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Why Aren’t White eReaders More Common?
In the world of eReaders, black has become the dominant color choice, with nearly 80% of these devices offered exclusively in varying shades of black or dark gray. But why has this trend persisted despite consumer interest in alternatives like white eReaders? Let’s explore the factors behind this design preference and the few exceptions on the market.
Limited Availability of White eReaders
While white eReaders were more common in the past, few modern models embrace the lighter aesthetic. Amazon’s Kindle lineup, for instance, predominantly features black or dark bezels. Although earlier generations of Kindles—like the first three iterations—offered white casing options, newer models, including the Kindle Paperwhite, have shifted to black displays even when available in alternate back colors. Today, the new Kindle Scribe is the only Kindle boasting a mostly white design, though it’s not truly monochromatic as the back and sides incorporate different colors like tungsten or jade.
Kobo stands out with its white Kobo Libra Colour, a device that has gained significant popularity. Yet, among Kobo’s current lineup of five models, this is their sole white option, raising questions about why the trend hasn’t extended to other eReaders in its range. Readers curious about Kobo’s other offerings may want to check out whether the Black-and-White Kobo Libra is making a comeback. Another major brand, PocketBook, leans entirely toward black models in its wide catalog, making white versions scarce across the eReader market.
That said, white is more common in eNote devices. Products like the Boox Note Max and Boox Go 10.3 are exclusively available in white, as are Remarkable tablets, which feature light gray designs that complement the tone of E Ink screens.
Historical Design Influences
Before the advent of front-lit eReaders, black devices were favored due to better screen contrast and an optical illusion where text appears darker against a black frame. This effect made reading more visually appealing. However, the introduction of frontlight technology diminished the need for black bezels to enhance contrast. Frontlights now create a whiter page background, allowing white-cased eReaders to blend seamlessly with the screen and even enhance the “paper-like” visual aesthetic. Yet, the industry hasn’t fully embraced these changes, with black remaining the dominant choice.
Practical Concerns with White Devices
Part of the hesitation to produce white eReaders stems from practical concerns. White plastic can be more expensive to manufacture than black, and it tends to reveal wear, stains, and discoloration more visibly over time. Additionally, some consumers argue that white bezels accentuate screen imperfections and cause visual distractions during use, though others find white designs provide a calming and clean reading experience.
The Consumer Perspective: A Growing Divide
The debate over white vs. black eReaders highlights a stark divide in consumer preferences. While some readers rave about the sleek and refreshing appearance of white designs, others cite functionality and durability concerns in their preference for dark-colored devices. With white eReaders like the Kobo Libra Colour achieving notable success, manufacturers might consider expanding color options to cater to diverse consumer needs. Readers interested in seeing how color customization could reshape the industry may also take note of innovations like TCL’s NxtPaper 4.0, which tackles display design in wholly unique ways. After all, many readers agree that color diversity—not just black or white—can create a more engaging and personalized reading experience.
While the future of eReader colors remains uncertain, the demand for white devices continues to highlight an opportunity for brands to innovate and diversify.
