Kobo Elipsa 2E Review

Updated on

The Kobo Elipsa 2E stands out as a solid e-note device, particularly for those who prioritize a distraction-free digital reading and writing experience.

It builds upon its predecessor with subtle yet impactful refinements, offering a comfortable 10.3-inch E Ink display paired with stylus support for note-taking, annotating PDFs, and even light sketching.

While it might not replace a full-fledged tablet for multimedia consumption or heavy-duty creative work, its strength lies in its specialized focus on reading and handwriting, making it an excellent tool for students, academics, and professionals who spend significant time engaging with text and notes.

If you’re looking for an alternative to paper notebooks and a dedicated e-reader rolled into one, the Elipsa 2E delivers a compelling package.

Product Name Screen Size Stylus Support Storage Options Key Differentiator Price Point Approx.
Kobo Elipsa 2E 10.3 inches Yes 32 GB Excellent for note-taking and reading in one device, adjustable front light. $399.99
Remarkable 2 10.3 inches Yes 8 GB, 32 GB Ultra-thin design, paper-like writing experience, minimalist interface, no backlight. $299 – $399
Kindle Scribe 10.2 inches Yes 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB Deep integration with Kindle ecosystem, versatile stylus options, front light. $339.99 – $419.99
Onyx Boox Note Air 3 C 10.3 inches Yes 64 GB Color E Ink screen Kaleido 3, Android OS for app flexibility, front light. $499.99
Fujitsu Quaderno A4 Gen 2 13.3 inches Yes 32 GB Larger display, exceptional PDF handling, lightweight, premium feel, no backlight. $799.99
Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 11.2 inches Yes optional 128 GB, 256 GB OLED display not E Ink, Android OS, tablet functionality, versatile for multimedia. $349.99
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE 10.9 inches Yes included 128 GB, 256 GB LCD display not E Ink, Android OS, robust app ecosystem, good for mixed use. $449.99

Amazon

0.0
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Kobo Elipsa 2E
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Table of Contents

Design and Build Quality: A Familiar Yet Refined Form Factor

The Kobo Elipsa 2E maintains a design philosophy similar to its predecessor, focusing on ergonomics and practicality for its core function: digital reading and writing. When you first pick it up, you’ll notice the lightweight yet robust construction, which is crucial for a device meant for extended periods of use. Kobo has opted for a plastic build, which contributes to its portability, but it doesn’t feel cheap. Instead, it feels thoughtfully engineered to strike a balance between durability and user comfort.

Ergonomics and Hand-Feel

One of the standout features in the Elipsa 2E’s design is its asymmetrical bezel. This isn’t just a stylistic choice. it’s a deliberate design element aimed at improving ergonomics. The wider bezel on one side provides a natural grip area, allowing you to hold the device comfortably without your thumb encroaching on the screen real estate. Whether you’re right-handed or left-handed, the device intelligently rotates to ensure the wider bezel is always on the side you’re holding, making it adaptable to various preferences. This subtle detail significantly enhances the reading experience, especially during long sessions.

The back panel has a textured finish, offering a better grip compared to smooth plastics that can sometimes feel slippery. This texture also helps to resist fingerprints and minor scuffs, maintaining the device’s aesthetic over time. While it’s not a premium metal or glass finish, the choice of materials aligns with Kobo’s ethos of creating functional and user-friendly devices rather than just flashy gadgets. The overall impression is one of practical elegance, designed for purpose.

Materials and Sustainability Focus

Kobo has made a commendable effort with the Elipsa 2E to incorporate recycled materials, signaling a shift towards greater sustainability in consumer electronics. According to Kobo, the device is made with over 85% recycled plastic, including 10% ocean-bound plastic. This isn’t just marketing fluff. it’s a tangible step towards reducing environmental impact. While the user experience remains paramount, knowing that your device has a smaller carbon footprint is an added benefit for environmentally conscious consumers. This focus on sustainability extends to the packaging as well, which is often minimalist and uses recycled or recyclable materials. It’s a testament to Kobo’s commitment beyond just the device’s immediate functionality.

