Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus
Verdict
A multifunctional e-ink device, offering excellent note-taking and reading features with robust app compatibility but limited media performance.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“Smart, stylish, premium and powerful for an e-ink tablet, the Boox Note Air 2 Plus is as good as it gets when it comes to 10in E Ink slates that need to run third-party apps, even if it isn’t as streamlined or refined as some competition.”
“The distributor, Onyx, says that the device is designed primarily for reading ebooks, but it also has some additional features which are defined by the installed software. If you do primarily read on it, then you would enjoy doing that, you'd enjoy it a great deal. It just wouldn't feel like it was worth $480. You need to be someone who will live in the device, reading books, yes, but also writing on it.”
“The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus is a fantastic e-reader. The screen was easy on the eyes and I could read in both dark and bright environments, making it a versatile device. It’s comfortable in the hand, and its attractive green finish gives this device more personality over some other e-readers I’ve tried. While this e-reader doesn’t include all the features you’d expect of a tablet, it’s does the job for browsing the web and using day-to-day apps – although those looking for a device on which to predominantly watch video content should look elsewhere. Overall, the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus is a great alternative to the Kindle e-readers out there and a device that you should certainly consider if you’re interested in doodling and taking notes on your reader.”
“Combining the best parts of e-ink screens with the power of Android and a Stylus, the Onyx Boox Note Air2 Plus is a tablet made to read, sketch and create.”
In Depth
Design
Reviewers appreciate the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus for its sleek design, featuring a Pine Green color that adds a touch of elegance. One reviewer noted, “The Onyx Boox Note Air2 Plus looks great with its dark green colour, but even more, it just feels well crafted, and built to be lugged around and used.”
The 5.8mm thin profile, combined with a robust metal body, helps you feel confident when carrying it around. The thoughtful design includes a wider bezel on one side, offering a secure grip, which can be a lifesaver during long reading sessions.
I found the magnetic holder for the stylus and the magnetic case support ensure that your accessories remain within reach and add to the device’s utility.
Display(s)
The e-ink Carta display offers a crisp 10.3-inch screen that feels like reading on real paper. This makes it easier to read and write for long periods without eye strain.
“The screen is crisp and clear, ready for any form of written media,” experts highlight, appreciating its lack of glare under different lighting conditions.
Adjusting the refresh rate and screen tone brings a customized viewing experience, perfect for reading in low-light or bright sunlight settings.
Performance
The tablet’s Android 11 support provides access to Google Play Store, allowing you to integrate apps like OneNote and Evernote, fitting effortlessly into your productivity workflow. The e-ink display ensures a comfortable writing experience, closely resembling that of paper, enhancing focus and reducing eye strain during long work sessions.
Reviewers highlighted, “OneNote is the backbone of my workflow, and having the official OneNote Android app available on the tablet made this a very exciting review opportunity.” This emphasizes how well the device integrates into existing productivity systems without compromise.
Software & Storage
The Note Air 2 Plus operates on a highly customized Android interface, granting access to the Google Play Store and supporting various productivity apps.
Experts highlight the convenience of using apps like OneNote, Evernote, and Kindle without workarounds on this device.
It runs Android 11 but may not receive system upgrades beyond that, as noted by various reviewers.
Boox maintains frequent updates for up to three years, ensuring security and new features over time.
Cameras
With the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus, you’re equipped for functionality over flair when it comes to cameras. The device focuses on enhancing your productivity, particularly with tasks like scanning documents. Reviewers highlight the basic, utilitarian approach, noting “the camera captures text decently for note-taking or archiving purposes,” making it a suitable companion for work-centric users.
If you’re seeking high-definition photography, look elsewhere, as the camera is designed for straightforward usage rather than capturing detailed images. Its primary advantage lies in boosting your efficiency rather than dazzling with visuals, ideal for practical users prioritizing work over leisure photography.
Battery
The tablet’s battery life stands out, allowing you to enjoy up to two weeks of power with typical usage. Experts noted the main battery drain comes from the front light, so daytime use without the light extends battery life further.
Charging takes less than two hours, aligning perfectly with its long-lasting nature. While this e-ink tablet boasts impressive endurance, the position of its charging port underneath the folio case might hinder charging while the device remains protected.
Audio
The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus suits reading and writing primarily, and its audio quality reflects this focus. The single speaker is adequate for playing audiobooks or podcasts, but not for rich sound experiences. Experts found its capabilities limited, noting “as expected the single built-in speaker isn’t going to win any awards, but will serve in a pinch.”
Built-in Bluetooth support allows you to connect your headphones or speakers for better audio quality, making it a viable option for personal listening sessions.
The Bottom Line
This device shines as a capable tool for reading and productivity-focused tasks, enhanced by Android 11 and access to apps like OneNote and Evernote, which “more than make up for” typical e-ink limitations, according to one review.
Its paper-like screen provides a natural handwriting experience, making note-taking intuitive. The robust design and battery life ensure it supports you for hours of uninterrupted use.
If your needs include media consumption, you might look elsewhere, as the display and performance for rich media won’t match traditional tablets.
What people actually want to know
When was the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus released?
The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus was released on June 6, 2022.
How long does the battery last on the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus?
The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus has a 3,700 mAh battery.
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus support wireless charging?
No, the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus does not support wireless charging.
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus have a headphone jack?
No, the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus does not have a headphone jack. You'll need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus have NFC?
No, the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus does not have NFC. Contactless payments and tap-to-pair will not be available.
Where can I get support for the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 Plus?
Visit Onyx's official support page for warranty info, repairs, and troubleshooting.
Questions & answers
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