I really respect how you always give credit to other channels. As much as the delays have been killing me, I think I'm going to stick with my Remarkable2 order. I don't view the RM2 as lacking features - I agree with the company's stance, that their device is for focused deep work. Congrats on your 10k subs
I agree these devices are focussed on work. You don't need to watch videos or play games on them. I can see the usability for the browser and apps like calendar and dropbox etc. If only the pdf reader capabilities were a little better on RM2. For me working includes a lot of reading technical documents, this is possible on RM2, but the annotation capabilities seem to be very limited. I still need to see how the note air performs with A4 pdf documents. I have a boox max1, reading pdfs on this device is nice, but it is also very slow and misses a lot of useful features. @MorningCoach thanks for the honest, unscripted videos. I think it makes them more trustworthy.
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DHL guy showed up yesterday with the Remarkable2 and I refused the delivery - I'm now waiting for the Note Air. Learned from the Verge that you should never buy devices based on "future software features and expectations". rM2's a beautiful device, very well built and horrible horrible software. Boox Note Air lets you do 2 things rM2 should do out of the box: Personalised templates and Search. Also like their approach of Android - not only you have access to a larger pool of devs and all the standard software libraries, but I can just load my kindle and I'm set! If you don't want distractions you don't need to buy a more expensive device that does less, you just don't install the apps that are distracting you..... plus I'm also betting the longevity of Boox as a company (thus longevity of support) will beat Remarkable's. The trade off is the premium hardware feeling of the rM2 and the writing feeling, but the software ain't premium!
@ I received my RM2 and returned it after a day of trying to figure out how it is anything beyond "synced, multiple notebooks" - The hardware is absolutely incredible, and the writing experience is unmatched without a doubt, except by a $2 paper notebook which in the end I will just stick with. In particular, being unable to even bookmark pages in a notebook, or search my notebooks... I really don't get how these ultra-basic features could be considered extraneous. At least on a paper notebook I can mark a page, and flip through quickly to find something. It's really sad, I loved the hardware so much, but I couldn't justify the price for such minimal functionality.
Ok... I think it's pretty clear now. Before telling you what I actually think. I'll give you some ideas. First, the Note Air has a setting where you can make the lines thicker the more you press on it with the stylus, it has allegedly, 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. Secondly. Regarding the response time, latency or speed of the E-ink itself, try using the speed modes when you scroll down from the top of the screen. There is a setting there for that. Third, the magnetic cover.... It doesn't really makes sense, and if you ask me, every magnet wears off in time, I prefer a physical fix, just my humble opinion. But that's not a big deal either so... Tomato or tomato, right? My personal opinion is still that the Onyx's device is overall better than remarkable's. And let me tell you that I was in Love with the Remarkable 2, I still think it is one of the best E-notes devices out there. But I'm a Minimalist person, I can't have five devices for each thing, again that's me, others can have 10 or 20 devices for each one of the activities they do. I just think that I can read my ebooks, listen to some music and take a note or two while I do so on the Note Air. That sounds pretty good for one E-ink device if you ask me.
Thanks for the video JB!!! Quick tip tho: even with your 90mm lens, put the camera in manual focus, and increase the aperture to f8 or f11. That will increase the depth of field and will put everything on focus.
Thanks for this honnest review coach. It's great that you went straight to the point answering THE question everyone had on their mind :) I'm loving your videos more and more.
Great video, a very honest and real assessment from you as always! The excellent quality of the rM2 which makes it such a joy to use has the win unless you have a real need for the extra functions on the Boox air. Thanks for the straightforward comparison!
Have decided to cancel my rm2 for the Boox Note Air. You talk a lot about productivity JB, I admire that. But I'm more of a proponent of efficiency. If I get fewer/lighter/more powerful items, that is generally what I prefer. Seems like the Note Air has the potential to be my daily driver away from my laptop. That's really what I'm looking for. For entertainment consumption, I've got my laptop, or my phone, that I can always connect via chromecast if I want. My main problem with the iPad is reading for any duration hurts my eyes. So it LOOKS like, Boox Note Air SHOULD fit the bill. I was worried about the writing latency and feel, but while it's not rm2 quality... seems like it should be good enough.
It’s an awesome device wait till today’s video you’ll see that it’s really close in writing experience I just don’t like the screen protector on it but it’s pretty cool
@@theproteinfactory3076 Actually, I did a test about the RM1 pen's tip replace the Boox Lumi pen's tip, it will have the same effect same as RM1. I have RM1, and I cancel my RM2, my Lumi has the same pen like note- air, So, I guess you might don't need to to buy RM2's pen, because just change the tip. Perfect!!.
JB - First off, thanks so much for what you do, this channel is so amazing and it does have the feel like a family helping each other out and not someone trying to sell me something like other channels! I write mortgages for a living and a few weeks ago, I was using a MacBook Pro and iPad, but just couldn't stand writing on the iPad. So I used pen and paper for note taking and tracking leads/etc. I took the plunge to try and find something better and sold both of the Apple products to get a MacBook Air that was more portable to do my heavy lifting, and bought a Remarkable 1. It's all working almost perfect, except I am now faced with too many deficiencies with the Remarkable 1. I immediately preordered the Remarkable 2 as I felt it took a good step and alleviated some of them (build quality, magnetic pen, faster processing speeds). But then your video on the papyr had me deep thinking, Remarkable 2 still doesn't address the most powerful tools that I feel like I need (search notes, direct sync with 3rd party like dropbox or google drive, etc). And then you dropped the video along with Voya teasing this Onyx Note Air. After reading all I could on the Papyr from you, from voya, from reddit, and other sites, I thought that the papyr is amazing for collaboration, but I was too nervous that it used some old screen tech, the writing feel was not good enough, and the software was in infantry stages of development. I would give them a few years to see what leaps they can make before I went that route because like you said, that collaboration tech is amazing. After reading all I could on the Onyx Note Air, I felt that it was everything I needed software wise and the build was going to be superb with the similar magnetic pen and metal case etc, and was cautiously optimistic that the glass screen would make it closest writing feel to remarkable. Close enough that it was the right choice. So last week I placed an order with Onyx for the Note Air, in anticipation of this video that you published last night. Well, Iconvincedsuperiorglass screen to the Remarkable, and that is enough to make my decision based on the software needs that I have. BUTTTTT...you now raised more questions on things I didn't think would become an issue prior to this video: 1. The coloration on your video is stark. The RMK is white white, and the Note Air is yellow for sure. Is that because you had front lights on during the video? Is it a cheap LCD feel/look? 2. The stylus falling off now makes me second guess the build quality, however knowing that using RMK2 stylus not only makes feel even better but sticks was a relief. (phew) 3. However, if I stick with the Book Air I must get a new Marker Plus for it. Does remarkable sell the pen solely? 4. The case not having a magnet makes it feel cheap again, is there another case that would be sufficient or will I HATE this current case? 5. Does the spine have a magnet in it at all to potentially put in the case? 6. The fact that you have to use a screen protector. Does the writing feel improve with the screen protector on it or make it worse? So while you answered the main question I thought was the only remaining question I had, I now am faced with a plethora of new ones. Am I overthinking this? I really want to stick with the Note Air as the software features are EXACTLY what I need, and they allow me to customize the tool for my use case, but I just can pull myself to cancel the RMK2 order without putting these new issues to bed. Again, thanks for what you do and for doing all you can to help but I feel that some of these new issues that me and others have raised would be a great follow up video!
Hey Hey 1. It was the light BUT the RM screen is much darker and has a lot of contrast I think because it doesn't have the front light 2. Not happy with the Stylus or Case - feels a little cheap 3. YES the Marker Plus works great and I think you can buy it separately - I WOULD big difference and the eraser works 4. Yes I haven't even put it one I hate sticking things to a $500 device - and I like to take it out sometimes - JUST me - not sure on cases yet 5. Don't think so - tired in the EM case it doesn't work 6. About the same feels OK - not bad really not the RM either It is really 50/50 with this thing. The RM2 is a piece of art awesome just feels quality. The Note Air does SO many things front light, internet, apps, and the writing is not too bad. Comes down to do you want something just for notes that is clean and efficient, or do you want a device that does a lot of things a little more difficult to use.
Much appreciation to you for addressing the concerns of the community. Respect! As per my understanding so far, it seems like the Note Air is a well rounded functional e-reader and note taking device with a good enough writing experience that could be improved with a better stylus. On the other hand, the rM2 is a viable paper replacement alternative with an outstanding writing experience and some e-reading capabilities. Although the RM2 trully looks like a piece of art, in my case I am choosing functionality over design. I guess it all depends on the use cases of each person. Kudos to you for this very timely review!
The Note Air is not very intuitive. It takes some time to figure things out. The writing experience is good... just enough drag to not feel like writing on glass. Still many things that I cannot figure out yet (i.e. how to email a note to myself). It took me 1/2 hour to find the templates LOL. Vs RM products... I do not think the value of a front light can be dismissed. I set the light on a very low setting. The result is a perception of no light at all, but the background is much whiter and easier to work with. JB -- here is the best way to apply the screen protector: (1) Take the screen protector from the box (2) Wipe your device of all dust and lint (3) Measure the protector to the device (4) Keep a trash can close by (5) Pour some vodka into a small glass (6) Put the screen protector into the trash can (7) Toast your success
Heheheheh so True on the screen protector that’s really all he say about the BOOX devices they are cool, But something about them they just aren’t intuitive at all. Not a bad thing but they are just a little complicated
@8:50, there is a screen protector pre-applied to the Remarkable 2 from factory. There are noted complaints on Reddit already about people pealing the protector off on the RM2 thinking it is a film shipping protector.
I really don’t know how you could think that unless it got lose in shipping I had to really look for the seam so hard to see it. I wouldn’t have known it was a screen protector unless someone told me FYI
Great to see another honest and open minded piece. On this evidence the Note Air, while clearly a solid device, is just not as well designed a product as the reMarkable 2. More feature rich perhaps, but on design and build quality seems not in the same class as reMarkable 2.
Thank you JB!! This is the review that I (and it looks like thousands of other people) have been waiting for and you answered all my questions. My main use for the tool will be note-taking so for me it looks like the RM2 is the way to go. My Batch 4 device should be arriving soon and I am so pumped after watching all of your and Voja's videos.
