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Kobo Aura vs Nook GlowLight
Last updated: July 10, 2023
The Kobo Aura and Nook GlowLight are two eReader devices that offer distinct features and experiences for book enthusiasts.
In terms of display, both the Kobo Aura and Nook GlowLight feature a 6-inch E Ink display, providing a comfortable reading experience with high contrast and reduced eye strain. However, there are notable differences in the technologies used. The Kobo Aura often utilizes E Ink Carta technology, offering sharper text and clearer graphics. It may also have adjustable front lighting, allowing users to customize the brightness for reading in different lighting conditions. On the other hand, the Nook GlowLight typically uses GlowLight technology, which provides an evenly distributed front light for comfortable reading at any time.
When it comes to software and ecosystem, the Kobo Aura is closely integrated with the Kobo ecosystem. It provides access to the Kobo eBookstore, personalized recommendations, and features like Pocket integration for saving articles and web content. The Kobo Aura supports various eBook formats, including EPUB and PDF, making it compatible with a wide range of content sources. It also offers features like customizable fonts, highlighting, and note-taking. The Nook GlowLight, on the other hand, is closely tied to Barnes & Noble's ecosystem. It provides access to the Nook eBookstore and offers features like B&N Readouts for browsing book excerpts and recommendations. The GlowLight supports various eBook formats, including EPUB and PDF, and offers features like adjustable fonts, highlighting, and note-taking.
In terms of design, the Kobo Aura has a sleek and compact design with a slim profile, making it easy to hold for extended reading sessions. It often features a touchscreen interface for easy navigation. The Nook GlowLight also has a compact and lightweight design, optimized for comfortable one-handed use. It typically features physical page-turn buttons as well as a touchscreen interface.
In terms of display, both the Kobo Aura and Nook GlowLight feature a 6-inch E Ink display, providing a comfortable reading experience with high contrast and reduced eye strain. However, there are notable differences in the technologies used. The Kobo Aura often utilizes E Ink Carta technology, offering sharper text and clearer graphics. It may also have adjustable front lighting, allowing users to customize the brightness for reading in different lighting conditions. On the other hand, the Nook GlowLight typically uses GlowLight technology, which provides an evenly distributed front light for comfortable reading at any time.
When it comes to software and ecosystem, the Kobo Aura is closely integrated with the Kobo ecosystem. It provides access to the Kobo eBookstore, personalized recommendations, and features like Pocket integration for saving articles and web content. The Kobo Aura supports various eBook formats, including EPUB and PDF, making it compatible with a wide range of content sources. It also offers features like customizable fonts, highlighting, and note-taking. The Nook GlowLight, on the other hand, is closely tied to Barnes & Noble's ecosystem. It provides access to the Nook eBookstore and offers features like B&N Readouts for browsing book excerpts and recommendations. The GlowLight supports various eBook formats, including EPUB and PDF, and offers features like adjustable fonts, highlighting, and note-taking.
In terms of design, the Kobo Aura has a sleek and compact design with a slim profile, making it easy to hold for extended reading sessions. It often features a touchscreen interface for easy navigation. The Nook GlowLight also has a compact and lightweight design, optimized for comfortable one-handed use. It typically features physical page-turn buttons as well as a touchscreen interface.
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Kobo Aura's beautiful 6" ClarityScreen and a high res, edge-to-edge low-glare Pearl E Ink screen provides a print on paper reading experience, even in direct sunlight. The latest E Ink screen technology allows you to transition between pages without those annoying flashes. With pinch to zoom, you'll catch every detail when zooming in to PDFs and select books. Or change font sizes with a simple pinch.
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NOOK's GlowLight illuminates your screen with a soft light that is perfect for bedtime reading. With advanced lighting technology not available on any other reader, GlowLight lets you stay up late reading in total comfort - while your partner stays asleep in the dark.
