Kobo Mini vs Kobo Nia

Last updated: July 10, 2023
Kobo Mini and Kobo Nia are two compact eReader models from the Kobo brand, offering different features and functionalities to cater to various reading needs.

One key difference between Kobo Mini and Kobo Nia lies in their display size and resolution. Kobo Mini features a 5-inch E Ink display, making it one of the smallest eReaders available. Its compact size makes it highly portable and convenient for on-the-go reading. However, the smaller screen may require more frequent page turns and could display slightly less content compared to larger eReaders. On the other hand, Kobo Nia features a 6-inch E Ink Carta display, offering a slightly larger reading area and more comfortable reading experience. The increased screen size of the Kobo Nia provides more room for text and reduces the need for frequent page turns.

Another significant difference lies in their storage capacity. Kobo Mini typically comes with 2GB of internal storage, which is sufficient for storing hundreds of eBooks. While it may have a smaller storage capacity compared to other eReaders, it still offers ample space for most readers' needs. Kobo Nia, on the other hand, typically comes with 8GB of internal storage, providing even more space for a larger eBook library. This additional storage capacity allows readers to carry an extensive collection of eBooks with them. If having a larger library readily accessible is a priority, the Kobo Nia may be a preferable choice.

Additionally, the availability and pricing may vary between Kobo Mini and Kobo Nia. Kobo Mini was initially released as a budget-friendly option, offering an affordable entry point into the eReader market. However, since it has been discontinued, it may be more challenging to find new units available for purchase. Kobo Nia, being a more recent model, may be more readily available from various retailers. Pricing can also differ based on region and promotions. Readers should consider their budget and availability when deciding between the two models.
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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
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Kobo Nia
Kobo Nia is a 6-inch reader with a 1024x758 pixel, 212 ppi resolution touchscreen. It's equipped with Kobo's ComfortLight tech, which lets you adjust the display's brightness as you see fit. The Nia is pretty sleek at 172 grams, with 9.2mm of thickness around the edges. Inside, there's a 1,000mAh battery, which offers "weeks" of reading on a single charge + 8GB of storage.
Kobo Mini vs Kobo Nia in our news:

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.


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.