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Remarkable Paper Pro Review and Analysis

Oct 11, 2024

Lecture Notes: Remarkable Paper Pro

Introduction

  • The Remarkable Paper Pro is positioned as a digital note-taking device with a true color ink display.
  • Features a built-in front light for nighttime use and an improved display surface.
  • Operates on a Linux-based OS, focusing on distraction-free note-taking and sketching.
  • Potentially useful as a comic book or PDF reader due to its color display, faster chipset, and larger screen.

Display Technology

  • New 11.8-inch color ink display using Gallery 3 technology.
    • Uses cyan, magenta, yellow, and white particles to produce 20,000 colors.
    • Reflects only one-third of ambient light, making it darker than traditional paper or monochrome ink.
    • Despite being darker, it offers more vibrant colors compared to other devices.
  • Comparison with other e-ink tablets:
    • Slightly yellow tint is noticeable but not a major issue in everyday use.
    • Colors are brighter than on earlier E Ink tablets.

Front Light

  • Front light implemented to compensate for darker screen.
    • Only five brightness levels available; maximum brightness is low.
    • Benefits even in bright environments are limited due to low brightness.
  • Issues with uniformity and light bleed; no adjustable color temperature.

Ghosting and Refresh Rate

  • Ghosting is minimized in PDF viewing, but more noticeable in other operations.
  • Ghosting has a slightly yellow tint, but fades without a full refresh.
  • The display shows more flashing due to color rendering method.
  • Comparison with Bigme Gllery 3 Tablet shows improvement in refresh rate and less ghosting.

Writing and Drawing

  • Writing experience:
    • Noticeable friction and a loud scratching sound.
    • The hard pen tip makes it feel harsher and slightly slippery.
  • Active pen use:
    • Not using Wacom; USI compatibility is unreliable.
    • Wobbly lines are noticeable, especially on long diagonal lines.
    • Fast response time gives a responsive feel, despite some latency.

Build Quality

  • Aluminum body, high-end feel similar to an iPad Pro.
  • Sharp edges and a heavier weight are minor drawbacks.
  • Rubber feet for stability when on a desk.
  • Large 11.8-inch display is good for notes but impacts portability.
  • Folios now support sleep mode management; pen magnetically attaches.

Software

  • Runs on Codex OS, focusing on essentials for note-taking and sketching.
  • Simple, intuitive user interface with core functionalities.
  • Cloud storage features with optional subscription for unlimited storage.
  • Pen types and tools:
    • Various pen types with pressure and tilt sensitivity.
    • Use of colors is a significant advantage for memory and engagement.
  • Issues:
    • Typed text alignment missing.
    • No handwriting search feature.

Battery Life

  • Equipped with a 5,300 mAh battery.
  • Estimated battery life:
    • Note-taking: 6-7 hours.
    • PDF reading: Up to 14 hours without front light.
  • Front light use has minimal impact on battery life.

Conclusion

  • Worth considering for those needing color capabilities and larger screens.
  • Offers unique features not available on monochrome e-ink devices.
  • Some trade-offs: writing feel, screen flickering for colors.
  • High price point may be a barrier.
  • A promising step forward in e-ink technology with room for improvement.