Kobo Aura vs Nook GlowLight in our news:
2023. Nook firmware update adds useful FAQ and custom book sorting
Barnes and Noble has recently rolled out a firmware update, version 8.13.160, for their Nook e-reader, offering several notable enhancements. One of the key additions is a new FAQ system within the support section of the settings screen, providing a convenient solution for addressing common queries and concerns without the need for a computer or visiting the Nook website. Moreover, the update introduces a revamped system for custom sorting of shelves, enabling users to easily reposition shelves or books within a shelf based on their preferred order. This can be done directly on the e-reader by selecting the custom option from the sorted by menu. Additionally, content and shelves now come equipped with arrow keys, enhancing the overall layout flexibility. Furthermore, users can now conveniently sort and view all their notes and annotations made in ebooks directly from the search bar, eliminating the need to manually locate them by opening the respective book.
2022. Kobo is now displaying advertisements on their e-readers
Kobo has introduced a new feature on their e-readers where advertisements are displayed upon waking the device from sleep mode. Users now encounter a full-page advertisement encouraging them to subscribe to Kobo Plus, and it also highlights the availability of a free 30-day trial. Notably, this ad appears regardless of whether the device's Wi-Fi is turned on or off, as the image is sourced from the device itself rather than the internet. This marks the first instance of Kobo displaying ads on their ebook readers, contradicting their previous marketing campaigns that emphasized their devices being ad-free compared to Kindle.
2021. Nook Glowlight 4 gets smaller and lighter design
Barnes and Noble has introduced the Nook Glowlight 4, their latest e-reader model, now available for ordering on the B&N website. This 6-inch Nook boasts 32GB of storage, features USB-C connectivity, and showcases a revamped, compact design (although specific weight reduction details are not provided). Retaining the page buttons on both sides of the screen, albeit positioned closer to the edges, the device incorporates a frontlight with adjustable color temperature, aptly named Night Mode by B&N. The Nook Glowlight 4 exhibits a 300 ppi E Ink screen, with the presumption that it employs a newer E Ink screen with improved contrast and darker blacks. Equipped with a quad-core 1.5GHz CPU, the e-reader operates on software based on Android 8.1. All these features come at a price of $149.99.
2021. Kobo e-readers get new My Words feature
Kobo has recently introduced firmware update 4.26 for their range of Kobo ereaders, bringing several notable enhancements. One of the key additions is the My Words option, accessible through the Beta Features list, which functions similarly to the vocabulary builder feature found in Kindle devices. This feature enables users to conveniently review and revisit words they have looked up in the dictionary. Additionally, the update includes a "Back to page x" button specifically designed for epubs, enhancing navigation within books. Furthermore, annotation sync has been improved, allowing for better synchronization of annotations across devices. Users can now edit text within the note preview window by tapping the text field, and landscape mode PDF viewing has been enhanced for a more seamless experience.
2020. Kobo introduces $99 e-reader Nia to replace Aura
Rakuten has introduced a new, entry-level e-book reader that stands up favorably to the most affordable Amazon Kindle in various significant aspects. The Kobo Nia features a 6-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1024x758 pixels and 212 ppi. It incorporates Kobo's ComfortLight technology, allowing users to adjust the display's brightness according to their preference. With a sleek design weighing in at 172 grams and measuring 9.2mm in thickness, the Nia offers a visually appealing form factor. Inside, it is powered by a 1,000mAh battery, providing "weeks" of reading on a single charge, and offers 8GB of storage capacity. In comparison, Amazon's cheapest Kindle, which inevitably draws comparisons to the Nia, starts at $89.99 but includes Amazon's "Special Offers" ads. Without the ads, the price increases to $109.99. The Kindle also features a 6-inch display but with a lower resolution of 165 ppi and only half the storage capacity of the Nia. These factors make the Nia an enticing choice for budget-conscious e-reader shoppers who prefer not to be locked into Amazon's ecosystem.
