Boox Palma 3 Review: E-Reader Adds Stylus and Sleek Design

Onyx Boox has officially unveiled the successor to its popular palm-sized e-reader, the Boox Palma 3. The device, which carved out a niche for itself as a 'phone-shaped' e-ink reader, returns with significant hardware improvements that aim to bridge the gap between a distraction-free reading device and a pocket-sized digital notebook.

For many users, the original Boox Palma was praised for its portability. It allowed readers to carry an entire library in their pocket without the bulk of a standard tablet. The Palma 3 retains that iconic 6.13-inch form factor, but the company has refined the design. The device now features a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic, with thinner bezels and a more uniform chassis that feels closer to a modern smartphone than its predecessor.

The most significant addition to the Palma 3 is the inclusion of active stylus support. Previously, users looking for note-taking capabilities were required to upgrade to the larger Boox Note or Tab series devices. By integrating a layer that supports the Boox magnetic stylus, the company has transformed the Palma 3 from a simple consumption device into a mobile workspace. Whether you are jotting down quick reminders, annotating PDFs on the go, or sketching out ideas, the ability to write directly on the e-ink screen adds a level of utility that was previously missing from the pocket-sized category.

Under the hood, the Palma 3 continues to run on Android, providing users with the flexibility to install various third-party reading and productivity apps. This is a key differentiator for Boox, as it allows users to access not just Kindle or Kobo libraries, but also tools like Notion, Todoist, or various web browsers. The updated processor ensures that the navigation through these apps is snappier, reducing the ghosting effects often associated with e-ink technology. The company has also fine-tuned its signature 'Boox Super Refresh' technology, which manages the refresh rate to allow for smoother scrolling, making the experience of browsing apps feel more natural.

The display itself remains a high-resolution E Ink Carta 1200 screen. With a pixel density of 300 pixels per inch, text appears crisp and sharp, mimicking the look of physical ink on paper. The integrated front light system allows for color temperature adjustments, enabling users to switch between a cool white for daytime reading and a warm, amber tone for evening use to reduce eye strain. While the primary focus remains on reading and writing, the hardware upgrades suggest that Onyx is targeting power users who want a device that can do more than just display books.

Battery life remains a strong point for the series. Despite the added processing power and stylus digitizer, the Palma 3 is designed to last for weeks on a single charge under typical usage conditions. This is a crucial feature for a device intended to be used as a travel companion. The transition to a more refined design and the added functionality of a stylus make the Palma 3 a compelling evolution. It successfully maintains the portability of the original while adding the professional features that have defined the rest of the Boox product lineup. For readers who are tired of smartphone notifications but still want a pocket-sized tool for creative work, the Palma 3 stands out as a unique entry in a crowded market.