I’m noticing that the line quality on the Note Air is much better than the rM2 on the close-ups. There are pretty technical reasons for this which are difficult to explain well in just a comment, but basically, both devices write in a monochrome mode which is very fast to draw onscreen - it’s shades of grey that slows the screen down. But once the Note Air is done writing a stroke, it redraws the line with full antialiasing, and that makes it look MUCH smoother. The rM2 just keeps everything as a monochrome bitmap, which looks ok-ish on the fuzzy e-ink screen, but looks absolutely terrible and jagged on a computer screen or LCD tablet screen like an iPad
What is appealing to me about the Note Air is the combination of good writing and an excellent reading app for PDFs. I've heard RM2's reading tools are decidedly inferior. So for use for both reading and note taking Note Air seems the better choice. Fair?
Please test the eraser and magnet of the remarkable2 pen on the Air(edit: read you allready did), or as you've said do a pen shoot out of all your styluses. I don't think the nibs are replaceable at all on the Air stylus. It's the technology from the Supernote pen. But maybe I'am wrong. Do you think I may use it without the screen protector? Do you recognize any scratches from the pen(edit: also you answered somewhere allready). Now I know why they offer the stickable pen holder with it. As I need the functions and don't wanna use/buy an iPad, I will live with some downsides. I would have more with the rM2 in my usecase. Thanks for quick review!
Pretty good comparison of the basic writing experience of Note Air and rM2. The focus was a bit off, but you got some good advice from Kim Samejima on adjusting the lens for greater depth of field. There is a Facebook post that also compares the writing experience of Note Air an rM2. Search for "Lucia Tricomi Note Air rM2." Lucia installed the screen protector on the Note Air and used the Marker Plus on both devices. Two things that show up in both comparison videos are relative latency and nib to e-ink layer separation. The rM2 is still the latency speed champ and has significantly less separation from nib to e-ink layer than does the Note Air. I'm not ready to cancel my rM2 batch 7 pre-order just yet.
I think this device is a good match for me. I like the fact that I can read books from virtually any source (Amazon, Google, PDF) and the writing experience you described seems good enough. Waiting for more reviews for the final decision but so far I'm pretty close to bite the bullet
Hey JB. Sorry for the long post, but it might helps others. Got my Air a couple of days ago. I do like the stylus because of the sharp point. I draw and diagram a lot, and that point helps me be more accurate. Some PROS: - Backlight is truly amazing. It just makes it easier to read and write in any situation except bright sunlight (then you can turn it off) - The NOTE taking app beats Remarkable hands down. Having Color is great. The eraser erases strokes instead of putting a white mask over the the original drawing like Remarkable does. You can ALSO do the mask with their Erase Lasso. - Speaking of the Lasso, it's actually a Lasso icon, which IMO is much better than the square marquee select icon Remarkable uses (why Remarkable?) - Different line widths to the pixel. Remarkable has only 3. Air has 30 or more. - Squares, Circles, Lines (my favorite), Triangles make diagramming SO MUCH EASIER! - The tool palette doesn't overlay the page like Remarkable's does. - Lot's more adjustments to lot's more stuff. For instance, Remarkable doesn't allow scrolling because of how they refresh. With Air you can set the redraw mode and it scrolls great. - Great overall size. - Of course... it's a real reader, which Remarkable is not. - Overall, the device is a bit heavier than RM1, but it feels nice and looks to be constructed well. - PNG exports much nicer because they have stroke smoothing. Some CONS: - Really chincy (is that a word?) case, feels and looks like...made in China. The device has an overall lack of attention to detail about it. Can't exactly put my finger on it, but it feels half baked in a lot of ways. I've discovered some drawing bugs when cutting and pasting. Hard to find features like recalibrating the stylus. - The stylus has such a weak magnet and won't stay attached. So they give you a stylus "pouch" that you can attach to the back of the case. BTW, the adhesive on the case doesn't stick-- and you're bound to have your AIR fall out- so be careful. - The writing is not as good as the RM1 (don't have the RM2 yet) nor as good as the Lumi. The glass is slick and the stylus is slick-- feels a bit like writing on an iPad to me. Not as nice as RM1 for sure. And, I'm not interested in trying the screen protector. Just adding another thing to get in the way. If they want you to use it, they should put in on at the factory. Weak. - Android apps pretty much suck on it. If you really want an Android tablet, get one. It will have color. - Power up time is at least 2X as slow as RM1. I cannot believe how long this thing takes to boot-- so be sure and set the power off mode to something like 24 hours. - OMG, trying to send an email with a PNG note is almost impossible on this device. You have to export it, then move it from one folder to another for the Gmail app (you have to install) to be able to actually locate the file. Huge pain in the ASS if you're trying to get it to your desktop computer. I know there's an app as well, but that's even more steps. Ugh. - Overall navigating around is not intuitive at all. You need to learn different gestures (which the instructions on my unit have backwards). Double-tap the round ball gets you home-- then you have to go into settings somewhere to set home to your Apps or your Notes. All complicated. RM just seems to work. Overall? I think I may prefer the Air to RM1 for the kind of stuff I do. You can see some of my notes at: twitter.com/chippwalters I'm interested in seeing the RM2 when it arrives in November. By then I'll certainly have made some more observations.
Thank you! My Air got here about 30 minutes ago. I do not have an RM (batch 8), so my compare will be to a Microsoft Surface with a paper feel screen protector. I think that writing on the RM kinda sets the bar high for that single standard. I look forward to your advice on the best stylus to use.
@@annvoy7698 The Surface Pen does not work on the Air and the Air pen does not work on the Surface. BTW... The Air pen is AWFUL. I look forward to user advice on a better stylus. I know that JB likes the RM2 stylus on here, but that is not an option for separate purchase.
Thank you JB for focusing on writing experience. This is the most important factor for me to choose between rM2 and Note Air. I will keep my rM2 preorder. Some Note Air reviews (err.. let’s call them overviews) have cleverly evaded this aspect of the device. Those reviews have also taken a dig at rM2 for not having this and that feature over Note Air without understanding the use cases. I’ll be waiting for your and Voya’s review for better coverage. Congrats on your 10K milestone on the channel. Cheers.
I appreciate the “cliff notes” review. I agree regarding the case. I’m not a fan and I just purchased it....UGHHHH!!!! When you use the case....that’s it, it’s used! No turning back. I wish you would have done this writing test before my purchase....UGHHHH. Thank you.
I just got mine and the case is fine. It isn’t like duct tape but more like that kind to hang pictures. It doesn’t ruin the device at all. The pen seems to stick better with the case on too. Good luck!
@@emceethatsme Good morning. Thank you so much for responding to my comment and letting me know about your experience. That’s exactly what I’m talking about I don’t want and I didn’t know the case was one that you have to stick the device on...so many things can happen when you do that...if you want to remove it for one reason or another. Residue on the back of the device, etc. I appreciate your comments regarding the pen, also. Blessings to you.
@@BrwnEyedSouthernGurl I’m sure there will be third party cases available eventually. Since the case comes with it for free I’m using it but I will replace it eventually with a third party one.
i had rM2 for about a month (returned it) and also ordered Boox air. The lux/ premium feel of rM2 with its leather cover is absolutely unmatchable.. its a device you 'desire'. But when i spend a decent money, i want to get something more in return. It was for that reason that I ended up keeping the Boox air. Even though i do not use the android features of Boox (i have other devices) but the fact that its possible to use... thats a good feeling ;-). the nib is indeed pathetic and i confirm that the rM2 nibs make a MEGA difference to the whole writing experience. What i love about BOOX is the ease of projection of on my monitor.. makes it so easy and nice to explain things during web meetings. I just hope that they open the google store on it (or whatever the tech term is), unfortunately I cannot install my outlook account on it, due to security issues.
I love my note air, and it's great to see the comparison with rm2, I've been looking forward to this! I might take your advice and get rm nibs. If you use rm stylus on note air, does the eraser on the back work?
@@paulinasiuryte7118 Beware, maybe the nibs are not interchangeable on the Air pen. I'am not shure atm and wi do some research. The pen is like a second generation of the Supernote pen. A magnet and nib test would be nice.
Hey, about the remarkable pen, does it stick better to the note air, or does it just snap well on the remarkable 2 itself? Note air + remarkable pen souds interesting :P
"The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." uses every letter in the alphabet and would make a great writing test for future videos of pens, displays, and screen protectors.
Thanks for the review. The writing experience on Air was what I was looking for. My impression after seeing the close-up is that the latency is a bit worse on Air than on rM2 and the perceived distance between the tip of the pen and the actual text (e-Ink layer) is evidently bigger on Air. So now, I have to think hard which one to choose: better writing (rM2) or better handling of notes like text search of notes (Air). I don't care about all the bells and whistles but text search of notes for one is big thing.
Remarkable 2 is disappointing because it does not have: (1) log in and out function (2) instant conversion of handwriting into typed text (3) back lighting (4) bluetooth connection to keyboard for typing
Thanks for the videos. My wife purchased the reMarkable 2 and opened my eyes to digital notepads. I use a computer for everything, but still have an A5 pad at my desk and by my laptop which I use that for note taking in meetings. I'd love to replace that with a digital notepad. Your videos have helped me narrow it down. The physical size of the unit is an important factor for me as I hot desk a lot. That leans me away from the reMarkable to the Onyx Boox Note Air, which also seems to have a better reader, that I might start to use. However, handwriting to text seems to be better with reMarkable. But reMarkable seems to only back up to their own system rather than letter the user choose. That is a strange choice, which isn't my preference. I will by the Boox Note Air if the handwriting to text is better (they fix picking up spaces etc), I can back up to Google drive and print from the device. Note taking ease and then handwriting to text is most important. Then size second. With printing and storage next. Any thoughts on handwriting to text with these two? Thank you in advance.
Do you really need to install a screen protector on the note air? Been using my nova pro for almost 2 years without a protector and the screen is still flawless. But then the screen of air I believe is made of glass but the nova pro, would that fact make a difference on the sturdiness of the screen? Just wondering. Thank you again for the awesome review or discussion.
I dont know if you see the same as I do But the RM2 is faster than NA I clearly see the lag specially when you wrote ABC Also RM2 is in other league... It appearance is more professional than NA I am on batch 7 been waiting since June and I really like the NA, waiting for your review to cancel OR not my order. Definitely will not do it... RM2 is better for one purpose ONLY Taking notes
Can you compare between the wiring experience on the Boox Lumi and Boox Note Air? People are on the fence as to which of the two to buy so would be a really useful video.
