Forgetting about bright screens, reducing mobile phone use, and seeking healthier reading experiences is the dream of many. With the arrival of the BOOX Palma 2, this goal seems much more achievable. If you're one of those who can't put down their phone but are looking for something different, with fewer distractions and designed for consuming text content, this device can change your routine. Today we bring you an in-depth review of the BOOX Palma 2, a multifunction e-book reader that inherits the best of eReaders and fuses it with the features of a modern smartphone.
In the following lines we will tell you everything you need to know about the BOOX Palma 2: from its concept to daily user experience, its screen modes, performance, battery life, and of course, whether or not it's worth the upgrade from a traditional eReader, or even from its first version. It describes a device that combines functionality and portability for those looking for an alternative to traditional e-readers.
What type of device is the BOOX Palma 2?
El BOOX Palma 2 is BOOX's latest offering for those looking for an e-book reader that's different from the usual. At first glance, its 6,13 inch format, a size that is very reminiscent of a compact smartphone. However, there is no backlit LCD screen or SIM card slot. What BOOX is offering is a device that is fully designed for the reading and consumption of textual content, but with extended features that take it beyond a traditional eReader.
Works under Android 13, which means access to the Google Play Store and the ability to install apps like Kindle, Moonreader, modern browsers, or music players like YouTube Music. However, its screen is electronic ink (e-ink), in black and white, with all the benefits – and limitations – that this entails. It is not a mobile phone, but rather what we could call a smartreader: a smart and versatile book reader.
Compact and portable design designed for everyday use
One of the points that surprises most when holding the BOOX Palma 2 is its lightness and portability. Their 170 grams and its fine 8 mm of thickness turn it into a device discreet and easy to carry in any pocket or purse. The back features a rough texture that mimics crumpled paper, significantly improving grip and preventing annoying slipping during long reading sessions.
On the side we find a physical button dedicated to manual screen refresh, very useful for cleaning any traces or “ghosts” that may remain after multiple page changes or scrolling. power button also incorporates a fingerprint sensor, which adds a plus of security and privacy. Although in testing, this biometric reader can sometimes be somewhat frustrating due to its lower reliability compared to a conventional smartphone.
El Ergonomic design, combined with its lightweight, makes it easy to read with one hand, even on public transport, with hardly any fatigue. Furthermore, despite the fact that we find certain visual similarities with traditional mobile phones, we must remember that does not have a SIM slot, so no calls or SMS messages.
High-quality e-ink display: experience and usage modes
The true essence of the Palma 2 is in its 1200-inch Carta 6,13 e-ink display with a very good 300 dpi resolutionThis technology provides a reading experience very similar to printed paper, without annoying reflections or the eye strain typical of conventional screens.
La text clarity is excellent, even in direct sunlight, making the device a perfect ally for reading both indoors and outdoors. For night reading, it features a front lighting system adjustable in both intensity and color temperature, allowing you to adjust whether you prefer a cooler or warmer tone depending on the environment. However, it should be noted that the automatic brightness and temperature adjustment mode It does not always respond correctly, and may be short or long in intensity in specific situations.
Another of the great attractions is the multiple screen refresh modes, which are perfectly adapted to each type of use:
- HD: It offers the highest level of definition, ideal for reading books. This is the mode in which the screen behaves like the best eReader: sharp text without ghosting, although with slow refresh rates when changing pages or scrolling.
- BALANCE: Lowers the resolution slightly but increases speed. Recommended for reading long documents or PDFs where scrolling is constant.
- Fast: Even faster and perfect for web browsing, although it reduces typographic detail and some ghosting may appear.
- Ultrafast: The fastest mode, designed for video playback or situations where speed is more important than visual quality. The experience here isn't comparable to that of a tablet or mobile phone, but it's fine in emergencies.
The option to switch modes at any time and configure each app to always use its optimal mode is a highly appreciated feature by the most demanding users. For example, you can always have HD mode enabled in the Books app, while the web browser can launch directly in Fast or Ultrafast mode.
