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Kobo Touch Review | 68 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£110
  • Avg. price in US: ~$130
  • Screen size: 6 inches
  • Battery life: 20 hours
  • Supported bookstore ecosystem: Kobo Ecosystem

Kobo Touch review. Compare 68 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among ereaders and if it is worth buying.

4.8

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the eReader's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best eReaders on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.5

Technical Score

10.0%

7.5

User score

Poor
4.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the eReader's technical performance, covering key areas such as display quality, reading features, battery life, format support, ecosystem, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare eReaders based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

25.0%

3.9

Display

22.0%

6.3

Reading

18.0%

3.3

Battery

14.0%

4.0

Hardware

12.0%

4.6

Connectivity

9.0%

4.6

Design

Poor
7.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the eReader.

When it matters: When you want to know how an eReader feels in daily reading and how reliable it is for screen comfort, battery life, and library management according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

7.4

User reviews

30.0%

7.7

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(152)
amazon
3.8
(50)
amazon
3.4
(45)
amazon
4.0
(44)
amazon
4.2
(26)
amazon
3.7
(16)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.3
(72)
Amazon_logo.png
3.7
(46)
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(45)

(Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

Very good
    • kobo-touch
    kobo-touch

    Best prices in UK

    Best rankings

    ?

    Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
    All: ranking among all products in the database.

    Verdict

    The Kobo Touch is a compact e-reader featuring a 6-inch Pearl E Ink touchscreen with 800 x 600 resolution and 16 levels of grayscale, powered by a Freescale 508 processor. It includes 2GB of internal storage (expandable up to 32GB via microSD), Wi-Fi connectivity, and a battery lasting up to one month. Main pros include its lightweight 185g design, a comfortable quilted back for grip, and broad file support for EPUB, PDF, and MOBI formats. However, it lacks a built-in front light for night reading, can occasionally experience software lag, and does not support dictionary lookups or highlighting for side-loaded content.

    Technical Specifications of eReader Kobo Touch

    Technical Score

    What it is: An assessment of the eReader's technical performance, covering key areas such as display quality, reading features, battery life, format support, ecosystem, and design.

    When it matters: When you want to compare eReaders based on technical performance and available features.

    Score components:

    25.0%

    3.9

    Display

    22.0%

    6.3

    Reading

    18.0%

    3.3

    Battery

    14.0%

    4.0

    Hardware

    12.0%

    4.6

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    4.6

    Design

    4.5
    Kobo Touch has a technical score of 4.47 points, which is lower than that of 95.1% of products in this category.
    User score

    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the eReader.

    When it matters: When you want to know how an eReader feels in daily reading and how reliable it is for screen comfort, battery life, and library management according to user feedback.

    Score components:

    70.0%

    7.4

    User reviews

    30.0%

    7.7

    Popularity

    User score:
    United Kingdom
    amazon
    3.8
    (152)
    amazon
    3.8
    (50)
    amazon
    3.4
    (45)
    amazon
    4.0
    (44)
    amazon
    4.2
    (26)
    amazon
    3.7
    (16)
    United States
    Amazon_logo.png
    3.3
    (72)
    Amazon_logo.png
    3.7
    (46)
    Amazon_logo.png
    3.9
    (45)

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    7.5
    Kobo Touch has a user score of 7.53 points, which is lower than that of 72.1% of products in this category.
    Popularity
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the eReader.
    When it matters: When you prefer to choose an eReader reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
    7.7
    Kobo Touch has a popularity of 7.7 points, which is higher than 64.8% of smartphones.
    Ratio quality/price

    What it is: An indicator that combines the eReader's overall rating with its cost.

    When it matters: When you are looking for an eReader with a good balance between reading comfort, features, and price.

    Score components:

    60.0%

    4.8

    Overall score

    40.0%

    9.9

    Price

    6.3
    Kobo Touch has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.3 points, which is lower than 94.3% of smartphones.
    Brand name
    What it is: Identifies the company or ecosystem behind the device, which often shapes the store, software approach, and accessory support.
    When it matters: When you are choosing between Kindle, Kobo, Boox, PocketBook, or another ecosystem with different store access and software behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Kobo
    Screen size
    What it is: The diagonal measurement of the reading panel, usually given in inches.
    When it matters: When you are deciding between a small travel reader and a larger page that works better for PDFs, comics, or textbooks.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=7.8

    6 inches
    Kobo Touch has a screen size of 6 inches which is smaller than 57.4% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 40.2% of eReaders.
    Screen resolution
    What it is: The total pixel grid shown on the panel, normally written as width by height.
    When it matters: When small fonts, diagrams, or dense page layouts need to stay readable without constant zooming.