Thanks for this review. It was helpful for me to decide what to buy. I went with the Onyx Boox Note Air and really love it. I wonder if there have been some updates since this review? The screen saver was installed already. Getting it working was fast and easy, no issues. I like the writing experience a lot but at some point I'm sure I'll try the Remarkable pen -- thanks for that suggestion. The pen and writing experience on the Air is really excellent, although the pen is a little light and unsubstantial feeling. Doesn't really bother me though. I wish I had the luxury to try/compare the Remarkable 2, just out of curiosity. It looks wonderful. But the Air is a really nice e-book reader too. The Remarkable is just too narrowly focused for my needs.
Is the writing on the Books Note Air better than the writing on the Lumi? Was it hard to get the screen protector on without bubbles like it was with the Max 2?
Thank you for sharing. I'm still waiting for my note air, but from the video I have the same feeling as you. I don't like the cheap sticky solution on the cover. And if the pen doesn't stick well, why do they make it magnetic? Hmm, I went over to have another look on their ad video, and I think they covered up that weakness and make people not aware of it. I'd rather add another $20-$50 to make the cover and pen better ( like what RM2 have).
The Boox Air stylus magnet is actually more powerful if you connect it to the device with the nib facing up and the flat surface of the pen facing the device. attaching it to the top half seems strongest. in this position it will definitely not slide down and will be a lot stronger.
Thank you very much! I think in terms of writing function, the Note Air catch up RM2 a lot. but it still has insufficient writing performance, such as delaying, post image process. anyways, I could have a clear definition of each device through your review. notetaking device = RM2, Multifunction reader = Note Air
Thanks for doing these videos. I recommend for the macro video set the zoom to manual and adjust aperture narrower. You may need to bump iso higher but you can compensate if you bring a lamp over it. I am a little confused is the onyx glass front display or the same as the Lumi? So does Onyx recommend a screen protector for the air too? Excited as you put the air through it paces. You understand the remarkable community and what they want from these types of devices. So it will be good to see your view on it. Keep up the good job and the good vibe and I am looking forward to your video.
Hi JB and thank you! Handwriting looks quite pixelated and "raw" on the remarkable! Not sure I can bear that, as I'm used to a super crisp Surface Pro 7. Onyx with that post-processing looks far better! I'm in batch 8 and unsure about keeping the rm2 now.
Yes they are having some issues with the RM2, Voja had a good discussion on it. I am debating my next move with devices. Because I use the Papyr so much for work, I may end up just sticking with it. I find myself using it more and more. Will keep you posted. Thanks for sharing.
@@morningcoach Thank you! I posted a tweet about it, hoping that Remarkable will make some statement on the issue: bit.ly/35zYIUj BTW, I really enjoyed reading your book "The Sacred Six" ;)
There have now been multiple reports on the remarkable usergroup on Facebook about extremely poor line quality on the rm2. Have you seen these? It's a bit disconcerting, and I'd like to see your experience...
This really helps JB. It is disappointing that they cheap out on the pen and cover. It seems that the writing on the device is acceptable especially with the remarkable nib. For me the small loss of writing feel will be out weighted by the extra utility the Boox devices provide. Looks like it will be the Nova 2 due to the portability.
Hi JB, RM2 Batch8 here that is still waiting for it's arrival. I am now so confused. Having watched Voya lead me to research Boox, which led me to you and also opened my eyes to what I may be missing with RM2 (if it ever arrives). I'm now starting to lean towards the Boox for it's software capability. My conundrum is now whether I get the Boox Air or Boox Note 3. Any advise on their differences? Thanks in advance. Cheers!
Hi, I have a slightly different question about setting up Boox Note Air - I don't see note templates when I did the initial set up, but I see in the manual that there are built in templates. Is this something we need to install separately? I would love a video on setting up the Note Air for beginners because I don't see one online. Only reviews but not a guide on how best to use it. Thanks!
Hey Nancy thanks so much I know Voya who does the deep reviews Has one coming real soon and I don’t like to step on his toes with getting really deep in the debate because that’s his world is channel is my deep guide.... He should have it up the next week or so thanks so much for asking
I'm frustrated, because NOBODY that reviews the difference between these devices go into what I care about: DRAWING on them!! Not note taking nonsense... using them for art/sketching/illustration/painting. I own a reMmarkable 1, and as much as I like it, my main frustration is the extremely limited painting/sketching abilities for shading, using grayscales (you have to fake grayscale with the highlighter... which only has one level and one width!), etc. What I want to know is - can you run something REAL on the Boox thing, like e.g. Photoshop touch, Autodesk Sketchbook Pro, or any real drawing program with proper sketching power, pressure sensitivity, different brushes, paper simulations, watercolor sims.... etc?? Everybody is hung up on the "note taking" (who even does that with a pen - I don't get it, I use my laptop and a keyboard for that) and the "no distractions" (that's my decision if I want to mute notifications, don't come in "von oben" and decreeing for me what I want to use with my device). All I want is an excellent *ART* experience. For this, the reMarkable is only *passable at best*, useless at worst.
It seems Remarkable has focused on the tactile experience and has the best options there. I think that is great. My concern is how well the Remarkable 2 (which I have on order) plays with file syncing. How friendly is it (and it close competitors) to import documents for marking up? How friendly are they for exporting and archiving the resulting notes and marked up documents? What file formats are compatible with each?
The file synching is OK, the reader is OK, the PDF Markup is OK - it is really a notebook replacement - the other devices do those things better, but don't have the tactile experience. Not one of these devices is the be all end all unfortunately.
That's interesting to see.... When you're talking about nibs : it's only the nibs that's potentially needs to be replaced with the remarkable ones or the entire stylus ? I have a boox nova 2 with the protection screen, it's a little bit weird when the nib is ''new'' but when it starts wearing off it becomes more confortable
Yes you may try and buy some reMarkable nibs and put in your stylus. You should be able to fit them in. Depends on the stylus but most use the same nibs. :)
Very interesting. Really disappointed with the method of attaching the cover to the device - sticky plastic?! The pen doesn't look like much of an improvement either but the actual functionality within the device is great. If only someone would combine the best bits of RM2, Air and Supernote...!
Such a weak method. You get a $500 device and you use tape to stick it in?!?! That makes it so it isn’t removable. Pretty much the worst possible option. I have a Nova 2 and the case is great. Why wouldn’t you do a magnetic like the Remarkable or fitted case like the Nova 2? That has pretty much locked my decision as either keeping the RM 2 on order or maybe the new Note3. I want that size. But why does onxy go cheap with their stylus and this case?
I wasn't crazy about it either, but once I put it in it holds very well, and it's light/comfortable enough that I dont really have a need/want to take it out. Magnets definitely would've been cool tho.
If the Boox Air feels like the Supernote, I would take it over the reMarkable because I want a stylus that you don't have to replace the nibs. I use the Lamy stylus on the Supernote, I bet that would be good on the Boox Air too.
Interestingly, when you write on the rM2, once you stopped the line, the last one turns into a jagged line! This is really annoying. Especially as reMarkable don't seem to bother.
JB Thank you for this video. I’m still not convinced since the file system and different use cases should be Compared. Even if she writing experience comes close to the remarkable2I think you should keep the other points - as already mentioned by you - in mind. Looking forward to hear more about this topic.
Thanks so much! Does the remarkable pen stick better to the magnet of the Air if you were to use it instead? I am nervous from the magnet issue to stick with the Air. I want to stick with the Air but an not convinced yet.
@@morningcoach oh that is great news...has me closer to making decision. So the writing feel isn’t as good as remarkable 2. What about remarkable 1? It was really fast I was impressed with that. But trying to gauge that feel. If writing on iPad was a 1 and writing on remarkable 2 is a 10 and writing on remarkable 1 was an 8 where would this fall on the scale?
@@themortgagedad I think the RM2 is still an 8 - I hate having to put a screen protector on but would give it a 5 with their stylus and a 6-7 with the reMarkable stylus on their device. It is actually a pretty good device.
@@morningcoach thanks. You keep going back to the screen protector as if it is required. Cant you use it without the screen protector? I thought I remember seeing a video that it wasn’t required? Screen protector sort of kills my mood for it if it’s a must.
Thanks JB, been waiting for this review. A couple of questions for you: Does the note air surface feel grippy and textured? How does the air compare to Lumi on writing feel?
lol, had the a similar issue like, why is the latency so bad & reset isn't common sense placed. My 1st air 2 was just off..But remarkable is kinda a no go cause you can't transfer notes like anywhere...still would like to use the remarkable but the writing would have to be stellar but Supernotes seems closer to that pen writing I like..
Thanks for the video, JB (my first comment on your channel - thanks for all your work - inspires me)! There is a visible difference between the distances between the writing tip and the display. It just seems to me that the Onyx Air pen seems suspended. From my limited experience (I own onyx boox nova 2) this distance (along with writing latency) is essential in regular work. Thanks again and much inspiration!
Nice video which helps lay to rest that issue of writing quality. We users are looking for the tech that fits our needs. I already read books/audiobooks on my phone and get all my apps/notifications on there -- all the distractions that keep me from achieving creatively what I'd like to do sometimes! -- so I get off android and go to rM to create. For me, the only device that could really add functionality important enough to pay for would be a larger format like the Lumi, complicated tho it is to master. Nothing else I have sounds like it would add value for me (since computers/conventional tablets play a different role than an eink tablet). Just what I'm summarizing ought to work from the reviews and comments I've seen.
