Summary of "Switching to Kobo? Watch this first."

Product Reviewed:

Kobo eReader (specifically recommending the Kobo Clara)

Key Features & Highlights:

Bookstore & Availability:
- Kobo’s bookstore is generally less expensive than Amazon’s Kindle store.
- Major titles by well-known authors/publishers are available on Kobo, but some Kindle Unlimited books are exclusive to Amazon and not on Kobo.
- Lesser-known or self-published authors are more prevalent on Kindle due to Amazon’s convenient self-publishing platform.
- Kobo supports EPUB format and is more open and flexible compared to Amazon’s ecosystem.
DRM and File Management:
- Buying books on Kobo, like Kindle, means purchasing a license, not owning the book outright.
- Kobo still uses DRM; to read downloaded books, users must use Adobe Digital Editions with a special license file.
- Unlike Amazon, Kobo still allows downloading files (though through a different process). Amazon recently removed the download button for Kindle books.
Library Integration:
- Kobo offers direct integration with the Libby app, allowing users to borrow library books directly on the device.
- This feature is highly praised and a major reason many switch to Kobo.
- Kindle supports library borrowing but primarily in the US and requires more complicated steps, with no direct device integration.
- Libby on Kobo works internationally and is seamless, though borrowing involves waiting for availability like a physical library.
User Experience & Software:
- Kobo’s software interface differs from Kindle’s, requiring an adjustment period.
- The reviewer prefers Kobo’s software for its simplicity and extra features.
- Kobo includes built-in reading stats on the device, whereas Kindle only offers this in its app.

Pros:

More affordable books overall compared to Amazon Kindle.
Supports EPUB and a more open ecosystem.
Direct and seamless integration with Libby for borrowing library books worldwide.
Allows downloading book files (with DRM) unlike Kindle’s recent restrictions.
User-friendly software with useful features like built-in reading stats.

Cons:

Kobo’s bookstore lacks some Kindle exclusives, especially Kindle Unlimited titles and many self-published books.
DRM still applies, requiring use of Adobe Digital Editions for reading downloaded files.
Software and interface differ from Kindle, which may require time to learn.
Library borrowing can involve wait times and is not instant ownership.

Comparisons to Kindle:

Kindle has a larger and more comprehensive bookstore, including Kindle Unlimited exclusives.
Kindle recently removed the ability to download book files directly, while Kobo still allows it (albeit via a more complex process).
Kobo is more open with EPUB support; Kindle uses proprietary formats.
Kobo’s Libby integration is superior and more internationally accessible compared to Kindle’s limited and complicated library borrowing options.
Kobo software is preferred by the reviewer for ease of use and features.

Overall Verdict / Recommendation:

Switching to Kobo is appealing mainly due to Amazon’s recent negative changes (like removing download buttons).
Kobo is a strong competitor with advantages in price, openness, and library integration.
However, Kobo is not a perfect replacement for everyone due to book availability gaps and DRM complexities.
Users should carefully consider their reading habits and priorities before switching.
The reviewer personally recommends the Kobo Clara as the best current option.

Additional Notes:

Some authors sell DRM-free files directly, which can be an alternative to both Kindle and Kobo stores.
The reviewer empathizes with frustrations toward Amazon but advises a thoughtful decision rather than an impulsive switch.

Summary:

Kobo is a viable alternative to Kindle with strengths in affordability, openness, and library borrowing, but it has limitations in book availability and requires some adjustment. The Kobo Clara is recommended as a solid choice for new buyers.