    Importance: HIGH

    600x800 px
    Kobo Touch uses a screen resolution of 600x800 px, which is less sharp than that of 83.6% of eReaders and the same as that of 15.6% of eReaders.
    Pixel density
    What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display, expressed in ppi.
    When it matters: When you want text edges to look cleaner and serif fonts to resemble print more closely.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=300

    167 ppi
    Kobo Touch has a pixel density of 167 ppi which is lower than 77.9% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 10.7% of eReaders.
    E-paper display
    What it is: Uses an electrophoretic panel designed to mimic paper rather than a conventional backlit phone or tablet screen.
    When it matters: When you read for long stretches and want lower glare and less screen-like fatigue than on LCD or OLED devices.

    Importance: LOW

    yes
    Kobo Touch uses an e-paper display. 97.6% of eReaders have an e-paper display.
    Show more
    Supported file types
    What it is: Lists which ebook, document, image, or audio formats the reader can open without conversion.
    When it matters: When your library comes from mixed sources instead of one locked bookstore.

    Importance: HIGH

    15
    Kobo Touch supports 15 file types which is more than 37% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 20% of eReaders.
    PDF reflow support
    What it is: Can rearrange PDF text into a more readable, screen-sized layout instead of forcing the original fixed page.
    When it matters: When you read A4 documents, articles, or manuals on a smaller eReader screen.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Kobo Touch does not offer PDF reflow. 55.4% of eReaders support PDF reflow.
    Annotation support
    What it is: Allows highlighting, handwritten notes, typed comments, or markup directly inside supported files.
    When it matters: When you study, review academic papers, or want your notes to stay attached to the exact passage.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Kobo Touch offers annotation support. 100% of eReaders offer annotation support.
    Dictionary
    What it is: Provides built-in word lookup while you read.
    When it matters: When you read in another language or want quick definitions without leaving the page.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Kobo Touch includes a built-in dictionary. 99.2% of eReaders include a built-in dictionary.
    Text-to-speech
    What it is: Converts on-screen text into spoken audio using a synthetic voice.
    When it matters: When you want to keep following a book while resting your eyes, walking, or multitasking.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Kobo Touch does not offer text-to-speech. 64.2% of eReaders include text-to-speech.
    Show more
    Battery life
    What it is: Estimates how long the device can keep running between charges under normal reading conditions.
    When it matters: When you travel, commute, or want to finish books for days without thinking about charging.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=30

    20 hours
    Kobo Touch offers 20 hours of battery life which is shorter than 61.3% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 12.5% of eReaders.
    Battery capacity
    What it is: The amount of energy the battery can store, commonly expressed in mAh.
    When it matters: When you want a rough hardware indicator of how much power reserve the device has.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2000

    1,000 mAh
    Kobo Touch has a battery capacity of 1000 mAh which is lower than 85% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 10% of eReaders.
    Charging time
    What it is: The approximate time needed to recharge the battery from low to full.
    When it matters: When you often top up shortly before leaving and need the reader ready again quickly.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=3

    4 hours
    Kobo Touch takes 4 hours to charge which is slower than 82.7% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 11.5% of eReaders.
    Wireless charging
    What it is: Can recharge on a compatible charging pad without plugging in a cable.
    When it matters: When you prefer drop-and-charge convenience on a desk or bedside stand.

    Importance: LOW

    no
    Kobo Touch does not offer wireless charging. 7.3% of eReaders offer wireless charging.
    Internal storage
    What it is: The built-in space available for books, notes, audiobooks, apps, and downloaded documents.
    When it matters: When you keep large libraries offline or store a lot of PDFs and audio locally.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=32

    2 GB
    Kobo Touch offers 2 GB of internal storage which is less than 80.5% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 17.8% of eReaders.
    RAM capacity
    What it is: The amount of working memory used for page rendering, multitasking, and keeping content active in the background.
    When it matters: When you open heavy files, switch between books, or expect the interface to stay snappy.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2

    0.256 GB
    Kobo Touch offers 0.256 GB of RAM which is less than 73.1% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 15.1% of eReaders.
    CPU base clock speed
    What it is: The baseline operating frequency of the main processor under normal load.
    When it matters: When you compare readers for faster menu navigation, indexing, and handling of larger documents.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    1 x 0.8 GHz
    Kobo Touch has a CPU base clock speed of 1 x 0.8 GHz, which is slower than that of 76% of eReaders and the same as that of 14.9% of eReaders.
    Operating system
    What it is: The software platform that drives the interface, reading apps, and deeper system capabilities.
    When it matters: When you care about app availability, customization, and how flexible the device can become beyond basic reading.

