Verdict
Head-to-head · Best E-Ink Tablets

Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024) vs BOOX Note Max 13.3

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

BOOX Note Max 13.3 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.3 vs 2.5). The gap is mostly about professionals who need large-format document work — read the strengths below before deciding.

Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024)
Ranked #8 in Best E-Ink Tablets
Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024)
4 sourcesall derived$399.99as of Sep 28

Engadget found the 2024 Kindle Scribe a good ereader and competent writing tablet, built around a 10.2-inch, 300 PPI E Ink display. The device's active canvas feature allows users to embed handwritten notes directly into books, improving upon previous methods. However, the handwriting functionality is constrained to specific areas rather than full page freedom. This device is best suited for readers who want enhanced note-taking capabilities but may not be ideal for those seeking maximum handwriting flexibility.

Strengths
  • — 300 PPI E-Ink display with crisp text and handwriting visibility
  • — Active canvas feature allows handwriting notes to be embedded directly in books
  • — Pen supports underline, highlight, and freehand note-taking functions
Watch-outs
  • — Handwriting functionality limited to specific areas rather than full page freedom
BOOX Note Max 13.3
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best E-Ink Tablets
BOOX Note Max 13.3
3 sourcesall derived$629.99as of Sep 28

The Onyx Boox Note Max delivers a distraction-free workspace for professionals and students who work extensively with documents. PCMag Middle East called it "one of the best large-format e-ink devices" for its crisp display and Android flexibility. The 13.3-inch screen offers excellent readability and multitasking capabilities, though the lack of a front light and premium price may deter some users. It's built for extended use on a desk rather than portability, with a sturdy design and long battery life. This device is ideal for those ready to ditch paper but doesn't suit casual readers or those seeking a budget-friendly option.

Strengths
  • — Large, crisp 13.3-inch E Ink Carta 1300 display with 300 PPI resolution
  • — Smooth, responsive writing experience with stylus support
  • — Versatile Android 13 operating system with full app compatibility
Watch-outs
  • — No front light, per Kit Betts-Masters, requiring external lighting for use in dark environments
  • — Expensive for an e-ink device at $649.99

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024)

The Kindle Scribe offers active canvas functionality that the Amazon Kindle lacks, but it's limited to specific areas for handwriting unlike the reMarkable Paper Pro's more flexible writing experience. Compared to the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, it provides better handwriting visibility but lacks the large screen and color capabilities.

BOOX Note Max 13.3

The BOOX Note Max 13.3 provides a large 13.3-inch display with Android 13 support that the Kindle Scribe doesn't match, but it's more expensive at $649.99 and lacks a front light unlike the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft. Compared to the Supernote Manta, it offers a more robust operating system and app compatibility but is less portable.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAmazon Kindle Scribe (2024)BOOX Note Max 13.3
Resolution300 PPI3200 x 2400
Storage16GB, 32GB, or 64GB128GB
Weight433g615 grams
StylusPremium Pen includedBOOX stylus touch (4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity)
Display Size10.2-inch E Ink grayscale13.3-inch E Ink Carta 1300
Battery—3,700mAh
Processor—2.8GHz octa-core
RAM—6GB
Dimensions—11.3"L x 9.6"W x 0.18"Th
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