Verdict
Head-to-head · Best E-Ink Tablets

Boox Note Air5 C vs reMarkable 2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

reMarkable 2 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.6 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about users seeking a paper-like experience without digital distractions — read the strengths below before deciding.

Boox Note Air5 C
Ranked #6 in Best E-Ink Tablets
Boox Note Air5 C
7 sources2 derived$529.99as of Sep 28

The Onyx Boox Note Air5 C is a solid evolution of its predecessor, featuring a sleek metal design at 440g, which ewritable found heavy for an e-ink tablet. TechRadar called it a 'casual evolution' that improves on previous specs but doesn't offer enough upgrades to warrant switching if you already own the Note Air 4C. The tablet supports an optional keyboard case, though it's not bundled with the device. It comes with a stylus and magnetic case, making it ready for reading and note-taking right out of the box. This tablet is best suited for users who value portability and e-ink reading, but those seeking a full keyboard experience may find the lack of included accessories limiting.

Strengths
  • — Kaleido 3 color e-paper display showing 4,096 colors
  • — Runs Android 15 with full Google Play Store access
  • — Includes the BOOX Pen3 stylus with 4,096 pressure levels and tilt sensitivity
Watch-outs
  • — No keyboard case included in the box
  • — At 440g it is heavy for an e-ink tablet, per ewritable
  • — Price may be steep for some buyers
reMarkable 2
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best E-Ink Tablets
reMarkable 2
9 sourcesall derived$449as of Sep 28

CNET called the reMarkable 2 a refined version of its predecessor, noting improvements in screen whiteness and refresh speed. The tablet's E Ink display offers a natural writing feel with minimal eye strain. Reddit users praised its distraction-free interface and superior writing experience compared to iPads and Kindle Scribes. While the device lacks backlighting, it's designed to be used in ambient light, making it ideal for note-taking and sketching. It's best suited for users seeking a paper-like experience without digital distractions.

Strengths
  • — Flicker-free E Ink display easy on the eyes
  • — Fast 21ms refresh rate for smoother page turns
  • — Lightweight at 12.6 ounces with improved screen whiteness
Watch-outs
  • — No front or back light like color tablets
  • — Battery life estimated at three weeks vs. two for Remarkable 2

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Boox Note Air5 C

The Boox Note Air5 C offers a sleek aluminum design and lightweight build that the Kindle Scribe doesn't match, but it lacks an included keyboard case unlike the Kobo Elipsa 2E. Compared to the Supernote Manta, it provides Android flexibility and app support but is less portable and lacks the flexible screen technology.

reMarkable 2

The reMarkable 2 offers a distraction-free interface and fast refresh rate that the Kindle Scribe lacks, but unlike the reMarkable Paper Pro, it doesn't feature a color display or subscription-based storage. Compared to the Supernote Manta, it's heavier and lacks the flexible screen design, though it provides a more traditional note-taking experience.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBoox Note Air5 CreMarkable 2
Display Size10.3-inch10.3-inch E Ink grayscale
Weight440g12.6 ounces
StylusIncludedmarker
Resolution300PPI (B&W) and 150PPI (Color)1,872×1,404 pixels
Storage6GB + 64GB8 GB internal storage
ProcessorOcta-core CPU1.2 GHz dual core ARM
RAM6GB1 GB LPDDR3 SDRAM
Battery3700mAh3000 mAh
Dimensions9"L x 6"W x 0.2"Th187 x 246 x 4.7 mm
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