    Importance: HIGH

    Kobo Firmware
    Kobo Touch runs Kobo Firmware, which is less advanced than that of 57.4% of eReaders and the same as that of 13.1% of eReaders.
    Memory card slot
    What it is: Accepts removable storage so the library can expand beyond the built-in capacity.
    When it matters: When your collection will outgrow internal storage or you move files between devices manually.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Kobo Touch has a memory card slot. 43.1% of eReaders have a memory card slot.
    Show more
    Wi-Fi connectivity
    What it is: Connects the reader to wireless networks for book downloads, syncing, updates, and online services.
    When it matters: When you buy books directly on the device or keep your library synced without using a cable.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Kobo Touch connects over Wi-Fi. 93.5% of eReaders have Wi-Fi.
    Wi-Fi version
    What it is: Specifies which wireless networking standard is supported, such as Wi-Fi 4, 5, or 6.
    When it matters: When router compatibility, wireless stability, or faster transfers on newer home networks matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
    Kobo Touch supports Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), which is newer than that of 10.7% of eReaders and the same as that of 46.7% of eReaders.
    Wi-Fi bands supported
    What it is: Shows whether the reader can use 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or both wireless bands.
    When it matters: When crowded apartment Wi-Fi or 5 GHz-only setups make band support matter at home or in the office.

    Importance: LOW

    2.4 GHz
    Kobo Touch supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi bands, which is broader than that of 6.6% of eReaders and the same as that of 50% of eReaders.
    Bluetooth
    What it is: Provides short-range wireless pairing for headphones, speakers, keyboards, page turners, or other accessories.
    When it matters: When you listen to audiobooks, use a remote page turner, or want cable-free accessories around the house.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Kobo Touch does not connect over Bluetooth. 60.2% of eReaders have Bluetooth.
    Bluetooth version
    What it is: Identifies the supported Bluetooth generation, which affects efficiency, codec support, and compatibility.
    When it matters: When you pair newer headphones and want a more stable, lower-power wireless connection.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=5.0

    N/A
    Kobo Touch supports Bluetooth N/A which is older than 59.3% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 40.7% of eReaders.
    Show more
    Weight
    What it is: The mass of the device, usually measured in grams.
    When it matters: When one-handed comfort matters and you do not want the reader to feel tiring during long sessions.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <=200

    185 g
    Kobo Touch weighs 185 g which is lighter than 65.6% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.6% of eReaders.
    Thickness
    What it is: The depth of the body from front to back, usually measured in millimetres.
    When it matters: When grip comfort, sleeve fit, or how slim the reader feels in the hand matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=8

    10 mm
    Kobo Touch is 10 mm thick which is thicker than 83.3% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.7% of eReaders.
    Height
    What it is: The vertical size of the body, usually measured from top to bottom in millimetres.
    When it matters: When you are checking whether the reader will fit a bag, jacket pocket, or small stand.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=160

    165 mm
    Kobo Touch is 165 mm tall which is shorter than 61.5% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 1.6% of eReaders.
    Width
    What it is: The side-to-side body measurement, usually given in millimetres.
    When it matters: When one-handed reach and how much space the reader takes in a bag or bedside setup matter.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=130

    114 mm
    Kobo Touch is 114 mm wide which is narrower than 77.9% of eReaders on this spec and equal to 3.3% of eReaders.
    Water resistance (splashproof)
    What it is: Can tolerate light splashes, damp hands, or brief accidental contact with water.
    When it matters: When you read by the bath, at the pool, or outdoors where light moisture is realistic.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Kobo Touch does not have water resistance against splashes. 25% of eReaders have water resistance against splashes.
    Show more

    Kobo Touch vs the average eReader

    • Includes memory card slot
      Kobo Touch includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
      What it is: Accepts removable storage so the library can expand beyond the built-in capacity.
      When it matters: When your collection will outgrow internal storage or you move files between devices manually.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Kobo Touch includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
    • Supports stylus
      Kobo Touch supports a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
      Official Kobo Stylus support.
      What it is: Works with a pen for handwriting, sketching, selection, or precise markup.
      When it matters: When you annotate PDFs, write in margins, or use the reader partly as a digital notebook.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Kobo Touch supports a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
    • 13.1% lighter
      Kobo Touch is lighter than the average eReader (185 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.
      What it is: The mass of the device, usually measured in grams.
      When it matters: When one-handed comfort matters and you do not want the reader to feel tiring during long sessions.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: <=200

      Kobo Touch is lighter than the average eReader (185 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.185 g vs 213 g
    • 13.6 mm narrower
      Kobo Touch is narrower than the average eReader (114 mm vs 127.6 mm). The average eReader width is 127.6 mm.
      What it is: The side-to-side body measurement, usually given in millimetres.
      When it matters: When one-handed reach and how much space the reader takes in a bag or bedside setup matter.

