Is Better? | Mashable
Mashable
ONE MONTH LATER: is the Kobo Clara Colour worth it?
Izzy Nobre
Kobo Makes COLOR eReaders | Kobo Clara Colour Full Review
Good e-Reader
Kobo Clara Colour REVIEW: The E-Reader for Most
Faiz Aly
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