Kobo Sage & Libra 2 Review: Better Displays, Design Trade-offs

Kobo's New E-Readers: A Detailed Look

The newest e-readers from Kobo introduce a subtle yet appreciable enhancement to the display, alongside stylus functionality and Bluetooth connectivity for audiobook enjoyment. However, a slight reduction in build quality is observed when compared to the highly regarded Forma model.

Successors to Popular Models

These devices succeed the Forma and Libra H2O, with the Forma having served as a daily reading companion for many, including this reviewer, until an unfortunate screen incident. The primary distinction between the two new readers lies in their size, while the majority of other features remain consistent.

Priced at $260 and $180 respectively, the Sage and Libra 2 represent a considerable investment. Nevertheless, the Libra 2, in particular, warrants consideration for those who frequently use e-readers and appreciate features like audiobooks and Pocket integration.

Enhanced Display Technology

A prominent upgrade is the implementation of the latest Carta 1200 E Ink display. Both readers boast a resolution of 300 ppi, ensuring text clarity. A direct comparison between the older Forma and the Sage reveals a noticeable improvement in contrast, with the Forma’s text appearing somewhat grey in contrast to the Sage’s deeper blacks.

Both devices deliver an excellent visual experience, but the new screen technology undeniably represents a step forward.

Performance and Responsiveness

The operational experience mirrors that of previous Kobo devices, though upgraded internal components contribute to faster wake-up times, navigation, and screen reorientation.

Page turns remain swift, comparable to older models, even when skipping multiple pages. However, loading larger sections of a book proved slightly faster on the older Forma. Overall performance is satisfactory, though users shouldn't anticipate the fluidity of a tablet.

Image Credits: Kobo

Audiobook Integration

Audiobook support is a novel addition to Kobo’s offerings, facilitated by Bluetooth connectivity – as the devices lack built-in speakers. Pairing was seamless, and playback of a sample audiobook from Kobo’s store (currently, sideloading is not supported) functioned as expected.

Playback speed adjustment, forward/backward skipping, and automatic bookmarking upon disconnection or shutdown are all included. Audio quality was acceptable, with minor glitches occasionally occurring during accelerated playback.

Stylus Functionality

While the practicality of stylus use on a device of this size may seem limited, it could prove beneficial for editors or individuals who prefer to annotate their books directly. The functionality, as experienced on the Elipsa, is basic but effective.

Currently, the system offers limited markup options. The addition of a symbol or notation-based system for note-taking, similar to Sony’s star system, would be a welcome enhancement. The stylus itself functions correctly, but its lack of dedicated storage increases the risk of misplacement.

Image Credits: Kobo

Build Quality Considerations

Both devices exhibit increased thickness compared to their predecessors, likely to accommodate the new hardware and stylus detection layer. This change is not considered an improvement, and the devices feel less premium than the Forma and, to a lesser extent, the Libra H2O.

The body construction feels more akin to molded plastic than a carefully sculpted design, partly due to the elimination of the distinct angles and wedges that characterized the Forma’s aesthetic. The new readers are also heavier than their predecessors, which were not particularly lightweight to begin with.

Button Feedback

Kobo’s history with button design has been inconsistent, and these new models are no exception. The page turn buttons, particularly on the Sage, feel soft and lack tactile feedback. The recessed power button, while an improvement over the Forma’s problematic side button, remains less than ideal.

The smaller Libra 2 offers a slightly improved button experience, with clickier, though not overly pronounced, feedback.

Image Credits: Kobo

Concluding Thoughts

While the changes are not entirely unfavorable, a return to the premium feel of previous Kobo models is desirable in future generations. This iteration represents a noticeable step back in terms of build quality, despite the advancements in display and functionality.

The SleepCover: A Deciding Factor

Image Credits: Devin Coldewey / TechCrunch

Both devices benefit from the $40 SleepCover or PowerCover accessory. These folio covers, with a leather-like feel, attach firmly and function similarly to other covers available, waking the reader upon opening and initiating sleep mode when closed.

A unique origami-inspired folding mechanism allows these covers to prop the device up at an angle for convenient viewing.

I generally prefer using my e-readers without cases, and initially, I wasn’t impressed with these covers—particularly on the larger Sage model.

The Sage, already substantial in size, becomes even bulkier with the case attached.

The folding feature felt somewhat unstable, and it inadvertently obscured the power button, which was a minor but noticeable annoyance.

However, the Sage did feel somewhat vulnerable and aesthetically incomplete without the cover’s protection.

On the more compact Libra 2, I found the cover to be a significant improvement.

It elevated the device’s somewhat plastic feel, giving it a more premium quality.

The red color option is also visually appealing, and the power button remains easily accessible.

The fold-out stand is exceptionally useful for both tabletop use and providing a more secure grip, mimicking the feel of holding a paperback with the cover folded back.

Furthermore, the recessed screen is shielded from dirt and smudges.

While I still favor the Boox’s streamlined and compact design, the Libra 2 quickly became my second choice, especially when portability isn’t a primary concern.

The “PowerCovers” offer extended battery life, but given the devices already boast weeks of usage, adding extra weight and size for a marginal gain seems unnecessary.

Ultimately, I suggest bypassing the Sage and the PowerCovers.

If a larger screen is desired, consider the Elipsa or reMarkable.

For those seeking a Kobo device with audiobook support, the Libra 2 paired with a SleepCover is an excellent choice.

If audiobooks aren’t a requirement, the Forma remains a viable option.

All devices and accessories are currently available for purchase.