eReaders have changed dramatically in a very short time, and the new BOOX Palma 2 Pro is the latest example of this evolution towards more flexible formats. Instead of a large tablet, this device has a "mobile phone" body and an e-ink screen , designed for reading, taking notes, and using apps without distractions, while maintaining the essence of an eInk reader with battery life and visual comfort.
The Palma 2 Pro arrives as the first in its family with 5G connectivity and compatibility with the InkSense Plus stylus, making it a unique reading and productivity gadget, similar to other compact eReader options . It also shares the stage with another of the brand's flagship releases, the Note Air5 C, a model with a 10,3-inch screen and a more tablet-like focus for writing and work. Below, we'll tell you, in detail, the technical specifications of the BOOX Palma 2 Pro , its differentiating features compared to the Palma 2, and the role the Note Air5 C plays within the product lineup.
BOOX Palma 2 Pro: technical specifications and key features
The Palma 2 Pro adopts an elongated form factor very similar to that of a smartphone, but it replaces the usual OLED or LCD panel with a color e-ink display. This panel is a 6,13-inch ePaper Kaleido 3 capable of displaying up to 4.096 colors , with adjustable color temperature front lighting and a protective glass, designed for long sessions without eye strain.
In terms of power, it features an octa-core processor paired with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card up to 2 TB. This, combined with BOOX Super Refresh technology, allows for a smoother experience than we typically see in traditional eReaders, with responsive transitions and less ghosting when moving elements across the screen.
Its most unique feature lies in its connectivity: it adds 5G with a hybrid SIM slot, so you can choose between two SIMs or one SIM and a microSD card. Note that BOOX clarifies that the SIM is data-only, without conventional calls or SMS; even so, it integrates a top receiver, dual microphones, and a bottom speaker, so you can use VoIP or audio apps without any problems. All in all, this is a reader that prioritizes true mobility without relying on Wi-Fi.
In terms of multimedia and handling, it features a 16 MP rear camera with LED flash, a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button, physical volume and page-turn buttons on the left side, and a configurable smart button. The battery is 3.950 mAh and recharges via USB-C, with USB OTG and USB audio ports for accessories and sound.
The icing on the cake is the software: it comes with Android 15 and Google Play pre-installed, opening the door to installing any app compatible with eInk (readers, podcasts, note-taking apps, productivity apps, etc.). It's available in black and white, with pre-orders starting at €399,99 and $399,99, respectively, and includes a magnetic case. The InkSense Plus stylus is available separately for $45,99. In short, it's a reader with the soul of a mobile phone and all the conveniences of the Android ecosystem.
Kaleido 3 color display: size, dpi and front light
The Palma 2 Pro's screen is a 6,13-inch ePaper Kaleido 3 that combines a color layer with a black and white e-ink substrate. In monochrome, the resolution reaches 824 × 1.648 pixels (300 dpi), and in color, it's 412 × 824 (150 dpi), a typical compromise for this technology. In practice, this means crisp text for reading and graphics that are "sufficiently" sharp for comics, magazines, or maps, with the significant advantage of low power consumption and readability in bright sunlight.
The front lighting offers adjustable color temperature (warm/cool) to adapt the screen to the environment, reducing eye strain during long sessions. According to BOOX, the tones have been carefully selected for a natural and smooth result, perfect for color magazines, academic documents with graphics, or any content where color provides context. Overall, it's a panel designed for reading and working with fewer distractions than a conventional screen.
The surface is covered by a protective glass that provides rigidity and scratch resistance. The brand also mentions a water-repellent design, with added splash protection for peace of mind in daily use (it's not a device for submersion, but it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday life or carrying a backpack).
For those who take handwritten notes, the InkSense Plus stylus support allows for writing and highlighting in different colors. The stylus (optional) offers 4.096 levels of pressure sensitivity, helping to achieve natural and precise strokes. All in all, the Palma 2 Pro transcends being a "simple eReader" and becomes a digital notebook where e-ink takes on a new life.
The aspect ratio is similar to that of a modern smartphone, making it easy to hold with one hand. This is especially practical on public transport or for reading while standing, where the elongated format is appreciated. And, of course, being an eInk display, the screen remains visible in bright sunlight, with stable contrast and no annoying reflections.