2018. Barnes and Noble unveiled charging dock and keyboard for Nook 10.1
Barnes and Noble has recently launched the new Nook Tablet 10.1, and they have now introduced two accompanying accessories. The Charging Dock is designed to provide continuous power while you enjoy audiobooks or movies, and it is available for purchase at $34.95. By using the promo code STACKED, customers can avail of a limited 20% discount. The Smart Folio Cover with Keyboard features a magnetic clip that effortlessly attaches to your tablet, eliminating the need for pairing. This accessory enables you to conveniently take notes or work on your literary masterpiece. Priced at $39.95, it also qualifies for the 20% discount when using the same promo code as the charging dock. The Nook Tablet 10.1 operates on Google Android 8.1, granting users the ability to install their favorite apps from the Google Play store.
2018. Nook e-Readers stop working without security update
Barnes and Noble has issued a notice stating that without installing a mandatory security update, Nook e-readers will cease to function after June 29th. This means users will be unable to make purchases, download, or manage their NOOK Content directly from their NOOK Device. The security update is part of Barnes and Noble's comprehensive upgrade to enhance the security system across all their websites and servers, ensuring the protection of customer information and processing of payment data. The affected e-reader models include the Nook Simple Touch with Glowlight, Nook Color, Nook Tablet, Nook HD, Nook HD+, and Nook Glowlight.
2018. Kobo e-Ink readers get rapid Page-Turning
Kobo has recently launched a firmware update for their entire range of e-readers, aiming to enhance the speed of page-turning through the implementation of a new rendering engine. With this new system, users can experience faster page transitions by simply tapping their finger rapidly on the screen or using gestures. Holding a finger down on the screen also enables page-turning. However, it's important to note that during rapid page-turning, the text may become unreadable until the user releases their finger from the screen, allowing for full rendering. This rapid page-turning engine specifically works with KEPUB ebooks, which are books purchased directly from Kobo. It does not support CBR/CBZ or classic EPUB formats, and it is incompatible with sideloaded EPUB books.
2017. Barnes and Noble released Nook Glowlight 3
Barnes and Noble has recently unveiled their latest e-reader, the Nook Glowlight 3, marking their first release in two years. This device introduces several innovative features, including page turn buttons that allow users to skip ahead a chapter with a double tap or rapidly flip through the pages of an e-book by holding the button down. It also incorporates a comfortlight system, a first for Nook e-readers, which reduces the brightness of the white screen and gives it a soothing orange hue. Powered by Google Android, the Nook Glowlight 3 boasts an advanced front-lit display system. Notably, the device is equipped with physical buttons, with two page turn buttons on both the left and right sides. The main Nook Reading app showcases excellent design, ensuring speedy page turning, while the ability to copy/paste text into the note app adds a touch of innovation.
2017. Kobo makes managing ebooks simpler
Kobo has recently released a firmware update for its e-readers, introducing several noteworthy features. One of the key additions is the "Manage Books" feature, accessible under the "My Books" section. This new feature allows users to select multiple books simultaneously, enabling actions such as marking them as finished or unread, removing them, or adding them to collections. The "My Books" section itself has undergone a visual enhancement, offering a cleaner layout of information, along with the inclusion of convenient Filter and Sort menus. The reading experience has also been enhanced with this update. Now, by tapping the middle of the page, users can easily access reading menus, navigate to the Table of Contents, or adjust Reading Settings. Additionally, the screen will now refresh after each chapter, as opposed to every six pages, providing a smoother reading experience.
2016. New 7.8-inch Aura One e-reader - the Cadillac of e-readers
In an effort to challenge Amazon's dominance, Kobo has unveiled the Aura One, targeting a niche market. With its impressive 7.8-inch display, the Aura One surpasses the Aura HD and carries a matching price tag of $230. Despite being relatively expensive for a dedicated e-reader, especially considering the Kindle Voyage's lower starting price, Kobo's past successes in pushing boundaries indicate potential for the Aura One. While acknowledging that this device may not appeal to everyone, it caters precisely to those willing to invest over $200 for the ultimate e-reader experience. Kobo once again showcases its innovative mindset, offering features such as a spacious screen, blue-light shifting, an attractive design, and ample storage. Although the Aura One may not be cost-effective for most readers, it is sure to captivate a devoted audience seeking an exceptional reading device.
