The $400 Boox Palma 2 Pro combines a smartphone-sized E Ink display with Android functionality, offering an alternative to traditional e-readers. A recent two-month review by TechCrunch found that its compact design, adjustable lighting and third-party app support made it convenient for everyday reading, although screen ghosting and battery life remained drawbacks.
The Boox Palma 2 Pro features a 6.13-inch Kaleido 3 color E Ink display, runs Android 15 and provides access to Google Play. Unlike conventional e-readers that primarily focus on books, the device supports applications for reading, research, audio playback and productivity.
Compact Design and Adjustable Lighting Improve Reading Comfort
Weighing approximately 175 grams, the Palma 2 Pro is designed for one-handed use and can fit inside small bags and pockets. The TechCrunch reviewer found it more comfortable than larger e-readers when reading while lying down, particularly during nighttime use.
Its front-lit display supports adjustable warm and cool lighting, allowing users to reduce brightness in dark environments. During testing, the reviewer reported that the screen remained readable at exceptionally low brightness levels without disturbing others nearby.
The device’s portability also made it convenient for reading during commutes, appointments and travel. According to the reviewer, its compact size encouraged more frequent reading instead of smartphone browsing.
Android Support Expands Functionality Beyond E-Books
Boox equipped the Palma 2 Pro with Google Play support, allowing users to install applications such as Kindle, Kobo and Libby. The device also supports audiobook players, podcast applications, email services and read-it-later tools.
Additional features include a rear camera for scanning documents, a built-in speaker and a hybrid SIM slot supporting cellular data connectivity. The device also works with the separately sold InkSense Plus stylus for taking notes and annotating PDF documents.
However, the reviewer found that applications not optimized for E Ink could experience sluggish scrolling and interface animations. Color images also appeared less vibrant than those displayed on conventional smartphone screens.
Battery Life and Screen Ghosting Present Drawbacks
During the two-month testing period, the Palma 2 Pro delivered approximately five to seven days of battery life. While sufficient for the reviewer, this falls short of some Kindle models that can operate for weeks between charges.
Another reported limitation was noticeable screen ghosting, where text from previous pages remained temporarily visible after navigating to another page or returning to the home screen. A dedicated refresh control cleared the residual images, although repeated manual refreshing could become inconvenient.
The review identified the device’s relatively high price as another consideration, particularly for readers who primarily use dedicated e-book applications.
Boox has also introduced the Palma 3, a $340 non-Pro model featuring a monochrome E Ink display. The newer device replaces the Palma 2 and offers another option within the company’s compact e-reader lineup.
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Featured image credits: Boox
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