      Importance: LOW

      Good value: <=130

      Kobo Touch is narrower than the average eReader (114 mm vs 127.6 mm). The average eReader width is 127.6 mm.114 mm vs 127.6 mm
    • 54.5% cheaper
      Kobo Touch is cheaper than the average eReader (£110 vs £170).
      Kobo Touch is cheaper than the average eReader (£110 vs £170).£110 vs £170
    • Supports stylus
      Kobo Touch supports a stylus, while the average eReader does not.
    • Includes memory card slot
      Kobo Touch includes a memory card slot, while the average eReader does not.
    • 13.1% lighter
      Kobo Touch is lighter than the average eReader (185 g vs 213 g). The average eReader weighs 213 g.
    • 13.6 mm narrower
      Kobo Touch is narrower than the average eReader (114 mm vs 127.6 mm). The average eReader width is 127.6 mm.

    Total
    Overall
    Reading
    Hardware
    Design
    • Less advanced E-Ink technology
      Kobo Touch uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
    • No front light
      Kobo Touch does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
    • Lower screen resolution
      Kobo Touch supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.
    • 37% lower pixel density
      Kobo Touch has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (167 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
    • No color temperature adjustment
      Kobo Touch does not support color temperature adjustment, while the average eReader does.
    • 1 inches smaller screen size
      Kobo Touch has a smaller screen than the average eReader (6 inches vs 7 inches). The average eReader screen size is 7 inches.
    • 5 fewer front-light LEDs
      Kobo Touch has fewer front-light LEDs than the average eReader (0 vs 5). The average eReader has 5 front-light LEDs.
    • Basic touchscreen technology
      Kobo Touch uses infrared touchscreen technology, while the average eReader uses capacitive.
    • Limited bookstore ecosystem
      Kobo Touch uses the Kobo Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
      Kobo Store with OverDrive/Libby integration.
    • No PDF reflow
      Kobo Touch does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
    • No audiobook playback
      Kobo Touch does not support audiobook playback, while the average eReader does.
    • No text-to-speech
      Kobo Touch does not support text-to-speech, while the average eReader does.
    • No folder support
      Kobo Touch does not support folders, while the average eReader does.
      uses metadata-based "Collections", not folder view in default OS; KOReader can add this functionality
    • Limited DRM support
      Kobo Touch supports fewer DRM schemes than the average eReader (Adobe DRM, Social DRM vs Adobe DRM, Readium LCP).
    • Limited library support
      Kobo Touch supports fewer library lending platforms than the average eReader (OverDrive vs OverDrive, Libby).
      Requires Adobe Digital Editions or manual transfer steps.
    • 2 hours longer charging time
      Kobo Touch charges more slowly than the average eReader (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.
    • 34.6% smaller battery capacity
      Kobo Touch has a smaller battery than the average eReader (1,000 mAh vs 1,530 mAh). The average eReader battery has a capacity of 1,530 mAh.
    • 1 hours shorter battery life
      Kobo Touch offers shorter battery life than the average eReader (20 hours vs 21 hours). The average eReader offers 21 hours of battery life.
    • 87.5% less storage
      Kobo Touch offers less internal storage than the average eReader (2 GB vs 16 GB). The average eReader provides 16 GB of internal storage.
    • 0.26 GB less RAM
      Kobo Touch has less RAM than the average eReader (0.3 GB vs 0.512 GB). The average eReader has 0.512 GB of RAM.
    • Slower CPU base clock speed
      Kobo Touch has a slower CPU base clock speed than the average eReader (1x0.8 GHz vs 1x1 GHz). The average eReader has a CPU base clock speed of 1x1 GHz.
    • Less advanced operating system
      Kobo Touch uses Kobo Firmware, a less advanced operating system than Kindle OS on the average eReader.
    • No USB Type-C
      Kobo Touch does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
    • No Bluetooth
      Kobo Touch does not have Bluetooth, while the average eReader does.
    • No Bluetooth audio
      Kobo Touch does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average eReader does.
    • 10 year/s older release date
      Kobo Touch is older than the average eReader (2011 vs 2021). The average eReader was released in 2021.
      June 2,011
    • 1.9 mm thicker
      Kobo Touch is thicker than the average eReader (10 mm vs 8.1 mm). The average eReader thickness is 8.1 mm.
    • Limited bookstore ecosystem
      Kobo Touch uses the Kobo Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.
      Kobo Store with OverDrive/Libby integration.
      What it is: Shows which built-in store or content platform the device is tied to for buying or downloading books.
      When it matters: When store selection, regional catalog access, or ecosystem lock-in will shape what you can read most easily.

