On E-ink Tablets

I feel that e-ink device has gained a lot of popularity recently. Especially an e-ink notetaking device. But a lot of people seems to think that it does more than it actually do.

Many people that e-ink tablet will solve all their problem. This is obviously not true. There’s a sentiment that e-ink device is better for focusing because it is not a phone. This may be true for devices like Kindle, but many e-ink tablets run Android, allowing you to procrastinate as much as you want.

I believe that the main benefit of using e-ink tablet is that it could easily replace paper notebook. The e-ink screen is already easier on the eyes than LCD screen on regular tablet. And because it is digital, it’s better at organisation than a regular notebook. But you still need to use it properly and have your own organisation. You don’t have to think if you want to start a new physical notebook or not.

My personal recommendation is that: if you previously use iPad or Galaxy Tab, I’d recommend you look into Onyx Boox device. If you previously use pen and paper, I’d recommend you to look into Supernote device.

The above is a general suggestion. If you have a specific requirement, like you want an 13.3", then you probably want Onyx Boox device because Supernote doesn’t make one.

E-ink device is just a tool — it depends on how you use it. It is also quite a luxury item. Cheap paper notebook will still do pretty much what you needed.

Addendum: What I am using in 2024

My current tech loadout is as follows:

• Sony Xperia I VI: mainly for camera.
• ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10: My main computing device.
• Supernote A6X: my main e-notebook. This replaces¹ my notebooks. I really wanted the A6X2 but my A6X is still very good.
• Quaderno A6 Gen 2: still very good to replace loose-leaf A4 paper.
• Kobo Libra Colour: I have since replaced my Kindle with Kobo. This is my dream device: colour with pen support. This allows me to proofread books easily.
• Bonus: Ayaneo Pocket Air: an android gaming device I mostly use to play retro game.