The Boox Palma 2 Pro, priced at $400, is a sleek e-reader resembling a smartphone, tailored for individuals who enjoy reading books, articles, and documents on a compact E Ink display. Beyond a simple reading device, it operates on Android and is compatible with Google Play, giving users the option to download third-party applications. It effectively combines features of both a Kindle and a small Android tablet.
My interest in the Palma 2 Pro stemmed from its portable size. I often find myself reading on my side at night, and most e-readers tend to be awkwardly shaped and cumbersome to hold. I already own a Kindle but frequently resorted to reading on my iPhone for comfort. Unfortunately, prolonged reading on my phone led to eye strain. After spending two months testing the Palma 2 Pro, I found it significantly improved my reading experience.
The front-lit display offers adjustable cool and warm lighting, which was particularly beneficial during nighttime reading. I preferred this feature since I wanted to avoid disturbing my sleeping partner. Although smartphones allow for brightness adjustments, the Palma 2 Pro can be dimmed to an impressively low level. Even in complete darkness, I could read comfortably without straining my eyes or bothering my husband.
The Palma 2 Pro also proved to be lighter than my iPhone, weighing just 175 grams, making it easier to hold for extended periods.
Its compact design made it easy to carry, fitting comfortably in my everyday purse, which wasn’t large enough for a Kindle. This encouraged me to read during moments that I would typically spend scrolling on my phone.
Unlike traditional e-readers, the Palma 2 Pro allows users to install apps such as Kindle, Kobo, and Libby, along with those for audiobooks, podcasts, and email. This flexibility lets you choose your preferred reading application instead of relying solely on the built-in one.
Thanks to app accessibility, this compact E Ink device transforms into a multifunctional gadget for reading, learning, and productivity. However, it’s worth noting that as you navigate through these applications, some may feel sluggish due to a lack of optimization for E Ink. While the device can display color, its images may not match the vibrancy of a standard smartphone screen.
For me, the Palma 2 Pro became my primary device for both reading and listening to audiobooks, providing a distraction-free experience that a smartphone typically does not offer.
The device includes a rear camera, a built-in speaker for audio playback, and a hybrid SIM slot for mobile data access.
Additionally, it supports stylus compatibility for note-taking and PDF markup, but I couldn’t evaluate this aspect as I did not receive a stylus with my review.
When it comes to battery life, the device lasted about 5 to 7 days. While this was sufficient for my needs, it may be less appealing to users accustomed to Kindles that can last for weeks. Turning off Wi-Fi can help extend the battery life if needed.
One drawback I noticed, particularly for a device in this price range, was the significant ghosting effect. Text from previous pages would sometimes remain visible when turning to a new page or returning to the home screen. There is a refresh button to clear this, but it might be bothersome for some users to have to use it frequently.
In summary, the Boox Palma 2 Pro is an excellent option for a specific type of reader seeking a smartphone-sized device for comfort, portability, and access to a variety of applications. It may not be the ideal choice for those loyal to Kindle products, but for anyone looking to reduce eye strain from prolonged phone use, it’s worth considering the Palma 2 Pro as a great alternative.
However, its elevated price tag might make you ponder if the enhanced versatility and portability justify the cost. It’s also noteworthy that Boox will soon launch a standard version, the Palma 3, priced at $340, featuring a black-and-white display and replacing the Palma 2.
