Onyx Boox Palma 2 Review: A Familiar E-Reader Experience

Unveiling the Boox Palma 2: A Balanced Review

The Boox Palma 2, the latest iteration of Onyx's innovative e-reader, stays true to its roots. One year after the original Palma debuted, the company has delivered a successor that remains largely unchanged, both in design and functionality. Priced at $279.99, the Palma 2 continues to cater to users seeking simplicity and ease in reading.

Why the Palma 2 Works

At its core, the Palma's appeal lies in its compact design, mimicking the size of a smartphone. With access to the Play Store and a user-friendly E Ink screen, the Palma allows for seamless reading, whether it's books, documents, or web content. This e-reader has proven versatile, serving as a platform not only for reading but also for listening to music and podcasts, and even taking notes—all without the distractions common to smartphones.

Performance Upgrades in Palma 2

One of the major upgrades the Palma 2 boasts is a newer chip and the upgrade to Android 13 from the previous Android 11 platform. This enhances the device's longevity and potential for future security updates. However, while the processor is touted as a "faster octa-core CPU," users may find the performance comparable to midrange phones from years past, with minimal improvement in daily use.

• Processor: Newer octa-core CPU promised to enhance performance.
• Battery Life: Lasts between four to five days, consistent with the original model.
• Operating System: Upgraded to Android 13 for better security and app support.

Display and Design: The Same Old Palma?

The 6.3-inch E Ink Carta display of the Palma 2 remains visually appealing and practical for extended reading sessions. However, the plastic build feels fragile, and the challenges of the camera remain with the 16-megapixel option mainly suitable for scanning documents but not much else.

Room for Improvement

Despite its positives, many feel the Palma 2 is somewhat of a missed opportunity. Possible enhancements could include:

• Incorporating a SIM slot for added smartphone functionality.
• Improving the materials for a more premium feel.
• Refining Android integration to remove unnecessary apps and settings.

Without these enhancements, the Palma 2 stands more as a continuation rather than a true upgrade. Users of the original might not find sufficient reasons to purchase the new version; however, for newcomers, the Palma 2 still presents a reliable option.

Competing in the E-Reader Market

The e-reader space is ever-evolving, and while the Palma holds its ground, there is hope that other brands will explore and innovate within this niche. The combination of a smartphone-sized form factor, E Ink display, and Android apps is unique and provides an opportunity for competition and enhancements.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Boox Palma 2 is a solid choice for anyone searching for a minimalist e-reader that delivers on essential features without the clutter of a smartphone. While it may not offer enough to entice current Palma users to upgrade, it remains a worthwhile device for new users who appreciate its simplicity and functionality. The potential for future developments remains, with the hope that competition may push the boundaries of what this type of device can achieve.

Further Reading:

For those interested in exploring options beyond the Palma 2, check out discussions on Reddit for perspectives on other potential e-readers and their features.