Kobo Libra Colour vs Kobo Clara BW/Colour vs PocketBook Era Color mainly for manga?
Hi everyone,
I’m trying to choose my first e-reader mainly for reading manga (I already bought xteink 4 and I love e-ink), and I’m currently comparing these models:
- Kobo Libra Colour
- Kobo Clara BW
- Kobo Clara Colour
- PocketBook Era Color
My main use case would be manga (since xteink is a bit too small), with some regular book reading on the side. I’m looking for something portable and comfortable enough to use on a stand/support, almost like how I would use a phone or small tablet while reading hands-free.
One thing I’m unsure about is whether any of these devices work well with magnetic stands or MagSafe-like accessories. I assume they don’t have built-in MagSafe, but I’d be open to using a magnetic sticker/ring, case, or stand if that works safely and doesn’t affect the device.
My main priorities are:
- Comfortable manga reading
- Good screen quality and contrast
- Portability
- Physical comfort when using it on a stand
- Good support for manga files such as CBZ/CBR
- Long-term reliability and software experience
The dilemma is that I have a €90 voucher for El Corte Inglés, and they sell the PocketBook Era Color (they only sell pocketbook). That means the PocketBook would effectively cost me much less out of pocket than usual. However, I’m not sure if the screen quality, software, and overall experience are better or worse than going with a Kobo.
From what I understand, the Kobo Clara BW should have the sharpest/cleanest black-and-white screen because it uses Carta 1300, while the colour models use Kaleido 3, which may look slightly darker or grainier due to the colour layer. But for manga, I’m wondering if the larger 7-inch screen of the Kobo Libra Colour or PocketBook Era Color matters more than the cleaner 6-inch BW screen.
For people who have used these devices, especially for manga:
- Is 6 inches too small for manga?
- Is the PocketBook Era Color screen noticeably worse/better than the Kobo Libra Colour?
- Is the Kobo Clara BW better enough in contrast to compensate for the smaller screen and lack of colour?
- How good is the PocketBook Era Color for CBZ/CBR manga?
- Would you choose the PocketBook Era Color if you had a €90 discount, or would you still go for a Kobo?
- Has anyone used any of these with a magnetic stand, adhesive ring, or hands-free reading setup?
Right now I’m leaning toward the PocketBook Era Color because of the discount and the 7-inch screen, but I’m worried about whether the Kobo experience is more polished.
Thanks!