The $400 Boox Palma 2 Pro is a smartphone-sized e-reader designed for people who want to read books, articles and documents on a small E Ink display. However, it offers more than just an engaging reading experience as it runs Android and supports Google Play, giving you access to third-party apps. Think of it as a cross between a Kindle and a compact Android tablet.
What drew me to review the Palma 2 Pro was its size. When I’m not reading a physical book, I like to lie on my side and read at night before bed. Most e-readers are squarish and hard to hold without something like a PopSocket, and they can feel too big to read while lying down. So even though I own a Kindle, I often read on my iPhone simply because it was more comfortable in my hand. But reading on your phone for too long can naturally cause eye strain. The Palma 2 Pro finally solved this problem for me during the two months I tested it.
The device’s front-lit screen lets you choose between cool and warm lighting. This was a big plus for me, because when I read in bed at night, I don’t want to disturb my sleeping husband with the light. While you can turn down the brightness on a smartphone, the Palma 2 Pro can be dimmed to an exceptionally low level. Even when reading in complete darkness, I could see the screen clearly without straining my eyes or disturbing my husband.
Not only was the Boox Palma 2 Pro easier on my eyes, but it was also noticeably lighter than my iPhone, weighing just 175 grams and making it even more comfortable to hold.
And because it’s pocketable, I ended up carrying it everywhere, from the doctor to the airport, especially since it fits in my small, everyday purse, which isn’t big enough for a Kindle. So, in moments when I would normally be scrolling on my phone, I did a little reading instead.
Because it’s not a locked e-reader, you can download apps like Kindle, Kobo, and Libby, as well as apps for audiobooks, podcasts, read-it-later services, and email. This means you don’t have to use the built-in reader app, and can choose to read on your favorite app.
Access to apps makes the compact E Ink device a versatile tool for reading, research and productivity. It’s worth noting that when scrolling through these apps, animations and some interfaces feel sluggish because not all apps are optimized for E Ink. And while the device is capable of displaying color, the images will definitely look less vibrant than if they had a smartphone screen.
For me, the Palma 2 Pro is a dedicated device for reading and listening to audiobooks, which allowed me to enjoy the best of both worlds without the usual distractions that come with a smartphone.
The Boox Palma 2 Pro also has a rear camera for scanning documents, a built-in speaker for listening to audio without headphones, and a hybrid SIM slot for cellular data on the go.
The device is compatible with a stylus, so you can take notes and mark up PDFs. However, I cannot speak to that experience as I did not receive a stylus with my review unit.
In terms of battery life, the device lasted about 5-7 days, which worked for me but could be a disadvantage for people used to Kindles, which can last for weeks on a single charge. Additionally, if you want to get more juice out of the device, you can just turn off Wi-Fi.
One downside I have found, especially for an e-reader at this price point, is that there is quite a bit of ghosting. Text from a previous page may remain on the screen when you turn to the next page or return to the home screen. There is a refresh button in the navigation bar that clears them quickly, but it can get annoying for some users to do this over and over again.
I think the Boox Palma 2 Pro is a great device for a very specific type of reader: someone who wants a smartphone-sized device for convenience, portability, as well as access to apps. If you are someone who loves your Kindle, I don’t think this device is for you. But if you, like me, are tired of reading on your phone and dealing with eye strain or headaches, the Boox Palma 2 Pro is a great option.
Of course, the price is pretty steep for an e-reader, so you’ll have to decide if the added versatility and portability is worth the extra cost. It is worth mentioning that Boox will soon launch a non-Pro Palma 3 for $340 that will have a black and white display and will replace the Palma 2.
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