Display Technology: The E Ink Advantage for Eye Comfort and Note-Taking

The Kobo Elipsa 2E features a 10.3-inch E Ink Carta 1200 display, a critical component that defines its core utility. This isn’t your typical LCD or OLED screen. Yaber Pico T1 Review

E Ink technology offers a vastly different visual experience, particularly beneficial for reading and writing.

E Ink Carta 1200: Clarity and Responsiveness

The E Ink Carta 1200 panel is a significant upgrade over older E Ink generations. What does this mean for you?

  • Improved Contrast: Text appears sharper and darker against the background, mimicking the look of printed paper. This reduces eye strain, especially during extended reading sessions.
  • Faster Page Turns: The refresh rate is noticeably quicker, making page transitions smoother and less jarring. While it’s still not as instantaneous as an LCD, it’s a marked improvement for flow.
  • Enhanced Responsiveness: When using the stylus, the latency is reduced, providing a more natural and fluid writing experience. This is crucial for note-taking, where a delay between pen and “ink” can be frustrating.

Unlike backlit LCD screens that emit light directly into your eyes, E Ink displays reflect ambient light, just like a physical book. This characteristic makes them incredibly comfortable for reading in various lighting conditions, from bright sunlight where LCDs typically struggle with glare to dimly lit rooms with the help of the built-in front light.

ComfortLight PRO: Adjustable Front Light and Color Temperature

One of Kobo’s key features across its premium e-readers is ComfortLight PRO, and it’s fully implemented in the Elipsa 2E. This intelligent front light system allows you to adjust both the brightness and the color temperature of the screen.

  • Brightness Control: You can set the intensity of the light to suit your environment, ensuring readability without being overly bright.
  • Color Temperature Adjustment: This is where ComfortLight PRO truly shines. You can shift the light from a cool, bluish white ideal for daytime reading to a warm, amber hue perfect for evening use. The warmer tones are designed to reduce blue light exposure, which can interfere with sleep patterns. Many users find this feature invaluable for comfortable nighttime reading without disrupting their circadian rhythm. You can even set it to automatically adjust based on the time of day, mimicking natural light cycles.

This combination of E Ink technology and ComfortLight PRO makes the Elipsa 2E an exceptionally eye-friendly device, a primary reason why many choose it over traditional tablets for reading and note-taking. Oneplus Pad Review

Kobo Stylus 2: The Pen-to-Paper Experience Reimagined

The Kobo Elipsa 2E comes bundled with the Kobo Stylus 2, an integral part of its note-taking capabilities. This stylus is designed to provide a writing experience that closely mimics pen on paper, a crucial factor for a successful e-note device.

Writing Latency and Feel

The Kobo Stylus 2, combined with the Carta 1200 display, offers low latency, meaning the “ink” appears on the screen almost instantaneously as you write. This minimal delay is vital for a natural writing flow. If there were a noticeable lag, the experience would feel clunky and frustrating. Kobo has done a good job in optimizing this interaction, making it feel intuitive and responsive.

The pen tip itself is designed to provide a slight friction against the E Ink screen, which contributes significantly to the “paper-like” feel. Unlike writing on a smooth glass tablet, there’s a tactile resistance that makes it feel more akin to using a pen on actual paper. This friction is a deliberate design choice that enhances control and precision, making handwriting feel more natural and less slippery.

Functionality: Eraser and Highlight Buttons

The Kobo Stylus 2 isn’t just a passive input device.

It incorporates two functional buttons that enhance its utility: Corsair Mp600 Core Xt Review

  • Eraser Button: Located near the top, this button instantly turns the stylus into an eraser. This is incredibly convenient for quickly correcting mistakes without having to switch tools on the screen. It works much like the eraser end of a pencil.
  • Highlight Button: Positioned closer to the tip, this button allows you to effortlessly highlight text in documents and books. This is a massive time-saver for students and researchers who frequently annotate their readings. Instead of selecting a highlighting tool from a menu, a simple press of a button transforms the stylus’s function.

These dedicated buttons streamline the note-taking and annotation workflow, making the experience more efficient and less interrupted by menu navigation. The stylus also has a magnetic attachment to the side of the Elipsa 2E, providing a convenient and secure way to store it when not in use. This prevents it from getting lost and ensures it’s always ready when inspiration strikes.

Note-Taking and Annotation Features: Beyond Basic Scribbles

The true power of the Kobo Elipsa 2E lies in its sophisticated note-taking and annotation capabilities. It’s not just an e-reader that lets you scribble.

