Kobo Libra Colour | eReader | 7” Glare-Free Colour vs Meebook M8 | 7.8" eReader | HD 300PPI Eink Screen

Design and Display

The Kobo Libra Colour features a 7-inch glare-free colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 display, while the Meebook M8 boasts a larger 7.8-inch HD E Ink Carta screen with a resolution of 300 PPI. The Kobo model is designed for vibrant colours, making it ideal for comics and graphic novels, while the Meebook's higher pixel density offers sharper text and images. The Kobo’s ergonomic design includes page-turn buttons, which can enhance the reading experience. In contrast, the Meebook is slightly heavier at about 265g, but still provides a lightweight feel for extended reading sessions.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Meebook M8 is equipped with an octa-core processor running at 2.2GHz, delivering a snappy experience, especially for multitasking and running apps. On the other hand, the Kobo Libra Colour does not specify its processing capabilities, indicating that it may not match the performance levels of the Meebook. This difference is significant for users who intend to download multiple apps or who value a quick and responsive interface.

Storage and Expandability

The Kobo Libra Colour offers 32GB of internal storage, allowing users to carry up to 24,000 eBooks or 150 Kobo Audiobooks. In contrast, the Meebook M8 comes with 64GB of internal storage but also features a microSD card slot that supports expansion up to 1TB. This means that the Meebook M8 can accommodate a significantly larger library without relying solely on internal storage, making it a more flexible option for avid readers who require more space.

Operating System and App Support

The Meebook M8 runs on Android 14, which allows users to download e-book apps directly from the Google Play Store, such as Kindle and other reading applications. This versatility is a considerable advantage for users who want a more customized reading experience. The Kobo Libra Colour, meanwhile, focuses on its own ecosystem, supporting Kobo’s services and integration with OverDrive for library borrowing. While both devices cater to readers, the Meebook provides a more open environment for app integration.

Audio Features

For audiobooks, the Kobo Libra Colour supports this feature natively, allowing users to enjoy listening to their books seamlessly. The Meebook M8, however, includes double microphones and speakers, which could enhance the audio experience while listening to audiobooks or using other multimedia applications. This makes the Meebook M8 a better choice for users who appreciate rich sound quality and may want to use their device for more than just reading.

Water Resistance

The Kobo Libra Colour is an IPX8 rated waterproof eReader, meaning it can withstand immersion in up to two meters of water for 60 minutes. This feature is particularly beneficial for readers who enjoy relaxing near water or in the bath. Unfortunately, the Meebook M8 does not mention any water resistance, which may be a drawback for those who want to read in wet environments. The Kobo's robust protection gives it an edge in durability for outdoor or poolside use.

Pricing

The current price of the Kobo Libra Colour is $229.99, while the Meebook M8 is priced at $269.00. This makes the Kobo about 15% cheaper than the Meebook, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While the Meebook offers advanced features such as a larger screen and expandable storage, the price difference might sway readers who prioritize cost over additional functionalities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Kobo Libra Colour and the Meebook M8 ultimately depends on your reading preferences and requirements. If you value a colour display, waterproof design, and a slightly lower price, the Kobo Libra Colour is the better option. However, if you prefer a larger screen, superior processing power, and the flexibility of an Android operating system with extensive app support, the Meebook M8 is worth the extra investment. Both devices cater to different user needs, making them excellent choices within their respective niches.