Apr 29, 2025
Is the Boox Palma 2 Worth $400? Here's What 30 Days of Daily Use Revealed
The Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] makes its mark in the e-reader market with a unique smartphone-like design and $299.99 price tag – matching its predecessor's launch price exactly. My pocket carried this 6.3-inch device for a full month, and I found that there was something special that makes it both compelling and controversial.
This device breaks away from traditional e-readers with its distinctive 2:1 aspect ratio E Ink Carta display and 300 ppi resolution. The lightweight 170g design makes it easy to carry anywhere. The premium specs back up its portability: 6GB of RAM, 128GB of expandable storage, and full Android 13 with Google Play Store access. The battery kept going for 4-5 days with regular use during my tests, though some users say it lasts much longer – up to 6-7 weeks with just an hour of daily reading. The 16-megapixel rear camera works well for scanning documents, but don't expect it to replace your phone's camera.
The Boox Palma 2 ended up standing out from basic e-readers that cost less than half its price because of its flexibility. Basic $129.99 devices lock you into their ecosystem, but this one runs all kinds of reading apps and handles audiobooks and podcasts with no problem. In spite of that, you might wonder if this flexibility is worth the $299.99 price tag. Let me share what my month-long experience taught me.
Day 1: Unboxing the Boox Palma 2
Image Source: Good E-Reader Blog
The Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] arrived in a premium white cardboard box that caught my eye. A distinctive grainy texture adds to its appeal, with the "Palma2" name elegantly embossed in silver lettering on the front. The Boox logo stands out nicely on the side edges.
Silver-gray text on the back showcases the device's impressive specs: a 300 PPI display, octa-core CPU, 6GB RAM with 128GB storage, fingerprint recognition, 16MP camera with LED flash, and a 3950 mAh battery. The box mentions "water repellent design" rather than water resistance, though there's no IP rating specified.
My white Palma 2 sat nestled inside, protected by a plastic film. The gray frame around the screen complements the e-ink display beautifully. This white variant creates a more harmonious look compared to the black model I've seen in photos.
First impressions and packaging
The device looks just like a modern smartphone but feels different thanks to its paper-like texture on the back that gives you an excellent grip. Note that despite its smartphone-like appearance, this device serves purely as an e-reader without any SIM functionality.
Included accessories and case quality
The package contains:
A 1-meter USB-C cable that handles charging and data transfer
A tool to remove the MicroSD card tray
Quick start guide and warranty documentation
Boox sells two protective cases separately. Their TPU case ($12.99) features a matte transparent finish that shows off the device while providing simple protection. The Flip-fold Protective Case ($15.99) adds more features - it wakes or puts the device to sleep automatically and doubles as a kickstand. Both cases come with precise cutouts that give you full access to the fingerprint scanner, camera, and buttons while keeping your device protected.
Day 2: Initial Setup and Android 13 Walkthrough
The Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] comes with an advanced Android 13 operating system, which is a major upgrade from Android 11 in the original Palma. This new OS will keep your device secure and compatible with modern apps for years to come.
Wi-Fi setup and Google account login
The Palma 2 offers two simple ways to set up your internet connection. You can go to Settings > Networks > WiFi to see available networks. A quicker option lets you swipe down from the top right corner to open the Control Center and tap the WiFi button. The WiFi button shows all networks when you press and hold it.
The device supports dual-band Wi-Fi with the 802.11ac standard (5GHz), which gives you faster and more reliable connections than other e-readers. The system helps you fix connection problems by letting you forget networks and enter passwords again.
Once you're online, logging into your Google account gives you access to the Play Store that comes pre-installed - something you won't find on most e-readers. The power button doubles as a fingerprint sensor to make future logins easier, though it might take a few tries sometimes.
First look at the new UI
Onyx has created a custom Android interface that works perfectly with E Ink displays. The UI uses clean monochrome icons instead of Google's colorful design, which suits the 16-shade grayscale screen well.
The new interface makes it easier to adjust your reading settings compared to older models. The app optimizer stands out as a useful feature. It lets you customize how light or dark apps appear and adjust their DPI scaling - this works great for reading apps.
The security features got better too. You can now use PIN codes between 4-8 digits instead of just 4 digits. BOOXDrop makes file sharing more convenient. It lets you transfer files between your device and computers or phones over local networks without cables.
