The ReMarkable Paper Pro: A Closer Look at the Latest E-Ink Tablet
Four years ago, the ReMarkable 2 revolutionized the way I write. Its ultra-thin design and e-ink screen provided a unique writing experience that no other device could match. Now, ReMarkable has introduced their latest offering: the Paper Pro. With a larger screen, a backlight, improved responsiveness, and a range of colors, the Paper Pro promises to be the perfect device for writers and creatives. But does it live up to the hype?
The Paper Pro Isn’t Perfect
After a week of testing the Paper Pro, I have to admit that I’m less enthusiastic than I expected to be. While it has its merits, there are some issues that prevent it from being the ultimate distraction-free device for writers. The $399 ReMarkable 2 still remains a superior choice for users on a tighter budget.
One surprising drawback is that the Paper Pro and ReMarkable 2 don’t play well together. The Markers are not interchangeable, and documents created on the Paper Pro’s 11.8-inch display won’t fit properly on the ReMarkable 2’s 10.8-inch screen. This creates a technology fork, forcing users to choose one device over the other.
Additionally, the Paper Pro is slightly heavier and thicker than the ReMarkable 2, although the ridged sides provide a pleasant tactile experience. The screen-nib combination on the Paper Pro feels smoother, resembling the feel of writing on an iPad. However, the basic black color appears slightly washed out on the Paper Pro screen, possibly due to the new backlight. The battery life also seems to drain faster on the Paper Pro.
Paper Pro Color: A (Fun) Work in Progress
Technologically speaking, the Paper Pro is an impressive advancement. It brings color to e-ink, allowing for a wider range of options. However, there are some challenges when it comes to color representation. When lifting the Marker from the page, the screen has to refresh, causing a quick flash. Additionally, the colors on the screen appear more subtle and pastel-like, but when the image is sent as a PDF, the colors become more intense and almost cartoonish. This disconnect between the e-ink display and LED screens is a fundamental challenge that ReMarkable is working to address through software updates.
Are You a Paper Pro Kind of Pro?
So who is the Paper Pro intended for? While artists and designers may enjoy experimenting with the device, the color representation issue makes it less suitable for serious work in those fields. For those who prefer distraction-free writing and typing, the monochrome ReMarkable 2 is a more cost-effective choice.
The Paper Pro is primarily designed for students and knowledge workers. It excels at note-taking, highlighting, and sketching ideas on the go. The addition of color is particularly useful for medical and engineering students. IT departments will appreciate the enhanced security features, such as the six-digit PIN. However, casual artists who prioritize fun over true color accuracy may find the Paper Pro to be a good fit for their needs.
The ReMarkable 2 changed the way I write, and the Paper Pro has the potential to change the way I create art. While it may not be perfect, it offers a unique writing and drawing experience that sets it apart from other devices on the market.
