Nowadays, technology devices appear to be devoid of buttons. Our smartphones and tablets depend on touchscreens, and even e-readers have shifted away from button usage. This is why I find the Kobo Libra Colour appealing. It is one of the rare e-readers featuring page-turning buttons since the discontinuation of the Kindle Oasis. Kobo appreciates buttons, so it’s no wonder that they are the pioneers in launching a page-turning remote for e-readers.
Page-turning remotes have become the essential accessory for e-readers. They prove particularly beneficial during the chilly season when you wish to keep your hands cozy under a blanket while engrossed in a book. On December 2, Kobo introduced its own remote, crafted specifically for its e-readers.
As an enthusiast of the page turner I utilize with my Kindle, I was eager to experience Kobo’s new remote. And guess what? Amazon ought to pay attention and start working on a Kindle remote without delay.
The ultimate remote page turner — Kindles should be wary
The most favored remote page turners for e-readers generally consist of two components: one that attaches to the e-reader and the actual remote for page navigation. Kobo has streamlined this process by offering a standalone remote that pairs via Bluetooth with Kobo e-readers. Unlike the majority of remotes that feature just one button, the Kobo Remote provides two buttons: one for advancing pages and another for reversing.
Kobo has refined the remote’s design. Having both forward and backward buttons is tremendously practical. Other remotes equipped with a single button necessitate tapping the screen to go back if you inadvertently move forward. With the Kobo remote, you can manage both without leaving the warmth of your blanket.
The remote retains its connection across sessions. In contrast to other e-reader remotes that necessitate reconnection each time, the Kobo remote remains connected, much like a television remote.
In conclusion, Kobo has successfully launched its e-reader remote.
Expertly crafted for a comfortable grip and no screen disruption
Apart from the buttons, the Kobo Remote is slightly under four inches in length and possesses a gentle curve for a comfortable fit in your hand. It’s easy to grip for extended durations. I positioned my Kobo Libra Colour on my bedside table and utilized the remote for hours of reading without any discomfort.
Since the device connects via Bluetooth, there’s no requirement for a separate clip to navigate pages, eliminating the screen disruption that is typical with other page turners.
It won’t be compatible with Kindles
The majority of page-turning remotes work with any e-reader or tablet, as they are frequently produced by third-party manufacturers. However, the Kobo Remote, being the first designed by an e-reader manufacturer, does not function with Kindles. I tried to pair it with my Kindle’s Bluetooth, but it failed to find the device. Until Amazon creates its own Kindle remote, users will have to depend on third-party alternatives.
Is it worth purchasing the Kobo Remote?
If you own a Kobo e-reader, the Kobo Remote is a valuable investment. It connects effortlessly to the device and is the best-designed remote available. Its curved design prevents hand fatigue during lengthy reading sessions, and the two buttons make page navigation simple.
The Kobo Remote is priced at $29.99. While page-turning remotes typically range from $15 to $35, making it on the higher side, its outstanding design and performance justify the cost. It’s the best-constructed page-turning remote I’ve evaluated, and at $29.99, it’s a great bargain.
Amazon should proceed with caution as Kobo has mastered the page-turning remote. Even though we typically favor Kindles over Kobo e-readers, this new remote provides Kobo with a competitive edge.