Day 3: Exploring the Boox Shop and App Store
My time with the Android 13 interface on the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] showed that its real power comes from app flexibility. The device comes with Google Play Store ready to use, so you don't need to jailbreak or sideload apps like other e-readers.
Installing reading apps
The open Android system makes this e-ink device a truly customizable reading platform. I quickly set up several reading apps:
Kindle, Nook, and Kobo apps to access existing libraries
Libby to borrow books from public libraries
Moon+ Reader Pro ($6.99) to handle multiple formats with lots of customization
KOReader to work with advanced PDF features
The Palma 2's handling of these apps impressed me the most. You can read any format no matter where you bought your books. This breaks free from the ecosystem lock-in that's common with regular e-readers. The device even makes third-party apps work better with E Ink displays through its app settings. You can adjust refresh rates and contrast levels for each app.
BooxDrop and file transfer
File transfer is simple with BooxDrop, a built-in tool that makes moving content easy. Note that both devices need to be on the same WiFi network. Here's what I did:
Opened the BooxDrop app (find it in the Apps panel or swipe down and long-press the transfer button)
Opened the provided URL on my computer browser
Dragged files directly to/from the web interface
This two-way transfer works with almost any platform - computers, smartphones, and tablets. You don't need any cables. Your network speed determines the file size limits, with faster networks giving you quicker transfers.
The Palma 2 gives you more options than regular e-readers since you can install cloud storage like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive from the Play Store. On top of that, it supports USB file transfers when WiFi isn't available, and Bluetooth sharing works great for smaller files.
Day 4: Testing the Display Indoors and Outdoors
Image Source: CoolThings.com
My outdoor test of the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] showed the true power of its E Ink display technology. The device's performance under different lighting conditions helped me assess its reading capabilities.
E Ink Carta 1200 readability
The 6.13-inch E Ink Carta 1200 screen delivers crystal-clear text with its 300 PPI resolution, matching high-end paper printing quality. This new generation display shows 15% more contrast and refreshes 20% faster than older Carta 1000 screens.
The display excels outdoors. Text looks remarkably sharp and you can read it perfectly even in bright sunlight. One user mentioned the device is "incredibly sharp to read in direct sunlight from all angles" with "no polarization issues". Beach and park reading become a breeze with the Palma 2.
The indoor experience differs slightly. The 2:1 aspect ratio gives the device a unique shape compared to traditional 4:3 e-readers. This narrow layout changes how text appears, especially with PDFs made for standard e-readers. The 16-level grayscale works well for most text, but struggles with image-heavy content.
Frontlight and warmth adjustment
The MOON Light 2 front light system makes reading easy in dim conditions. A simple swipe down from the top right corner opens the Control Center. Here, two sliders let you adjust intensity and color temperature.
This system stands out by letting you control cold and warm LED lights separately. You can choose pure white light for daytime reading or switch to warmer yellow tones before bed. This helps reduce blue light exposure that research shows can affect sleep patterns by disrupting melatonin production.
The Flicker-Free technology uses DC power supply to eliminate LED shimmer and reduce eye strain during long reading sessions. The built-in light sensor adjusts brightness based on your surroundings, though manual adjustments usually work better.
Users notice a slight bluish tint at minimum settings because the amber LEDs don't dim as much as white ones. The frontlight can feel too bright at maximum settings, so most users prefer medium brightness for comfort.
Day 5: Customizing the Interface
I've spent five days with my new Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] and explored its interface customization options deeply. The team at Onyx has clearly put a lot of thought into making this e-reader adapt to users' priorities.
Floating toolbar and shortcuts
The floating toolbar really shines as one of the most useful features. NeoReader, the native reading app, comes with this customizable menu that lets you access key functions without breaking your reading flow. Setting it up was straightforward - I just tapped the center area for the main menu, hit the hamburger icon in the top right, and went to Settings > Floating Toolbar Settings > General Settings. This menu lets you add or remove buttons based on how you read.
The Palma 2 takes customization even further with separate floating toolbar settings for handwriting mode. You can find these through the same menu path by choosing "Handwriting Toolbar Settings" instead. The device lets you do more than just customize the toolbar - you can set different functions to button presses (short press, long press, double tap) to refresh the screen quickly or launch specific apps.
The updated UI looks cleaner and more modern than older Boox models. The minimalist icons work great on the monochrome display. You can also customize the navigation system with various gesture controls under Settings > Gestures.
