Adjustable font size, easy on the eyes, and available in Canada with real prices.
An e-reader solves the large print problem permanently. Instead of hunting for specific large print editions, you buy any book and set the text to whatever size works for you — 14 point, 24 point, 36 point, whatever you need.
Here's what matters for seniors and low-vision readers: screen size, font adjustability, weight, and ease of use. Not megapixels or app ecosystems.
Kobo is a Canadian company (Rakuten Kobo, headquartered in Toronto). The Libra Colour has a 7-inch colour E Ink screen, physical page-turn buttons (no fumbling with the touchscreen), and adjustable font sizes from tiny to enormous. Waterproof, so you can read in the bath without worry.
It works with OverDrive, meaning you can borrow library books directly on the device. No need for a separate app. Connect your library card once, and you're set.
The most popular e-reader in the world. 6.8-inch glare-free display, adjustable warmth (easier on the eyes at night), and a battery that lasts weeks. Font size is infinitely adjustable — you can also change boldness and line spacing.
The main downside for Canadians: no built-in library integration. You need to use the Libby app on your phone or tablet to send library books to your Kindle. It works, but it's an extra step.
Same as the Paperwhite but with 32GB storage, wireless charging, and an auto-adjusting front light. The extra storage matters if you keep hundreds of books. Wireless charging means no fiddly USB cables.
A 6-inch colour E Ink screen at a lower price. Good for someone who wants a Kobo but doesn't need the larger screen or physical buttons. Still has full font adjustment and library integration.
If font size is your main concern and money isn't tight, the Scribe's 10.2-inch screen is the biggest option. Text at 18pt on a 10-inch screen is genuinely comfortable. Also doubles as a notebook for handwritten notes.
It's heavy compared to other e-readers (433g vs ~200g for a Paperwhite), so not ideal for reading in bed with one hand.
| Model | Screen | Price (CAD) | Library Books | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kobo Libra Colour | 7" | $229 | Built-in OverDrive | Overall best for Canadians |
| Kindle Paperwhite | 6.8" | $179 | Via Libby app | Best value |
| Kindle PW Signature | 6.8" | $219 | Via Libby app | Wireless charging, more storage |
| Kobo Clara Colour | 6" | $169 | Built-in OverDrive | Budget option |
| Kindle Scribe | 10.2" | $459 | Via Libby app | Largest text possible |
A physical large print book is typically set at 16pt. You can't change that.
An e-reader lets you set text at 24, 32, or even 48 point — far larger than any printed book. If your vision is getting worse over time, an e-reader adapts with you.
You also get adjustable boldness, line spacing, and background colour. Many seniors find a sepia (cream-coloured) background easier than white. And the built-in light means no more reading lamps or awkward angles.
That said, some people strongly prefer physical books, and that's a perfectly valid choice. We wrote an honest comparison of audiobooks vs large print that covers the tradeoffs. Also see our deeper Kobo vs Kindle comparison.