Recently, I saw a Youtube short on this device called BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader. It got me so curious and as I looked at more YouTube reviews on it, I got more interested.
Table of Contents
So I bought one at Shopee app 🙂 To try it out….
Of course, I have alway been a fan of Kindle since it was first appeared in the world. My latest Kindle is actually the cheap Kindle 2022. But I have many other Kindle before too.
Why I buy the BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader
On paper, when reviewing the Youtube videos, this interesting device seemed to solve a lot of issues I have with the Kindle. Your own reasons might varied with your own usage.
The size of this device
The size of this device looks very good to use on large reading sessions. It is not as big as the smallest Kindle which would be much easier to hold on to. I can imagine bringing it around in my Uniqlo’s viral sling bag 🙂
And as I grow older and if I travel more, I would like to use this on my plane rides and train rides across the globe. Or even locally during train rides. Without taking out the larger Kindle gadget. It seemed to feel larger and heavier as I grow older and older :p
Let’s compare the size with a Kindle 2022.
And an iPhone 14 Pro Max
Allowing me to use more than just Kindle app
In a Kindle, you can only read Kindle books (or ePub books you sent to Kindle). In an Android BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader, you can install Android apps 🙂
Here’s the Kindle app running on the “phone”.
From a Singaporean’s point of view, the National Library extensive ebook library is supported by a Libby app. Using a Libby app, you can borrow library books and magazines etc from it. You cannot install a Libby app on a Kindle. You can install Libby app on a BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader 🙂
Here’s photos of this Android device with Libby and National Library Of Singapore.
And also RSS feed readers such as FreshRSS feeds on my home server. And also other maybe other ebook reading app. I am not much of an audio book listener but that can be done on the BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader too and I have access to a large number of *free* (ah-hem) audio books.
And in fact, the BOOX Palma comes with its own reading app too. Supported by its own “ebook sending” software that is much faster than Kindle “Send by Email” functionality. It worked pretty well when I tested it out at https://push.boox.com and it comes with iPhone and iPad apps too for that. This then allows you to send ebooks (such as ePub books) easily over your local network.
It is an Ebook Reader
Now, to be clear, none of the above reasons are necessarily “solved” by the BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader. You can do the above in any Android phone or iPhone.
In fact, I regularly end up reading Kindle on my iPhone. But to be good for long reading comfort, an Ebook reader with e-ink technology is good for the eyes. That is almost a must as LED phones can be bad for your eyes if you read too long in the dark on them.
Unboxing photos of the BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader
So let’s check out the unboxing photos of my new gadget 🙂
The mandatory HELLO WORLD photo
We interrupted the unboxing with the case…. As promised, it came with a free case. Not the full covered cover casing but just a back casing. Nevertheless, that’s exactly what I wanted (okay I actually wanted a transparent one but it is crazily expensive in Amazon).
The actual case is in white.. nice..
[Update on 25th Nov 2024] : The White Casing is nice but recently I got a really cheap transparent casing for the BOOX Palma eBook Reader at Shopee. When I first bought this Palma ebook reader, there was not much cheap casing on Shopee. But now, there is. It is so nice to see a fresh transparent cover !
Back to the actual device..
Comes with a USB C Charging cable which I don’t plan to use. I have my Apple USB-C cable and it worked.
Wait.. SIM card ejector pin ? No lah.. SD Card Slot Ejector Pin 🙂
Unless you read a Zillion Books, I doubt you ever need a SD card for this ebook reader.. but of course, you can always load it with photos and videos and what have you … to watch on an e-ink screen. 🙂 🙂
Booting up for the first time..
And hello world with my home screen
About the BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper Reader
The BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper offers you a compact, portable design with an E Ink display that feels like real paper. You’ll appreciate its long battery life and support for various e-book formats. It seamlessly integrates with major reading apps, making it easy to carry your entire library. Despite its much higher price and limited note-taking capabilities, it provides an immersive experience that’s easy on your eyes.
It is running on Android 11 (seriously ??!) with an octa-core CPU and 8 GB of RAM and it offers a fast, user-friendly experience. The sleek designs and 6-inch screens make it stylish and handy. It has of course the E ink display, customizable brightness, and a warm light option for night reading.
While the small screen limit video viewing (I mean are you really going to watch an Youtube video on a ebook device ?!), it is perfect for reading and basic media tasks, all accessible in one place. It does provide good value with features like expandable storage and built-in speakers, making them versatile and efficient.
Key Takeaways
- The BOOX Palma Mobile Epaper features a compact and portable design ideal for on-the-go use.
- It has an E Ink display that simulates real paper, reducing eye strain and enhancing the reading experience.
- The device supports various e-book formats and integrates seamlessly with major reading apps.
- It offers long battery life, ensuring extended, uninterrupted reading sessions.
- Despite its higher price point, it provides significant value through its immersive reading experience and versatile features.
