Onyx Boox Note Air 3
Verdict
A flexible e-reader that stands out for note-taking but falls short in typical tablet tasks.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“With the Onyx Boox Note Air 3, the manufacturer offers a high-quality e-reader that impresses with its Android app support and long runtimes.”
“If this is your first Boox device or first ereader/writer, and you want a customized, distraction-free experience for reading and writing, I highly recommend it.”
“The Boox Note Air 3 does a terrific job as an e-reader thanks to the large E Ink screen, but where it truly shines is as a digital note-taking device. It is also much more extensible than other devices in this segment as it comes with Android out of the box, giving you access to the Play Store. Combine that with a large battery that lasts a week between charges, a bundled stylus that's great for sketching as well as taking notes, and a metal chassis that's built to last, and you have a standout e-reader.”
“An oversized e-reader that works as a suitable tablet replacement for those needing a distraction-free device for work or education. However, its cumbersome size and high asking price might be too much for mere bookworms.”
In Depth
Design
The design of the Note Air 3 stands out with its aluminum-magnesium alloy body, lending it a premium feel and solid durability. This robust chassis makes the device a bit heavier than standard tablets and e-readers, weighing 430 grams.
Its asymmetrical design is practical, with a wider bezel on one side for a more secure grip, especially helpful if you’re holding it for long reading or note-taking sessions. “Despite its weight, the Note Air 3 is comfortable to hold with one hand,” noted TechRadar.
While its weight may limit portability for some, the design enhances its durability, maintaining a sleek, modern look that is complemented by subtle orange accents.
Display(s)
The tablet’s e-ink display reduces eye strain by mimicking the look of paper. This lets you read for hours comfortably. The display works well in direct sunlight, which makes it a great choice for outdoor use.
Reviewer Rael Hornby mentioned, ‘It’s a limitation of the technology, and e-ink displays suffer in this area across the board, but its sluggish, ghosting, and altogether drowsy visuals do nothing for me.’ Despite this, its benefits for reading and note-taking are clear.
Performance
The Note Air 3’s inclusion of Android is a double-edged sword, emphasizing versatility yet limiting performance. According to Laptop Mag, its OS can stall, with inputs sometimes unresponsive. This stems from the inherent delay of e-ink screens, which struggle with speed, leading to ghosting and sluggish visuals.
TechRadar notes that while it can manage e-reading and note tasks well, its performance diminishes with more demanding Android apps, as these apps aren’t optimized for e-ink displays.
If you’re seeking extensive app use or fast-paced tasks, compromises in fluidity and responsiveness are evident. These performance hitches mean it’s best for tasks that don’t demand high refresh rates or swift responsiveness.
Software & Storage
The Note Air 3 runs on a customized Android version, highlighting e-books, notes, and file management, offering wide app availability via the Google Play Store. Though the UI feels specialized for reading and productivity, expect less fluidity with animations or tasks requiring real-time updates.
Reviewers find its reading abilities mixed; it handles e-books well, but video and complex apps don’t blend efficiently with an E Ink display. Experts suggest high-contrast applications for optimal use.
Despite some software integration challenges, the support for various book formats and customization options, like font adjustments in NeoReader, enrich your e-reading journey.
Cameras
Unlike many tablets, the Boox Note Air 3 doesn’t prioritize camera features. “For users, its emphasis remains on reading and note-taking,” TechRadar comments, highlighting that the e-ink screen holds the spotlight. Please note, capturing dynamic or colorful images can be challenging.
In fact, many find smartphones better for photos. So, if snapping pics isn’t your priority, you might appreciate its focus on core capabilities like document review and digital jotting without being sidetracked by camera functionalities.
Battery
The Onyx Boox Note Air 3 shines with its 3,700mAh battery, boasting an exceptional battery life that suits an e-ink device well. You’ll appreciate the long usage, as it can last several weeks with moderate reading and note-taking, ensuring that you’re not frequently recharging.
TechRadar highlighted its “fantastic battery life,” lasting a week between charges even with heavy use. The efficient e-ink panel contributes significantly to this performance, making it a reliable companion for readers and note-takers alike.
This impressive endurance allows you to focus on work, learning, or leisure without power concerns. Charging is straightforward with USB-C connectivity, albeit at a manageable pace that aligns with its superb battery efficiency. You’ll find this combination of endurance and convenience ideal for a balanced digital lifestyle.
Audio
Reviewers agree that while the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 offers stereo speakers, they fall short for music or movies. According to Laptop Mag, the “speakers are more than satisfactory at presenting a good audiobook or podcast,” though they could be a tad louder.
The sound quality is described as muffled and treble-heavy, making them better suited for spoken audio than immersive entertainment experiences.
For a better listening experience, consider using earbuds or external speakers via the USB-C port or Bluetooth connectivity.
The Bottom Line
This device is great if you need an e-reader with enhanced note-taking capabilities. It includes access to the Google Play Store, offering more apps than traditional e-readers.
While reviewers noted some “frustration with app interface on E Ink” screens, the ability to write, sketch, and annotate shines. It’s ideal in environments where e-ink’s low glare is more comfortable for prolonged use.
Lack of app uniformity and slow response in video playback can disappoint those looking for more than reading and note-taking.
What people actually want to know
When was the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 released?
The Onyx Boox Note Air 3 was released on December 14, 2023.
How long does the battery last on the Onyx Boox Note Air 3?
The Onyx Boox Note Air 3 has a 3,700 mAh battery.
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 support wireless charging?
No, the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 does not support wireless charging.
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 have a headphone jack?
No, the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 does not have a headphone jack. You'll need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Does the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 have NFC?
No, the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 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 3?
Visit Onyx's official support page for warranty info, repairs, and troubleshooting.
Questions & answers
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