The Best E Ink Tablets for 2025: A Digital Notebook Lover’s Guide
As someone who has always loved pen and paper, I’ve been fascinated by E Ink tablets as they’ve grown in popularity. Over the years, I’ve filled countless notebooks, only to eventually switch to digital tools for convenience. E Ink tablets offer the perfect middle ground—combining the tactile feel of writing on paper with the benefits of digital storage and organization.
These devices have evolved significantly, now available in various sizes, some with color displays, and others doubling as full-fledged e-readers. After testing nearly a dozen models, I’ve narrowed down the best E Ink tablets available today.
Are E Ink Tablets Worth It?
E Ink tablets are ideal for a specific audience. If you prefer the look of e-paper over traditional LCD screens or want a distraction-free writing experience, they’re a great choice. However, they’re not for everyone. Unlike standard tablets, most E Ink devices run on limited operating systems, restricting app access. Even those with Android support aren’t optimized for casual browsing due to slower refresh rates and muted colors.
The biggest advantage over devices like iPads is the lack of distractions—no social media or email notifications pulling your attention away.
What to Look for in an E Ink Tablet
Writing and Latency
The writing experience is crucial. Look for low latency (the delay between pen strokes and on-screen response) and a display that refreshes smoothly. Some tablets include a stylus, while others require a separate purchase.
Reading
Consider how much you’ll read on the device. Larger screens are better for writing but may be less comfortable for extended reading. If e-books are a priority, opt for a tablet from a company with an established e-book ecosystem, like Amazon or Kobo. These devices support DRM-protected content, while third-party options may limit file compatibility.
Search Functionality
Search features vary widely. Some tablets, like Amazon’s and Kobo’s, automatically save notes to specific pages, making them easy to revisit. Others offer handwriting recognition, converting handwritten notes into searchable text.
Sharing and Connectivity
Most E Ink tablets support Wi-Fi and cloud syncing, but few integrate with apps like Evernote or OneNote. If seamless note-taking across devices is important, a traditional tablet might be a better fit.
Price
E Ink tablets range from $300 to $800, with larger screens and advanced features driving up costs. Recent price hikes from brands like reMarkable and Supernote have made some models less budget-friendly.
Top E Ink Tablets for 2025
Here are the standout options:
reMarkable 2: A sleek, minimalist tablet with an excellent writing experience and distraction-free design.
reMarkable Paper Pro: A premium version with added storage and a larger display, though the recent price increase makes it harder to recommend.
Amazon Kindle Scribe: A strong choice for Kindle users, with seamless integration for e-books and note-taking.
Supernote Nomad: A compact, well-built tablet with strong handwriting recognition and organization tools.
Onyx Boox Note Air 4C: A color E Ink tablet with Android support, offering more versatility than most.
Onyx Boox Note Max: A large-screen option ideal for professionals who need extra space for notes and documents.
Kobo Libra Colour: A great e-reader with note-taking capabilities, perfect for Kobo’s existing user base.
Other Tested Options
Lenovo Smart Paper: Solid hardware, but the mandatory cloud service and high price make it less appealing.
Onyx Boox Tab Ultra: A full Android tablet with E Ink, but its sluggish performance makes it a niche choice.
Final Thoughts
E Ink tablets excel at providing a paper-like experience with digital convenience. While they’re not for everyone, they’re a fantastic tool for writers, note-takers, and readers who value focus and eye comfort. Consider your priorities—writing feel, reading experience, or connectivity—before making a choice.
