65

Conclusion: Pass on it

The Kobo Mini is the smallest, lightest e-book reader on the market, but it also has a display that isn't quite as good as those on most other current readers, and Kobo's shopping experience remains a step behind Barnes & Noble's and Amazon's. TechRadar likes that the Mini is a "small, versatile, customisable and highly portable e-reader that can be held in one hand," but points out that its "slower processor, low-res screen and the need for a computer make this a relatively limited effort." And the Mini is more expensive than Amazon's basic Kindle, which, as PC Mag points out, "has significantly better contrast and faster page refreshes." B&N's cheapest touchscreen Nook is also currently available for less, and has, as PC says, " a larger touch screen with better contrast and a memory card slot."

Buy It:

$79.99
$92.26

90-Day Price History

now
high
$92
low
$59

Critic reviews

6.5
8 reviews
  • Display / readability
    5.8
  • Battery life
    7.6
  • Store and selection of titles
    7.2
  • Ease of use
    6.4
  • Document support
    7.7
  • Storage capacity
    6.4
  • Durability
  • Design and form factor
    7.6
  • Portability (size / weight)
    8.1

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User reviews

8.3
3 reviews
7.0
Engadget Nov 6, 2012

We doubt many people are looking for a second, more portable device to supplement their primary, 6-inch reader ... If, however, you're looking for a small, light device to stick in your pocket, the Kobo Mini is a perfectly fine (and inexpensive) option.

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7.0
CNET Jan 28, 2013

The affordable Kobo Mini is a likable touch-screen e-ink e-reader that's too small for some and not quite small enough for others.

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5.0
PC Mag Nov 20, 2012

With its 5-inch touch screen, the Kobo Mini caters to an underserved market: Those who want a tiny, dedicated ebook reader. Unfortunately, it also underperforms.

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7.0
TechHive Dec 12, 2012

If you already own a 6-inch e-reader, there’s no reason to run out and purchase the Kobo Mini. Sure, it’s lighter and smaller, but not so much so that it’s worth an extra $80 for an extra device with an extra degree of portability.

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5.0
Pocket-Lint Dec 31, 2012

Nicely priced at £59.99, the Kobo Mini is a possible stocking filler for frequent travelers, commuters and anyone who likes to travel light, though in strict hardware terms it's certainly convenience over quality.

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8.0
Digital Versus Dec 26, 2012

Portable by nature, this pint-sized e-reader will fit snugly in your back pocket for a low price, all without sacrificing reading comfort or features. Readers-on-the-go will, however, have preferred a longer-lasting battery.

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7.0
TechRadar Nov 7, 2012

A small, versatile, customisable and highly portable e-reader that can be held in one hand, the Kobo Mini features a user experience identical to other efforts from the brand, though a slower processor, low-res screen and the need for a computer make this a relatively limited effort.

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6.0
marc marc

After using the Kindle Paperwhite (or Nook with Glowlight), it's hard to go back to an e-book reader using dated display technology. Even Amazon and B&N's non-lit displays are sharper, and have higher contrast than the Kobo Mini. Yes, I like that the Mini offers very granular control over...

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9.0
jadwigo jadwigo

It might not be the fastest, or largest or sharpest screen, but its small, light and cute. It's on sale this holiday period and for €50,- it's a deal where the price is perfect if you want a small e-reader.

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