Coach, I am afraid this video whilst mostly entertaining missed the mark on subject. :( I mentioned in a list of things that the Air has against it for writing and its very apparent in the video for about 0.1 seconds. So 10:49.9 seconds missed it. Writing big letters isn't how I write but smaller. I also don't write overhead. I write with the paper flat at 45 degrees and to the right hand side of me. I also look at the point of a pencil whilst writing, palm on the pad or table, and the pencil angled. I have rubber at the end so I can flip over and erase mistakes which I do a lot. The pencil is angled like every one else holds a pencil and allows to wider strokes and shade in. So to your testing. AIR 4:31 at the end of the letter C shows how far the nib is from the paper, looks like 1-2mm. Why, because its glass, has a light and so on. RM2 All the writing that's in focus is touching the paper. So anyone wanting to write not just do large draws, or an artist really needs to look at that aspect. You also don't mention why there is a screen protector, I have no idea so please tell. I would also check if you can use a graphite pen on the air as it may scratch the screen. So coach, take note of the above as I know you are super excited to do these videos so a friendly don't fall short on a very prominent subject. Time for another quick update post me things. ;)
More coming today - Air yes that is what I am hearing because of the front light and glass the distance is longer you can see the RM is immediate I don't know why there is a screen protector they put 2 of them in - so I am assuming it needs it. Why would they add it? Not sure I will bring some more still learning and THANKS for the comments as always :) :) :)
Damn that pen magnet and case for Note Air is so shit... Using the screen protector like that wont work, because you'll peal off two layers when you apply it. 3:50 There it is again! Saw it in your other video, super lag sometimes on it... I'd get so pissed. 6:03 This is a good example of the latency if you do the first stroke frame by frame. On rM2 when you're at the end of the stroke the ink has almost caught up. On Note Air it hasn't even appeared yet...
Hi JB, thanks for all the videos. Very helpful! One question I keep coming back to- what the best note taker for "feel "? I.e. feels most like paper? I have a Remarkable 1 and the friction is perfect however I'm unhappy with the software and company so have cancelled my order for the RM2. Thanks!
I would still say the rM1 is the best - it is very subjective as you know Gary, but the Quaderno and Papyr on he Sony platform have a good feel. The Onyx products are ok, but you have to put a screen protector on. I like it with the Lamy or Stadler stylus. They are all getting better for sure. It is still not rM1 feel, they really had a home run there.
I did at the end of the video and put it on it - after the close up - I need to get better at editing but the last shots are with the Screen Protector on
@@morningcoach to that note did it feel better or worse with screen protector? Also if you take your time and try to apply it nicely is it manageable to make it unnoticeable? Ps I was able to find on the boox site confirmed that the screen protector is recommended to prevent scratching. Direct from Boox.
Thank you, JB, for this writing experience review. There seems to be a bigger gap on the Note Air between the pen nib on the glass and the actual "ink" compared to the RM2. And I agree the RM pen appears better and possibly even quicker than the Boox pen on the same device. Would you say the hard Boox nib is rather similar to the hard Apple Pen even if the pen quality isn't comparable? For me the writing experience isn't a dealbreaker for the Note Air, I rather think. I expected it to be not as well as on the RM. The overall better professional usage of the Note Air suits me better - that is as long as tbe Note Air is a reliable device over time. Sorry for your earlier frustration. Voja's the saviour!
All good, I am not impressed by the Air stylus feels cheap. The tip is hard and pretty tiny. I was really pumped for that, but disappointed BUT the device itself is surprising. Give me the RM pen and the device is not bad, except having to put a screen protector on it.
Hi great review but could you please compare to pen and paper ie. does the remarkable feel more like pencil on paper or say a gel pen on moleskine paper? If it's the later then I may be willing to fork out for the price. Thanks in advance.
Hi JB, I assume the next question is how the Note Air goes with the reMarkable stylus with eraser or Lamy pen, then maybe reMarkable tips or something similar. If that made the experience quite a bit better, then would be interesting if it changed your opinion a bit
Hi JB so with the note air finally arrived. On the similar price tag, which one do you think is a better deal, note air or rm2? I mainly use it to read n edit pdf in cloud drive, if note air writing quality is on par with rm1, I am happy enough to use. Also will be great if we can have a bit more info on the standby time n actual using time for rm2 n note air in the next review. Looking fwd
Thanks my stock answer is it really depends on you the Note Air - functionality - the RM1 just gets the job done - the RM2 for notes it is a piece of artwork :)
Thanks for the video JB. Did you try to see if can actually use the remarkable 2 pen with the eraser on the top? It Would be great if we could do so. Yes just saw the previous answers. I am puzzled because I like reading a lot and I like to take notes and quotes from what I read so I was thinking to either get the remarkable or get the Boox note air and use it as split screen to read on one side and take notes on the other. Have you tried?
It’s a good device but it feels a little different I think you either love it or hate it but it does have a lot of functionality definitely a third-party stylus
Thanks for you vids on this topic, I'm in the middle of researching what kind of reader I need. So far the Remarkable 2 seems to be my best fit. What I need is a good reader for reading pdf and epub with a smooth annotating ability in those, as well as a good paper notebook replacement. But what I am unsure about is whether the rm2 is good for annotating pdf and epub texts, some seem to think it is kind of a bother to export them etc. The onyx does have backlight option, right? That's a big plus on its side if the rm2 doesn't. Not sure if the paper 'feel' is so much worse on the onyx that it makes a considerable difference from the rm2 though.
Great review! I've got what to me is an important question. How is the noise level when writing on these devices? Once upon a time I used to take notes on an iPad with a stylus that has a metal point behind a plastic disc, and the constant noise was a distraction to people around me. I want to use this at work and it can't be an attention getter or distraction to those around me.
I think it is a little better different screen types. I think the Air is really close to the RM and the Lumi is good just a little less... thanks for asking
I wonder about the writing experience (or the "writing feel" to be more exact, not the functionality which should be the same or almost the same) between the Onyx Boox Max Lumi and the Note Air, because from what I have heard, the Note Air has a glass screen while the Max Lumi is actually some kind of plastic, so the writing feel might differ on these things. Is that the case?
4 роки тому+1
Coach, I hope you're making use of the calligraphy templates in the rM2!!!
How are the file transfer for each device? I want to be able to transfer notes or PDF's between my computer and the device very fast/efficiently and idk which one has a better system? An example would be send a PDF to the device, mark it up or take notes, then send the notes or marked PDF back to my computer.
Coach, you may have answered this in previous comments I saw yesterday but I can't find the thread. Does the remarkable 2 pencil's eraser work with the air?
Nice that the rM2 pen works on the note air. How about the eraser function, does that work too? If it does translate to a better writing experience I guess it would be best to ditch the note air pen and use rM2 pen.
Hey JB, great review. One thing I'm concerned with is the contrast on the RM2. Would you please show the RM2 under different light conditions? I'm really concerned about it not having a backlight.
My question about the remarkable is can I export my notes to something like PDF and then transfer them to PC via USB? I just don't want to be stuck using a company I don't control's cloud service to get my notes into a format readable on PC and able to be backed up with the rest of my files.
Hi JB! I would like to know if it is possible to use the Boox Note Air as a second computer monitor as the Max Lumi? Also, can we use the note air as a graphics tablet, example, to give distance lessons? Thank you !! :)
Hey just a quick tip: I am not a camera guy myself, but I know that if you open the shutter as far as posible you won't have such a shallow depth of view, when doing thouse close up shots! try it out ;) Might also help to set the camera to manual focus !
You miss one test. The distance from the nibs to the ink we on on screen, on Remarkable it's like paper and to compare on iPad we see maybe 1 or 2mm (because of the glass) so that look strange when you write. Thanks for this video
Watch the zoom part again and pause the video. If you need, so go frame by frame with... well it's " , " and " . " and a QWERTZ keyboard, don't know which buttons they are on another one. Both devices are in the same angle so you see the distance. rM2 is closer, but it's not bad on the Note Air (at least from what I can tell in the video)
Very interesting and positive. One thing we can conclude: neither device improves JB's writing. :)
HEHEH That is TRUE!!!! HAHAHAH
I really respect how you always give credit to other channels. As much as the delays have been killing me, I think I'm going to stick with my Remarkable2 order. I don't view the RM2 as lacking features - I agree with the company's stance, that their device is for focused deep work. Congrats on your 10k subs
Thank you
I agree these devices are focussed on work. You don't need to watch videos or play games on them. I can see the usability for the browser and apps like calendar and dropbox etc.
If only the pdf reader capabilities were a little better on RM2. For me working includes a lot of reading technical documents, this is possible on RM2, but the annotation capabilities seem to be very limited. I still need to see how the note air performs with A4 pdf documents.
I have a boox max1, reading pdfs on this device is nice, but it is also very slow and misses a lot of useful features.
@MorningCoach thanks for the honest, unscripted videos. I think it makes them more trustworthy.
DHL guy showed up yesterday with the Remarkable2 and I refused the delivery - I'm now waiting for the Note Air. Learned from the Verge that you should never buy devices based on "future software features and expectations". rM2's a beautiful device, very well built and horrible horrible software. Boox Note Air lets you do 2 things rM2 should do out of the box: Personalised templates and Search. Also like their approach of Android - not only you have access to a larger pool of devs and all the standard software libraries, but I can just load my kindle and I'm set! If you don't want distractions you don't need to buy a more expensive device that does less, you just don't install the apps that are distracting you..... plus I'm also betting the longevity of Boox as a company (thus longevity of support) will beat Remarkable's.
The trade off is the premium hardware feeling of the rM2 and the writing feeling, but the software ain't premium!
@ I received my RM2 and returned it after a day of trying to figure out how it is anything beyond "synced, multiple notebooks" - The hardware is absolutely incredible, and the writing experience is unmatched without a doubt, except by a $2 paper notebook which in the end I will just stick with.
In particular, being unable to even bookmark pages in a notebook, or search my notebooks... I really don't get how these ultra-basic features could be considered extraneous. At least on a paper notebook I can mark a page, and flip through quickly to find something.
It's really sad, I loved the hardware so much, but I couldn't justify the price for such minimal functionality.
Ok... I think it's pretty clear now. Before telling you what I actually think. I'll give you some ideas.
First, the Note Air has a setting where you can make the lines thicker the more you press on it with the stylus, it has allegedly, 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. Secondly. Regarding the response time, latency or speed of the E-ink itself, try using the speed modes when you scroll down from the top of the screen. There is a setting there for that. Third, the magnetic cover.... It doesn't really makes sense, and if you ask me, every magnet wears off in time, I prefer a physical fix, just my humble opinion. But that's not a big deal either so... Tomato or tomato, right?
My personal opinion is still that the Onyx's device is overall better than remarkable's. And let me tell you that I was in Love with the Remarkable 2, I still think it is one of the best E-notes devices out there. But I'm a Minimalist person, I can't have five devices for each thing, again that's me, others can have 10 or 20 devices for each one of the activities they do. I just think that I can read my ebooks, listen to some music and take a note or two while I do so on the Note Air. That sounds pretty good for one E-ink device if you ask me.
i like this comment. thank you
Literally the first review of the note air where I was ok I learned something useful. Thank you! Keep going you’re awesome!