Dark mode and refresh settings
Dark mode is a game-changer - it flips the display to show white text on a black background. Reading at night becomes much easier on the eyes with less light emission. You can create reading themes for different types of content like novels, manga, research papers, or switch between light and dark modes whenever needed.
The device comes with four refresh modes that balance display quality and responsiveness:
Normal Mode: Perfect for regular reading with the clearest text and minimal ghosting
Speed Mode: Better for quick page turns and browsing with a bit more ghosting
A2 Mode: Great for smooth website scrolling but shows more ghosting
X Mode: Best for videos and moving content, though you'll lose some detail
A quick manual refresh clears any ghosting that builds up during long reading sessions - a nice touch for readers who want their screen crystal clear.
Day 6: Reading eBooks on Kindle and KOReader
I spent a week learning about the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k]. Today I focused on testing how it handles eBooks in different apps. The device runs Android 13, so you can use multiple reading apps instead of being stuck with just one system.
Font rendering and layout
The E Ink Carta 1200 display makes text look incredibly crisp in all reading apps. Text in the Kindle app looks sharp with great contrast because the screen's 300 PPI resolution matches what you'd see in high-quality print. The Kindle app needs a small tweak - you'll have to set the hardware buttons as volume buttons and adjust Kindle's settings to use these for page turns.
KOReader is an open-source reader you'll need to install manually from F-Droid or by downloading the APK. Its default interface looks tiny on the Palma 2's screen. You can fix this by tweaking the DPI settings. The quickest way is to use the Boox firmware's app optimization tool (the hexagon with ring icon in the NaviBall) to make KOReader's display bigger.
You can customize fonts extensively in both apps. NeoReader, the native app, is a great choice with support for 20 different document formats. It lets you change font size, boldness, spacing, and save reading themes for different types of content.
Page turn speed and ghosting
The Palma 2 handles page turns well in every reading app. Ghosting (faint outlines of previous pages) can build up during long reading sessions. The device gives you four refresh modes that balance display quality and speed:
HD Mode: Shows the clearest text with minimal ghosting—perfect for novels
Balanced Mode: Has slight ghosting but responds better
Fast Mode: Works best for scrolling with more ghosting but smoother movement
Ultrafast Mode: Moves super smoothly but loses some detail
I use the side button to clear any stubborn ghosting (you can set it up for full screen refreshes). The reading experience feels much more responsive than regular e-readers, even when using apps like Kindle or KOReader.
Day 7: Using the NeoReader App
My time learning NeoReader, the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] native reading application, revealed a rich source of advanced features not found on standard e-readers. This bundled app supports an impressive 20 document formats and provides tools that change reading from passive consumption to active learning.
PDF handling and annotation
NeoReader excels at handling PDFs on a 6-inch screen. The pinch-to-zoom functionality responds quickly, showing near-instantaneous performance with complex documents. The Palma 2's smooth PDF navigation stands out from other e-readers that struggle with lag or stuttering.
The annotation system's versatility impressed me greatly. Adding notes directly on PDFs became effortless through long-pressing text selection and using the annotation button from the pop-up menu. The native app supports handwritten annotations, which lets users write thoughts directly on documents – perfect for academic papers or technical manuals.
Highlighting and dictionary tools
NeoReader's highlighting system works in multiple ways. Long-pressing selects single words and opens the Word Menu. Longer passages need a tap-and-hold on the first word, followed by dragging to the last word. This action brings up the Highlights & Underlines Menu with different highlighting styles.
The dictionary functionality makes NeoReader stand out from third-party alternatives. A long-press on any word shows its definition from the built-in dictionary immediately. The system goes beyond simple lookups and supports:
Translation of words or entire passages into multiple languages
Web searches for selected terms
In-document text searches
Addition of terms to the Vocabulary Builder for later review
Adding custom dictionaries proves simple. Users can download dictionary files to the 'dicts' folder in the root directory and enable them through the Dictionary app's settings to expand their lookup options.
Knowing how to use third-party dictionary apps as defaults within NeoReader adds great value. This flexibility lets users customize their reading experience way beyond the reach and influence of typical closed-ecosystem e-readers.
Day 8: Listening to Audiobooks and Podcasts
The Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] showed me its true potential beyond just reading after eight days of use. This e-reader surprised me with its versatility as an audio device, especially since I love audiobooks and podcasts.