Processor, memory and storage
The Palma 2 Pro is powered by an octa-core chip paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. For an eReader, these figures are very generous and make a real difference if you plan to install reading apps, a note-taking app, cloud services, and even light productivity tools. Compatibility with microSD cards up to 2TB allows you to expand your library without worrying about space, which is crucial if you handle large PDFs, comics, or entire magazine collections.
BOOX Super Refresh technology offers refresh modes designed to balance sharpness and smoothness depending on the content, reducing the ghosting typical of e-ink. This makes navigating menus, scrolling through lists of articles, or even consulting maps much more natural, with a more responsive feel than on traditional e-readers.
If you're thinking about tasks like annotating PDFs, highlighting, or switching between multiple reading apps, the combination of an octa-core CPU and 8GB of RAM is very useful. We're not talking about a gaming or multimedia editing device, but rather a reader that can handle light multitasking with ease.
5G mobile connectivity, hybrid SIM and positioning
The key difference with the Palma 2 Pro is its 5G connectivity. The device features a hybrid SIM slot: you can use two SIMs (for data) or one SIM and a microSD card. BOOX specifies that it's a data-only SIM, so it's not intended for voice calls or traditional SMS messages, although the device includes a top-mounted receiver, microphones, and a speaker. Thanks to this, you can use internet messaging and calling services, enjoy podcasts, or receive audio from apps without relying on Wi-Fi.
Furthermore, the device mentions A-GPS compatibility for location services, which is useful if your workflow involves apps that require basic positioning. The USB-C connection supports USB OTG and USB audio, so you can connect peripherals (such as a card reader, a compact keyboard, or USB DACs/headphones) and get more out of the "mobile ink" format. In short, its connectivity is designed for reading and working on the go.
Android 15 with Google Play: apps and ecosystem
It comes with Android 15 and the Play Store ready to use. This marks a turning point for this type of reader, because you can install almost any app: from your favorite reading services to task managers or research apps. The key is choosing apps that work well with eInk, but with Android 15 and 8 GB of RAM, the experience is much more open than that of a closed eReader. In short, you have a complete ecosystem in an eInk body.
For native reading, the BOOX devices include their own software with support for multiple formats (including advanced EPUB and PDF), robust annotation tools, and export options. Combined with InkSense Plus writing capabilities, the package allows you to comfortably set up study or work workflows: read, highlight, take notes, sync, and seamlessly continue on your computer .
InkSense Plus writing and stylus
The InkSense Plus stylus, sold separately, adds a key productivity layer. Its 4.096 levels of pressure sensitivity allow for responsive strokes and varying line thickness, with different colored pens taking advantage of the Kaleido 3 layer. For those who work with documents, the ability to annotate by hand, underline, or draw small diagrams is a huge advantage, as e-ink means fewer distractions and more focus than a conventional screen.
Furthermore, the protective glass surface provides stability to the strokes and a firm writing feel. Although the stylus isn't included (a magnetic case is included with the Palma 2 Pro), the additional investment is reasonable if you plan to use the device for study or work. The stylus costs $45,99 and transforms the reader into a truly versatile digital notebook for notes and revisions.
Camera, audio, and physical controls
The Palma 2 Pro features a 16 MP rear camera with LED flash, primarily designed for scanning documents or capturing notes. It's not a mobile phone, but having a usable camera on an Android 15 e-reader greatly expands its everyday uses. For audio, it has a bottom speaker and dual microphones, and with USB audio input, you can use wired headphones or DACs if you prefer. Of course, it also has Bluetooth for wireless accessories.
Ergonomics are enhanced by physical side buttons for turning pages or adjusting volume, plus a smart button and a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button. This feature speeds up unlocking and keeps your data secure. Overall, it's a device designed for one-handed use, with well-placed controls and useful shortcuts for intensive reading.
battery and charging
With a 3.950 mAh battery, the Palma 2 Pro leverages eInk's typical low power consumption to achieve long days of use. Battery life will depend on how much you use 5G and which apps you run, but for reading and light note-taking, it offers significantly better battery life than a smartphone. Charging is done via USB-C and includes support for USB OTG and USB audio, so in addition to recharging, you can also use the port for accessories. In everyday use, the device is designed to require less frequent charging than most phones.
