Kobo Clara vs Kobo Mini

Last updated: July 10, 2023
Kobo Clara and Kobo Mini are both eReader models from the Kobo brand, offering different features and functionalities to suit different reading preferences.

One key difference between Kobo Clara and Kobo Mini lies in their display size and resolution. Kobo Clara features a 6-inch E Ink Carta display, which provides a comfortable reading experience with sharp and crisp text. The larger screen size allows for more content to be displayed on each page, reducing the need for frequent page turns. On the other hand, Kobo Mini has a smaller 5-inch E Ink Pearl display, which makes it highly portable and convenient for on-the-go reading. While the smaller screen may require more frequent page turns and display slightly less content, the compact size of the Kobo Mini offers excellent portability for readers who prioritize convenience.

Another significant difference lies in their storage capacity. Kobo Clara typically comes with 8GB of internal storage, providing ample space for storing a large number of eBooks. This storage capacity allows readers to carry a substantial library with them, ensuring they have access to a wide range of books. Kobo Mini, on the other hand, typically offers 2GB of internal storage, which is still sufficient for storing hundreds of eBooks but has less storage capacity compared to the Kobo Clara. If having a larger eBook library readily accessible is a priority, the Kobo Clara may be the preferable choice.

Additionally, the design and form factor differ between Kobo Clara and Kobo Mini. Kobo Clara has a sleek and modern design with a thin and lightweight profile, making it comfortable to hold and carry around. It also features a front light for reading in various lighting conditions, reducing eye strain. Kobo Mini, on the other hand, is specifically designed to be compact and portable. It has a small and lightweight form factor, perfect for readers on the go. The compact size of the Kobo Mini makes it easy to slip into a pocket or small bag.
20
Kobo Clara
Kobo Clara always provides the best light for reading day or night with ComfortLight PRO. You can adjust brightness and color temperature to reduce blue light before bedtime. It has a natural, print-like reading experience on its 6" glare-free high-definition 300 PPI screen. Easily customizable features help you read the way you want to.
5
Kobo Mini
Kobo Mini is the world’s smallest and lightest full-featured eReader, so it’s great for reading on the go. Complete with a no-glare natural E Ink touchscreen and built-in Wi Fi, it’s the full Kobo experience at a great value. Access to 1 million free eBooks doesn’t hurt either
Kobo Clara vs Kobo Mini in our news:

2024. Kobo releases new firmware for Colour e-readers



Kobo has released a new software update for its three latest e-readers, the Clara Colour, Libra Colour, and the Clara BW, known for their superior performance and affordability. While details about the updates are scarce, Kobo has mentioned stability enhancements and bug fixes. However, this attention to the latest models underscores a prolonged period without updates for other Kobo e-readers. The update rollout begins today, promising availability to all users within a few days. Updating is straightforward - simply press the sync button. Alternatively, for those inclined, the latest firmware patches are accessible on our site. Select your model, download the file to your PC or MAC, connect your e-reader via USB-C cable, transfer the file to the root folder, and reboot your device to access the new features and enhancements.


2024. Kobo has introduced the Kobo Clara BW E-reader



Kobo is introducing the Kobo Clara BW, an enhanced black-and-white e-reader designed for an immersive reading experience. With its 6-inch glare-free E Ink Carta 1300 HD screen and full waterproof protection, reading becomes effortless. Powered by a MediaTek processor MT8113L, the device allows seamless access to Kobo's extensive library of audiobooks and ebooks. Enjoy your favorite titles via Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, compatible with earbuds, headphones, or external speakers. The USB-C port facilitates easy content transfer and charging. With a low-end 1,500 mAh battery, compact dimensions of 112 x 160 x 9.2 mm, and weighing just 174 g, it offers portability without compromise. Priced at $129.99 (USD), the Kobo Clara BW could be your perfect companion for endless reading adventures.


