Onyx has long made a name by providing big-screen devices to people who want to read pages that look too cramped on Kindles and Kobos. The Boox Note2 eReader is a second-generation e-note and it expands upon the original in a variety of significant ways.

Design and Hardware 

The Note 2 is a slim, light tablet at 9.84 by 7.0 by 0.27 inches (HWD) and 13.33 ounces. It is black plastic, and the flat-front E Ink screen has a sizable bezel around it. The screen is 10.3-inch and has a resolution of 1872*1404 (227 DPI). It also has a WACOM layer that is meant to interact with the accompanied stylus, which has 4,096 degrees of pressure sensitivity and a front-lit display with amber LEDs to counteract the bright white ones.

This eReader comes equipped with an Octa-core 2.0GHz processor to support high-speed computing and 4 gigabytes of RAM for smooth performance. The back button (located in the front) has a fingerprint function to unlock your device. Furthermore, the Note 2 comes with a USB-C port for charging the device and transferring data. The port is also compatible with OTG, which means you can attach keyboards, mouse, or an external SD card, with no drivers necessary.

Underneath where the USB-C port is located you can find the dual speakers. 

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are also included in the Note 2. The Wi-Fi supports an internet connection of 5G, allowing for a lighting quick performance. We all need a high-quality battery, which is why Book Note 2 has a powerful 4,300mAh battery. 

Software 

While many eReaders employ 6.0, with many recent models using 4.04, Boox Note 2 uses Android 9.0 (making it the second commercial eReader to use it). Having this modern version of Android provides security. Meaning, you do not have to worry about being hacked or running malicious/virus files that will compromise your device (it is highly unlikely to occur). The Note 2 has 3.5GB of accessible RAM, and 52GB of available storage. Although there is no microSD card slot, the USB port supports on-the-go storage mode. 

Features 

Phrase translation is a new feature found in the Note 2. You can simply select the word, phrase, or sentence in any e-book, then, the embedded Google Translate will display the translated phrase within seconds. This allows for a much more efficient translation for your work or study. 

The Note app is another great feature the device holds. This app works in a split view on Boox Note2. This lets the books or notes simultaneously share the screen at an equal size so you can easily refer to related content in two documents. When you are taking notes, Boox now allows adding images to your notes such as illustrations, statistics charts, screenshot, letting your notes be more detailed and persuasive. 

Due to having Bluetooth, you can use the Bluetooth keyboard with your device. The keyboard is rechargeable, and the battery is very efficient. After charging your keyboard for two to three hours, the battery life will last you for several weeks of normal use. With its lightweight and compact size, it makes it easy to carry it with your Boox, making the perfect partner for your device. 

Is the Onyx Boox Note2 Worth It? 

Here’s the straight-up answer: If you don’t mind spending $500 on an eReader, then I highly recommend getting the Onyx Book Note2. It’s fast, lightweight, durable and has an amazing note-taking system. Sure, it does cost a pretty penny, and it’s not for everyone. But if you can afford it, then go for it!

Richard Douglas is a long-time shooter, outdoor enthusiast and technologist. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field. He is a columnist at the National Interest, Cheaper Than Dirt, Daily Caller and other publications.  

Image: BOOX