      Importance: HIGH

      Kobo Touch uses the Kobo Ecosystem bookstore ecosystem, while the average eReader uses Android Open Ecosystem.Kobo Ecosystem vs Android Open Ecosystem
    • Less advanced E-Ink technology
      Kobo Touch uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.
      What it is: States which E Ink generation or panel family the device uses, such as Carta or Kaleido.
      When it matters: When you compare newer and older readers for contrast, refresh behavior, or color performance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Kobo Touch uses Pearl E-Ink technology, while the average eReader uses Carta Plus.Pearl vs Carta Plus
    • No PDF reflow
      Kobo Touch does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
      What it is: Can rearrange PDF text into a more readable, screen-sized layout instead of forcing the original fixed page.
      When it matters: When you read A4 documents, articles, or manuals on a smaller eReader screen.

      Importance: HIGH

      Kobo Touch does not support PDF reflow, while the average eReader does.
    • No front light
      Kobo Touch does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
      What it is: Adds built-in illumination that shines across the screen so the page stays readable in dark environments.
      When it matters: When you read in bed, on flights, or anywhere ambient light is too low for an unlit screen.

      Importance: HIGH

      Kobo Touch does not include front light, while the average eReader does.
    • 2 hours longer charging time
      Kobo Touch charges more slowly than the average eReader (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.
      What it is: The approximate time needed to recharge the battery from low to full.
      When it matters: When you often top up shortly before leaving and need the reader ready again quickly.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Good value: <=3

      Kobo Touch charges more slowly than the average eReader (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average eReader charges in 2 hours.4 hours vs 2 hours
    • Lower screen resolution
      Kobo Touch supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.
      What it is: The total pixel grid shown on the panel, normally written as width by height.
      When it matters: When small fonts, diagrams, or dense page layouts need to stay readable without constant zooming.

      Importance: HIGH

      Kobo Touch supports lower screen resolution than the average eReader (600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px). The average eReader supports 1072x1448 px screen resolution.600x800 px vs 1072x1448 px
    • 37% lower pixel density
      Kobo Touch has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (167 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.
      What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display, expressed in ppi.
      When it matters: When you want text edges to look cleaner and serif fonts to resemble print more closely.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=300

      Kobo Touch has a lower pixel density than the average eReader (167 ppi vs 265 ppi). The average eReader has a pixel density of 265 ppi.167 ppi vs 265 ppi
    • No USB Type-C
      Kobo Touch does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
      What it is: Uses the reversible USB-C connector for charging and, on some models, wired data transfer.
      When it matters: When you want one shared cable standard for your reader, phone, and other travel gear.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Kobo Touch does not have USB Type-C, while the average eReader does.
    Total
    Overall
    Display
    Reading
    Battery
    Hardware
    Connectivity
    Design

    Graphic comparison of Kobo Touch and other eReaders

    Attribute category
    Attribute
    No results found

    Third-party reviews

    United Kingdom
    amazon
    3.8
    152 Reviews
    amazon
    3.8
    50 Reviews
    amazon
    3.4
    45 Reviews
    amazon
    4.0
    44 Reviews
    amazon
    4.2
    26 Reviews
    amazon
    3.7
    16 Reviews
    United States
    Amazon_logo.png
    3.3
    72 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    3.7
    46 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    3.9
    45 Reviews

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    What customers like about Kobo Touch?

    • Compact and lightweight design (approx. 6.5 ounces) makes it very portable.
    • Responsive infrared touchscreen that handles tap and swipe gestures well.
    • Extensive file support including EPUB, PDF, MOBI, and comic book formats (CBZ/CBR).
    • Expandable storage via a microSD card slot, allowing for thousands of books.
    • Highly customizable reading experience with numerous font styles, sizes, and margin adjustments.
    • Integration with 'Pocket' for syncing and reading saved web articles.
    • Open ecosystem that allows sideloading fonts and books from various sources.

