I’m not ashamed to admit the Kobo Remote is the best gadget I’ve bought this year
Published: (March 4, 2026 at 06:30 AM EST)
2 min read
Source: The Verge
Source: The Verge
Overview
Do you really need a remote for a device you’re already holding or using at arm’s length? E‑readers have already saved us from paper cuts and the hassle of physically turning pages, and Kobo is taking convenience a step further with a wireless page‑turning remote. While indulgent and basic, the Remote maximizes convenience—exactly what you want when unwinding with a good book.
Design and Build
- Size: Just shy of 4 inches long, roughly the size of a pack of Juicy Fruit.
- Ergonomics: Small enough for large hands yet comfortable to hold, and unlikely to get lost in the sheets if dropped.
- Lanyard: Includes an optional wrist lanyard that has prevented loss on several occasions.
Battery and Pairing
- Power: No rechargeable battery; the included AAA cell is said to last for months.
- Compatibility: Connects only to Kobo devices that support Bluetooth for audiobooks.
- Pairing: As simple as pairing headphones—once paired, the remote automatically reconnects when the Kobo wakes. A front‑edge button can manually activate pairing mode for other e‑readers.
Buttons and Functionality
- Controls: Two clicky buttons—larger for next page, smaller for previous page.
- Tactile Differentiation: One button is concave, the other convex, making them easy to distinguish by touch.
- Limitations:
- No customization of button functions.
- Cannot adjust screen brightness or font size.
- Audiobook users cannot change volume or pause playback; the buttons only skip forward or back 30 seconds.
Use Cases
- Bedside Reading: Ideal for users who keep their Kobo on a bedside stand and want to stay under the covers.
- Side‑lying Comfort: Allows page turns without awkwardly reaching over the device.
- On the Move: Makes reading on a treadmill easier.
- Gloved Hands: Helpful for e‑readers lacking physical buttons, enabling page turns while wearing gloves during cold commutes.
- Mess‑Free Reading: Keeps the screen free of greasy fingerprints when snacking.
Where to Buy
Photography by Andrew Liszewski / The Verge