It’s a dedicated digital notebook designed for various forms of input and organization.

Dedicated Notebooks and Templates

The Elipsa 2E offers a dedicated “Notebooks” section, where you can create new digital notebooks for different subjects or projects. These notebooks are highly customizable:

  • Page Templates: Kobo provides a variety of pre-installed page templates, including: Asus Zenbook S 13 Oled 2023 Review

    • Lined paper: For general writing and notes.
    • Gridded paper: Ideal for math, diagrams, or structured layouts.
    • Dot grid: A versatile option for bullet journaling, sketching, or even more precise writing.
    • Cornell notes: A popular academic format for organizing lecture notes.
    • Blank pages: For freeform drawing or brainstorming.

    This range of templates allows you to tailor your notebooks to specific needs, making the device suitable for a wide array of users, from students to engineers.

  • Customization: You can also adjust pen thickness, pen type ballpoint, fountain pen, brush, and even color though it will appear in grayscale on the E Ink screen, the color information is saved for export. This level of customization ensures your digital notes reflect your personal style and clarity preferences.

PDF and eBook Annotation

This is where the Elipsa 2E truly shines for academic and professional users. You can directly annotate PDFs and Kobo eBooks with the Stylus 2.

  • Freehand Annotations: Write directly on the margins, underline sentences, circle key phrases, or draw diagrams right within the document. This mimics the traditional way of interacting with physical books and papers but with the added benefits of digital files e.g., searchability, easy sharing.
  • Highlighting: Use the stylus’s highlight button to mark important passages. The highlights are integrated into the e-book or PDF, making them easily reviewable.
  • Text Recognition OCR: For handwritten notes within books, Kobo’s software can sometimes perform Optical Character Recognition OCR, allowing you to convert your handwriting into searchable text. While not perfect, it’s a powerful feature for finding specific notes later.
  • Export Options: Once annotated, you can export your PDFs or notebooks as new PDF files with your annotations embedded, PNG images, or even plain text, making it easy to share or archive your work. This is a crucial feature for collaboration or for transferring notes to other devices.

Organization and Search

Kobo’s software provides tools to help you keep your notes organized:

  • Notebook Management: You can name, rename, and arrange your notebooks, making it easy to find specific sets of notes.
  • Basic Search: While not as robust as a full-fledged computer, you can search for keywords within your typed notes and sometimes within converted handwritten notes.
  • Cloud Sync: Notes and annotations are synced with your Kobo account, ensuring they are backed up and accessible across Kobo devices or through the Kobo app though the app’s note-taking capabilities are limited compared to the device itself. This cloud integration provides peace of mind and flexibility.

The note-taking suite on the Elipsa 2E is designed for practical use, offering a streamlined workflow for digital ink. It encourages active engagement with your content, transforming passive reading into an interactive learning and ideation process. Lenovo Slim Pro 7 Gen 8 2023 Review

Reading Experience: A Dedicated E-Reader at Heart

While the Kobo Elipsa 2E boasts impressive note-taking capabilities, at its core, it’s still a Kobo e-reader, meaning it delivers a premium reading experience. Kobo has consistently focused on software features that enhance readability and user comfort, and the Elipsa 2E is no exception.

eBook Formats and Kobo Ecosystem

Kobo is renowned for its open approach to eBook formats, distinguishing itself from some competitors. The Elipsa 2E supports a wide array of file types:

  • EPUB, EPUB3, FlePub: These are the most common and widely supported eBook formats. Kobo’s rendering of EPUBs is excellent, allowing for reflowable text, font adjustments, and comfortable reading.
  • PDF: Critical for academic and professional users, the 10.3-inch screen is large enough to display most PDFs without constant zooming and panning, especially for single-column layouts. The ability to annotate directly on PDFs is a major advantage.
  • MOBI, TXT, HTML, RTF: Support for these older or simpler formats ensures compatibility with a broad range of digital texts.
  • CBR, CBZ: For comic book and graphic novel enthusiasts, the Elipsa 2E can display these formats, though the grayscale E Ink screen might limit the visual impact compared to color tablets.
  • JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP, TIFF: Basic image viewing is also supported.