Design, materials and resistance
The device features a slim and lightweight chassis with a finish that prioritizes a comfortable grip. BOOX mentions a water-repellent design with splash protection, adding peace of mind in real-world scenarios: light rain, a spilled glass, or outdoor use. The glass panel cover and anti-glare coating help keep the screen legible and fingerprint-resistant for everyday use. In short, it's a reader with a clear focus on portability.
Palma 2 Pro vs Palma 2: Key Differences
Alongside the Palma 2 Pro is the standard Palma 2, an identically sized model with a different design. The Palma 2 features a 6,13-inch eInk Carta 1200 monochrome display (300 ppi) with adjustable front light and automatic rotation. Its platform is based on an octa-core Qualcomm processor, 6 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage, plus a microSD card slot, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.1. It's an ultra-compact device (approximately 8 mm thick and 170 g), comparable to other models in our compact eReader reviews , with a 16 MP camera, speakers and microphones, a fingerprint reader, and a 3.950 mAh battery.
The main differences: the Palma 2 Pro features a color Kaleido 3 display, 8GB of RAM, 5G with a hybrid SIM data connection, Android 15, and official support for the InkSense Plus stylus with 4.096 levels of pressure sensitivity; the Palma 2 remains in black and white, with 6GB of RAM and Android 13. Prices also differ: the Palma 2 is around €299,99, while the Palma 2 Pro starts at €399,99, including a magnetic case. In short, the Pro is for those who need color, mobile connectivity, and a performance boost for apps; the Palma 2 is for those who prioritize pure reading and a more affordable price.
And the BOOX Note Air5 C? Large screen, productivity, and keyboard
Meanwhile, BOOX has unveiled the Note Air5 C, a very different device in size and focus. It features a 10,3-inch eInk Kaleido 3 color display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, anti-glare coating, and a paper-like feel, similar to ePaper laptops . It includes magnetic pins for attaching a keyboard case, transforming it into a lightweight "laptop" for writing and productivity. Inside, it boasts 6GB of RAM and 64GB of storage , along with Android 15 and access to the Play Store.
The Note Air5 C includes the Pen3 stylus and AI features like Smart Scribe, designed to enhance strokes and transform handwritten text. It's very thin (only 5,8 mm), targets more intensive study/work workflows, and has an MSRP of €529,99. Compared to the Palma 2 Pro, the Note Air5 C has the advantage in terms of workspace and included accessories (keyboard, stylus), while the Palma 2 Pro excels in extreme portability and 5G connectivity.
Availability, colors and price of the BOOX Palma 2 Pro
The Palma 2 Pro is available for pre-order for €399,99 or $399,99, with shipping expected to begin on November 7th. BOOX includes a magnetic case at no extra cost and sells the InkSense Plus stylus for $45,99. It comes in two colors (white and ivory, and black) and is the global version of the P6 Pro Color model launched in China. For those who need complete portability, color, and Android apps via the Play Store, it's a highly competitive price-to-performance e-reader.
To get a quick overview of the most relevant specifications, the Palma 2 Pro offers a 6,13-inch ePaper Kaleido 3 display with a resolution of 824 x 1.648 in black and white (300 ppi) and 412 x 824 in color (150 ppi), a front light with adjustable temperature, and a protective glass screen. It features an octa-core processor, 8 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage, a microSD card slot expandable up to 2 TB, a 16 MP rear camera with LED flash, a fingerprint reader, physical buttons, and a splash-resistant design. Connectivity options include 5G (data SIM), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C with OTG and USB audio, as well as dual microphones, a speaker, and Android 15 with Google Play.
If you're looking for a mobile-sized e-reader with a color screen that's easy to see in sunlight, long battery life, and the freedom to install your usual apps without relying on Wi-Fi thanks to 5G, the Palma 2 Pro is a perfect fit. If you prioritize black and white, a bit more budget, and Android 13 is enough for you, the standard Palma 2 remains a great buy, especially compared to options like the Xiaomi eReader . And if your priority is a larger screen with a keyboard and AI features for advanced writing, the Note Air5 C is the best fit. BOOX offers a range where every user finds their niche, with the Palma 2 Pro being the most versatile for reading, taking notes, and moving around with complete freedom.
