ReMarkable Paper Pure Tablet Review: Back to Basics
Source: Wired
First Impressions
I like that the ReMarkable Paper Pure kept the thicker side bezel, which the pricier Paper Pro and Paper Pro Move don’t have. It’s a perfect resting spot for my thumb to grab and start writing, and it responds to rotations, so you can use it comfortably whether you’re right‑ or left‑handed (the stylus will only attach to the long side without the thicker bezel, which is a little inconvenient for lefties).
It has a fast response time and a smooth writing experience that, like earlier ReMarkable models, feels incredibly paper‑like with a touch of texture and resistance without feeling slow or gritty. ReMarkable says the writing experience from the Paper Pro was brought over to the device, and the two feel similar to write on. Besides the pen‑to‑tablet experience, the weight and size differences make using these two devices feel very different, especially when you’re holding the device up to write.
Photograph: Nena Farrell
I don’t mind that the ReMarkable Paper Pure skipped a color screen, especially since ReMarkable has two other devices that offer one. I am disappointed that it doesn’t have a front light, but in daylight the Paper Pure’s screen actually looks brighter because it’s designed to be brighter and whiter than before to resemble a piece of paper. ReMarkable says it’s the best white on the market, and compared to its own lineup it’s a clear improvement. Still, the lack of a front light may be a bummer if you need to use it in a darkened classroom or similar setting.
A big pro for the Paper Pure over ReMarkable’s color‑screen models—and even the older ReMarkable 2—is the battery life. These devices usually had about two weeks of battery life, but ReMarkable says the Paper Pure will have three weeks. It’s still not as much battery life as you’d get on the Kindle Scribe, but it’s a nice improvement.
Platform Push
Photograph: Nena Farrell
There are some new ReMarkable software features coming out in tandem with the Paper Pure. It’s not only coming to that device, since ReMarkable’s devices share a single platform, so any ReMarkable device you have or get should include these features. The two main new features are a calendar integration and a “convert and share” tool.