Thanks for the video JB!!! Quick tip tho: even with your 90mm lens, put the camera in manual focus, and increase the aperture to f8 or f11. That will increase the depth of field and will put everything on focus.
Thanks KIM I just got it last week so LEARNING huge tip - thank you :) YOU ROCK
Totally agree
Search online which aperture (f/8, 11, or 16 etc.) is the sweet spot for the most sharpness and in focus range.
Cheers y'all!
C :
Thanks for this honnest review coach. It's great that you went straight to the point answering THE question everyone had on their mind :) I'm loving your videos more and more.
Great video, a very honest and real assessment from you as always! The excellent quality of the rM2 which makes it such a joy to use has the win unless you have a real need for the extra functions on the Boox air. Thanks for the straightforward comparison!
Thanks Alan!!!
Always can rely on you for a good review Coach. You get to the point and show us what we want to see.
Have decided to cancel my rm2 for the Boox Note Air. You talk a lot about productivity JB, I admire that. But I'm more of a proponent of efficiency. If I get fewer/lighter/more powerful items, that is generally what I prefer. Seems like the Note Air has the potential to be my daily driver away from my laptop. That's really what I'm looking for. For entertainment consumption, I've got my laptop, or my phone, that I can always connect via chromecast if I want. My main problem with the iPad is reading for any duration hurts my eyes. So it LOOKS like, Boox Note Air SHOULD fit the bill. I was worried about the writing latency and feel, but while it's not rm2 quality... seems like it should be good enough.
It’s an awesome device wait till today’s video you’ll see that it’s really close in writing experience I just don’t like the screen protector on it but it’s pretty cool
I also canceled my rM2 order and ordered Boox Air, i will also get rM2 marker to use with Boox air, which should be the best of both world.
@@theproteinfactory3076 Actually, I did a test about the RM1 pen's tip replace the Boox Lumi pen's tip, it will have the same effect same as RM1. I have RM1, and I cancel my RM2, my Lumi has the same pen like note- air, So, I guess you might don't need to to buy RM2's pen, because just change the tip. Perfect!!.
JB -
First off, thanks so much for what you do, this channel is so amazing and it does have the feel like a family helping each other out and not someone trying to sell me something like other channels!
I write mortgages for a living and a few weeks ago, I was using a MacBook Pro and iPad, but just couldn't stand writing on the iPad. So I used pen and paper for note taking and tracking leads/etc. I took the plunge to try and find something better and sold both of the Apple products to get a MacBook Air that was more portable to do my heavy lifting, and bought a Remarkable 1. It's all working almost perfect, except I am now faced with too many deficiencies with the Remarkable 1. I immediately preordered the Remarkable 2 as I felt it took a good step and alleviated some of them (build quality, magnetic pen, faster processing speeds). But then your video on the papyr had me deep thinking, Remarkable 2 still doesn't address the most powerful tools that I feel like I need (search notes, direct sync with 3rd party like dropbox or google drive, etc). And then you dropped the video along with Voya teasing this Onyx Note Air.
After reading all I could on the Papyr from you, from voya, from reddit, and other sites, I thought that the papyr is amazing for collaboration, but I was too nervous that it used some old screen tech, the writing feel was not good enough, and the software was in infantry stages of development. I would give them a few years to see what leaps they can make before I went that route because like you said, that collaboration tech is amazing.
After reading all I could on the Onyx Note Air, I felt that it was everything I needed software wise and the build was going to be superb with the similar magnetic pen and metal case etc, and was cautiously optimistic that the glass screen would make it closest writing feel to remarkable. Close enough that it was the right choice. So last week I placed an order with Onyx for the Note Air, in anticipation of this video that you published last night.
Well, Iconvincedsuperiorglass screen to the Remarkable, and that is enough to make my decision based on the software needs that I have. BUTTTTT...you now raised more questions on things I didn't think would become an issue prior to this video:
1. The coloration on your video is stark. The RMK is white white, and the Note Air is yellow for sure. Is that because you had front lights on during the video? Is it a cheap LCD feel/look?
2. The stylus falling off now makes me second guess the build quality, however knowing that using RMK2 stylus not only makes feel even better but sticks was a relief. (phew)
3. However, if I stick with the Book Air I must get a new Marker Plus for it. Does remarkable sell the pen solely?
4. The case not having a magnet makes it feel cheap again, is there another case that would be sufficient or will I HATE this current case?
5. Does the spine have a magnet in it at all to potentially put in the case?
6. The fact that you have to use a screen protector. Does the writing feel improve with the screen protector on it or make it worse?
So while you answered the main question I thought was the only remaining question I had, I now am faced with a plethora of new ones. Am I overthinking this? I really want to stick with the Note Air as the software features are EXACTLY what I need, and they allow me to customize the tool for my use case, but I just can pull myself to cancel the RMK2 order without putting these new issues to bed. Again, thanks for what you do and for doing all you can to help but I feel that some of these new issues that me and others have raised would be a great follow up video!
Hey Hey
1. It was the light BUT the RM screen is much darker and has a lot of contrast I think because it doesn't have the front light
2. Not happy with the Stylus or Case - feels a little cheap
3. YES the Marker Plus works great and I think you can buy it separately - I WOULD big difference and the eraser works
4. Yes I haven't even put it one I hate sticking things to a $500 device - and I like to take it out sometimes - JUST me - not sure on cases yet
5. Don't think so - tired in the EM case it doesn't work
6. About the same feels OK - not bad really not the RM either
It is really 50/50 with this thing. The RM2 is a piece of art awesome just feels quality. The Note Air does SO many things front light, internet, apps, and the writing is not too bad.
Comes down to do you want something just for notes that is clean and efficient, or do you want a device that does a lot of things a little more difficult to use.
Finally, a real Boox Air review.
But it's not...
Not a review, just a slight writint test, nothing more, we don't review features here, specs or anything.
Much appreciation to you for addressing the concerns of the community. Respect! As per my understanding so far, it seems like the Note Air is a well rounded functional e-reader and note taking device with a good enough writing experience that could be improved with a better stylus. On the other hand, the rM2 is a viable paper replacement alternative with an outstanding writing experience and some e-reading capabilities. Although the RM2 trully looks like a piece of art, in my case I am choosing functionality over design. I guess it all depends on the use cases of each person. Kudos to you for this very timely review!
The Note Air is not very intuitive. It takes some time to figure things out. The writing experience is good... just enough drag to not feel like writing on glass. Still many things that I cannot figure out yet (i.e. how to email a note to myself).
It took me 1/2 hour to find the templates LOL.
Vs RM products... I do not think the value of a front light can be dismissed. I set the light on a very low setting. The result is a perception of no light at all, but the background is much whiter and easier to work with.
JB -- here is the best way to apply the screen protector:
(1) Take the screen protector from the box
(2) Wipe your device of all dust and lint
(3) Measure the protector to the device
(4) Keep a trash can close by
(5) Pour some vodka into a small glass
(6) Put the screen protector into the trash can
(7) Toast your success
Heheheheh so True on the screen protector that’s really all he say about the BOOX devices they are cool, But something about them they just aren’t intuitive at all. Not a bad thing but they are just a little complicated
@8:50, there is a screen protector pre-applied to the Remarkable 2 from factory. There are noted complaints on Reddit already about people pealing the protector off on the RM2 thinking it is a film shipping protector.
I really don’t know how you could think that unless it got lose in shipping I had to really look for the seam so hard to see it. I wouldn’t have known it was a screen protector unless someone told me FYI
Thanks for the video JB!
Thank you WAYNE!!! :)
As always, excellent. Thanks, JB. I’m batch 8 for Remarkable. I had to wait for my academic budget to start over to preorder.
Great to see another honest and open minded piece. On this evidence the Note Air, while clearly a solid device, is just not as well designed a product as the reMarkable 2. More feature rich perhaps, but on design and build quality seems not in the same class as reMarkable 2.
Thank you JB!! This is the review that I (and it looks like thousands of other people) have been waiting for and you answered all my questions. My main use for the tool will be note-taking so for me it looks like the RM2 is the way to go. My Batch 4 device should be arriving soon and I am so pumped after watching all of your and Voja's videos.
I’m noticing that the line quality on the Note Air is much better than the rM2 on the close-ups. There are pretty technical reasons for this which are difficult to explain well in just a comment, but basically, both devices write in a monochrome mode which is very fast to draw onscreen - it’s shades of grey that slows the screen down. But once the Note Air is done writing a stroke, it redraws the line with full antialiasing, and that makes it look MUCH smoother. The rM2 just keeps everything as a monochrome bitmap, which looks ok-ish on the fuzzy e-ink screen, but looks absolutely terrible and jagged on a computer screen or LCD tablet screen like an iPad
What is appealing to me about the Note Air is the combination of good writing and an excellent reading app for PDFs. I've heard RM2's reading tools are decidedly inferior. So for use for both reading and note taking Note Air seems the better choice. Fair?
Going strong on the video quality and production. Another clean video!
Please test the eraser and magnet of the remarkable2 pen on the Air(edit: read you allready did), or as you've said do a pen shoot out of all your styluses.
I don't think the nibs are replaceable at all on the Air stylus. It's the technology from the Supernote pen. But maybe I'am wrong.
Do you think I may use it without the screen protector? Do you recognize any scratches from the pen(edit: also you answered somewhere allready).
Now I know why they offer the stickable pen holder with it. As I need the functions and don't wanna use/buy an iPad, I will live with some downsides. I would have more with the rM2 in my usecase.
Thanks for quick review!
Pretty good comparison of the basic writing experience of Note Air and rM2. The focus was a bit off, but you got some good advice from Kim Samejima on adjusting the lens for greater depth of field. There is a Facebook post that also compares the writing experience of Note Air an rM2. Search for "Lucia Tricomi Note Air rM2." Lucia installed the screen protector on the Note Air and used the Marker Plus on both devices. Two things that show up in both comparison videos are relative latency and nib to e-ink layer separation. The rM2 is still the latency speed champ and has significantly less separation from nib to e-ink layer than does the Note Air. I'm not ready to cancel my rM2 batch 7 pre-order just yet.
can find this review by Lucia
I think this device is a good match for me. I like the fact that I can read books from virtually any source (Amazon, Google, PDF) and the writing experience you described seems good enough. Waiting for more reviews for the final decision but so far I'm pretty close to bite the bullet
Hey JB. Sorry for the long post, but it might helps others. Got my Air a couple of days ago. I do like the stylus because of the sharp point. I draw and diagram a lot, and that point helps me be more accurate.