    What customers dislike about Kobo Touch?

    • Lack of a built-in front light or backlight, making it difficult to read in the dark.
    • Lower screen resolution (800x600, 167 ppi) compared to modern high-definition e-readers.
    • Performance can be slow or laggy when loading large files or navigating the store.
    • Abysmal PDF and manga handling, with poor rendering during pinching and zooming.
    • Setup often requires a computer and the Kobo Desktop application, which some users find dated.
    • Dictionary and highlighting features may not work reliably with sideloaded content.
    • Significant 'ghosting' issues unless the full-page refresh rate is set to be frequent.

    Expert reviews

    T
    teleread.com
    12/06/2011
    Review: Kobo Touch – a solid entry-level reader - TeleRead

    The TeleRead review characterizes the Kobo Touch as a "pretty" and "solid" entry-level e-reader, marking a major improvement over previous Kobo models due to its compact form factor and stylish, lightweight design with a quilted back. Key pros include the "Reading Life" social features for tracking stats, and an improved, comfortable user interface. However, significant cons for...Read more

    Z
    zdnet.com
    18/07/2011
    Review: Kobo eReader Touch may best the Nook as the top ebook reader - ZDNET

    The ZDNet review of the 2011 Kobo eReader Touch Edition suggests it competes with or exceeds the Barnes & Noble Nook, largely due to its superior ergonomic design, which is narrower and easier to hold, and a highly responsive infrared touchscreen paired with a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display. Key benefits include extensive font customization, the "Reading Life" social/gamified feature, a...Read more

    T
    the-ebook-reader.com
    25/04/2026
    Kobo Touch Review and Comparisons - The eBook Reader.com Would you like a similar list of video reviews or perhaps a breakdown of the technical specif...

    The Kobo Touch is a lightweight 6-inch E Ink Pearl ereader featuring an infrared touchscreen and a quilted, grippy back, though it lacks physical page-turn buttons. Pros include an intuitive interface, extensive font customization, expandable storage via microSD, and a functional web browser. Key cons highlighted include limited highlighting and dictionary support for sideloaded...Read more

    U
    uk.pcmag.com
    17/05/2014
    Kobo eReader Touch Edition - PCMag.com

    The Kobo eReader Touch Edition is a compact, lightweight device featuring a 6-inch E Ink Pearl touchscreen, offering a crisp, distraction-free reading experience with an infrequent screen refresh. Its "Reading Life" feature allows for tracking, though it is viewed more as a niche addition than a core utility. Key cons include an occasionally sluggish, less responsive infrared screen...Read more

    E
    expertreviews.co.uk
    12/11/2011
    Kobo eReader Touch review - Expert Reviews

    The Kobo eReader Touch is a compact, "Best Buy"-winning device featuring a 6-inch E Ink Pearl touchscreen that acts as a portable alternative to the Kindle ecosystem. It boasts wide file support (EPUB, PDF, AZW), extensive text customization, and a microSD slot for storage expansion, though it requires a tedious, PC-based setup process. Performance issues include occasional lag and...Read more

    T
    trustedreviews.com
    09/11/2011
    Kobo Touch eReader Review - Trusted Reviews

    The Kobo Touch is a "petite, simple, and attractive" 6-inch E-ink Pearl touchscreen eReader noted for its comfortable, "quilted" back design. It is lauded for being exceptionally light and providing a high-quality, paper-like, non-glare reading experience that competes well with premium alternatives. The device offers an intuitive interface with "Reading Life" features that gamify...Read more

    C
    cnet.com
    16/06/2011
    Kobo Touch review - CNET

    The Kobo eReader Touch Edition is a compact, lightweight 6-inch E Ink device featuring a responsive infrared touchscreen, a comfortable quilted back design, and a microSD expansion slot. It distinguishes itself with the "Reading Life" interface, offering, robust format support (EPUB/PDF), and extensive battery life, according to CNET. However, the device is held back by a less...Read more

    T
    tintenmeer.de
    10/09/2013
    {Chaosnotizen} Kindle 4 vs. Kobo Touch - My personal review

    The 2013 Tintenmeer review compares the Kindle 4 and Kobo Touch, praising the Kindle 4 for its lightweight design, physical page-turn buttons, and zippy, reliable reading performance. However, the Kindle 4's cons include a lack of a touchscreen, making navigation via D-pad tedious, and a closed ecosystem restricting format support. In contrast, the Kobo Touch offers an intuitive...Read more