Bluetooth pairing with headphones
The Palma 2 makes pairing Bluetooth headphones really simple. A quick swipe down from the top right corner opens the Control Center, and a tap on the Bluetooth button lets you find your headphones. Every audio app I tried worked naturally - Audible, Spotify, various podcast apps, and the pre-installed audio player for local files.
The device taught me something important during longer listening sessions. By default, it cuts off Bluetooth when the screen sleeps. The fix was simple - I went to Settings > Power > Bluetooth Status After Sleep and picked Stay Connected. This small change let me keep playing audio even with the screen off or the protective case closed.
The Palma 2 supports extended Bluetooth LE (low energy), which lets you connect from greater distances. My tests with various apps worked great - Audible, Kindle, and Libby synced audiobooks perfectly. The device even let me use a Bluetooth keyboard at the same time for taking notes.
Speaker quality and volume
The built-in speaker tells a different story. The bottom has two speaker grilles, but only one makes sound - the other just looks pretty. People rate the sound quality from "mediocre at best" to "awful cheap speakers, worse than many early 2000 Nokia phones".
My tests showed the speaker works fine for audiobooks but falls short with music. You can change the volume buttons on the right side to work as page turn buttons in some apps, which shows how reading comes first on this device.
Remember that playing audio constantly affects your battery life. Some users say it drains fast - "if you connect Bluetooth headphones for music or audiobooks, it will drain your battery within the hour". My results looked better though, as I played a three-hour-long song for almost 90 minutes before the device went to sleep.
Day 9: Testing the Camera and DocScan App
Day nine was about testing the camera capabilities of the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k]. Most e-readers don't have cameras, but this device has a 16-megapixel rear camera. We designed it for document scanning rather than photography.
Document scanning quality
The camera has simple yet limited functions. The quality doesn't match what you'd expect from a modern smartphone camera. The native DocScan app is user-friendly but simple. You can quickly activate the camera to position documents within the frame and capture them as PDF files.
During my testing period, I barely used this feature beyond the required testing. Users with smartphones will likely stick to their phone's scanning capabilities because they deliver better results.
The scanning process works best with good lighting. Text looks readable in ideal conditions but lacks the sharpness you'd get from dedicated scanning apps on flagship phones. This limitation makes sense since the e-ink device specializes in reading rather than image capture.
OCR performance and export
The OCR (optical character recognition) technology has improved substantially compared to the previous Palma model. The original device often turned scanned text into "gibberish," but the Palma 2 handles text conversion much better.
The system supports only English and Chinese languages for OCR processing. You can convert scanned documents to editable text, which helps with quick note-taking or document digitization. Clean, high-contrast documents work best for text extraction, while handwritten notes remain hard to interpret accurately.
The DocScan app lets you save recognized text directly to the device's memory. Users can long-press any recognized text to add marks or check built-in dictionaries. The annotation dialog box helps fix inaccuracies without changing the original document.
This feature adds versatility to the Palma 2's capabilities but serves as a supplementary function rather than a main selling point.
Day 10: Battery Life After 10 Days
My ten-day journey with the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] has taught me a lot about its power management. The device comes with a 3950 mAh battery that powers its E-Ink display - a technology that needs minimal power.
Screen-on time and standby drain
Your usage patterns will determine how long the battery lasts. The device runs for 4-5 days between charges with daily reading and occasional app use. Battery life jumps to 6-7 weeks on a single charge if you read about an hour each day.
The device's standby power needs your attention. Users reported their battery dropping from 60% to 20% overnight. Recent firmware updates have fixed these problems. Here's what I learned to make the battery last longer:
Switch off WiFi and Bluetooth if you're not using them
Clear background apps using the trash bin in the Multitasking Switcher
Turn off "Stay active in background" for your apps
Use airplane mode during long reading sessions
The E-Ink display helps the device last longer. Apps that need frequent screen updates or internet connection can drain your battery quickly.
Charging speed and cable compatibility
The Boox Palma 2 comes with just a USB-C cable, no power adapter. Charging works fine but depends on your power source. A wall adapter takes about 2.5 hours to charge from 20% to full.
Laptop charging proves slower - it takes an hour to gain just 13% battery (25% to 38%). You'll get better results with a wall charger.
The device lacks wireless charging, a feature common in pocket-sized devices today. The USB-C port works with most cables and power sources, which makes up for this limitation.
