It's been a while since we've had any new releases from Kobo, and the wait was worth it. Finally, the company has released two new e-readers: the Sage and Libra 2. These devices are very similar in terms of features, but they have different price points to make them more attractive to readers. We get a first look at both products to decide which one is right for you in this post.

The all-new Kobo e-readers

Kobo was very kind to send me demo units for their two new products: the Kobo Sage and the Kobo Libra 2. I have ordered a Kobo Sage for myself, and I will do a more in-depth review once it arrives. But for now, please make an initial glimpse at Kobo's two new devices and see what they can do.

Size and form factor

The first thing you can notice with the Kobo Libra 2 and the Sage is their small size. Compared to other tablets, they have a smaller size, and their shape is almost square. However, the form factor is excellent and feels good to touch and handle. The Libra 2 and Sage are a bit bigger and thicker than the Kobo Forma, which I primarily use as my e-reader. Also, the wide bezel portion of the Kobo Forma has a matte finish, whereas both the Libra 2 and Sage have a more shiny, glossy look.

A nifty case

My demo units came with a case for both the Libra 2 and Sage, and they have this clever feature. You can fold a portion of the case backward, making it have a stand and allowing you to prop the devices in a standing position. This feature makes it possible to put the devices on a table and read while you're sitting on a chair. It's a handy feature that allows you to rest your hands if you feel tired from holding the device while reading e-books.

Audiobook support

Both the Kobo Libra 2 and the Kobo Sage have audiobook support, and you can listen to them through a Bluetooth connection. This functionality provides a new dimension of reading through audio. So if you have some wireless headphones or a Bluetooth speaker, you can pair them up and listen to audiobooks through your device.

Screen brightness

The Libra 2 and Sage have brightness settings to configure how bright or dim you want your screen to look. There's also a temperature setting to make the screen look cooler by having a bluish tint or making it look warmer and have that yellowish tint. Both e-readers also have better contrast when compared to the Kobo Forma.

Note-taking capability

Kobo's two new e-readers pretty much have the same features and functionality, but what sets apart the Sage is its note-taking capability. It has stylus support so you can take notes on it, and it's possible to write using a different stylus brand. I tried writing on the Sage, and you can take notes using its notebook function. You can even write on the e-books that you have and make marks like underlines or highlights. The notes you create can then be seen as annotations so you can review them later. You can also adjust the font size. The writing feel is okay, but it's not on the same level as the reMarkable 2.

Final thoughts

Kobo has won me over with their two new devices. If you like to read e-books or listen to audiobooks, the Libra 2 and the Sage are something you should consider getting. The Libra 2 works as an e-reader, while the Sage does the same with the added functionality of note-taking. You can order both devices online, and you also have the option to buy a cover and a stylus for the Sage. If you have the extra money to buy a new e-reader and are looking for something else other than a Kindle, Kobo's new devices might win you over.