Engadget highlights Kobo and Boox as viable alternatives to Amazon’s Kindle ecosystem
A new buyer’s guide from Engadget recommends devices from Kobo, Boox, and reMarkable for users seeking to exit the Amazon ecosystem, noting that Kobo’s Clara Colour now ranks above all available Kindle models in the outlet’s testing.
Engadget has published a comprehensive buyer’s guide recommending alternative e-readers for consumers wishing to move away from Amazon’s ecosystem. The article highlights devices from Kobo, Boox, and reMarkable, citing Amazon’s recent discontinuation of older Kindle models and changes to the Kindle Unlimited subscription service as key drivers for the shift. Specific recommendations include the Kobo Clara Colour and Libra Colour for colour displays and physical buttons, the Boox Palma 2 Pro and Go Color 7 for Android flexibility, and the reMarkable Paper Pro for note-taking.
The guide notes that Amazon’s recent decision to end support for several older Kindle models has effectively rendered those devices obsolete, contributing to consumer dissatisfaction. Additionally, changes to Kindle Unlimited have irked users, with the company now counting magazines towards the 20-title borrow limit and ending automatic delivery of new issues. These policy shifts, alongside concerns over ecosystem lock-in, have created a opening for competitors to capture market share.
Kobo emerges as a primary alternative, with Engadget ranking its Clara Colour device above every available Kindle in its best e-reader guide. The Clara Colour features a colour E Ink display, adjustable warm light, and a waterproof design. For users preferring physical navigation, the Kobo Libra Colour offers stylus support, an auto-rotating display, and page-turning buttons, distinguishing it from Amazon’s current range which lacks physical buttons on most models.
Boox offers a different approach with devices described as mobile e-paper rather than traditional e-readers. The Boox Palma 2 Pro runs on Android with access to the Google Play Store, allowing users to sideload various reading apps. The Boox Go Color 7 (2025 refresh) includes programmable buttons, temperature-controlled front light, and speakers for audiobooks, providing software flexibility that contrasts with Amazon’s walled garden.
Subscription comparisons form a critical part of the analysis. Kindle Unlimited caps users at 20 simultaneous borrows, whereas Kobo Plus offers unlimited borrows for a lower monthly cost. The guide also suggests Libby for library-based borrowing, noting that Kobo devices have built-in support for the app, making it easier to access public library content compared to Amazon’s platform. For users seeking a do-it-all solution, Engadget also mentions Apple’s entry-level iPad, though it notes the device uses an LCD display rather than E Ink.