2015. Barnes & Noble created waterproof Nook
After more than a year since discontinuing the Nook and Nook HD+, Barnes & Noble has finally given its flagship e-reader a much-needed update with the introduction of the GlowLight Plus - the company's first waterproof e-reader. Along with its waterproof feature, the Nook GlowLight Plus introduces user profiles, catering to couples or reading partners who enjoy sharing their reading experiences. Priced at $130, the new version offers a 300ppi display, doubling the pixel density of its predecessor, and boasts a sleek aluminum body that is both slimmer and slightly heavier than the GlowLight. The addition of waterproof capabilities means Nook enthusiasts can now enjoy their favorite e-books even while indulging in a relaxing soak in the tub. The Nook GlowLight Plus is now available for purchase.
2014. Kobo unveiled waterproof Aura H2O Reader
Kobo has unveiled the Kobo Aura H2O, a new waterproof device priced at $179, set to be released on October 1. This addition to Kobo's product lineup targets the premium segment of the market, offering a purpose-built e-reader tailored for avid readers. The Kobo Aura H2O serves as a versatile, all-terrain e-reader, catering to users who desire to bring their devices to unconventional locations such as the bathtub or the beach. With a sleeker and lighter design compared to the Kobo Aura HD, the Kobo Aura H2O features an upgraded high-definition display and a dustproof, air-tight construction that can withstand submersion in water for up to thirty minutes.
2013. Barnes & Noble releases new ultra-light Nook GlowLight
Barnes & Noble has unveiled a completely redesigned version of the Nook GlowLight e-reader, an updated iteration of the Nook SimpleTouch with GlowLight. Priced at $119, it is $10 more expensive than its predecessor. Notably, this matches the cost of the Kindle Paperwhite with ads, whereas the GlowLight does not include ads. The Nook GlowLight offers twice the storage capacity of the older model, increasing from 2 GB to 4 GB, accommodating over 2,000 ebooks. This storage capacity also doubles that of the Kindle Paperwhite. However, it is worth mentioning that the GlowLight lacks the microSD slot present in the previous model, preventing further expansion of the device's storage. Similar to the Paperwhite, Barnes & Noble's new e-reader showcases an updated 6-inch E-Ink display with 62% more pixels, enhancing text clarity and contrast compared to the previous Nook Simple Touch with GlowLight. Additionally, Barnes & Noble has improved the LED-based light source of the e-reader, ensuring more uniform light coverage across the page. While Amazon positions the light source just below the bottom edge of the screen, the GlowLight's light sources are clearly visible from just above the top edge. Overall, the GlowLight screen boasts impressive visual quality, with comparable contrast and lighting to that of the Paperwhite. E-Ink e-readers undeniably hold their place in the tablet market, and although Barnes & Noble and Amazon do not disclose specific e-reader sales figures, it is evident that both companies remain dedicated to the category, and customers continue to make purchases.
2013. B&N drops Nook GlowLight price to $99. Undercuts Amazon and Kobo
Barnes & Noble has just made an exciting announcement, reducing the price of the GlowLight to a mere $99. This price cut positions the Nook Simple Touch with GlowLight as the most affordable option among premium e-readers. In comparison, the ad-supported Kindle Paperwhite is priced at $119, while the Kobo Glo costs $129.99. The Nook Simple Touch GlowLight, powered by a front-lit screen known as GlowLight, emits a pleasant glow that differs from traditional backlighting. This feature is gentler on the eyes, although it does decrease the battery life by half. Nevertheless, the battery still lasts an impressive 2 months. The reduced price suggests that Barnes & Noble may be aiming to sell off existing inventory in preparation for the release of a new model. It's worth noting that Barnes & Noble recently announced its decision to discontinue in-house development of tablets while continuing to manufacture e-readers.