Day 11: Using the Palma 2 for Note-Taking
My tests of the Boox Palma 2's [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] note-taking features showed mixed results. This pocket-sized e-reader brings surprising writing versatility but comes with some trade-offs due to its E Ink technology.
Keyboard lag and typing experience
The on-screen keyboard has some challenges. My tests showed a constant lag between key taps and text appearing on screen. This small delay makes typing feel disconnected and might bug you if you're used to quick smartphone keyboards. Users report that characters show up "a noticeable fraction of a second after you press them." This lag stays there whatever third-party keyboard app you pick—both the default keyboard and Gboard gave me similar results.
The Bluetooth keyboard option works much better. My keyboard connected quickly, and other users also call the pairing smooth. You can use many Bluetooth keyboards with this device—from small ones like the Logitech Keys-to-Go to mechanical keyboards if you like that clicking feel.
Best writing apps for E Ink
These apps work great on the Palma 2 for serious writing:
iA Writer: Works really well with E Ink screens thanks to its clean look and distraction-free writing
Obsidian: Performs well with an e-ink-friendly theme
Google Docs: Gets the job done but needs faster refresh settings
The device really stands out as a distraction-free writing tool. A reviewer mentioned using "the Palma with a portable keyboard... for a perfect compact writing setup that fits inside a purse." E Ink's limits actually help here—you get fewer distractions and your eyes don't get tired during long writing sessions.
The Palma 2 isn't meant to be your main note-taking device (unlike Boox's tablets), but it handles basic writing tasks well with the right keyboard and apps.
Day 12: Trying Out Mobile Games
My twelfth day with the pocket-sized e-reader took an unexpected turn. I decided to explore mobile gaming on the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k]. This device, made for reading, sparked my curiosity about its gaming potential given its unique display technology.
Performance in Ultrafast mode
Gaming attempts required switching to Ultrafast refresh mode. The Boox Super Refresh Technology (BSR) setting improves the screen's responsiveness but trades off some image quality. BSR minimizes ghosting problems and makes scrolling smoother, which makes gaming possible.
The device handled simple games exceptionally well. Tetris "surprisingly well" responded in Ultrafast mode with smooth movement and minimal lag. Puzzle games like Two Dots and Alphabear 2 worked quickly, showing the device could handle simple gaming tasks.
The NYT crossword puzzle app worked well because it needed minimal animation and stayed mostly static. BSR technology does reduce battery life when active, so users must choose between better performance or longer battery life.
Game compatibility and lag
The grayscale display creates obvious limitations. Wordle becomes impossible to play since you "won't be able to tell the colored squares apart." The Snapdragon 690/750 processor measures up to "a solid midrange phone from 2019," though it outperforms its previous version.
Graphics-heavy games yielded surprising results. Monument Valley 2 and Sky: Children of the Light were playable, though with expected compromises in visual quality and response time. Some users tried first-person shooters - they worked but offered a much worse experience compared to color displays.
The device sometimes missed touch inputs, which made timing-based games frustrating. The Palma 2 can run games, but this testing confirms its true purpose as a reading device.
Day 13: Reading Manga and Comics
My thirteenth day with the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] focused on manga and comics. I tested how this pocket-sized device handles visual content that usually works better on larger screens.
Screen size limitations
The 6.13-inch E Ink Carta 1200 display brings both benefits and challenges to manga readers. The screen might be "a tad small" for manga, and some users suggest that "a colored LCD might be a better experience, thanks to better contrasts". The display shows black and white manga with impressive clarity, which covers most titles available.
The manga reading experience improves significantly with adjustable refresh rates through the E INK Control Center. Users can choose from four options that balance quality and speed. "The least fast ones are good for zipping through manga and PDF files" without annoying delays between pages.
The 2:1 aspect ratio sometimes needs zooming for detailed panels. Quick touch controls make this adjustment seamless. Some users believe that larger 10-inch devices might work better as an "ultimate manga reader". The Palma 2's portability advantage remains clear.
Best apps for manga reading
Manga enthusiasts love the Palma 2's versatility with different formats. "You're not locked into one ecosystem—a huge plus over most e-readers". Android 13 allows installation of several dedicated manga apps:
Tachiyomi/Mihon: Users often recommend it for manga collections
KOReader: Customization options "better suit e-ink screens"
Stock Neoreader: Reads multiple formats including "PDF, epub, fb2, mobi" and more
Onyx has "optimized the Kindle app for an E INK screen, so there are no animated page-turns, which makes turning pages near instant". This optimization works with other reading apps too.
