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The Boox Go Color 7 is an Android e-reader with full access to the Google Play Store.
Credit: Joel Cunningham
Amazon’s Kindle Colorsoft marks a significant entry into the realm of color e-readers, showcasing impressive hardware. However, its limitations become apparent, particularly for those who enjoy comics. While the Kindle ecosystem may be sufficient for some users, the restrictions imposed by Amazon’s proprietary software can be a hindrance for avid readers seeking a broader range of content. Fortunately, alternatives exist in the form of Android-based e-readers, which offer a more open and versatile experience.
What the Kindle Colorsoft gets right
To begin on a positive note, the Kindle Colorsoft boasts the most impressive color e-ink screen I have encountered. It delivers a bright display with minimal pixelation and artifacts, and the refresh rate is commendably swift. The touch screen is responsive, and while the notorious rainbow effect can still affect black-and-white content, it is less pronounced on this device compared to competitors like the Kobo Libra Colour.
Despite utilizing the same E Ink Kaleido 3 screen found in many color e-readers, Amazon has clearly invested effort into enhancing the display. Initial skepticism about their claims of improvement has given way to appreciation, as images appear more true-to-life, with shadows and contrast resembling those on a physical page.
For users primarily interested in accessing their Amazon library and enjoying the occasional colorful highlight or book cover, the Kindle Colorsoft is an excellent choice. However, for those who wish to maximize the potential of a color e-reader, the limitations of the Colorsoft become evident.
Why you might want an Android e-reader instead
The Kindle Colorsoft is confined to Amazon’s proprietary operating system, restricting users to content available solely from the Amazon store or files manually transferred to the device. This limitation is particularly significant when considering the wealth of content that a more open system can provide.
Amazon’s file format restrictions
Similar to other Kindle devices, the Colorsoft lacks native support for the widely-used EPUB format, a free and open-source e-book file type favored by authors and libraries alike. To access EPUB files, users must rely on the cumbersome Send to Kindle tool or navigate third-party alternatives, often resulting in formatting issues. This lack of interoperability makes the Kindle ecosystem less appealing, and the Colorsoft does little to alleviate these concerns.
The Kindle Colorsoft doesn’t have comics apps
More critically, the absence of dedicated comics apps on the Kindle Colorsoft is a significant drawback. For many adult readers, comics represent a primary use case for a color e-reader. While Marvel and DC offer subscription apps that provide access to extensive comic libraries, these are not available on the Colorsoft. Instead, users must rely on the Kindle store, which offers a limited selection that often falls short of allowing readers to enjoy complete comic runs. This restriction can quickly become costly and frustrating for those who wish to explore a diverse range of comics.
In contrast, Android e-readers provide access to various comics apps from the Google Play Store, allowing users to enjoy their favorite titles without the limitations imposed by Amazon’s ecosystem.
Better web browsing
Access to the Play Store also opens the door to improved web browsing capabilities. While the Kindle features a basic web browser, its limited memory and lack of tab support make it less than ideal. An Android e-reader, on the other hand, allows users to download their preferred web browsers, enabling a more enjoyable online experience with vibrant colors and better formatting.
Gaming and other creative use cases
Moreover, the versatility of an Android e-reader extends beyond reading. Users can explore gaming options, albeit at lower frame rates, and even stream video content. Retro gaming enthusiasts have found ways to repurpose their devices for nostalgic gaming experiences, showcasing the creative potential of Android e-readers. This flexibility transforms the e-reader from a simple reading device into a multifunctional tool, capable of serving various entertainment needs.
Which Android e-reader should you buy?
Several Android color e-readers present strong alternatives to the Kindle Colorsoft, each with unique features worth considering. While not all may match the Colorsoft’s display quality, they offer the advantage of a more open operating system.
- Boox Note Air 4C: Priced at 0, this model features a spacious 10.3-inch display, ideal for those who prefer a larger reading area. It comes equipped with a stylus and magnetic case, making it a robust choice for productivity and leisure reading.
- Bigme B751C: A budget-friendly option at 0, this seven-inch e-reader offers Android functionality, albeit with some drawbacks such as ghosting issues and a weaker front light. However, it provides the essential features of an Android device, including dedicated page-turn buttons.
In summary, while the Kindle Colorsoft impresses with its screen quality, the limitations of its operating system and content access may lead many readers to consider the broader possibilities offered by Android e-readers. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and the type of content one wishes to explore.