Some PROS:
- Backlight is truly amazing. It just makes it easier to read and write in any situation except bright sunlight (then you can turn it off)
- The NOTE taking app beats Remarkable hands down. Having Color is great. The eraser erases strokes instead of putting a white mask over the the original drawing like Remarkable does. You can ALSO do the mask with their Erase Lasso.
- Speaking of the Lasso, it's actually a Lasso icon, which IMO is much better than the square marquee select icon Remarkable uses (why Remarkable?)
- Different line widths to the pixel. Remarkable has only 3. Air has 30 or more.
- Squares, Circles, Lines (my favorite), Triangles make diagramming SO MUCH EASIER!
- The tool palette doesn't overlay the page like Remarkable's does.
- Lot's more adjustments to lot's more stuff. For instance, Remarkable doesn't allow scrolling because of how they refresh. With Air you can set the redraw mode and it scrolls great.
- Great overall size.
- Of course... it's a real reader, which Remarkable is not.
- Overall, the device is a bit heavier than RM1, but it feels nice and looks to be constructed well.
- PNG exports much nicer because they have stroke smoothing.
Some CONS:
- Really chincy (is that a word?) case, feels and looks like...made in China. The device has an overall lack of attention to detail about it. Can't exactly put my finger on it, but it feels half baked in a lot of ways. I've discovered some drawing bugs when cutting and pasting. Hard to find features like recalibrating the stylus.
- The stylus has such a weak magnet and won't stay attached. So they give you a stylus "pouch" that you can attach to the back of the case. BTW, the adhesive on the case doesn't stick-- and you're bound to have your AIR fall out- so be careful.
- The writing is not as good as the RM1 (don't have the RM2 yet) nor as good as the Lumi. The glass is slick and the stylus is slick-- feels a bit like writing on an iPad to me. Not as nice as RM1 for sure. And, I'm not interested in trying the screen protector. Just adding another thing to get in the way. If they want you to use it, they should put in on at the factory. Weak.
- Android apps pretty much suck on it. If you really want an Android tablet, get one. It will have color.
- Power up time is at least 2X as slow as RM1. I cannot believe how long this thing takes to boot-- so be sure and set the power off mode to something like 24 hours.
- OMG, trying to send an email with a PNG note is almost impossible on this device. You have to export it, then move it from one folder to another for the Gmail app (you have to install) to be able to actually locate the file. Huge pain in the ASS if you're trying to get it to your desktop computer. I know there's an app as well, but that's even more steps. Ugh.
- Overall navigating around is not intuitive at all. You need to learn different gestures (which the instructions on my unit have backwards). Double-tap the round ball gets you home-- then you have to go into settings somewhere to set home to your Apps or your Notes. All complicated. RM just seems to work.
Overall? I think I may prefer the Air to RM1 for the kind of stuff I do. You can see some of my notes at: twitter.com/chippwalters
I'm interested in seeing the RM2 when it arrives in November. By then I'll certainly have made some more observations.
Thank you! My Air got here about 30 minutes ago. I do not have an RM (batch 8), so my compare will be to a Microsoft Surface with a paper feel screen protector. I think that writing on the RM kinda sets the bar high for that single standard. I look forward to your advice on the best stylus to use.
Yes I agree for sure
@Bank Guy, enjoy your device. Mine will arrive on Sat. Would you mind checking whether the Surface Pen works on the Air?
@@annvoy7698 no go on the surface pen. Onyx uses Wacom, Surface uses Ntrig
@@Qster83 thanks for explaining the difference ;-)
@@annvoy7698 The Surface Pen does not work on the Air and the Air pen does not work on the Surface. BTW... The Air pen is AWFUL. I look forward to user advice on a better stylus. I know that JB likes the RM2 stylus on here, but that is not an option for separate purchase.
Thank you JB for focusing on writing experience. This is the most important factor for me to choose between rM2 and Note Air. I will keep my rM2 preorder.
Some Note Air reviews (err.. let’s call them overviews) have cleverly evaded this aspect of the device. Those reviews have also taken a dig at rM2 for not having this and that feature over Note Air without understanding the use cases. I’ll be waiting for your and Voya’s review for better coverage.
Congrats on your 10K milestone on the channel. Cheers.
I am a big user of Roam Research. Can you Demo how reading Roam Pages works in both Devices? Would love to see that.
thank you! It's great to see how close they are in their writing speed :)
Where can i buy this from Brazil? reMarkable's website doesn't ship to Brazil, and there are only a few used ones on eBay,,
I appreciate the “cliff notes” review. I agree regarding the case. I’m not a fan and I just purchased it....UGHHHH!!!! When you use the case....that’s it, it’s used! No turning back. I wish you would have done this writing test before my purchase....UGHHHH. Thank you.
I just got mine and the case is fine. It isn’t like duct tape but more like that kind to hang pictures. It doesn’t ruin the device at all. The pen seems to stick better with the case on too. Good luck!
@@emceethatsme Good morning. Thank you so much for responding to my comment and letting me know about your experience. That’s exactly what I’m talking about I don’t want and I didn’t know the case was one that you have to stick the device on...so many things can happen when you do that...if you want to remove it for one reason or another. Residue on the back of the device, etc. I appreciate your comments regarding the pen, also. Blessings to you.
@@BrwnEyedSouthernGurl I’m sure there will be third party cases available eventually. Since the case comes with it for free I’m using it but I will replace it eventually with a third party one.
@@emceethatsme Good morning. Thank you. I’m going to try this and made a decision. Bless you.
i had rM2 for about a month (returned it) and also ordered Boox air. The lux/ premium feel of rM2 with its leather cover is absolutely unmatchable.. its a device you 'desire'. But when i spend a decent money, i want to get something more in return. It was for that reason that I ended up keeping the Boox air. Even though i do not use the android features of Boox (i have other devices) but the fact that its possible to use... thats a good feeling ;-). the nib is indeed pathetic and i confirm that the rM2 nibs make a MEGA difference to the whole writing experience. What i love about BOOX is the ease of projection of on my monitor.. makes it so easy and nice to explain things during web meetings. I just hope that they open the google store on it (or whatever the tech term is), unfortunately I cannot install my outlook account on it, due to security issues.
I love my note air, and it's great to see the comparison with rm2, I've been looking forward to this! I might take your advice and get rm nibs. If you use rm stylus on note air, does the eraser on the back work?
Yes it does just tested it!! The reMarkable PEN works great on it LOL - makes it a better device I think :)
Awesome, I think I will get it then, especially if it also sticks better, as you said
@@paulinasiuryte7118 Beware, maybe the nibs are not interchangeable on the Air pen. I'am not shure atm and wi do some research. The pen is like a second generation of the Supernote pen.
A magnet and nib test would be nice.
Hey, about the remarkable pen, does it stick better to the note air, or does it just snap well on the remarkable 2 itself? Note air + remarkable pen souds interesting :P
@@lazyman1011 so do the nibs work on the Boox pen?
"The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." uses every letter in the alphabet and would make a great writing test for future videos of pens, displays, and screen protectors.
That is SOOOOOOOOOO good - I never knew that - YOUR Rock learning every day
Thanks for the review. The writing experience on Air was what I was looking for. My impression after seeing the close-up is that the latency is a bit worse on Air than on rM2 and the perceived distance between the tip of the pen and the actual text (e-Ink layer) is evidently bigger on Air.
So now, I have to think hard which one to choose: better writing (rM2) or better handling of notes like text search of notes (Air). I don't care about all the bells and whistles but text search of notes for one is big thing.
Huzzah! Searching notes is revolutionary.
Remarkable 2 is disappointing because it does not have: (1) log in and out function
(2) instant conversion of handwriting into typed text (3) back lighting (4) bluetooth connection to keyboard for typing
Thanks for the videos. My wife purchased the reMarkable 2 and opened my eyes to digital notepads. I use a computer for everything, but still have an A5 pad at my desk and by my laptop which I use that for note taking in meetings. I'd love to replace that with a digital notepad. Your videos have helped me narrow it down. The physical size of the unit is an important factor for me as I hot desk a lot. That leans me away from the reMarkable to the Onyx Boox Note Air, which also seems to have a better reader, that I might start to use. However, handwriting to text seems to be better with reMarkable. But reMarkable seems to only back up to their own system rather than letter the user choose. That is a strange choice, which isn't my preference.
I will by the Boox Note Air if the handwriting to text is better (they fix picking up spaces etc), I can back up to Google drive and print from the device.
Note taking ease and then handwriting to text is most important. Then size second. With printing and storage next.
Any thoughts on handwriting to text with these two?
Thank you in advance.
Do you really need to install a screen protector on the note air? Been using my nova pro for almost 2 years without a protector and the screen is still flawless. But then the screen of air I believe is made of glass but the nova pro, would that fact make a difference on the sturdiness of the screen? Just wondering. Thank you again for the awesome review or discussion.
I dont know if you see the same as I do
But the RM2 is faster than NA
I clearly see the lag specially when you wrote ABC
Also RM2 is in other league...
It appearance is more professional than NA
I am on batch 7 been waiting since June and I really like the NA, waiting for your review to cancel OR not my order.
Definitely will not do it...
RM2 is better for one purpose ONLY
Taking notes
Can you compare between the wiring experience on the Boox Lumi and Boox Note Air? People are on the fence as to which of the two to buy so would be a really useful video.
For sure - I think I like the Air better personally but for sure I got you :)
Thanks for this review. It was helpful for me to decide what to buy. I went with the Onyx Boox Note Air and really love it.
I wonder if there have been some updates since this review? The screen saver was installed already. Getting it working was fast and easy, no issues. I like the writing experience a lot but at some point I'm sure I'll try the Remarkable pen -- thanks for that suggestion.
The pen and writing experience on the Air is really excellent, although the pen is a little light and unsubstantial feeling. Doesn't really bother me though.
I wish I had the luxury to try/compare the Remarkable 2, just out of curiosity. It looks wonderful. But the Air is a really nice e-book reader too. The Remarkable is just too narrowly focused for my needs.
Another great video. Thanks!
Is the writing on the Books Note Air better than the writing on the Lumi? Was it hard to get the screen protector on without bubbles like it was with the Max 2?