Digital manga's popularity continues to rise, "generating USD 3.30 billion in 2024" on platforms of all types. The device's ability to access official stores and third-party apps provides more options than closed systems.
Day 14: Syncing With Caliber and Readwise
After two weeks of my experience with the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k], I tested how well it works with my e-book management systems. My extensive digital library makes knowing how to sync content between devices a significant part of my reading routine.
Sideloading via BooxDrop
BooxDrop is a standout feature on this device that removes the usual hassle of moving files to e-readers. The traditional methods need cables, but BooxDrop lets you transfer files wirelessly through a simple web interface.
BooxDrop setup is straightforward:
Open BooxDrop from the Apps page or Control Center
Make sure your Palma 2 and computer share the same WiFi network
Type the displayed IP address (like "http://192.168.3.108:8085") in your computer's browser
The flexibility of connection options really caught my attention. You can use the direct IP method without logging in or access your device remotely by signing into your Onyx account at push.boox.com. This makes moving e-books, documents, and fonts incredibly simple.
Caliber users have more options beyond BooxDrop. My device connects directly to Caliber through USB, working just like an external drive to transfer books. You could also install Caliber Companion on the Palma 2 to work with Caliber's content server for wireless transfers.
Highlight syncing and export
The Palma 2 excels at managing reading highlights. NeoReader's native app automatically saves markup changes in PDF files, which keeps your annotations intact when you open these documents elsewhere.
Different third-party apps need their own approaches. KOReader provides excellent Readwise integration to collect highlights from your reading materials. The setup is simple:
Tap the Tools icon in KOReader
Go to Export Highlights
Choose Readwise as your service and add your API key
Each app handles highlight exports differently. Kindle keeps highlights in its ecosystem, while Moon+ Reader lets you export directly. NeoReader's app exports markups from EPUB and MOBI files through the Contents menu, though it's not as smooth as dedicated services like Readwise.
This Android-based e-reader's file management flexibility consistently outperforms closed-ecosystem alternatives. It's especially valuable when you read content from many different platforms.
Day 15: Using the Palma 2 as a Distraction-Free Device
My fifteen days with the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] showed its standout feature - knowing how to create a truly distraction-free reading space. This pocket-sized E Ink device gives us a breath of fresh air from our attention-hungry smartphones in today's notification-filled world.
Blocking notifications
The Palma 2 helps users control their digital involvement through smart notification settings. A quick swipe down from the System Bar's left side opens the Notification Center with all alerts. The device has a "Notification Mute" feature that blocks all interruptions completely.
This simple yet game-changing feature changes how we read. A user shared, "I've been amazed by how much of my phone activity disappeared when I put all my listening and reading onto another device". Setting these limits creates a peaceful digital space naturally.
Minimalist setup tips
My distraction-free experience got better with these setup tweaks:
We kept things simple with just the needed apps. The device comes with essential built-in apps like BOOXDrop, NeoBrowser, Clock, and Calendar that work without adding clutter. The native NeoReader app handles 20 document formats and lets you customize everything.
The clean UI design boosts focus with its simple lines, sharp icons, and black-and-white display. These changes made it even better:
Bigger sans-serif fonts make reading easier
Hidden status and notification bars cut visual noise
Dark mode works great for night reading
Like creating a quiet room to work, this digital space lets you dive deeper into your content. E Ink's limits - being slower for video and social media - add "the absolute perfect amount of friction" to stop mindless browsing. This useful resistance keeps you focused on reading and writing without digital distractions.
Day 16: Comparing Boox Palma vs Palma 2
I spent two weeks comparing the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] with its older version. The price gap between models ranges from $35-80 based on store discounts. Buyers should know exactly what upgrades they get for their money.
Performance standards
The Palma 2 now runs on a Snapdragon 690/750 instead of the Snapdragon 460/662 processor. Test results show a big jump in power - the first Palma performs like a mid-range phone from 2017. The Palma 2 matches up with 2019 mid-range devices. These improvements don't make much difference in everyday use though.
Both devices feel the same for daily reading tasks. You won't notice any difference in page turns, app loading speeds, or general navigation between models. Some tasks do work better on the new model: graphics-heavy features run smoother, and document scanning creates much better text compared to the "gibberish" the old Palma sometimes produced.
