Boox Note Air3 C Review – Brilliant color e-Reader for the Professional and the Student
Il Boox Note Air3 C represents a significant leap into the world of e-readers and digital productivity devices. Developed by Onyx, this device combines the features of an e-reader with the functionality of a tablet, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. In this review, we will look at the technical specifications, key features, advantages and disadvantages, as well as the potential use for different types of users.
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Technical Characteristics
The Boox Note Air3 C is equipped with a display E-Ink Kaleido 3 10,3 inch, capable of showing both contents in black and white with a resolution of 2.480 x 1.860 pixels and up to 4.096 colors with a resolution of 1.240 x 960 pixels. This technology allows comfortable viewing even in direct sunlight, reducing eye strain compared to traditional LCD screens but also the display of multimedia content.
Are also present two stereo speakers and a microphone which enrich the potential of this product, allowing it to be used, with the necessary limitations due to the slow refresh, of video and audio content.
Under the hood, the device features an octa-core Qualcomm processor, accompanied by 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. This hardware configuration is more than sufficient to ensure smooth navigation and effective application management. The operating system is based on Android 12 including access to Google Play Store which enormously expands the potential of this product thanks to the vast range of apps available.
La battery from 3.700 mAh guarantees long autonomy, allowing days of use on a single charge, depending on use. Furthermore, the device supports charging via USB-C (OTG compatible), making the charging process quick and convenient.
Design and Construction
The design of the Boox Note Air3 C is elegant and modern, with a thickness of just 5,8 mm and a weight of 420 grams, making it light and easy to handle despite the size of the display. The side frame facilitates the grip, allowing you to hold the device comfortably even with one hand. The build quality is excellent, with an aluminum body that gives it solidity and resistance.
Sul left side, which corresponds to the lower one when used in the vertical position, is positioned the USB type-C charging port. An unfortunate position because it remains covered by the cover when closed and holds the Air3 C when it is charged in a vertical position. The slot for expansion with MicroSD, the speakers and the microphone are also positioned on this side.
In the upper part we find the power button which incorporates a fingerprint sensor ultrasonic. This is a feature that we rarely find in E-Ink tablets but which allows us to protect our data while maintaining the convenience of simplified access.
The right side is magnetic and allows the included stylus to be housed in a stable and comfortable way.
Main Features
One of the most interesting aspects of the Boox Note Air3 C is its versatility. You can use it as a traditional e-reader, but also as a digital notepad thanks to compatibility with the Magnetic Pen Plus or the Pen2 Pro with the integrated electronic eraser. The pen offers a natural writing experience, with 4.096 pressure levels that guarantee precision and responsiveness.
The device supports up to 17 file formats, including PDF, EPUB, MOBI, and more, making it ideal for reading books, documents and comics but it is possible to expand compatibility using native applications which will still be essential for reading protected content DRM like Amazon's. The annotation function allows you to take notes directly on documents, useful for students and professionals who need to annotate texts or diagrams.
The presence of the Google Play Store further expands the possibilities of use, allowing the installation of productivity apps, such as Microsoft Office, Evernote, and other reading and writing applications. Multitasking is supported, allowing you to open multiple apps at the same time and easily switch between them, like on any Android tablet.
Benefits
One of the main advantages of the Boox Note Air3 C is the quality of the display. E-Ink Kaleido technology not only reduces eye strain, but also allows the viewing of color content, making reading comics and magazines more enjoyable. Adjustable brightness and night mode further enhance the reading experience in different lighting conditions.
Compatibility with the Boox Pen Plus offers an exceptional writing experience, making the device ideal for note-taking, drawing and handwriting. The ability to save and share notes in various digital formats is a further plus for students and professionals.
The operating system based on Android 12 and access to the Google Play Store increase the versatility of the device, allowing you to customize the user experience with a wide range of applications. App management is smooth and multitasking is well supported, making the Boox Note Air3 C a great productivity tool.
disadvantages
Despite its numerous advantages, the Boox Note Air3 C also has some disadvantages. The price is relatively high compared to other monochrome e-readers on the market. However, it should be considered that the device offers advanced features and a color display which partially justify the higher cost.
Another critical aspect is the refresh rate of the E Ink display. Although it is improved compared to previous generations and still typical of e-Ink, it can still be slow for some applications, such as web browsing or the use of apps with many graphics elements. This can impact the user experience, especially for those used to LCD or OLED screens.
Technical specifications Boox Note Air3 C
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.3 inch, full color ePaper Kaleido 3 2.480 x 1.860 pixels (300 PPI) grayscale, 1.240 x 960 pixels (150 PPI) color |
| Processor | Qualcomm Octa-core |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal Memory | 64 GB |
| Operating system | Android 12 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz + 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Battery | 3700 mAh |
| Doors | USB-C (with OTG function) |
| Weight | 420g |
| Dimensions: | 229.4 x 195.4 x 5.8 mm |
| Supported Formats | PDF, EPUB, TXT, MOBI, FB2, DOC, DOCX, PPT, PPTX, PNG, JPG, BMP, WAV, MP3 |
| Other characteristics | Ambient light sensor, gravity sensor, Wacom pen holder, stereo speakers, microphone |
| Autonomy | Up to several weeks of normal use |
| Accessories Included | Wacom pen, protective case, USB-C cable |
Boox Note Air3 C – Final opinions and price
The Boox Note Air3 C is an exceptional device that combines the functionality of an e-reader with that of a tablet, offering a unique experience for reading and digital productivity. The E-Ink Kaleido 3 display is one of its strong points, ensuring comfortable reading and the ability to view color content.
Access to the Google Play Store expands its possibilities of use, making it suitable for students, professionals and reading enthusiasts. While the price and display refresh rate may be drawbacks, the device's many merits make it a great choice for those looking for an advanced e-reader with tablet functionality.
The price is certainly not accessible to everyone but it is in line with the features and hardware offered. The list price is 559€ and available both on Amazon that on official store.
