alt text: A child holding the Kobo Clara BW e-reader
The Kobo Clara offers two compelling options for those seeking a top-tier e-reader. We previously reviewed the Kobo Clara Colour and found it to be exceptional. But how does its monochrome counterpart, the Kobo Clara BW, measure up? Having tested both, we explore the key differences and ultimately address why the Clara BW’s existence is somewhat perplexing in light of the Clara Colour.
Design and Build: Familiar Territory
alt text: The Kobo Clara BW e-reader laid on its back, showcasing its design.
The Kobo Clara BW mirrors the Clara Colour’s design almost exactly. Constructed from sturdy black plastic, it feels reassuringly solid. The recessed power button is a thoughtful touch, and the USB-C port allows for convenient charging with existing phone chargers. Like its colorful sibling, the Clara BW is repairable with guides and parts available from iFixit. The impressive battery life, lasting weeks on a single charge, is another welcome feature. Its compact size enhances portability, making it more convenient than larger e-readers like the Kindle Paperwhite. While the design isn’t visually striking, its functionality shines.
Display and Performance: A Mixed Bag
The Clara BW boasts a crisp 6-inch, 300 ppi display, ensuring sharp text and comfortable reading. The night mode effectively filters blue light, promoting better sleep. Audiobook functionality is present but basic, suitable for casual listeners. Bluetooth connectivity allows for pairing with wireless headphones or speakers. However, the Clara BW’s 1.0 GHz processor pales in comparison to the Clara Colour’s dual 2.0 GHz processor.
The Clara Colour Looms Large
alt text: The Kobo Clara BW and Kobo Clara Colour e-readers side-by-side on a bookshelf.
The Clara BW’s main drawback is the Clara Colour itself. The two devices are practically indistinguishable, sharing identical dimensions, software, and overall feel. Aside from the color display and screensaver, differentiating them is a challenge. This similarity wouldn’t be an issue if the price difference was significant. However, at a mere $20 difference, the Clara Colour’s advantages become hard to ignore.
Price and Value: A Difficult Proposition
alt text: A close-up view of the Kobo Clara BW e-reader, highlighting its details.
The Clara Colour offers a color display and a significantly faster processor for only $20 more than the Clara BW. This small price gap makes the Clara BW a less compelling option. A larger price difference, perhaps $40 or more, would make the BW a more viable choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize battery life over color and processing power.
Final Verdict: Choose the Colour
alt text: The Kobo Clara BW e-reader placed behind the Kobo Clara Colour e-reader outdoors, leaning against a green shed.
The Kobo Clara BW is a good e-reader, but it’s overshadowed by the Clara Colour. The minimal price difference makes it difficult to recommend the BW. Unless you strongly dislike color displays or are extremely budget-constrained, the Kobo Clara Colour offers superior value with its enhanced features and performance.