The biggest practical benefit comes from the upgrade to Android 13 from Android 11. Android 11 stopped getting security updates in February 2024, which might be reason enough to pick the newer model if you plan to use it for a while. Android 13 also lets you use longer 6-8 digit PINs, unlike the less secure 4-digit limit on the old model.
Fingerprint scanner reliability
The power button on the Palma 2 doubles as a fingerprint scanner - the most obvious hardware change. This feature can be a bit fussy. You need to place your finger just right and use the perfect amount of pressure. Practice helps, and it works "better than 90% of the time".
Some users think the scanner just gets in the way of using their device. The case's design now has a special cutout for the sensor, making it easier to use with a protective cover on. Interestingly, some users find their left index finger works better than their right thumb for unlocking.
The bottom line? Current Palma owners probably shouldn't upgrade just for these small improvements.
Day 17: Testing File Transfer on Mac vs Windows
My third week with the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] revealed some interesting insights about its file transfer capabilities. I tested it thoroughly on different operating systems since many users keep their libraries on multiple devices.
USB-C compatibility
The way different platforms handle connections shows up right away when you plug in the USB cable. Windows users have it easy - the device shows up instantly as external storage, ready for simple drag-and-drop transfers.
Mac users face a major drawback. The USB-C port supports OTG for external devices, but the Palma 2 won't connect directly to macOS for file transfers. This issue affects many Boox devices - they work great with Windows but stay invisible when connected to Macs or MacBooks. One reviewer pointed out their "disappointment with the inability to plug the Palma 2 into an iMac or MacBook to transfer ebooks via a wired connection."
BooxDrop vs direct transfer
BooxDrop offers a great alternative that works similarly on all platforms. This built-in transfer app needs both devices on the same WiFi network to move files. The setup process is straightforward:
Open the app on your Palma 2
Enter the shown URL in your computer browser (or visit push.boox.com)
Drag files to send or download files from your device
The main benefit of BooxDrop lies in its platform-neutral approach - it works just as well on Mac, Windows, or smartphones. Your WiFi speed determines transfer rates, so bigger files take more time.
Windows users still get the fastest transfers through direct USB, especially for large libraries. Mac users must stick to wireless options which, though convenient, are nowhere near as fast as direct connections. BooxDrop handles files of any size between devices, making it a solid choice even for big document collections.
Day 18: Using the Palma 2 for Web Browsing
I've spent three weeks with my Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k]. Day eighteen was all about testing its web browsing features. While e-readers aren't known for web browsing, this pocket-sized device might surprise you.
Browser performance
The Palma 2's web browsing success comes down to its refresh technology. The Boox Super Refresh Technology (BSR) makes a huge difference compared to regular e-ink devices. This technology cuts down on ghosting, makes scrolling smoother, and lets you use faster refresh modes while browsing.
My browser testing revealed several good options:
Google Chrome: Works great with password managers and keeps your entries synced across devices
Brave: Runs smoothly but struggles with text scaling
EinkBro: Built specifically for e-ink screens but tends to crash sometimes
Via Browser: Lighter and quicker than others, which works great on smaller devices
The "Ultrafast" refresh mode makes browsing feel surprisingly similar to using a smartphone. One reviewer said it's "almost as smooth as my iPhone". This shows how far e-reader browsers have come since the early days when they struggled with simple web pages.
Text rendering and scrolling
The high-resolution display keeps text sharp and clear, but scrolling brings its own challenges. You get four refresh modes on the Palma 2 that balance text quality and responsiveness: HD for sharp static text, Balanced for PDF scrolling, Fast, and Ultrafast.
Your scrolling experience depends on the refresh setting you pick. Higher refresh rates give you smoother website scrolling but show more ghosting. You'll notice this during longer browsing sessions, though you can clear any artifacts with a quick button tap.
The on-screen keyboard can be finicky, sometimes needing multiple taps before it registers your input. This makes typing URLs or search terms more tedious than on a smartphone.
Text-heavy websites shine on this device. The reduced eye strain and better battery life make it much more comfortable to read for long periods compared to smartphones.
Day 19: Exploring the Settings Menu
The Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] settings menu packs customization options you rarely see in other e-readers. These complete system settings turn this pocket-sized device into a tool that adapts to your priorities.
Power saving modes
This device's battery management goes way beyond simple settings. You'll find several options to extend the 3950 mAh battery life under Settings > Power. We configured Auto Sleep and Auto Shutdown features to set specific timeframes for low-power states.