He answered elsewhere here.
the Air looks really fast when it comes to the latency, but in that closeup... the RM is just instant! The Air might just be an option afterall.
Yes great device....
Thank you for sharing. I'm still waiting for my note air, but from the video I have the same feeling as you. I don't like the cheap sticky solution on the cover. And if the pen doesn't stick well, why do they make it magnetic? Hmm, I went over to have another look on their ad video, and I think they covered up that weakness and make people not aware of it. I'd rather add another $20-$50 to make the cover and pen better ( like what RM2 have).
The Boox Air stylus magnet is actually more powerful if you connect it to the device with the nib facing up and the flat surface of the pen facing the device. attaching it to the top half seems strongest.
in this position it will definitely not slide down and will be a lot stronger.
Thank you very much! I think in terms of writing function, the Note Air catch up RM2 a lot. but it still has insufficient writing performance, such as delaying, post image process. anyways, I could have a clear definition of each device through your review.
notetaking device = RM2, Multifunction reader = Note Air
Thanks for doing these videos. I recommend for the macro video set the zoom to manual and adjust aperture narrower. You may need to bump iso higher but you can compensate if you bring a lamp over it. I am a little confused is the onyx glass front display or the same as the Lumi? So does Onyx recommend a screen protector for the air too? Excited as you put the air through it paces. You understand the remarkable community and what they want from these types of devices. So it will be good to see your view on it. Keep up the good job and the good vibe and I am looking forward to your video.
I am Batch 3 and just received the DHL shipping info this morning. Yeah! They are shipping!
Awesome Nate, I am also batch 3 but no email so far....soon I hope!
Hi JB and thank you! Handwriting looks quite pixelated and "raw" on the remarkable! Not sure I can bear that, as I'm used to a super crisp Surface Pro 7. Onyx with that post-processing looks far better! I'm in batch 8 and unsure about keeping the rm2 now.
Yes they are having some issues with the RM2, Voja had a good discussion on it. I am debating my next move with devices. Because I use the Papyr so much for work, I may end up just sticking with it. I find myself using it more and more. Will keep you posted. Thanks for sharing.
@@morningcoach Thank you! I posted a tweet about it, hoping that Remarkable will make some statement on the issue: bit.ly/35zYIUj
BTW, I really enjoyed reading your book "The Sacred Six" ;)
Thank you so glad you enjoyed the book!
Useful video - fairly clear cut that the reMarkable writing experience is better. The case/magnet of Onyx doesn't seem very 'premium' either.
Thanks I would agree - both solid devices - they could have upgraded the stylus and case better for sure
The hardware is lot more expensive so they had to save some money somewhere.
There have now been multiple reports on the remarkable usergroup on Facebook about extremely poor line quality on the rm2. Have you seen these? It's a bit disconcerting, and I'd like to see your experience...
Yes just saw that and Voja at my Deep Guide just did a video on it - crazy I wonder what is up
This really helps JB. It is disappointing that they cheap out on the pen and cover. It seems that the writing on the device is acceptable especially with the remarkable nib. For me the small loss of writing feel will be out weighted by the extra utility the Boox devices provide. Looks like it will be the Nova 2 due to the portability.
Yes its a good device I was really disappointed in the stylus, looks cool, feels plastic
Nova 3 is just released. Have a look at it.
@@toplee6447 Had a look and it is tempting. Maybe the Nova 2 will become less expensive
Hi JB,
RM2 Batch8 here that is still waiting for it's arrival. I am now so confused. Having watched Voya lead me to research Boox, which led me to you and also opened my eyes to what I may be missing with RM2 (if it ever arrives). I'm now starting to lean towards the Boox for it's software capability. My conundrum is now whether I get the Boox Air or Boox Note 3. Any advise on their differences? Thanks in advance. Cheers!
Hi, I have a slightly different question about setting up Boox Note Air - I don't see note templates when I did the initial set up, but I see in the manual that there are built in templates. Is this something we need to install separately? I would love a video on setting up the Note Air for beginners because I don't see one online. Only reviews but not a guide on how best to use it. Thanks!
Hey Nancy thanks so much I know Voya who does the deep reviews Has one coming real soon and I don’t like to step on his toes with getting really deep in the debate because that’s his world is channel is my deep guide.... He should have it up the next week or so thanks so much for asking
I'm frustrated, because NOBODY that reviews the difference between these devices go into what I care about: DRAWING on them!! Not note taking nonsense... using them for art/sketching/illustration/painting.
I own a reMmarkable 1, and as much as I like it, my main frustration is the extremely limited painting/sketching abilities for shading, using grayscales (you have to fake grayscale with the highlighter... which only has one level and one width!), etc.
What I want to know is - can you run something REAL on the Boox thing, like e.g. Photoshop touch, Autodesk Sketchbook Pro, or any real drawing program with proper sketching power, pressure sensitivity, different brushes, paper simulations, watercolor sims.... etc??
Everybody is hung up on the "note taking" (who even does that with a pen - I don't get it, I use my laptop and a keyboard for that) and the "no distractions" (that's my decision if I want to mute notifications, don't come in "von oben" and decreeing for me what I want to use with my device).
All I want is an excellent *ART* experience. For this, the reMarkable is only *passable at best*, useless at worst.
It seems Remarkable has focused on the tactile experience and has the best options there. I think that is great. My concern is how well the Remarkable 2 (which I have on order) plays with file syncing. How friendly is it (and it close competitors) to import documents for marking up? How friendly are they for exporting and archiving the resulting notes and marked up documents? What file formats are compatible with each?
The file synching is OK, the reader is OK, the PDF Markup is OK - it is really a notebook replacement - the other devices do those things better, but don't have the tactile experience. Not one of these devices is the be all end all unfortunately.
That's interesting to see.... When you're talking about nibs : it's only the nibs that's potentially needs to be replaced with the remarkable ones or the entire stylus ?
I have a boox nova 2 with the protection screen, it's a little bit weird when the nib is ''new'' but when it starts wearing off it becomes more confortable
Yes you may try and buy some reMarkable nibs and put in your stylus. You should be able to fit them in. Depends on the stylus but most use the same nibs. :)
Very interesting. Really disappointed with the method of attaching the cover to the device - sticky plastic?! The pen doesn't look like much of an improvement either but the actual functionality within the device is great. If only someone would combine the best bits of RM2, Air and Supernote...!
AMEN right David, yes I thought they wouldn't short cut that
Such a weak method. You get a $500 device and you use tape to stick it in?!?!
That makes it so it isn’t removable. Pretty much the worst possible option.
I have a Nova 2 and the case is great. Why wouldn’t you do a magnetic like the Remarkable or fitted case like the Nova 2?
That has pretty much locked my decision as either keeping the RM 2 on order or maybe the new Note3. I want that size. But why does onxy go cheap with their stylus and this case?
@@adamrshields Thanks for the help brother on FB
I wasn't crazy about it either, but once I put it in it holds very well, and it's light/comfortable enough that I dont really have a need/want to take it out. Magnets definitely would've been cool tho.
If the Boox Air feels like the Supernote, I would take it over the reMarkable because I want a stylus that you don't have to replace the nibs. I use the Lamy stylus on the Supernote, I bet that would be good on the Boox Air too.
It just feels different - hard to say I wouldn't say Supernote but kind of a nice soft feel especially with the RM nib
Interestingly, when you write on the rM2, once you stopped the line, the last one turns into a jagged line! This is really annoying. Especially as reMarkable don't seem to bother.
I think they will get that fixed. We will see for sure. I have a meeting with Voya next week will bring it up - thanks !!
JB Thank you for this video. I’m still not convinced since the file system and different use cases should be Compared. Even if she writing experience comes close to the remarkable2I think you should keep the other points - as already mentioned by you - in mind. Looking forward to hear more about this topic.
Thanks so much! Does the remarkable pen stick better to the magnet of the Air if you were to use it instead? I am nervous from the magnet issue to stick with the Air. I want to stick with the Air but an not convinced yet.
YES much much better the RM pen must have better magnets.... the Air pen I am not a big fan of to me feels pretty cheap.
@@morningcoach oh that is great news...has me closer to making decision. So the writing feel isn’t as good as remarkable 2. What about remarkable 1? It was really fast I was impressed with that. But trying to gauge that feel. If writing on iPad was a 1 and writing on remarkable 2 is a 10 and writing on remarkable 1 was an 8 where would this fall on the scale?
@@themortgagedad I think the RM2 is still an 8 - I hate having to put a screen protector on but would give it a 5 with their stylus and a 6-7 with the reMarkable stylus on their device. It is actually a pretty good device.
@@morningcoach thanks. You keep going back to the screen protector as if it is required. Cant you use it without the screen protector? I thought I remember seeing a video that it wasn’t required? Screen protector sort of kills my mood for it if it’s a must.
@@themortgagedad yes you can but worries me they send 2 with the device if it is not needed??????????
Thanks JB, been waiting for this review. A couple of questions for you:
Does the note air surface feel grippy and textured?
How does the air compare to Lumi on writing feel?
Good question.. @morningcoach.. Does it?
lol, had the a similar issue like, why is the latency so bad & reset isn't common sense placed. My 1st air 2 was just off..But remarkable is kinda a no go cause you can't transfer notes like anywhere...still would like to use the remarkable but the writing would have to be stellar but Supernotes seems closer to that pen writing I like..
Can you use a remarkable nib with a Boox Nova2?
Thanks for the video, JB (my first comment on your channel - thanks for all your work - inspires me)! There is a visible difference between the distances between the writing tip and the display. It just seems to me that the Onyx Air pen seems suspended. From my limited experience (I own onyx boox nova 2) this distance (along with writing latency) is essential in regular work. Thanks again and much inspiration!
Nice video which helps lay to rest that issue of writing quality. We users are looking for the tech that fits our needs.
I already read books/audiobooks on my phone and get all my apps/notifications on there -- all the distractions that keep me from achieving creatively what I'd like to do sometimes! -- so I get off android and go to rM to create.
For me, the only device that could really add functionality important enough to pay for would be a larger format like the Lumi, complicated tho it is to master.
Nothing else I have sounds like it would add value for me (since computers/conventional tablets play a different role than an eink tablet). Just what I'm summarizing ought to work from the reviews and comments I've seen.
Thanks for the comment!!
Coach, I am afraid this video whilst mostly entertaining missed the mark on subject. :(
I mentioned in a list of things that the Air has against it for writing and its very apparent in the video for about 0.1 seconds. So 10:49.9 seconds missed it.