The Kobo ecosystem itself is robust. You get direct access to the Kobo Store, which boasts millions of titles, including bestsellers, indie books, and public domain works. Beyond the store, Kobo integrates seamlessly with OverDrive, allowing you to borrow eBooks directly from your local public library. This is a massive benefit for budget-conscious readers or those who prefer to “rent” rather than buy books.

Text Customization and Dictionary Lookup

Kobo’s software offers extensive options for customizing your reading experience:

  • Font Selection: Choose from a variety of fonts, including Kobo’s own legible typefaces and the ability to sideload your own fonts.
  • Font Size and Weight: Adjust the size of the text to your preference, and even increase the “weight” or boldness of the font for enhanced readability.
  • Line Spacing and Margins: Fine-tune the spacing between lines and the width of the page margins, ensuring optimal comfort for your eyes.
  • Justification: Choose between left-justified or full-justified text.

For language learners or avid readers, the built-in dictionary lookup is invaluable. Simply tap and hold a word, and a definition will pop up. You can also highlight phrases for translation or search the web directly, though the latter is slower on E Ink. Asrock B650E Pg Itx Review

Dark Mode and Landscape Reading

The Elipsa 2E supports Dark Mode, which inverts the colors so you have white text on a black background. This can be very comfortable for reading in low light conditions, as it further reduces the overall emitted light from the screen.

  • Personal Preference: Some readers simply prefer the wider aspect ratio for a different reading feel.

Combining these features, the Kobo Elipsa 2E provides a highly customizable and comfortable reading experience, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a dedicated e-reader alongside its note-taking prowess.

Performance and Battery Life: A Smooth Ride for E-Ink

When evaluating the Kobo Elipsa 2E’s performance, it’s crucial to remember that it’s an E Ink device, not a multimedia tablet.

Its performance metrics are geared towards its core functions: reading, writing, and navigating its interface, not running graphic-intensive apps or video streaming.

Processor and Responsiveness

Kobo typically doesn’t disclose precise processor details for its devices, but the Elipsa 2E feels snappier and more responsive than older Kobo models. The combination of an optimized processor and the faster Carta 1200 E Ink display results in: Rippling Review

  • Faster Page Turns: Noticeably quicker transitions between pages in eBooks.
  • Smoother Menu Navigation: Browsing the library, adjusting settings, and switching between notebooks feels fluid with minimal lag.
  • Improved Stylus Response: As mentioned earlier, the latency for writing is low, which is perhaps the most critical performance aspect for a note-taking device.

While you might still experience a slight “flash” or full refresh every few pages a characteristic of E Ink to prevent ghosting, the overall user experience is reliable and efficient for its intended purpose. Don’t expect iPad-level speed for opening apps, but for its specialized tasks, it performs admirably.

Storage Capacity: 32 GB for Your Library and Notes

The Kobo Elipsa 2E comes with 32 GB of internal storage. For an e-reader and e-note device, this is a substantial amount:

  • eBooks: A typical eBook is only a few megabytes. 32 GB can hold thousands upon thousands of standard eBooks. You’re unlikely to run out of space for your reading library.
  • PDFs: PDFs can be larger, especially graphic-heavy ones, but 32 GB still provides ample room for hundreds, if not thousands, of academic papers, textbooks, or reference documents.
  • Handwritten Notes: Your digital notebooks, while containing images of your handwriting, are relatively small in file size. You can create hundreds of notebooks without worrying about storage limitations.

For most users, 32 GB will be more than sufficient, eliminating the need for expandable storage which the Elipsa 2E does not offer. It means you can carry your entire reading and note-taking archive with you.

Battery Life: Days, Not Hours

One of the defining advantages of E Ink devices like the Elipsa 2E is their exceptional battery life. Unlike LCD tablets that typically require daily charging, the Elipsa 2E can last for weeks on a single charge, depending on usage.

  • Factors Affecting Battery Life:
    • Front Light Usage: Using the ComfortLight PRO at higher brightness settings will consume more power.
    • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Constant Wi-Fi syncing or downloading books will drain the battery faster.
    • Stylus Usage: Extensive note-taking and frequent screen refreshes for writing will also impact longevity.
  • Typical Usage: With moderate reading an hour or two a day and occasional note-taking, with Wi-Fi off and the light at a reasonable setting, you can easily expect 2-3 weeks of battery life.
  • USB-C Charging: The device charges via a modern USB-C port, which is convenient and allows for faster charging compared to older micro-USB standards.