Technical Specifications
The modern e-reader runs on Android 11, powered by an octa-core CPU and 8 GB of RAM, ensuring a fast and smooth user experience. But seriously, it is just Android 11.
The 128 GB storage, expandable via micro SD card, means I won’t run out of space anytime soon. However, budget considerations are essential. Kindle is much cheaper (and I am shocked to be writing that).
Reading Experience
With the impressive technical specifications in mind, I find that the reading experience on this modern e-reader is exceptionally immersive and enjoyable.
It even came with its own “Ebook” Store but of course, it is just free gutenberg books. But you can easily download them and then read them on the provided E-Book reader (called NIO reader).
I downloaded The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, one of the books I read when I was very young as a boy. I then use the provided ebook reader to read it. No need for Kindle or Libby or other stuff from Google Play Store.
The e ink advantages really come into play, providing a paper-like display that’s easy on the eyes, even during long reading sessions.
I love how the screen customization options let me adjust font size and screen brightness to fit my preferences. For more cases, you will want to choose “HD” for maximum reading pleasure.
The warm light feature is perfect for night reading, making me feel cozy and connected to my reading community.
Plus, having access to all my favorite reading apps in one place adds a sense of belonging and convenience.
Media Viewing is a Joke
Media viewing on this e-reader, while functional, has its limitations especially when compared to more versatile devices. I find the video limitations a bit frustrating; the small screen and lack of high-resolution capability make watching videos less enjoyable.
Since the device relies solely on Wi-Fi connectivity, streaming can be a hassle if you’re not near a good signal. The lack of a SIM card adds to this inconvenience, restricting access to media platforms that require constant connectivity.
Despite these drawbacks, the e-reader handles basic media tasks adequately. It’s not a replacement for a tablet or smartphone, but it’s nice to have some media options on hand for light viewing when reading fatigue sets in.
User Experience
Browsing through the e-reader’s interface feels intuitive and seamless, making my reading sessions enjoyable and hassle-free. I appreciate how it adapts to my personal preferences, from customizable home screens to adjustable font sizes and screen brightness.
I love how the Volume Buttons can be customised (at the APP LEVEL, not just OS Level) to be page turners… for example, in this photo, you can see I set up Volume Buttons to be turning pages in Kindle and Libby.
The warm light option is perfect for night reading, adding to my comfort. Budget considerations were essential when I chose this model, and I feel it offers great value for its price. The compact size lets me carry it anywhere, fitting snugly in my bag.
There is also a REFRESH BUTTON to refresh e-ink screen.
Testing the device before buying was a smart move, ensuring it met my needs. Overall, the user experience feels tailored just for me, making it a beloved part of my daily routine.
Summary of Pros and Cons
Best For: Avid readers seeking a portable, eye-friendly device with a real paper feel and long battery life.
Pros:
- Compact size, making it easy to carry and use on the go.
- E Ink display reduces eye strain and provides an immersive reading experience.
- Integration with major reading apps and expandable storage for versatility.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to similar devices, which may deter some buyers.
- Limited note-taking capabilities that could be improved.
- Occasional issues with dead pixels affecting display quality.
Bonus Photos of Me Holding E-Book Readers with one hand
Just being silly…
Kindle
iPhone 14 Pro Max
And BOOX Palmer e-book Reader Phone
Transferring ePub from iPhone or iPad to BOOX Palma
To transfer books directly from iPhone or iPad (or even your laptop) to the BOOX Palma, you can download the “BOOX Assistant on the App Store”.
Then you can also at the same time, open the BOOXDROP app on the BOOX Palmer. They are both connected to your wifi.
Then the transfer can be done 🙂
And yes, I could not help it.. I downloaded 金庸作品全集 (全36册) and going to read my 倚天屠龙记 for the 2,351 time 🙂
BOOX Palmer and Tailscale and FreshRSS
And yes, I gave in to the urge. I tried it out. My RSS feed host is on my self hosted FreshRSS docker (on my Synology NAS) and in order to access it, you need to use Tailscale. Since the ebook reader cum Android device can download Android app, I downloaded Tailscale and then downloaded FeedMe Android RSS reader and then connect to my RSS hosting.
And it worked. But you need to change the refresh to Fast or Ultrafast for it to work better. Not a very delightful reading experience. I think I will stick to my iPhone app for RSS 🙂
Conclusion
If you’re an avid reader seeking a portable and eye-friendly device, the BOOX Palma Mobile ePaper’s compact design and e-ink display make it an ideal choice. This innovative gadget fits right into your pocket, making it easy to carry wherever you go.
You’ll appreciate the e-ink display, which mimics real paper and reduces eye strain, perfect for long reading sessions. The BOOX Palma supports various e-book formats, ensuring you can read all your favorite books without hassle. Plus, with its long battery life, you won’t have to worry about frequent charging.
Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just relaxing at home, the BOOX Palma seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle, giving you a sense of belonging in the community of modern readers.
It’s not just a device; it’s a nice new way for book lovers like me 🙂
