Is the Palma 2 Worth the Hype? Let’s Find Out Together
Yes, e-readers are no longer clunky gadgets, but sleek, pocket-size companions, so maybe they’re part of the revolution for Onyx Boox. If you’ve longed for an E-Ink gadget that resembles a smartphone but safeguards your peepers, then chances are you’ve heard murmurs about the Boox Palma. But with the Boox Palma 2 (2025) currently taking the world by storm, the burning question is: Is it groundbreaking, or just a new coat of paint?
Don’t fret—we’ve got you covered. In this full immersion, we’re going to look through all the tweaks at the design level, speed improvements, display wizardry, battery longevity, and software advances. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Palma belongs in your life (and your wallet).
So, find yourself a comfy beverage, hang out, and let’s unravel Palma 2 together. It sounds like fun trust me!
1. Design & Build: Is This a Smartphone or an E-Reader?
Let’s get it straight: the Palma series appears as if it was scaled down from a tablet with an E-Ink core. However, the Palma 2 raises this case of confusion to a luxury level.
- Boox Palma (2023):
- Classic 6.8-inch compact design with plastic-backed chassis.
- Weighs 195g; 7.9mm thickness.
- IPX7 water resistance.
- Color options: Black, White.
- Boox Palma 2 (2025):
- Redesigned magnesium alloy frame for durability; 15% lighter (165g).
- Ultra-thin 6.5mm profile with reduced bezels.
- IPX8 water resistance and anti-fingerprint matte coating.
- New colors: Sage Green, Midnight Blue.
Verdict: If you’re clumsy or a design snob, the Palma 2 wins. But the original still gets the job done like that trusty tote bag you’ve had since college.
2. Display: Black-and-White vs. Wait, It Does COLOR?!
- Boox Palma:
- 6.8-inch E Ink Carta 1200 screen (300 PPI).
- Adjustable warm/cool frontlight.
- Basic 25ms refresh rate (Good for text, laggy for comics).
- Palma 2:
- 7-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 Color display (300 PPI B/W, 150 PPI color).
- Enhanced 20ms refresh rate with “Turbo Mode” for smoother scrolling.
- Adaptive frontlight with auto-brightness and blue light filter.
Verdict: If you’re a comic/manga addict, highlight textbooks like a maniac, or just want to flex a color E-Ink screen at Starbucks, the Palma 2’s display is a chef’s kiss.
3. Performance & Storage
- Boox Palma:
- Snapdragon 662 processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage.
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0.
- Palma 2:
- Upgraded Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 chip, 6GB RAM, 128GB base storage.
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster connectivity.
- Optional 5G model for cellular downloads.
Verdict: Power users, students, and serial app-switchers—meet your new best friend. The original Palma? Still great for “I just need to read, okay?” purists.
4. Software: Can I Actually Take Notes Without Rage-Quitting?
- Boox Palma:
- Android 11 with access to Google Play Store.
- Basic note-taking via stylus (sold separately).
- Split-screen reading and annotation.
- Palma 2:
- Android 14 with AI-powered Smart Scribe for handwriting-to-text conversion.
- Pre-installed Boox Studio app for collaborative editing.
- Enhanced app optimization for social media (e.g., Kindle, KOReader, and Instagram).
Verdict: If you’re a student, writer, or just love gadgets that do stuff, Palma 2 rules. The original? Think of it as a digital notebook that won’t judge your handwriting.
5. Battery Life: “Will It Die Before My Vacation Ends?”
- Boox Palma:
- 3000mAh battery (up to 3 weeks of reading).
- USB-C charging (0–100% in 2.5 hours).
- Palma 2:
- 4000mAh battery with 30% longer lifespan (up to 4 weeks).
- Supports 15W wireless charging.
Verdict: Palma 2’s wireless charging is peak laziness… and we’re here for it. The original? Still a battery champ—just without the sci-fi vibes.
6. Price: Which Offers Better Value?
| Model | Starting Price | 5G Model |
|---|---|---|
| Boox Palma (2023) | $245 | Not available |
| Boox Palma 2 (2025) | $279 | available |
Verdict: If you’re thrifty, stick with the original. If you’re a tech geek with cash to burn, Palma 2 is worth the splurge.
Final Showdown: Which One Should YOU Buy?
- Boox Palma (2023) is for you if:
- You just want to read books without fuss.
- Your wallet says Please, no.
- Water resistance = I read in the bath weekly.
- Boox Palma 2 (2025) is for you if:
- You crave color, speed, and Look at my cool gadget! vibes.
- Notes, comics, and wireless charging make your heart flutter.
- You’re okay paying extra to feel like a tech early adopter (and humblebrag about it).
FAQs (Because You’re Definitely Wondering…)
- Can I read in direct sunlight?
Yes! E-Ink screens hate glare as much as you do. Take that, iPad! - Will the Palma 2’s color display drain the battery?
A bit, but it still lasts 3+ weeks. Chill. - Does the IPX8 rating mean I can take it snorkeling?
No, but your cat knocking it into the toilet won’t kill it. Priorities, people! - Is the original Palma being discontinued?
Eventually, but it’ll stay on shelves until mid-2025. Stock up if you’re sentimental!
The Last Word
The Boox Palma 2 isn’t just another update; it’s a bold statement. Packed with color, smart AI capabilities, and a design that’s sure to turn heads, it’s ideal for tech enthusiasts who want the complete package. On the flip side, the original Boox Palma remains a solid choice for budget-minded bookworms looking to simply dive into a great story.
So, where do you stand? Feel free to share your thoughts (or your secret ebook stash stories) in the comments! 📖💬
P.S. If you’re still undecided, just toss a coin. (Heads for Palma 2, tails for Palma. You’re welcome!)