Boox recently unveiled its newest pocket e-reader, the Palma 3, sparking interest in its advancements over the successful Palma 2. While the Palma 2 earned a commendable four-star rating, the crucial question remains: do the enhancements in the Palma 3 justify an upgrade? This comprehensive comparison delves into the technical specifications and new features, helping potential buyers navigate their choices in the e-reader market. The primary distinctions lie in stylus compatibility, the updated Android operating system, minor design modifications, and improved Bluetooth technology, all of which contribute to a potentially enhanced user experience.
Boox Palma 3 vs. Palma 2: A Detailed Comparison
The highly anticipated Boox Palma 3 is set to retail at an initial price of €339.99/$319.99, although its exact release date remains a mystery, with Boox teasing its imminent arrival. In contrast, its predecessor, the Palma 2, is currently available at a more accessible price point of €299.99.
One of the most notable enhancements in the Palma 3 is the integration of stylus support, a feature first introduced with the Palma 2 Pro. While this functionality is a welcome addition for those who enjoy handwritten notes or sketches, it's important to note that the compatible Boox InkSense Plus pen is sold separately for an additional $49. During our evaluations of the Palma 2 Pro, we observed the stylus to be highly responsive and lag-free, delivering a natural writing sensation, and similar performance is anticipated for the Palma 3. The Palma 2, however, lacks stylus support and operates exclusively as a touchscreen device. Our experience with the Palma 2 revealed a noticeable, albeit minor, delay between touch input and interface response, which could impact typing speed.
Both the Palma 3 and Palma 2 are Android-based devices, providing users with the significant advantage of accessing the Google Play Store, unlike devices such as Kindles, which are restricted to their proprietary storefronts. The Palma 3 ships with the newer Android 16, a substantial upgrade from the Palma 2's Android 13. While the duration of security updates for the Palma 3 is yet to be disclosed by Boox, the newer OS promises improved performance and features.
In terms of physical design, the two devices share remarkably similar dimensions, both featuring a 6.13-inch display and measuring 6.3 x 3.1 x 0.31 inches. However, the Palma 3 is marginally heavier, weighing 195g compared to the Palma 2's 170g. This increased weight is attributed to the Palma 3's aluminum frame, which provides a more robust and premium feel compared to the Palma 2's plastic construction.
Both e-readers come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to pair various audio devices such as headphones, earbuds, or speakers for an enriched listening experience, whether for audiobooks, podcasts, or music streaming. The Palma 3, being the newer model, features Bluetooth 6, an upgrade from the Palma 2's Bluetooth 5.1. This newer standard promises enhanced reliability, reduced connection drops, and an overall smoother audio experience. Neither the Palma 3 nor the Palma 2 offers SIM card support, meaning cellular connectivity for calls or messages via apps like WhatsApp or Telegram is dependent on a Wi-Fi connection, a limitation also present in the Palma 2 Pro.
The primary differentiator between the Boox Palma 3 and its predecessor is the inclusion of stylus support. For those who prioritize the ability to handwrite notes or engage in digital sketching, the Palma 3 presents a compelling option, even if the stylus is an additional purchase. However, if handwriting isn't a critical feature, or if users already possess a dedicated digital notebook, upgrading from the Palma 2 might not be essential. Conversely, for individuals seeking a versatile e-reader that can also function as a digital notebook, the Palma 3 emerges as a strong contender, offering a robust blend of reading and note-taking capabilities.