This long battery life means you can take the Elipsa 2E on long trips, to university classes, or to extended meetings without constantly worrying about finding a power outlet. Canon Powershot V10 Review

It truly embodies the idea of a grab-and-go device for serious reading and writing.

Software and User Interface: Kobo’s Intuitive Experience

Kobo’s software is built on a custom Linux-based system, designed specifically for E Ink devices.

This allows for a highly optimized and focused user experience, devoid of the distractions often found on general-purpose tablets.

The interface is intuitive, clean, and centers around reading and note-taking.

Kobo OS: Simplicity and Focus

The Kobo OS is designed for simplicity and efficiency. When you power on the Elipsa 2E, you’re greeted with a straightforward home screen that prioritizes your current reads, recent notes, and quick access to your library and store. There’s no app drawer filled with distracting social media or gaming apps. This minimalist approach helps you stay focused on the task at hand, whether it’s into a new book or brainstorming ideas in a digital notebook. Acer Aspire Vero 2023 Review

Key elements of the UI include:

  • Home Screen: Displays current reads, recently added books, and quick links to notebooks.
  • My Books: Your full library, sortable by author, title, series, or collection.
  • Notebooks: Where you manage all your digital handwritten notes.
  • Discover: Access to the Kobo Store for purchasing new titles.
  • More: Settings, OverDrive, Pocket integration, and beta features.

The navigation is primarily touch-based, with responsive gestures for page turns, zooming, and menu access.

OverDrive and Pocket Integration

Two of Kobo’s most celebrated software integrations are OverDrive and Pocket:

  • OverDrive: This allows you to connect your public library card directly to your Kobo device and borrow eBooks and audiobooks for free. You can browse your library’s catalog, place holds, and download titles without ever leaving your Elipsa 2E. This feature alone can save avid readers a significant amount of money and is a huge draw for many Kobo users. The seamless integration makes borrowing digital library books as easy as buying them.
  • Pocket: For those who frequently read articles online, Pocket is a fantastic tool. You can save web articles to your Pocket account from your computer or phone, and then sync them to your Elipsa 2E to read later in a distraction-free E Ink format. This is perfect for long-form articles, news features, or blog posts that you want to consume without the glare of a laptop screen or the endless notifications of a phone. It strips away ads and extraneous elements, presenting the content cleanly for optimal reading.

Dropbox and Google Drive Integration

While not as comprehensive as a full Android tablet, the Elipsa 2E does offer useful cloud storage integration for transferring documents:

  • Dropbox: You can link your Dropbox account to your Kobo device. This allows you to easily transfer PDFs, EPUBs, and other supported documents to and from your device. For instance, you can save a research paper to Dropbox on your computer and then effortlessly access it on your Elipsa 2E for reading and annotation.
  • Google Drive: Similarly, Google Drive integration provides another convenient pathway for file transfer.

These cloud integrations streamline the process of getting content onto your device without needing a physical cable connection, making it easier to manage your digital documents across different platforms. Pressable Web Hosting Review

The software updates from Kobo are also relatively consistent, bringing bug fixes and sometimes new features, ensuring the device remains optimized over time.

Comparison to Competitors and Target Audience: Is it the Right Fit for You?

The Kobo Elipsa 2E operates in a niche but growing market of e-note devices.

While it excels in its specific purpose, it’s crucial to understand how it stacks up against its main competitors and for whom it is best suited.

Kobo Elipsa 2E vs. Remarkable 2

The Remarkable 2 is arguably the Elipsa 2E’s most direct competitor and a benchmark in the e-note space.

  • Strengths of Remarkable 2:
    • Unrivaled Writing Feel: Many users claim the Remarkable 2 offers the closest sensation to writing on real paper. Its screen texture and stylus friction are often cited as superior.
    • Minimalist Design: It’s incredibly thin and light, with a focus purely on writing and reading PDFs.
    • No Front Light: This is a double-edged sword. it’s great for daylight but means no reading in the dark without an external light source.
  • Elipsa 2E’s Advantages:
    • Built-in Front Light ComfortLight PRO: Crucial for reading in various lighting conditions, including darkness.
    • Kobo Ecosystem & OverDrive: Direct access to the Kobo Store and public library borrowing is a significant advantage for readers.
    • More Open File Support: Generally handles a wider range of eBook formats more gracefully.
    • Sustainability: Kobo’s commitment to recycled materials is a notable plus.