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    A
    annabelle.ch
    21/06/2012
    The New Kobo Touch eReader Review - Annabelle

    The Annabelle review highlights the Kobo Touch as a stylish, lightweight e-reader featuring a distinct, grippy "quilted" back and a high-contrast 6-inch E-Ink Pearl screen suitable for direct sunlight. Key pros include a responsive infrared touchscreen, support for multiple formats, and a long-lasting battery, while the "Reading Life" feature offers engaging, gamified user...Read more

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    C
    computerbild.de
    04/05/2012
    Kobo eReader Touch Edition Review - COMPUTER BILD

    In its review of the Kobo eReader Touch Edition, Computer Bild highlights the device as a compact, lightweight competitor to the Kindle featuring a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display and a comfortable, quilted soft-touch back. The device is lauded for its responsive infrared touchscreen, support for EPUB/PDF formats, and a microSD slot allowing for storage expansion up to 32GB. Notable...Read more

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    C
    chip.de
    30/07/2012
    Kobo Touch (E-reader) Review - CHIP

    The Kobo Touch is a lightweight e-reader featuring a 6-inch E-Ink display that provides excellent contrast and readability, even in direct sunlight. It supports open formats like ePub, giving users freedom from proprietary ecosystems, and includes unique, engaging software features such as the "Reading Life" reward system. CHIPHowever, the review notes several drawbacks, including...Read more

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    0
    01net.com
    21/11/2011
    Kobo by Fnac Review: A Successful and Affordable E-reader

    The Kobo by Fnac (Kobo Touch) is praised by 01net.com as a budget-friendly e-reader offering a 6-inch E Ink screen with high-quality, clear display performance. It provides a lightweight design of around 200 grams, excellent for long reading sessions, along with support for EPUB/PDF formats and an SD card slot for storage expansion. 01 The device excels in providing a comfortable...Read more

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    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    22/12/2011
    Kobo Touch: Best Price - Les Numériques

    failed, ai request

    (Translated)Show original
    A
    actualitte.com
    04/11/2011
    Digital Reading: Kobo Touch Review and First Impressions

    The Kobo Touch is a compact, lightweight e-reader featuring a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display with an innovative "quilted" back for improved grip, utilizing infrared technology for responsive touch capability. The device excels with wide file support (including EPUB and Adobe DRM) and an intuitive "Reading Life" software suite that tracks user reading habits and allows for significant...Read more

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    L
    ladentdure.wordpress.com
    25/08/2013
    Digital Reading: Kobo Touch Review and Reflections

    The 2013 La Dent Dure review highlights the Kobo Touch as a superior, open alternative to the Kindle, emphasizing its native EPUB support and easy integration with public library systems via Adobe Digital Editions. Pros include a lightweight design (185g), a textured "quilted" back for better grip, an expandable SD card slot for up to 32GB, and a clear, high-contrast E-Ink Pearl...Read more

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    0
    01net.com
    No date
    Kobo by Fnac Review: A Successful and Affordable E-reader

    The Kobo eReader Touch, featuring a 6-inch Pearl E Ink touchscreen and a lightweight 185g design with a "quilted" back, modernizes the Kobo line with extensive font, size, and margin customization. Performance improvements include faster page turns and an intuitive user interface, supported by an expandable microSD slot and a battery lasting up to a month. However, notable cons...Read more

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    V
    vanz.it
    13/10/2012
    Kobo vs. Kindle: Pros and Cons of Each

    According to a review on vanz.it, Kobo devices offer superior flexibility with native support for diverse file formats (EPUB, CBZ, CBR) and greater customization for reading settings. However, these advantages are hampered by significant software issues, including frequent freezes and failure to recognize libraries, notes the review. In contrast, Kindle provides a stable,...Read more

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    M
    macitynet.it
    17 Dicembre 2012
    Kobo Touch and Kobo Glo: testing the Mondadori e-readers

    The Macitynet review highlights the Kobo Touch and Kobo Glo as versatile alternatives to Kindle, praising their open format support, compact design, and inclusion of a microSD slot for storage expansion. Both devices feature the "Reading Life" platform, which gamifies the reading experience through stats and badges, along with a comfortable, portable build. The Kobo Glo is...Read more

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    T
    tforumhifi.com
    01/04/2013
    Reading experience with the Kobo Touch ebook reader

