Hi all,
I’ve had the opportunity to own and test three Boox devices in the last few years: the Boox Note Air2 Plus, Boox Note Air3 C, and Boox Go 10.3. While they share similar design, size, and operating system features, there are distinct differences that set each device apart.
Shared Features
All three devices come equipped with:
These similarities mean that, regardless of the device you choose, you’ll get a solid e-ink tablet experience that balances performance, storage capacity, and versatility.
Boox Note Air2 Plus
The Note Air2 Plus is the oldest model in this comparison, featuring:
10.3-inch screen with 227 PPI resolution (1404×1872 px)
Long-lasting battery life
Front light
Weight: 445 g and Dimensions: 22.94×19.54×0.58 cm
Screen latency: 33.78 ms
2.0 GHz octa-core processor
Despite being slightly heavier and bulkier compared to the newer models, the Note Air2 Plus holds its own in terms of battery life and usability. The screen distance is well-calibrated, making the pen input experience smooth. However, it lacks some of the latest features available on the newer models.
Boox Note Air3 C
The Note Air3 C stands out as the only color e-ink device among the three, featuring:
E Ink Kaleido 3 screen with 10.3 inches, 1860×2480 px (B/W)
300 PPI for B/W, 150 PPI for color
Front light
Weight: 430 g and Dimensions: 22.6×19.3×0.58 cm
Screen latency: 17 ms, thanks to BSR Boox Super Refresh technology
2.4 GHz octa-core processor
The Air3 C’s color display is a unique advantage and, though the quality of the color layer is lower (150 PPI) than the B/W at 300 PPI, you feel it as a solid, good looking screen with respect to Air2. The addition of BSR technology speeds up screen refresh rates, making the device suitable for videos and smoother scrolling. However, this feature does take a toll on battery life. While the screen can handle both color and black-and-white content, the color layer does dim the display slightly.
Boox Go 10.3
The Go 10.3 is the latest addition to the lineup and brings some interesting changes:
10.3-inch screen with 300 PPI resolution (black and white only)
No front light layer, making it slimmer and brighter
Weight: 375 g and Dimensions: 23.5×18.3×0.45 cm
Screen latency: 37 ms (no BSR technology)
2.4 GHz octa-core processor
The Boox Go 10.3 offers the slimmest design at only 0.45 mm among the three and actually the slimmest e-ink device existing. With a screen distance that feels almost non-existent the Go 10.3 is delivering a near-paper-like experience. Without the color and front light layers, the B/W display is noticeably brighter than the one of the Air3 C, and the battery life is exceptional. If you’re looking for a device focused solely on black-and-white content and efficiency, the Go 10.3 is a strong contender.
Personal Impressions and Recommendations
Boox Note Air3 C: While the color capability is a unique feature, I found the colors too light to be truly effective. Given the impact on battery life and the extra weight due to the front light, it didn’t make sense for me as I also own a dedicated e-book reader.
Boox Go 10.3: This device impressed me with its lightweight design, exceptional battery life, and bright screen. If color isn’t a priority, this model is perfect for those who value a long-lasting, highly portable e-ink tablet.
Boox Note Air2 Plus: Still a solid choice with great battery life and decent performance, though it lacks some of the refinements found in the newer models.
In conclusion, each device is well-suited to different needs:
Choose the Note Air3 C if you require color capabilities and front light.
Go for the Go 10.3 if battery life and display brightness are your top priorities.
If you’re looking for a versatile e-ink tablet with solid performance and durability, the Note Air2 Plus still holds value and on the used market you can grab good deals for it.
There’s also the Boox Note Air3 (black-and-white version of the Air3 C), which combines the benefits of the BSR technology with faster refresh rates and less ghosting, making it a good option if you need a more streamlined experience for scrolling documents, images, and videos without the need for color.