Verdict: If your absolute priority is the best pure handwriting feel and you don’t mind the lack of a front light or extensive reading features, the Remarkable 2 might appeal. However, if you want a balanced device for both reading and writing, with a front light and a robust eBook ecosystem, the Elipsa 2E is the more versatile choice. Hisense 55 Inch U6 Series Uled Tv 55U6K Review

Kobo Elipsa 2E vs. Kindle Scribe

Amazon’s entry into the e-note market, the Kindle Scribe, brings the vast Kindle ecosystem to the table.

Amazon

  • Kindle Scribe’s Advantages:
    • Amazon Ecosystem: Unparalleled access to Kindle’s massive library and seamless integration for existing Kindle users.
    • Stylus Options: Offers a “Premium Pen” with a customizable shortcut button and an eraser.
    • Larger Storage Options: Available with up to 64 GB.
    • OverDrive Integration: Direct library borrowing, a feature Kindle Scribe lacks.
    • More Robust Notebook Features: Kobo’s notebook organization and template variety are generally more developed. Kindle Scribe’s note-taking on PDFs is good, but its general notebook functionality felt less mature at launch.
    • PDF Annotation Flexibility: Kobo tends to offer better overall PDF handling for annotation and reflow though both have improved.

Verdict: If you’re deeply invested in the Amazon Kindle ecosystem and primarily want to annotate your Kindle books, the Scribe is a strong contender. But if library book borrowing via OverDrive and a more versatile, dedicated note-taking experience for general use are important, the Elipsa 2E often wins out.

Kobo Elipsa 2E vs. Onyx Boox Devices e.g., Note Air 3 C

Onyx Boox devices run on Android, offering a completely different level of flexibility.

  • Onyx Boox Advantages:
    • Full Android OS: Allows installation of third-party apps Kindle, Kobo, Evernote, OneNote, web browsers, etc., offering immense versatility.
    • Color E Ink in some models like Note Air 3 C: Provides a limited color experience, good for charts, graphs, or comic books.
    • More Powerful Hardware: Generally faster processors and more RAM.
    • Simplicity and Focus: Less bloatware, fewer distractions, and a highly optimized E Ink experience.
    • Better Battery Life: Android’s background processes can sometimes drain battery faster on Boox devices.
    • User-Friendly Software: Kobo’s interface is arguably more polished and easier for beginners than Onyx’s more complex system.

Verdict: For power users who crave app flexibility, color E Ink, and a more open system, Onyx Boox devices are superior. However, for those who want a straightforward, distraction-free reading and writing device without the complexities of Android, the Elipsa 2E is a more streamlined and often more reliable choice. It’s a trade-off between versatility and simplicity. K7 Total Security Review

Target Audience for Kobo Elipsa 2E:
The Kobo Elipsa 2E is an excellent fit for:

  • Students: For taking notes in lectures, annotating textbooks, and reading academic papers.
  • Academics and Researchers: For digitalizing their research workflow, marking up PDFs, and organizing extensive notes.
  • Professionals: Who need to read and annotate reports, contracts, or reference documents, and jot down ideas in meetings.
  • Avid Readers: Especially those who borrow books from public libraries via OverDrive, and want to combine their reading with a robust note-taking function.
  • Anyone seeking a distraction-free digital environment: Who wants to escape the endless notifications and temptations of a traditional tablet while still benefiting from digital convenience.

It’s not designed to replace your iPad or Android tablet for video, gaming, or heavy creative work, but for its specific purpose, it offers a compelling, well-rounded solution.

Value for Money: A Solid Investment for Productivity

When assessing the value for money of the Kobo Elipsa 2E, it’s important to consider its multifaceted functionality.

It’s priced similarly to some premium e-readers and entry-level tablets, but its unique blend of features positions it differently.