    The Kobo Touch is described as a lightweight, 185g, 6-inch E Ink Pearl e-reader featuring a "quilted" texture for a secure grip. It offers a responsive touchscreen and a crisp, readable display, even in bright sunlight. Pros include an open ecosystem supporting EPUB/PDF/MOBI, custom font loading, microSD storage expansion, and the "Reading Life" gamified statistics feature. Key...Read more

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    E
    ebookreaderitalia.com
    05/10/2012
    Kobo Touch: first impressions of the Mondadori-branded device

    The Kobo Touch, distributed in Italy via Mondadori, is a lightweight (186g) 6-inch E-Ink Pearl touchscreen e-reader featuring a distinct quilted, soft-touch back for comfortable one-handed use. It offers deep user customization with 11 default fonts, extensive formatting options, and a microSD card slot for storage expansion, alongside the "Reading Life" feature for tracking...Read more

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    M
    makeyourebook.wordpress.com
    24/12/2011
    Kobo Touch Review - E-book

    The Kobo Touch, reviewed on MakeYourEbook, is described as a compact, minimalist e-reader featuring a high-contrast E Ink Pearl display and a comfortable, quilted back design. Key advantages include its open format support (EPUB, PDF), excellent portability, and intuitive infrared touchscreen interface, though it lacks physical page-turn buttons. While the device offers engaging...Read more

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    E
    ebookreaderitalia.com
    15/10/2012
    Kobo Touch review: the Mondadori ebook reader in Italy

    The Kobo Touch (Mondadori Edition) review highlights a 6-inch E-Ink Pearl device that brought a competitive, touch-focused e-reader experience to the Italian market for €99. The device features a lightweight, ergonomic design with a "quilted" back and relies on an infrared touchscreen for navigation, allowing for deep integration with the Mondadori ecosystem for local content. Pros...Read more

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    G
    gadgetgear.nl
    06/02/2012
    Review: Kobo Touch Edition E-reader

    The Kobo Touch Edition is a user-friendly eReader featuring a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display with excellent contrast, housed in a design with a comfortable "quilted" back for secure gripping. It boasts a responsive infrared touchscreen, an intuitive menu system, and significantly faster page turns compared to previous models. Key functional highlights include the "Reading Life" system...Read more

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    T
    tweakers.net
    14/12/2018
    Thorough and independent Kobo Touch reviews - Tweakers

    The Kobo Touch is a compact 6-inch e-reader featuring a lightweight design with a quilted back for comfortable handling and an E Ink Pearl display for clear reading, even in sunlight. Its open ecosystem, supporting diverse formats like EPUB and PDF, allows for easy library book borrowing via Overdrive and features a microSD card slot for expanding storage beyond the initial 2GB....Read more

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    T
    tweakers.net
    10/08/2012
    Kobo Touch Black - Craig - Product reviews - Tweakers

    The Kobo Touch is a compact, lightweight e-reader featuring a quilted back for secure grip and a responsive 6-inch E Ink Pearl touchscreen, according to a user review. The device is lauded for its simple interface and fast Wi-Fi, providing a straightforward reading experience. However, the lack of a built-in front light is a significant disadvantage, limiting usability in low-light...Read more

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    B
    bright.nl
    23/03/2012
    First impression: Kobo Touch eReader

    The Kobo Touch, reviewed by Bright.nl in March 2012, is highlighted for its compact design, featuring a comfortable, quilted soft-touch back and a 6-inch E Ink Pearl display. The device prioritizes a "Reading Life" social platform, which gamifies reading through statistics and digital badges, aiming for an interactive experience. While the infrared touchscreen is praised for its...Read more

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    C
    consumentenbond.nl
    Unknown
    Kobo Touch - Test, Reviews & Prices - Consumentenbond

    The Kobo Touch is a compact 6-inch E Ink Pearl e-reader featuring a quilted back for better grip, a 185-gram lightweight design, and an infrared touchscreen, according to reviews. Key pros include a responsive user interface, wide EPUB/PDF support, expandable microSD storage, and the "Reading Life" gamification feature. On the cons side, it lacks a front light, has a low 800 x 600...Read more

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    E
    ereaders.nl
    02/09/2011
    Kobo Touch Review: Fast Performance and a Great Reading Experience

    The Kobo Touch is a lightweight 6-inch e-reader featuring a distinct quilted back for comfortable handling and an E Ink Pearl display with high-contrast, paper-like readability. It utilizes an infrared touchscreen for responsive navigation, including the Reading Life social platform for tracking stats. Key advantages include its portability, broad EPUB/PDF support, and...Read more

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    Video reviews

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