2022. Kobo's new waterproof Clara 2E e-reader takes on Kindle



Kobo is set to release the Kobo Clara 2E, a new waterproof e-reader that poses a strong competition to Amazon's Kindle e-readers. The device boasts an exterior crafted from over 85 percent recycled plastic, with 10 percent of it sourced from ocean-bound materials. Notable features of the Kobo Clara 2E include Bluetooth technology for audiobooks, water resistance for up to two meters for 60 minutes, increased storage capacity of 16GB for eBooks compared to previous Kobo models, a six-inch HD E Ink Carta 1200 screen that is glare-free and equipped with dark mode and blue light reduction, and an extended battery life lasting for weeks. Priced at $150, the Kobo Clara 2E falls in a mid-range bracket, being cheaper than the company's previous Forma model but more expensive than the Nia model. Additionally, Kobo's SleepCovers for the device are environmentally friendly, made from recycled polyester with an inner microfiber lining composed of 40 percent recycled plastic water bottles. The SleepCovers are available in various colors such as Black, Deep Ocean Blue, Coral Reef Orange, and Sea Glass Green.


2022. Kobo Clara HD 2 will be available soon



Kobo is set to launch the Kobo Clara 2, a second-generation e-reader, in the coming months. This new model is a successor to their highly popular 300 PPI e-book reader. It will feature a six-inch E INK Carta 1200 display panel, which will significantly improve page turn speed and overall performance. The Kobo Clara 2 will also have a 300 PPI screen, front-lit display, and a candlelight color temperature system. One particularly intriguing aspect of this model is that it will be the world's first e-reader to incorporate the innovative E Ink ComfortGaze technology. This advanced front light technology effectively reduces the amount of blue light emitted, resulting in a reduced Blue Light Ratio (BLR) and Blue Light Toxicity Factor (BLTF) by up to 60% and 24% respectively. The BLR represents the ratio of harmful blue light to the total blue light output, while the BLTF denotes the ratio of brightness to hazardous blue light.


2018. New Kobo Clara HD is an affordable Kindle competitor



Kobo, the Canadian ebook reader manufacturer, has finally unveiled its highly anticipated device, the Kobo Clara HD, after months of speculation. This new addition to their lineup marks their first budget-friendly model in almost three years, yet it boasts an impressive range of features. The Kobo Clara HD boasts a 6-inch Cara E Ink screen with a remarkable 300ppi resolution, ensuring sharp and clear text. With a generous 8GB of storage, users can store approximately 6,000 ebooks, providing ample space for their digital library. Additionally, the device offers exceptional battery life, lasting for several weeks unless extensively used. One standout feature of the Kobo Clara HD is ComfortLight Pro, which sets it apart from other Kobo ebook readers. Unlike traditional illumination methods for E Ink screens, ComfortLight Pro employs orange and red LEDs, reducing exposure to blue light. While this technology has been implemented in previous Kobo models, the Clara HD is the most affordable option currently available in the market.


2015. Kobo Mini e-Reader available again for a limited time



Kobo is reintroducing its compact 5-inch Kobo Mini e-reader at a price of $49, but this offer is only available until November 7. Unlike the original model released in 2012, which utilized the outdated e-ink Vizplex technology, this new version of the Mini incorporates e-Ink Pearl. With a resolution of 800x600 pixels and support for 16 levels of grayscale, this petite device easily fits into any pocket and is designed to be exceptionally lightweight and portable. While the screen size may appear small compared to larger tablets or e-readers, it proves ideal for those seeking extreme portability, making it a great gift option or backup device. The e-reader is equipped with built-in wireless internet access, enabling direct downloading of e-books from the Kobo bookstore.


2012. Kobo unveiles $80 Kobo Mini ereader



The new Kobo Mini, marketed under the slogan "Small is a Big Deal," is designed to cater to those seeking a compact device. It features an E Ink screen for optimal readability even in direct sunlight and comes equipped with 2 GB of internal storage (although some units may have shipped with 4 GB cards internally, which users can modify at their own risk to access the unpartitioned space, voiding any warranty). Notably, the device stands out with its SnapBacks, removable back covers available in Teal, Ruby Red, and Purple, showcasing the distinctive Kobo quilt pattern. The Kobo Mini is offered in black and white variants, and Kobo claims that its battery can last up to a month with 30 minutes of daily reading and Wi-Fi turned off. Charging the device and transferring documents can be done through the micro-USB connecting port. Positioned as a competitor to the basic Kindle and Nook Simple Touch, it boasts a similar price, screen resolution, and storage capacity, while offering the advantages of smaller dimensions and lighter weight.