3 Affordable Alternatives to the Kindle Colorsoft E-Reader

kindle colorsoft

The Kindle Colorsoft e-reader is one of the latest releases with its color e-ink display. However, there’s a significant drawback: its price. With a launch price of $299, it’s quite expensive.

Here’s a selection of 3 e-readers that offer nearly the same features but are more budget-friendly.

Onyx Boox Go Color 7

onyx boox go color 7

For a few dozen dollars less than the Kindle Colorsoft, you can get the Onyx Boox Go Color 7, which also features the same 7-inch color e-ink screen based on Kaleido 3 technology.

A bonus is that this e-reader runs on an Android system, allowing you to install new reading and productivity applications. You can find a complete review of the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 (including a video) on this page.

See the e-reader Onyx Boox Go Color 7 on Amazon.com.

Kobo Libra Colour

kobo libra colour

The Kobo Libra Colour also boasts a 7-inch color screen (the same Kaleido 3 technology) as the Kindle Colorsoft.

Essentially, it’s a comparable model with similar features but priced at $70 less.

The standard price is set at $219, and you can sometimes find it for under $200 when there’s a discount.

Pocketbook Verse Pro Color

pocketbook verse pro color

The Pocketbook Verse Pro Color has a slightly smaller 6-inch color screen, but it allows you to purchase this e-reader for about $180 (again, excluding promotions), which is a significant saving compared to the Kindle…

Bonus: Pocketbook InkPad Color 3

pocketbook inkpad color 3

For just a bit more than the Colorsoft, you can get a much better deal with the large-format Pocketbook InkPad Color 3, featuring a 7.8-inch screen.

This e-reader costs $319 without discount, but you can often find discounts by checking this page and reading the instructions carefully.

Additionally, this e-reader offers a text-to-speech feature with a speaker (also useful for listening to audiobooks).

So, even though the InkPad Color 3 isn’t necessarily cheaper than the Colorsoft, I felt it was worth mentioning in case you missed it during your search.

What Are the Benefits of the E-Ink Screens on These E-Readers?

As you can see, these e-readers are relatively expensive compared to other devices. The reason is straightforward: they utilize color e-ink screens, which offer numerous advantages over other types of electronic displays:

  • Less Eye Strain: E-ink screens resemble paper, making them more comfortable for long reading sessions.
  • Read in Direct Sunlight: You can read on these screens even in bright sunlight without losing image quality.
  • Low Energy Consumption: These screens use very little power, allowing the battery to last longer (several weeks with 2 hours of daily reading).
  • Better Visual Comfort: These screens don’t emit blue light unless their backlight is used (which I recommend avoiding), reducing eye fatigue.
  • Extended Battery Life: Devices with these screens can operate for several weeks without needing a recharge.

If you’re in the market for an e-reader, don’t forget to check out the buying guide on the site.