Writing big letters isn't how I write but smaller. I also don't write overhead. I write with the paper flat at 45 degrees and to the right hand side of me.
I also look at the point of a pencil whilst writing, palm on the pad or table, and the pencil angled.
I have rubber at the end so I can flip over and erase mistakes which I do a lot.
The pencil is angled like every one else holds a pencil and allows to wider strokes and shade in.
So to your testing.
AIR
4:31 at the end of the letter C shows how far the nib is from the paper, looks like 1-2mm. Why, because its glass, has a light and so on.
RM2
All the writing that's in focus is touching the paper. So anyone wanting to write not just do large draws, or an artist really needs to look at that aspect.
You also don't mention why there is a screen protector, I have no idea so please tell. I would also check if you can use a graphite pen on the air as it may scratch the screen.
So coach, take note of the above as I know you are super excited to do these videos so a friendly don't fall short on a very prominent subject.
Time for another quick update post me things. ;)
More coming today -
Air yes that is what I am hearing because of the front light and glass the distance is longer you can see the RM is immediate
I don't know why there is a screen protector they put 2 of them in - so I am assuming it needs it. Why would they add it? Not sure
I will bring some more still learning and THANKS for the comments as always :) :) :)
Damn that pen magnet and case for Note Air is so shit...
Using the screen protector like that wont work, because you'll peal off two layers when you apply it.
3:50 There it is again! Saw it in your other video, super lag sometimes on it... I'd get so pissed.
6:03 This is a good example of the latency if you do the first stroke frame by frame. On rM2 when you're at the end of the stroke the ink has almost caught up. On Note Air it hasn't even appeared yet...
Hi JB, thanks for all the videos. Very helpful! One question I keep coming back to- what the best note taker for "feel "? I.e. feels most like paper? I have a Remarkable 1 and the friction is perfect however I'm unhappy with the software and company so have cancelled my order for the RM2.
Thanks!
I would still say the rM1 is the best - it is very subjective as you know Gary, but the Quaderno and Papyr on he Sony platform have a good feel. The Onyx products are ok, but you have to put a screen protector on. I like it with the Lamy or Stadler stylus. They are all getting better for sure. It is still not rM1 feel, they really had a home run there.
I like Ur reviews more and more.
Thank you very much!
how is the lag on onenote on the onyx boox air? it used to be pretty bad on the boox max 3.
Was the Note Air set to the fastest mode?
If you want to see how the screen protector feels like you need to peel of the plastic layer on it. It changes completely the feeling.
I did at the end of the video and put it on it - after the close up - I need to get better at editing but the last shots are with the Screen Protector on
@@morningcoach to that note did it feel better or worse with screen protector? Also if you take your time and try to apply it nicely is it manageable to make it unnoticeable? Ps I was able to find on the boox site confirmed that the screen protector is recommended to prevent scratching. Direct from Boox.
Thank you, JB, for this writing experience review. There seems to be a bigger gap on the Note Air between the pen nib on the glass and the actual "ink" compared to the RM2. And I agree the RM pen appears better and possibly even quicker than the Boox pen on the same device. Would you say the hard Boox nib is rather similar to the hard Apple Pen even if the pen quality isn't comparable? For me the writing experience isn't a dealbreaker for the Note Air, I rather think. I expected it to be not as well as on the RM. The overall better professional usage of the Note Air suits me better - that is as long as tbe Note Air is a reliable device over time. Sorry for your earlier frustration. Voja's the saviour!
All good, I am not impressed by the Air stylus feels cheap. The tip is hard and pretty tiny. I was really pumped for that, but disappointed BUT the device itself is surprising. Give me the RM pen and the device is not bad, except having to put a screen protector on it.
@@morningcoach besides the RM Pen, are there any other Pen options for the Air (any limitations or can I choose any)? Might be worth a Video?🤔
@@takurotim3496 I am going to try the Lamy this week got a new one coming :)
@@takurotim3496 any wacom emr should work. I like Tab S pens
@@takurotim3496 They say there old ones work, so all that worked with the Lumi should be fine.
Hi great review but could you please compare to pen and paper ie. does the remarkable feel more like pencil on paper or say a gel pen on moleskine paper? If it's the later then I may be willing to fork out for the price. Thanks in advance.
Steve it feels good, but I wouldn't say that good FYI - I really wish you could try it....
@@morningcoach shame in the UK we can’t walk into a shop and try one at the moment as I think they are only available online
Hi JB, I assume the next question is how the Note Air goes with the reMarkable stylus with eraser or Lamy pen, then maybe reMarkable tips or something similar.
If that made the experience quite a bit better, then would be interesting if it changed your opinion a bit
Hi JB so with the note air finally arrived. On the similar price tag, which one do you think is a better deal, note air or rm2? I mainly use it to read n edit pdf in cloud drive, if note air writing quality is on par with rm1, I am happy enough to use.
Also will be great if we can have a bit more info on the standby time n actual using time for rm2 n note air in the next review. Looking fwd
Thanks my stock answer is it really depends on you the Note Air - functionality - the RM1 just gets the job done - the RM2 for notes it is a piece of artwork :)
Thanks for the video JB. Did you try to see if can actually use the remarkable 2 pen with the eraser on the top? It Would be great if we could do so. Yes just saw the previous answers. I am puzzled because I like reading a lot and I like to take notes and quotes from what I read so I was thinking to either get the remarkable or get the Boox note air and use it as split screen to read on one side and take notes on the other. Have you tried?
YES it does work :) Just tested
if someone is new to the eink world, would the Note Air be a good purchase? Especially using some 3rd party pen for better writing experience?
It’s a good device but it feels a little different I think you either love it or hate it but it does have a lot of functionality definitely a third-party stylus
Thanks for you vids on this topic, I'm in the middle of researching what kind of reader I need. So far the Remarkable 2 seems to be my best fit. What I need is a good reader for reading pdf and epub with a smooth annotating ability in those, as well as a good paper notebook replacement. But what I am unsure about is whether the rm2 is good for annotating pdf and epub texts, some seem to think it is kind of a bother to export them etc.
The onyx does have backlight option, right? That's a big plus on its side if the rm2 doesn't. Not sure if the paper 'feel' is so much worse on the onyx that it makes a considerable difference from the rm2 though.
Onyx has backlight, rm2 doesn't. I personally think the onyx feels great to write on and it handles pdfs and epubs like a champ!
Great review! I've got what to me is an important question. How is the noise level when writing on these devices? Once upon a time I used to take notes on an iPad with a stylus that has a metal point behind a plastic disc, and the constant noise was a distraction to people around me. I want to use this at work and it can't be an attention getter or distraction to those around me.
David it’s really not bad they’re all pretty quiet to be honest with you in fact the products with the screen protectors on really soft in it
Can we assume note air writing experience is equal to max lumi?
I think it is a little better different screen types. I think the Air is really close to the RM and the Lumi is good just a little less... thanks for asking
Is it my eyes or text in note air sort of blinks slightly right after you write there?
Yes, it's the post processing (smoothing)
@@andyghee gosh! is that really disturbing? does it happen in remarkable?
@@aashishpaudel9178 No
I wonder about the writing experience (or the "writing feel" to be more exact, not the functionality which should be the same or almost the same) between the Onyx Boox Max Lumi and the Note Air, because from what I have heard, the Note Air has a glass screen while the Max Lumi is actually some kind of plastic, so the writing feel might differ on these things. Is that the case?
Coach, I hope you're making use of the calligraphy templates in the rM2!!!
How do you rate writing experience between note 2 and air. Which is better or more paper like ?
The RM is but not that bad with the Onyx it works
How are the file transfer for each device? I want to be able to transfer notes or PDF's between my computer and the device very fast/efficiently and idk which one has a better system? An example would be send a PDF to the device, mark it up or take notes, then send the notes or marked PDF back to my computer.
Coach, you may have answered this in previous comments I saw yesterday but I can't find the thread. Does the remarkable 2 pencil's eraser work with the air?
Yes it does!! :)
@@morningcoach That is really interesting
Hey JB could you test the Lamy and Eraser pleaseeeee I've been waiting for that… thank you…
I have a new Lamy coming in this week so for sure!
I thought you had one already??
@@requeteque1970 I do but it is the Lamy S still works but everyone has the Lamy EMR - so I want to make sure I test the one everyone has :)
@@morningcoach thanks JB! Cannot wait to see you test that out.
have you tried the Staedtler Norris on the Note Air? If so how does it stack up against the Rm2 stylus and the onyx one?
Nice that the rM2 pen works on the note air. How about the eraser function, does that work too?
If it does translate to a better writing experience I guess it would be best to ditch the note air pen and use rM2 pen.
Thanks for the amazing initial review.. Can you give an assessment to which feels the most like writing on paper?
It's been a few months. Which do you prefer?
Hey JB, great review. One thing I'm concerned with is the contrast on the RM2. Would you please show the RM2 under different light conditions? I'm really concerned about it not having a backlight.
Darren it is actually really great high contrast but will do :)
My question about the remarkable is can I export my notes to something like PDF and then transfer them to PC via USB? I just don't want to be stuck using a company I don't control's cloud service to get my notes into a format readable on PC and able to be backed up with the rest of my files.
Hi JB!
I would like to know if it is possible to use the Boox Note Air as a second computer monitor as the Max Lumi?
Also, can we use the note air as a graphics tablet,
example, to give distance lessons?
Thank you !! :)
My favorite UA-camr 😁 your video made my day !
Hey just a quick tip:
I am not a camera guy myself, but I know that if you open the shutter as far as posible you won't have such a shallow depth of view, when doing thouse close up shots! try it out ;)
Might also help to set the camera to manual focus !
Yes going to try that today few people suggested that, learning hahah
You miss one test. The distance from the nibs to the ink we on on screen, on Remarkable it's like paper and to compare on iPad we see maybe 1 or 2mm (because of the glass) so that look strange when you write. Thanks for this video
Watch the zoom part again and pause the video. If you need, so go frame by frame with... well it's " , " and " . " and a QWERTZ keyboard, don't know which buttons they are on another one.
Both devices are in the same angle so you see the distance. rM2 is closer, but it's not bad on the Note Air (at least from what I can tell in the video)
@@ximaxwellix 1.1mm max. more for the light part. So I would guess something about 0.5-0.8mm realistically.