Discover the Boox Note Max: A Premium E-Paper Tablet Review
Chinese company Onyx International has introduced the Boox Note Max, a powerful e-paper tablet priced at $699. This device features a generous 13.3-inch e-paper display and operates on the open Android 13 system. Accompanied by a stylus, it positions itself as a formidable competitor to the Kindle Scribe, appealing to users who seek a large e-paper slate that excels in both creation and consumption.
After testing the Boox Note Max for several weeks, I found the experience to be enjoyable, despite initial challenges with its interface. Navigating the intricacies of Android on an e-paper slate took some time, but I became fond of this robust device. While the writing experience with the stylus may not rival that of ReMarkable tablets, the Note Max has notable advantages over the Kindle Scribe in several aspects.
What stands out is the price; the Boox Note Max is almost double the cost of the Kindle Scribe and exceeds the price of the ReMarkable Paper Pro, both of which offer different functionalities. As a result, potential buyers may wonder if the additional features of Android 13 and access to the Google Play Store justify the investment.
Key Features and Specifications
The Boox Note Max boasts impressive specifications and user-friendly features. It comes with a 13.3-inch monochrome e-paper display, supporting a resolution of 3200 x 2400 pixels at 300 ppi. The device is powered by a 2.8GHz octa-core CPU and is equipped with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5, and the tablet’s dimensions are 11.3 x 9.6 x 0.18 inches while weighing 21.7 ounces.
Among its strengths, the expansive screen size of the Boox Note Max enhances usability, particularly with its split-screen functionality. This feature enables users to run two applications simultaneously, making it easy to annotate PDF files while taking notes. This versatility is a significant advantage over smaller competitors such as the Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable Paper Pro.
Access to the Google Play Store is another highlight. The device comes pre-installed with several applications, including a web browser and music player, and allows users to download a variety of Android apps. While using traditional apps on an e-paper display can be a challenge due to slower response times, the Note Max’s software tools help optimize app usability.
Pros and Cons of the Boox Note Max
Despite its many strengths, the Boox Note Max does have some drawbacks. Notably, the absence of a backlight can be frustrating. Users need adequate lighting to read comfortably, as the e-paper technology relies on ambient light. While attachable lighting solutions are available, they may not be practical for all situations, such as during travel or in low-light environments. This omission feels particularly significant given that most modern e-readers, including the Kindle, come with built-in lighting options.
Additionally, while the Note Max offers an appealing range of functionalities, the price point raises questions. At $699, it exceeds the cost of an entry-level iPad Air, which starts at $599. Although these devices serve different purposes, the iPad Air provides a brighter, more colorful display, a camera, and a broader selection of applications.
For users who appreciate the unique qualities of an e-paper tablet, the Boox Note Max presents a compelling option. It combines the benefits of a large display with access to various Android applications, making it suitable for note-taking, document annotation, and casual entertainment. However, for those who prioritize a comprehensive tablet experience, alternatives like the iPad Air may offer better value.
In conclusion, the Boox Note Max stands out as a versatile e-paper tablet that caters to a specific audience. While it has its flaws, including the lack of a backlight and a higher price point, it delivers a unique blend of capabilities that can appeal to both creative professionals and avid readers. For anyone seeking a large e-paper slate that bridges the gap between traditional e-readers and Android tablets, the Boox Note Max is certainly worth considering.