What You Get for the Price

At its typical retail price, the Kobo Elipsa 2E includes: Clover Dating App Review

  • The 10.3-inch E Ink Carta 1200 device with ComfortLight PRO.
  • The Kobo Stylus 2 which often costs extra with competitors like Remarkable.
  • 32 GB of storage.
  • Access to the Kobo ecosystem, including OverDrive and Pocket integration.

This bundled approach means you’re ready to read and write out of the box, without additional purchases for essential accessories. Compared to traditional tablets that might require separate stylus purchases and offer a vastly different, more distracting experience, the Elipsa 2E is a dedicated productivity tool.

Long-Term Value and Productivity Gains

The true value of the Elipsa 2E emerges over time, particularly for users who integrate it into their daily workflow.

  • Reduced Paper Consumption: For students and professionals who typically go through reams of paper for notes and annotations, the Elipsa 2E offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative in the long run.
  • Digital Organization: All your notes and annotated documents are in one place, searchable, and backed up in the cloud. This eliminates the clutter of physical notebooks and the hassle of scanning documents.
  • Eye Comfort and Focus: The E Ink screen significantly reduces eye strain compared to LCD/OLED screens, leading to more comfortable and longer reading/writing sessions. This improved comfort can translate into increased productivity and less fatigue.
  • Library Savings: For avid readers, the seamless OverDrive integration can lead to substantial savings on book purchases over time, effectively offsetting a portion of the device’s initial cost.

While the initial outlay might seem higher than a basic e-reader, the Elipsa 2E’s ability to serve as both a top-tier e-reader and a capable digital notebook makes it a smart investment for those who prioritize focused digital reading and handwriting. It’s not a cheap gadget, but rather a specialized tool designed to enhance specific aspects of your intellectual and professional life. The value isn’t just in the hardware, but in the optimized experience and the efficiencies it brings to your workflow.

Conclusion: A Refined Contender in the E-Note Arena

The Kobo Elipsa 2E isn’t a revolutionary leap, but rather a thoughtful and well-executed refinement of an already solid concept. It delivers a highly focused experience for those who need a dedicated device for digital reading and handwritten notes, all without the distractions of a full-blown tablet.

Its 10.3-inch E Ink Carta 1200 display is comfortable on the eyes, even during marathon sessions, thanks to its paper-like appearance and the excellent ComfortLight PRO adjustable front light. The included Kobo Stylus 2 provides a responsive and natural writing feel, complete with convenient eraser and highlight buttons that genuinely streamline the annotation process. Kobo’s software, with its robust note-taking features, wide format support, and invaluable OverDrive and Pocket integrations, ensures a seamless and productive user experience. Hp Z4 G5 Review

While it faces stiff competition from the minimalist allure of the Remarkable 2 and the Amazon ecosystem dominance of the Kindle Scribe, the Elipsa 2E carves out its own niche by offering a superior balance of reading features and strong note-taking capabilities. For students, academics, and professionals who frequently engage with text and need to digitize their handwriting, it stands out as a compelling, distraction-free alternative to traditional paper and versatile, yet often distracting, tablets. Its commitment to sustainability with recycled materials is an added bonus for the environmentally conscious.

Amazon

If you’re looking for a device that effortlessly transitions between an immersive e-reader and a capable digital notebook, and you value eye comfort, long battery life, and a focused environment, the Kobo Elipsa 2E is undoubtedly worth your consideration.

It’s a pragmatic investment for enhancing your digital productivity and reading pleasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

The Kobo Elipsa 2E is a 10.3-inch E Ink e-reader and e-note device designed for reading digital books and taking handwritten notes using a stylus. Dji Mavic 3 Pro Review

What are the main improvements of the Elipsa 2E over the original Elipsa?

The Elipsa 2E features an updated E Ink Carta 1200 display for better contrast and responsiveness, and the Kobo Stylus 2 with an integrated eraser button.

It also incorporates more recycled materials in its build.

Does the Kobo Elipsa 2E come with a stylus?

Yes, the Kobo Elipsa 2E comes bundled with the Kobo Stylus 2.

Can I take notes on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Yes, note-taking is a core feature of the Elipsa 2E.

You can create digital notebooks with various templates and annotate PDFs and eBooks directly with the stylus.

