Boox Palma 2 Pro review: ‘Upgrade’ proves downgrade, used less than prior models
The Boox Palma 2 Pro arrives with the promise of a step forward, yet the experience feels uneven. Early impressions suggest a sleek form factor and a higher‑resolution screen, but the real test lies in everyday workflow. Reviewers expected the new model to streamline reading, note‑taking, and multitasking, especially after the mixed reception of its predecessor.
While the hardware upgrades are evident, the software and ergonomics tell a different story. Users report that the device’s promised improvements quickly clash with practical usage patterns, leading many to question whether the changes truly enhance productivity. This tension becomes stark when the device’s most touted feature turns out to be counterproductive, prompting a reassessment of its place in the Boox lineup.
The following observation captures that disappointment in plain terms.
But one of this device's "upgrades" is actually such a huge downgrade that I almost immediately found myself using the Palma 2 Pro less than either of its predecessors. It's such a glaring problem that I can't recommend buying this device at all; buy the Palma 2 instead. Or just wait a little longer, and hope that Onyx figures out how to give us all the right features at the same time.
Boox Palma 2 Pro The Good - Cell connectivity! - Great battery life - Pen support works well The Bad - The screen is flat-out bad - Feels pretty cheap - Decidedly not cheap Let's just do this first: the problem is the screen. The Palma 2 Pro has a 6.13-inch, color screen, based on E Ink's Kaleido 3 technology.
The Kaleido 3 tech is a few years old, and it's essentially a color filter layered over a standard black-and-white E Ink screen. You can find Kaleido 3 screens in lots of gadgets, none of which look amazing, but many of which look fine. The tech comes with a few inherent drawbacks, most notably its resolution -- 150ppi is only half as sharp as a modern black-and-white E Ink screen -- and its brightness.
Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft is based on Kaleido 3, just to name one example, but Amazon rebuilt the whole display stack to make it sharper, brighter, and more accurate. Amazon was very clear that it didn't believe Kaleido was good enough on its own. The Palma 2 Pro's screen is a mess.
It's so dim that I have to turn the device's light up much higher than on previous models just to see text on the screen.
Is the newest Palma really an improvement? The reviewer notes that one of the advertised upgrades ends up being a glaring downgrade, so much so that the Palma 2 Pro saw less daily use than its predecessors. Because of that, the writer cannot recommend purchasing the device.
Instead, the older Palma 2 is suggested as the better choice, or perhaps waiting for a future iteration. While the device retains Onyx’s appealing formula—a smartphone‑sized chassis, Android app support, and an E Ink display—it fails to deliver on the promised step forward. The added features feel like steps back, creating uncertainty about the model’s overall value.
For readers who value consistent performance over novelty, sticking with the Palma 2 or holding out may be the wiser move. Ultimately, the review leaves the decision open, but the evidence presented leans toward caution rather than enthusiasm. Consumers should weigh the trade‑offs carefully, especially if they rely on the device for extensive reading sessions or note‑taking tasks.
Further Reading
- The Boox Palma 2 Pro might just be the most flexible digital note-taker ever - Expert Reviews
- Review: Boox Palma 2 Pro 6.1-inch Android 15 e-reader - Parka Blogs
- BOOX Palma 2 Pro (review): Is this a phone? - YouTube
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Common Questions Answered
What specific upgrade in the Boox Palma 2 Pro does the reviewer consider a downgrade?
The reviewer points out that one of the advertised upgrades actually hampers usability, leading them to use the Palma 2 Pro less than earlier models. This glaring issue outweighs the hardware improvements and makes the device less appealing.
How does the cell connectivity feature of the Boox Palma 2 Pro compare to its predecessors?
Cell connectivity is highlighted as a positive addition, allowing the device to stay online without Wi‑Fi. However, despite this benefit, the overall experience is still marred by other shortcomings.
Does the pen support on the Boox Palma 2 Pro meet the expectations set by earlier Boox devices?
Yes, the pen support works well and is praised for its responsiveness and accuracy. Nonetheless, the reviewer feels that this strength cannot compensate for the device’s major ergonomic and software flaws.
Why does the reviewer recommend buying the older Boox Palma 2 instead of the Palma 2 Pro?
The reviewer found the Palma 2 Pro’s downgraded feature to significantly reduce daily usage, making the older Palma 2 a more reliable choice. They suggest waiting for future updates or choosing the previous model for a better overall experience.