The "Bluetooth Status After Sleep" option needs special attention. Your device disconnects Bluetooth during sleep by default, which stops audiobook or podcast playback. You can keep audio playing even with the screen off or case closed by switching to "Stay Connected".
You'll find a key battery-saving feature under Settings > Apps and Notifications > Freeze Settings. Your audio won't stop during sleep if you turn on "Do not freeze apps running in background" for audio apps. You can also save battery power by freezing apps you don't need.
Gesture navigation and customization
The gesture control system lets you customize three distinct zones through Settings > System Navigation:
Bottom Navigation: Customize swipe-up actions from different bottom screen areas
Side Gestures: Enable and configure side border swipes for volume, brightness, or contrast adjustments
Multi-Finger Gestures: Use three-finger swipes for screenshots and other functions
The side brightness gesture works great. You can adjust brightness by swiping the right border without opening menus. You can customize this through Settings > System Navigation > Side Gestures.
Smart button customization adds more flexibility. You can set different actions for short press, long press, and double tap gestures under Settings > More Settings > Function Button. A single press on my device triggers full screen refresh to clear any ghosting.
These customization options might seem like a lot at first. They ended up creating a reading experience that standard e-readers can't match.
The Verdict: After 30 Days With the Boox Palma 2
My month-long journey with the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k] has taught me something interesting: $299.99 gets you more than just another e-reader - you're buying exceptional flexibility. This pocket-sized device offers a reading experience that's nothing like standard e-readers at half the price.
The device's biggest strength is its versatility. Most e-readers lock you into their ecosystem, but this Android 13 device lets you access your digital library from any source. So you'll never have to worry about format issues or ecosystem restrictions again.
Battery performance hits the sweet spot - 4-5 days of regular use. While it doesn't match traditional e-readers, it beats smartphones used mainly for reading. The E Ink display delivers comfortable viewing in any lighting condition. The 6.13-inch screen can feel a bit tight when you're reading PDFs and comics.
The camera works fine for scanning documents, but it shouldn't be your reason to buy this device. The fingerprint scanner does its job well enough, though it's not worth upgrading from the original Palma just for this feature.
This device shines brightest in its customization options. You can personalize settings, gestures, and optimize apps to create your perfect reading experience - something standard e-readers can't touch.
Should you spend $299.99 on the Boox Palma 2 [https://amzn.to/4cUjv7k]? If versatility and customization top your priorities, definitely yes. Readers who want the longest battery life or biggest screen might want to look elsewhere. All the same, this unique hybrid fits perfectly for anyone who wants smartphone features with E Ink's eye comfort. After a month of use, I'd say it's worth thinking over if you're tired of being stuck in one ecosystem.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key features of the Boox Palma 2? The Boox Palma 2 is a pocket-sized e-reader with a 6.13-inch E Ink Carta 1200 display, Android 13 operating system, 6GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and a 16-megapixel camera for document scanning. It offers versatile reading options with support for multiple apps and formats.
Q2. How does the battery life of the Boox Palma 2 compare to other e-readers? The Boox Palma 2 typically lasts 4-5 days with regular use. While this is shorter than traditional e-readers, it's significantly longer than smartphones when used primarily for reading. With conservative use of about an hour of reading daily, the battery can last up to 6-7 weeks.
Q3. Can the Boox Palma 2 be used for web browsing? Yes, the Boox Palma 2 can be used for web browsing. It features Boox Super Refresh Technology (BSR) which improves scrolling and minimizes ghosting. Various browsers like Chrome, Brave, and EinkBro are compatible, with "Ultrafast" mode providing a smooth browsing experience comparable to smartphones.
Q4. How customizable is the Boox Palma 2? The Boox Palma 2 offers extensive customization options. Users can personalize power-saving modes, gesture navigation, button functions, and app-specific settings. This level of customization allows for a tailored reading experience that surpasses what standard e-readers typically offer.
Q5. Is the Boox Palma 2 worth its price compared to other e-readers? The Boox Palma 2's value depends on individual needs. At $299.99, it's pricier than basic e-readers but offers greater versatility with its Android OS, app compatibility, and customization options. For readers who value flexibility and a smartphone-like experience with E Ink technology, it can be worth the investment. However, those primarily seeking long battery life or larger screens might find better alternatives elsewhere.
