Onyx Boox or reMarkable Paper Pro? Comparing 2 Popular e-ink Devices

I’ve had the chance to explore both the reMarkable Paper Pro and Onyx Boox devices (for this blog, I’ll be highlighting the 3C model).

I want to now dive deep into a side-by-side comparison of these two leading e-ink devices. With the introduction of front-lit displays and color e-ink technology, the choice between these tablets for productivity and creativity has become more complex.

Join me as I explore their key features, form factors, display performance, software capabilities, and what sets them apart in terms of writing experience and overall functionality.

If you’re torn between these devices and trying to decide which is best for your needs — whether for note-taking, digital planning, or an all-in-one productivity tool — I hope this will help you make an informed decision.

Whether you prefer the distraction-free simplicity of the Remarkable or the Android-powered versatility of the Onyx Boox, there’s something for everyone.

Comparing the reMarkable Paper Pro vs. Onyx Boox Air 3C: Which E-Ink Tablet is Best for You?

With some great options for e-ink tablets, the choice between the reMarkable Paper Pro and the Onyx Boox Air 3C is becoming a common dilemma. Both devices offer powerful tools for productivity, digital planning, and e-reading, but they serve different needs. Whether you’re seeking a distraction-free workspace or a multi-functional device, this comparison will help you decide which e-ink tablet is the right fit for your lifestyle.

1. Form Factor & Design

reMarkable Paper Pro:

• The Paper Pro builds on the slim, minimalist design of previous reMarkable models with one noticeable improvement — a reduction in the bezel size. This provides more screen real estate, giving users an enhanced writing experience while maintaining a lightweight profile.
• The device retains the signature bottom bezel, but with a thinner overall body and a new magnetic charging system for the stylus.

Onyx Boox Air 3C:

• The Air 3C is slightly smaller and offers a more compact design compared to the Paper Pro. It also has bezels along both the left and right sides, making it easy to hold in either landscape or portrait mode.
• The thickness of the Air 3C is comparable to the Paper Pro, but one feature that sets it apart is its color e-ink display, giving users vibrant visuals, especially helpful when viewing colored PDFs or illustrations.

Winner:

• Tie: For those who value a distraction-free, large writing surface, the Paper Pro is ideal. If portability and color capabilities are important, the Air 3C stands out.

2. Display & Front-Lit Technology

reMarkable Paper Pro:

• The reMarkable Paper Pro introduces a front-lit display, which is a first for reMarkable products. This feature allows users to write and read in dim lighting conditions without the need for an external light source. The light illuminates from the front, preserving the paper-like reading experience and ensuring a smooth, glare-free display.

Onyx Boox Air 3C:

• The Boox Air 3C also includes a front-lit display but adds a significant advantage: color e-ink technology. The front-lit display not only improves visibility in low light but also enhances the vibrant color experience. Additionally, the device allows users to adjust the brightness and warmth of the display, making it ideal for use in different lighting conditions.

Winner:

• Onyx Boox Air 3C: The Air 3C’s adjustable lighting and color e-ink display make it the clear winner for those who need color or customization in various lighting conditions.

3. Writing Experience

reMarkable Paper Pro:

• With a focus on creating a distraction-free writing experience, the Paper Pro is built for users who want a seamless, paper-like writing surface. It supports various pen types (e.g., ballpoint, fine line, highlighter) and offers color options for notes and annotations. Its hyper-responsive stylus and anti-glare display provide a natural, tactile writing experience.

Onyx Boox Air 3C:

• While the Air 3C also offers a strong writing experience, its advantage lies in the Android ecosystem. This means users can integrate third-party apps like OneNote, Noteshelf, and Nebo for extended note-taking and digital planning features. The stylus also offers great precision, but it doesn’t quite match the reMarkable’s paper-like feel.

Winner:

• reMarkable Paper Pro: For pure writing and note-taking, the Paper Pro feels more like real paper and offers a more refined experience. However, if app integration is important, the Boox Air 3C may be more appealing.

4. Productivity & Features

reMarkable Paper Pro:

• The Paper Pro’s greatest strength is its simplicity and focus. Its software is distraction-free, keeping users engaged with writing, reading, and annotating without the temptation of notifications, apps, or other distractions. It’s perfect for those who need a digital solution for note-taking, document management, and PDF annotation.

Onyx Boox Air 3C:

• The Air 3C is an all-in-one productivity tool. Built on Android, it offers access to the Google Play Store, where users can download a range of apps. This makes the Air 3C more versatile, allowing users to browse the web, listen to audiobooks, access email, and even use apps like Kindle for e-reading. While this flexibility is valuable, it can also introduce distractions.

Winner:

• Onyx Boox Air 3C: If you want an all-encompassing digital tool, the Air 3C’s access to apps and the Android platform make it the more versatile choice. However, if focus and productivity are key, the Paper Pro’s simplicity wins.

5. Software & Ecosystem

reMarkable Paper Pro:

• The reMarkable ecosystem is designed for note-taking and writing, with robust tools for organizing documents, notes, and PDFs. It integrates with popular cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox and offers a Connect Plan for advanced features like cloud storage and handwriting conversion.

Onyx Boox Air 3C:

• Powered by Android, the Air 3C provides access to a wealth of apps and features. Users can install productivity tools, writing apps, and entertainment apps like YouTube or Spotify, turning the Air 3C into a multipurpose device. However, this also means dealing with typical Android quirks and potential distractions.

Winner:

• reMarkable Paper Pro: For those looking for a clean, focused ecosystem, reMarkable’s proprietary software is unbeatable. The Air 3C’s Android ecosystem offers more versatility but can be overwhelming for users who prefer simplicity.

6. Price & Value

reMarkable Paper Pro:

• The Paper Pro is on the premium end of the market, but it justifies its price with its focus on providing a top-tier digital writing experience.

Onyx Boox Air 3C:

• While slightly more affordable, the Air 3C offers a broader range of features with its color display and app integration, making it a better value for those who need more from their device than just note-taking.

Winner:

• Onyx Boox Air 3C: When it comes to versatility and overall value, the Air 3C offers more bang for your buck. However, if writing and note-taking are your primary use, the Paper Pro’s premium cost is justified.

Final Verdict: Which is Right for You?

Choosing between the reMarkable Paper Pro and the Onyx Boox Air 3C ultimately depends on what you need from your e-ink tablet. If you’re looking for distraction-free writing and note-taking, the reMarkable Paper Pro stands out as a purpose-built tool with a paper-like feel. However, if you need a versatile e-ink device that can handle a variety of tasks, from note-taking to web browsing, the Onyx Boox Air 3C is your best bet.

Which device will you choose for your productivity needs? Let us know in the comments!

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