If ghosting or visual clutter occurs, simply press the refresh button to instantly clear the screen. All designed to maximize flexibility and control.
Performance, operating system and daily usability
Internally, the BOOX Palma 2 has evolved from its first version. It incorporates a Qualcomm octa-core processor y 6 GB of RAM, Together with 128 GB internal storagePlus, it supports microSD cards up to 2TB, so space will never be an issue.
It works on Android 13, which opens the door to downloading a multitude of apps from Google Play and customizing their use according to each user's interests. While it's true that Android 13 is already somewhat outdated for the world of smartphones, in the case of the Palma 2, it more than delivers, focusing on light tasks oriented toward reading and document management.
The setup and initial usage experience is very similar to that of an Android phone: signing in to Google, installing apps, setting up email accounts, etc. However, the nature of the e-ink screen means that more interactive tasks, such as writing long messages or quickly navigating through menus, are not as fluid as on a mobile phone. This is where BOOX tries to compensate with its Super Refresh technology, which allows you to alternate between fluidity and definition as the moment requires.
Multitasking It's perfectly viable: you can read a web article in Chrome while playing music on YouTube Music or even reply to messages from messaging apps, although the typing and scrolling experience is less pleasant in HD modes. If you prefer reading, organizing documents, taking notes, checking your calendar, and staying connected to your favorite apps but with fewer distractions, this device can become your little digital refuge.
Extra features: camera, fingerprint reader and more
The BOOX Palma 2 incorporates a 16 MP rear camera with LED flash, whose main use is document scanningIt comes with its own pre-installed app for easy text scanning. While it can take photos, the quality is far from that of any mid-range smartphone, but it's sufficient for capturing quick notes or remembering a moment if you don't have your smartphone handy. Third-party app compatibility allows for even more possibilities to suit the user's needs.
Regarding security, the following stand out: fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. This feature prevents unauthorized access to the device, especially useful if you use it in public places or on public transport.
It also integrates dual speakers and microphones, which makes it easy to listen to podcasts or audiobooks without having to take your phone out of your pocket. It's not intended to replace a dedicated music player, but it does add points in terms of versatility.
Battery life and management
La 3.950 mAh battery The BOOX Palma 2's other main selling point is its low energy consumption. Thanks to the e-ink screen's extremely low battery consumption, the battery life is simply excellent. The most avid readers can forget about the charger for days, even exceeding the two weeks with moderate use reading, occasional browsing with WiFi and answering messages.
In real-world tests, the percentage drop in battery life after long sessions is minimal. For example, playing a one-hour video with high brightness only results in a drop of between 6% and 9%. Most of the consumption comes from using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and push notifications, not so much from reading. For more efficient consumption management, you can consult our complete guide on how to manage battery life. Battery optimization on Android devices.
Charging, however, isn't particularly fast: reaching 50% can take an hour, and fully recharging the battery takes almost three hours. While this may seem like a long time, it's acceptable given the excellent battery life.
Who is the BOOX Palma 2 for?
The BOOX Palma 2 isn't for everyone. If you're looking for a complete everyday phone replacement, you'll run into the limitations of e-ink: the scrolling is not so fluid, writing may be slower and certain content such as video may be viewed in low quality or uncomfortably.
However, if your goal is reduce exposure to bright screensWhether you're reading anywhere, managing documents, taking notes, or consuming audio content with fewer distractions, the Palma 2 can be your best ally. It's ideal for those who want to disconnect from their phone but still have access to their reading material, web articles, and even receive light notifications without the distractions of social media.
Due to its niche nature and price, around 300 euros, it may not be the most economical option, but it is one of the most versatile for those seeking a totally different and healthy experience.
After several weeks of use, it's clear that while it doesn't replace a smartphone or a traditional eReader in every scenario, the BOOX Palma 2 more than fulfills its role as a smart reader and support device for those looking to change their digital habits. Improvements in speed, autonomy and customization make it a recommendable option if it fits your needs and you're looking for something innovative. If you prioritize size, versatility, and a less distracting experience, this smart reader may be just what you need.
