Boox recently introduced a new e-reader called the Palma, which has been gaining attention for its “eye-friendly” ePaper display. Priced at $280, it is more expensive than Amazon’s base Kindle model, setting high expectations for its performance. However, after testing the Palma, it fell short of justifying its price tag.
Design
The Palma has a slim and portable design, resembling an iPhone with its 2:1 aspect ratio. It is lightweight and sturdy, making it easy to carry around. However, the lack of water resistance is a concern, especially compared to the Kindle’s high IPX8 rating. The device features a power button, volume rocker, SD card slot, and speakers, but it lacks a 3.5mm port for wired audio connection.
Functionality
Powered by Android 11, the Palma offers a large storage capacity of 128GB, expandable with an SD card slot. The E-Ink Carta 1200 display provides a soft glow for comfortable reading. The device includes a 16MP rear camera for document scanning but lacks a dark mode setting, which is a major drawback for nighttime reading. The outdated OS may limit app compatibility for those looking to use the Palma as a tablet.
Experience
Using the Palma for reading felt cumbersome due to its 2:1 aspect ratio, requiring frequent scrolling and page-turning. The touch sensitivity is decent, but the device struggles with browsing, experiencing lag and pixel distortion. The image retention issue and poor OCR capabilities further hinder its performance. However, the device’s gestures are easy to navigate, and the battery life is impressive, lasting up to a week and a half with daily use.
Verdict
The Palma falls short of expectations, trying to excel in multiple areas but ultimately lacking in performance. Its high price of $280 does not justify the absence of essential features like water resistance, dark mode, and a 3.5mm port. While the device offers a large storage capacity and impressive speakers, its functionality as an e-reader is hindered by design flaws and performance issues. For those looking for a reliable e-reader, the Palma may not be the best choice at its current price point.