Is the Kobo Elipsa 2E good for reading PDFs?

Yes, the 10.3-inch screen size is generally good for reading PDFs, especially single-column documents. You can also annotate PDFs directly.

What is the screen size of the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

The Kobo Elipsa 2E has a 10.3-inch E Ink Carta 1200 touchscreen display.

Does the Elipsa 2E have a front light?

Yes, it features Kobo’s ComfortLight PRO, which allows you to adjust both the brightness and the color temperature of the front light.

How much storage does the Kobo Elipsa 2E have?

The Kobo Elipsa 2E comes with 32 GB of internal storage.

Can I expand the storage on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

No, the Kobo Elipsa 2E does not have an SD card slot for expandable storage.

However, 32 GB is ample for thousands of books and many notes.

What file formats does the Kobo Elipsa 2E support?

It supports EPUB, EPUB3, FlePub, PDF, MOBI, TXT, HTML, RTF, CBR, CBZ for books/documents, and JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP, TIFF for images.

How long does the battery last on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Battery life varies by usage but can last for several weeks on a single charge with moderate reading and note-taking and Wi-Fi off.

Does the Kobo Elipsa 2E support OverDrive?

Yes, the Kobo Elipsa 2E has seamless built-in OverDrive integration, allowing you to borrow eBooks directly from your local public library.

Can I use the Kobo Elipsa 2E to read articles saved from the web?

Yes, it has built-in Pocket integration, allowing you to save web articles from your computer or phone and read them in a distraction-free format on your Elipsa 2E.

Is the Kobo Stylus 2 pressure-sensitive?

Yes, the Kobo Stylus 2 is pressure-sensitive, allowing for varying line thickness based on how hard you press.

Does the Kobo Elipsa 2E have an eraser on the stylus?

Yes, the Kobo Stylus 2 has a dedicated eraser button, making it easy to correct mistakes.

Can I export my notes from the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Yes, you can export your notebooks and annotated PDFs as new PDF files with annotations embedded, PNG images, or plain text files.

Is the screen on the Elipsa 2E glass or plastic?

The screen surface is likely plastic, which contributes to the paper-like friction and durability, often layered over the E Ink panel.

Does the Kobo Elipsa 2E have Wi-Fi?

Yes, it has Wi-Fi connectivity for downloading books, syncing, and using OverDrive/Pocket.

Can I browse the internet on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Yes, it has a basic experimental web browser, but it’s optimized for E Ink and not designed for general web surfing or multimedia.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Dimensions are approximately 195.05 x 227.36 x 7.5mm 7.68 x 8.95 x 0.30 in and it weighs around 390g 13.76 oz.

Is the Kobo Elipsa 2E waterproof?

No, the Kobo Elipsa 2E is not rated as waterproof.

Does the Kobo Elipsa 2E support audiobooks?

Yes, the Kobo Elipsa 2E supports Kobo Audiobooks via Bluetooth for listening with wireless headphones or speakers.

Can I highlight text in eBooks on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Yes, you can highlight text using the stylus, or by pressing and dragging with your finger.

Does the Kobo Elipsa 2E have a dictionary?

Yes, it has a built-in dictionary for quick word lookups.

Can I customize the fonts and text size on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

Yes, Kobo devices offer extensive font and text customization options, including font type, size, weight, line spacing, and margins.

What kind of charging port does the Kobo Elipsa 2E have?

It has a USB-C charging port.

How does the Kobo Elipsa 2E compare to the Remarkable 2 for writing?

Many users feel the Remarkable 2 offers a slightly more “paper-like” writing feel due to its screen texture, but the Elipsa 2E’s writing experience is very good, especially with its front light.

Is the Kobo Elipsa 2E good for students?

Yes, it’s an excellent tool for students for reading textbooks, annotating academic papers, and taking digital notes during lectures.

Can I use third-party apps on the Kobo Elipsa 2E?

No, the Kobo Elipsa 2E runs on Kobo’s proprietary Linux-based OS and does not support third-party Android apps like an Onyx Boox device would.

Is the Kobo Elipsa 2E worth the price?

Yes, for users who prioritize a dedicated, distraction-free device for both extensive digital reading and handwritten note-taking, the Kobo Elipsa 2E offers significant value and productivity gains over time.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *