The Supernote A5 X2 emerges as a compelling contender in the E Ink tablet arena, presenting a viable alternative to the popular reMarkable 2, especially for users prioritizing a larger display and enhanced repairability. While priced slightly higher at $459 compared to the reMarkable 2’s $379, the A5 X2 offers a distinctive proposition centered around user upgradeability and a spacious screen. A key differentiator lies in its innovative design allowing for tool-free access to internal components, empowering users to replace the battery or even the motherboard, thus extending the device’s lifespan and potentially accommodating future upgrades. This contrasts sharply with the sealed nature of many modern electronics, offering a refreshing approach to device longevity. The inclusion of a microSD slot further enhances user control, enabling storage expansion up to 2TB. However, the A5 X2’s initial cost excludes a stylus, necessitating an additional purchase of at least $59 for a compatible Supernote pen, adding to the overall investment.
The Supernote A5 X2 boasts a 10.7-inch E Ink display with a 300 ppi resolution, surpassing the reMarkable 2’s 10.3-inch 266 ppi screen in both size and pixel density. This translates to a more expansive and crisper viewing experience, particularly beneficial for detailed note-taking and document review. However, adhering to a philosophy prioritizing a “true paper look,” the A5 X2 forgoes front lighting, a feature now commonplace in many E Ink devices like the Amazon Kindle Scribe and Kobo Elipsa 2E. This design choice, while potentially appealing to purists seeking a paper-like experience, restricts usability in low-light environments, a limitation users should carefully consider. This stands in contrast to the evolving market trend towards illuminated E Ink screens, even within the reMarkable lineup.
Driven by a 1.8GHz RK3566 quad-core processor and running a custom Android 11-based operating system called Chauvet, the A5 X2 offers responsive performance and a tailored software experience. The Chauvet OS supports intuitive features such as two-finger gestures for navigation and offline handwriting recognition, allowing for seamless conversion of handwritten notes into editable text. This functionality enhances productivity and provides flexibility for users who prefer the tactile experience of writing but require digital text for editing and sharing. Integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity further streamline workflows, enabling synchronization with cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive, as well as direct wireless file transfers via a dedicated mobile app. For enhanced security and offline file management, the A5 X2 also includes a USB-C port, facilitating direct file transfers via flash drives.
Beyond its core functionalities, the Supernote A5 X2 incorporates thoughtful design elements aimed at enhancing user experience. Touch-sensitive strips flanking the display provide intuitive scrolling through long documents, a feature particularly useful for navigating extensive notes or ebooks. A removable fabric loop offers a convenient solution for stylus storage, ensuring the pen is readily accessible while also catering to users who prefer a cleaner aesthetic by allowing for its detachment. This attention to detail highlights the Supernote’s focus on user customization and practicality.
The Supernote A5 X2 presents a unique value proposition in the E Ink tablet market. Its emphasis on repairability, coupled with a larger, higher-resolution display, sets it apart from competitors like the reMarkable 2. The tool-free access to internal components, including the battery and motherboard, empowers users to extend the device’s lifespan and potentially adapt to future technological advancements. This resonates with a growing demand for sustainable and repairable electronics, challenging the prevailing trend of disposable devices. While the lack of front lighting may deter some users, the A5 X2’s focus on a “true paper look” appeals to a specific niche seeking an authentic writing experience.
The combination of a customizable Android-based OS, robust connectivity options, and thoughtful design features like touch-sensitive bezels and a removable stylus loop positions the Supernote A5 X2 as a compelling choice for users prioritizing longevity, repairability, and a larger display. While the initial cost, excluding the stylus, places it slightly above the reMarkable 2, the potential for long-term cost savings through self-repair and upgrades adds to its overall value proposition. The absence of front lighting may be a limiting factor for some, but the A5 X2’s unique strengths make it a worthy contender for anyone seeking a powerful, flexible, and sustainable E Ink tablet experience.
