Kobo has released a new accessory for its e-readers: a remote control. Yes, you read that right – the Kobo Remote lets you control your e-reader from a distance! Here’s a full review to help you decide whether this accessory is worth it.
TL;DR: the Kobo Remote is a very practical and affordable accessory that makes reading while lying down incredibly comfortable.
Note: Kobo sent me the Kobo Remote so I could write a full review for you.
If you’d like to pick up a Kobo Remote, you can check it out on Amazon.com or Kobo.
Buy a Kobo Remote
Kobo Remote on Amazon.com (click here)
Tutorial (video)
What Does the Kobo Remote Do?
The Kobo Remote lets you turn the pages of your book without touching your e-reader. It’s exclusively compatible with Kobo e-readers and uses your device’s Bluetooth connection.
This means it only works with certain recent models, including: Kobo Clara 2E, Kobo Clara BW, Kobo Clara Colour, Kobo Libra 2, Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Sage, Kobo Elipsa, and Kobo Elipsa 2E.
If your e-reader isn’t on that list, it doesn’t have Bluetooth and the remote won’t work with it.
It comes in a small recycled cardboard box and is also made from recycled plastic. It’s very lightweight, and inside the box you’ll find a small wrist strap and a manual explaining how to pair the remote with your e-reader.
It’s available in two colors: black and white.
How Do You Pair the Kobo Remote With Your E-Reader?
The first thing to do is update your e-reader. Simply enable Wi-Fi on your Kobo and connect it to your network.
You can then go to: Settings > Device Information > Check for Updates. Your e-reader will let you know if a software update is available.
Once that’s done, enable Bluetooth on your Kobo.
To pair the remote, just press the button on the top edge of the remote. You’ll see a small blue light blink, and after a few seconds the remote will be connected to your e-reader.
How Do You Use the Remote?
It’s very straightforward: there’s one large button for the next page and a smaller button to go back to the previous page.
If you haven’t used your e-reader for a few hours (or days), the remote automatically reconnects when you press either button.
And that’s it! It really is that simple.
It runs on a single replaceable battery that should last several months, depending on how much you read. One small gripe: the battery cover is quite hard to remove – I had to use a small knife to pry it open.
Why Did Kobo Create This Remote?
To understand why Kobo decided to make this remote and why they think it’s such a great accessory, you have to go back a few years.
On the Reddit community for Kobo users, someone discovered it was possible to use a Bluetooth game controller with a Kobo e-reader to turn pages without moving – just hold the controller in one hand.
Little by little, more and more people adopted this trick and found it really appealing. For example, it allows you to prop up your e-reader on a stand and turn pages from a distance.
Another compelling use case is for people with limited mobility or a disability that makes using their hands difficult. Combining a stand with the remote gives them easier access to reading – something impossible with a physical book, by the way.
How I Use the Remote
For me, the use case was immediately obvious: reading in bed.
I love reading under the covers, and I use a small stand to hold my e-reader upright. With this accessory, I no longer have to tap the screen (or press a button) to turn pages.
And it really makes a difference – reading comfort is significantly improved, and it’s a genuine pleasure to read in this setup. (I show this in more detail in the video at the top of the article.)
The Kobo Remote is also very lightweight, has excellent battery life (several months), and feels great to hold. And if you’re worried about dropping it, the included wrist strap has you covered.
Conclusion: Yes, It’s Actually Useful!
This accessory is available in black or white for around $35 to $45 (depending on where you find it) and comes with a battery included.
I’d call it essential if you love reading while lying down and don’t want to keep lifting your arm to tap the screen.
For readers with a disability, the Kobo Remote also opens up new possibilities – it could give back real independence to people who love reading but struggled to do so before. (As long as they can hold the remote and press a button.)
And if you’re looking for a small gift for someone who already owns a compatible Kobo, this accessory won’t break the bank and will likely be very appreciated.
Kobo has created something both original and genuinely useful – and right now, there’s nothing quite like it from any other e-reader brand.
The Kobo Remote runs on a single AAA battery (included) and is available in black or white, priced between $35 and $45 on Amazon.com and Kobo.
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