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Onyx Android 11 Released Oct 2021

Onyx Boox Note Air 2

7.9 / 10
Compass Score
Based on 6 critic reviews
How we score →
Starting from
$499
Specs
Android 11 Operating system
10.3" Screen size
— Main camera
Snapdragon 662 Octa-core Processor
64 GB Storage
3,000 mAh Battery

Verdict

A versatile device for reading, editing, and note-taking with flexibility in format and app support.

+
What's good
+ Flexible format support
+ Lightweight design
+ Paper-like writing feel
+ Good battery life
+ Android system with apps
−
What's not
− High price
− Slight note-taking lag
− Not waterproof
− Laggy E Ink panel
− Limited storage expansion
By category

Key specs

What critics say

Critic consensus

Compass Score
6 reviews
weighted by credibility
PC Magazine
PC Magazine
8

“No other E Ink tablet offers the build quality and software flexibility of the 10-inch Onyx Boox Note Air 2, making it ideal for taking notes and reading large-format documents.”

Laptop Mag
Laptop Mag
8

“The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 is equal parts e-reader and note taker, and I'm not mad at it. Its sturdy build, beautiful e-ink display, and shocking battery life make it a win.”

TechRadar
TechRadar
9

“With paper-like digital note-taking, annotating and Google Play Store apps, this sleek, slim and super-fast E Ink tablet impresses.”

Make Use Of
Make Use Of
9

“The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 is the best eReader-digital notebook around. But there's one big catch: it's expensive. The higher price is justified if you use its complex suite of eReader and note-taking software. Most students heading back to school or office staff heading back to the office will probably prefer an Onyx device over its competitors.”

In Depth

Design

The Note Air 2 is renowned for its sleek design, featuring a slim aluminum-magnesium alloy chassis. Its lightweight frame aids portability, but some users note that it can accumulate scratches, so a case might be a wise investment.

This model offers a distinct feature—a spine for easy, one-handed grip. It’s a helpful touch for those who read or take notes on-the-go, making your reading or note-taking session feel less cumbersome.

The Note Air 2 includes a magnetic spot for the stylus, yet many reviewers felt the magnet could be stronger, as it can easily dislodge the pen.

Display(s)

The Note Air 2’s 10.3-inch E Ink display feels like you’re writing on paper. The anti-glare coating further enhances your reading comfort in different lighting environments.

Its front light offers color adjustments from cool to warm tones, making night or low-light use soothing to the eyes. As TechRadar highlights, the “large 10.3-inch screen” displays documents clearly, making reading and note-taking seamless.

This screen’s flexibility helps balance reading, writing, and editing effortlessly.

Performance

With its Snapdragon 662 processor, the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 offers a high level of performance for an E Ink device. This processor ensures apps run smoothly, allowing you to work effectively across different tasks.

“The Snapdragon 662 provides one of the fastest eReader performances today,” note experts. This is significant when multitasking or using productivity apps available through Android 11.

Even with intensive note-taking, the device stays responsive, though some apps may experience slight delays, as mentioned by TechRadar. Balancing these factors, the device provides a valuable tool for productivity-focused users.

Software & Storage

The Onyx Boox Note Air 2 utilizes Android 11, giving you the freedom to install your preferred reading and productivity apps. This open environment makes it ideal for personalizing your reading and note-taking experience.

Experts appreciate the ability to run ‘apps such as Kindle and Kobo, so you can still purchase ebooks as you would on one of those service devices and read them perfectly well,’ remarked TechRadar.

Overall, the software’s flexibility adds significant value, although the app compatibility can sometimes be inconsistent, as noted by reviewers.

Cameras

The Note Air 2 focuses on audio capabilities instead of cameras. You can use the built-in microphone for recordings, making it an ideal tool for meetings and interviews. This is a unique feature compared to the typical camera setup found on most tablets.

One reviewer from TechRadar highlights this by saying, “The tiny speaker is fine for audiobooks,” while the microphone records effectively, supporting the device’s productivity focus.

Given its purpose as a note-taking and reading tablet, the lack of traditional cameras reinforces its dedication to enhancing productivity rather than capturing photos.

Battery

The tablet’s battery caters to your needs, lasting roughly one week with light use, according to experts. This provides peace of mind for those who dread frequent charging, particularly when caught up in engaging genres or tackling lengthy documents.

Charging options include a USB-C port for efficient recharges, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time utilizing this noteworthy feature-rich tablet. Experts mention that the standby mode further extends battery life significantly, adding to the device’s convenience.

Audio

The built-in speakers on the device are basic, providing acceptable audio for audiobook playback but not ideal for music or videos. As TechRadar mentions, “Let’s not pretend it can supply quality music – it cannot – but the tiny speaker is fine for audiobooks.” If you want to enhance your experience, consider using Bluetooth headphones. This can improve clarity and volume when listening to audiobooks or streaming audio content.

Reviewers note that while the speakers aren’t ideal for entertainment, they work for quick audio needs. Keep this in mind if you rely on your device for more than just reading or note-taking. You can’t connect standard earphones directly without an adapter, but Bluetooth support means you can easily pair up. Meanwhile, when it comes to call audio, the built-in microphone does the trick for basic recording or communication tasks without needing extra equipment.

The Bottom Line

This tablet offers a significant advantage in reading and taking notes with its large, paper-like screen. Its Android system provides access to numerous apps, which is beneficial if you handle diverse document types or need multiple reading and editing options. You can enjoy “reading and editing comfortably,” according to TechRadar, but the higher price may feel substantial, especially if you’re primarily searching for a basic e-reader.

Its main strengths lie in its flexibility to support various file formats and the ability to use popular apps like Kindle. The device is not waterproof and lacks expandable storage, which may limit some users’ needs.

Common questions

What people actually want to know

When was the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 released?
How long does the battery last on the Onyx Boox Note Air 2?
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 support wireless charging?
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 have a headphone jack?
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 have NFC?
Where can I get support for the Onyx Boox Note Air 2?
Community

Questions & answers

CA
Carl · Answered

The Xiaomi Mi Band 2 uses its accelerometer to count steps.

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