The reMarkable 2: A Paper Tablet for a Niche Audience?
The reMarkable 2, launched in 2020, promises to revolutionize the note-taking experience by replicating the feel of pen on paper. But in a world obsessed with multi-functional devices, does a dedicated paper tablet really have a place? This in-depth review explores the reMarkable 2’s design, features, and writing experience, helping you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.
reMarkable 2 Review: Design and Accessories
The reMarkable 2 boasts a surprisingly slim and lightweight design, measuring just 4.7mm thick and weighing 403g – significantly lighter than even the thinnest tablets. Its construction blends metal and glass, offering surprising rigidity despite its thinness.
The tablet features a monochrome E Ink display with a 10.3-inch screen and 226 PPI resolution, which is sharp enough for handwritten notes, but typed text can appear slightly jagged in editing mode. This design choice contributes to the authentic paper-like writing experience, as your palm rests comfortably on the table while writing, reducing wrist strain.
Accessories: Marker Plus, Folio, and Type Folio
The reMarkable 2’s core accessory is the Marker Plus pen, a pressure-sensitive tool with a built-in eraser and replaceable tips. The optional Book Folio cover provides basic protection, but drop protection will require third-party accessories.
The Type Folio cover is an engineering marvel, offering a built-in keyboard that draws power via pogo pins, eliminating the need for batteries. It features three positions: a flat mode for handwritten notes, a typing mode for focused text input, and a review mode that combines writing and typing comfort.
While the accessories enhance the reMarkable 2’s functionality, it’s worth noting the tablet lacks a charger in its packaging, requiring users to supply their own USB Type-C charger.
Software and Features: Simplicity Meets Limitations
The reMarkable 2’s software prioritizes simplicity, offering a straightforward file explorer for organizing and managing notes. It supports creating Quick sheets for quick jottings, and allows for organized note-taking with folders and notebooks.
The device syncs seamlessly to a cloud service called Connect, allowing notes to be accessed from various devices. However, the reMarkable 2 lacks a web browser, restricting connectivity to software updates and syncing.
The Connect service allows users to annotate PDF documents from other services like Google Drive and Dropbox, but the editing capabilities are limited, only allowing you to add comments or annotations.
While the reMarkable 2 can open PDF, EPUB, JPG, and PNG files, it lacks front-light functionality, making it challenging to use in low-light conditions. Additionally, the battery life, though decent, falls short of the multi-week expectations associated with E Ink devices, lasting about 3-4 days on a single charge with heavy usage.
The Writing Experience: A Mixed Bag
The reMarkable 2’s strongest feature lies in its writing experience. The combination of the pressure-sensitive Marker Plus Pen, the E Ink display, and the slim design creates a smooth and natural writing experience, mimicking the feel of pen on paper.
The software allows for a wide range of virtual writing tools, including fine liners, ballpoint pens, highlighters, paintbrushes, and calligraphy pens.
However, the lack of rough surface friction on the display limits the true paper-like feel, and some users may find it too smooth. Additionally, the lack of a front light proves to be a major drawback, especially for those who prefer to work in low-light conditions.
Is the reMarkable 2 Right for You?
The reMarkable 2 excels in specific use cases:
- For avid planners and journalers who prefer the tactile experience of pen on paper and want to convert their handwritten notes into digital documents.
- College students who find it easier to take notes by hand and appreciate the clean interface and lack of distractions.
- Knowledge workers and ideators who prioritize handwritten brainstorming and collaboration.
However, it’s important to weigh the reMarkable 2’s limitations:
- Higher price point compared to other note-taking tablets.
- Limited functionality compared to iPad or Android tablets.
- Lack of essential features, such as a front light and a web browser.
If you primarily rely on digital note-taking, the reMarkable 2’s limited features, high price, and lack of front light might not justify its purchase. A more versatile tablet like the iPad may be a better option. However, if you find yourself frustrated by the distractions of a regular tablet and yearn for a more focused and authentic writing experience, the reMarkable 2 is worth considering.
Alternatives to the reMarkable 2
For those seeking a more versatile E Ink tablet, the BOOX Tab Ultra C offers a larger screen, a faster refresh rate, and a wider array of applications. However, it is not officially sold in India.
Another alternative is to utilize iPad apps dedicated to note-taking and drawing, which offer a more affordable and versatile solution, despite not replicating the exact pen-on-paper feeling.
Ultimately, the decision of whether the reMarkable 2 is a good investment boils down to your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Its unique focus on handwritten note-taking makes it a compelling option for some, but for others, it might be too expensive or restrictive.
