reMarkable 2 vs. Boox Note Air: Key Differences and Full Comparison

Are you looking for the perfect note-taking device? You’ve probably already narrowed your search to two great options: the reMarkable 2 and the Boox Note Air. These devices are designed to offer users the best note-taking experience possible. But how do they stack against each other? We’ll look at the key differences between the reMarkable 2 vs Boox Note Air and compare them fully so you can decide which one suits your needs and budget. Before making this comprehensive comparison, let us have an overview of the technology each one utilizes to understand the two models better.

The reMarkable 2 is an innovative paper tablet designed to take handwritten notes, read, and review documents in the latest generation. Its groundbreaking new display has a long battery life and a paper-thin design. Plus, it was designed to help you focus without social media, notifications, or pop-ups. In contrast, the ONYX BOOX Note Air is an e-book reader for reading large-format documents. This device features an E Ink Carta 10.3-inch diagonal display, a backlit Moonlight 2, and Asahi protective glass for added protection.

Additionally, the ONYX BOOX Note Air also has a Qualcomm processor with 8 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz and 3 GB of RAM. The model is based on the Android 10.0 operating system so users can install third-party programs. This blog will comprehensively compare various features and prices between the two note-taking models so you can make the best decision before making your final purchase. 

reMarkable 2 vs. Boox Note Air: Side-by-Side Comparison

	reMarkable 2	Boox Note Air
Release Date	May 2020	October 2020
Display Size	10.3in monochrome, 226ppi	10.3-inch
Resolution	1872 x 1404	1872 x 1404
Operating System	Linux-based Codex OS	Android 10
Sound	It does not support audio features	Speaker, mic.
Memory	8GB, non-expandable	32 GB
Inputs	USB, USB Type C	USB-C port with OTG support.
Weight	403.5 g	Weight: 412g.
File Formats	PDF and ePUB	EPUB, PDF, MOBI, TXT, FB2, HTML, DJVU, RTF, DOC, CHM
Processor	ARM A9 Dual-core 1.2 GHz processor	Qualcomm
Battery life	3,000mAh	Li-Ion 3000 mAh

reMarkable 2 vs. Boox Note Air: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to note-taking, both the reMarkable 2 and Boox Note Air offer powerful features. While both devices have great features, deciding which is best for you can be difficult. When looking at these two digital note-taking devices, it’s important to delve into their design, display technology, performance, software & storage, battery life, and prices. Understanding these features will help you make the best possible decision. 

Design

Compared to other eBook readers in the market, the Onyx Boox Note Air has a unique design with aluminum housing and a flush glass screen, making it both lightweight and durable. It is 5.8mm thin and 412 g heavy, making it easy to take wherever you go. The reMarkable 2 is slightly thinner at 4.7 mm but heavier at 403.5 g.

The Onyx Boox Note Air is sleeker and more modern, while the reMarkable 2 has a sizable bezel, a power button on the top, and a USB-C charging port on the lower left edge. Both devices have sturdy construction, making them ideal for everyday use.

Performance

The reMarkable 2 is a powerful e-reader hybrid that runs on a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor with 1GB of RAM and has a 3000mAh battery. It is rated two weeks from a full charge and lasts a day of constant note-taking.

On the other hand, the Onyx Boox Note Air is a cutting-edge device with an 8-core processor with a clock speed of 1.8 GHz and 3 GB of RAM. It also has 32 GB of non-volatile memory, meaning you can store your notes and documents for future reference.

Both devices display great, but the Onyx Boox Note Air has a higher resolution than the reMarkable 2. In terms of performance, the Onyx Boox Note Air is faster and more powerful than the reMarkable 2, but it does come at a higher cost.

Software and Storage

The difference between the reMarkable 2 and Boox Note Air regarding software and storage is clear. reMarkable 2 runs on Linux-based Codex OS and has 8GB of storage. On the other hand, Boox Note Air runs on Android 10.0 and has access to the ONYX app store and other sources. It also has 32 GB storage, allowing more space to run other apps and save your files conveniently.

The Boox Note Air also has a Wi-Fi module to sync your device with other devices and services and a wide side field for one-handed use. The reMarkable 2 also features a fast paper-like reading experience, making it ideal for reading e-books or magazines on the go. So regarding software and storage, the reMarkable 2 and Boox Note Air offer distinct advantages. It all depends on which device works better for your needs.

Battery Life

It’s important to mention that battery life will vary depending on your product. For example, the reMarkable 2 has a 3000mAh battery which lasts two weeks per charge. This battery may be small compared to today’s tablets and smartphones, but it does an excellent job holding its charge longer. A few reviews mentioned up to two weeks of battery time. USB-C can charge it.

The Boox Note Air also uses a Polymer Li-on, 3000 mAh battery. The low power consumption of the E-Ink display and the high battery capacity of 3000 mAh provide up to a month of autonomous working period. Similarly, it also charges using USB-C. So both devices offer users a convenient way of charging their devices quickly and easily. The devices also provide users with good battery life and charging options; however, the Boox Note Air offers more longevity with its battery capacity.

Display Technology

The reMarkable 2 offers an e-ink display that is best suited for displaying black and white images and text, though pictures and other full-color images do not load well on the device. There is no built-in lighting to the device either.

In contrast, the Boox Note Air display uses Moon Light 2 technology. Thanks to this advanced technology, you can use this device in dark or low-light environments without causing damage to the eyes, thanks to this advanced technology.

On top of this, the protective glass from Japanese manufacturer ASAHI is located on top of the E Ink screen, providing an extra layer of protection against scratches and other damage. The new glass eliminated extra sides, resulting in a more comfortable experience with the e-book and a more modern look. Additionally, a special coating has been added to reduce the chance of glare on the screen.

Prices

Regarding pricing, the reMarkable 2 e-reader and digital note-taking device starts from $279 and comes with a 1-year free connect trial. On the other hand, the Boox Note Air is a 10.3″ digital note-taking device that sells from Amazon and Boox Shop at $479. Therefore, the Boox Note Air is significantly more expensive than the reMarkable 2. However, the larger size and enhanced features of the Boox Note Air could justify its higher price tag.

reMarkable 2 vs. Boox Note Air: 6 Must-Know Facts

• The reMarkable 2 features a monochrome digital paper display with a resolution of 226 DPI and is compatible with a range of stylus options, plus an official case. 
• The reMarkable 2 has powerful digital tools like undo, erase, and move, making it even better for taking notes and drawing.
• The Boox Note Air has two touch layers, allowing users to flip through books and zoom documents with two fingers for easier navigation.
• The Boox Note Air software allows users to open different text and image formats, including EPUB and PDF files.
• The Boox Note Air allows users to install additional dictionary databases in the StarDict format or automatically download proposed dictionaries when connected to Wi-Fi.
• The Note Air’s battery life lasts up to one month on a single charge, while the reMarkable 2 can last up to two weeks on a full charge.

reMarkable 2 vs. Boox Note Air: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Use?

When deciding which note-taking digital device is the best option to buy, the reMarkable 2 and Boox Note Air may present a challenge. Both offer great features and designs, but one may better fit certain individuals.

The Boox Note Air runs on Android 10.0, allowing users to access the ONYX app store and other sources. The Note Air also boasts a larger storage capacity of 32 GB. This allows more room to run apps and save your files conveniently.

The reMarkable 2 offers similarly impressive features, though some may find the 8GB storage capacity limiting. However, this device comes with a lower price tag, making it more affordable for many users.

Overall, both note-taking devices are great at their respective services. They all come in unique styles and prices. It all depends on your preferences and budget.