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Head-to-head · Best E-Ink Tablets

Boox Note Air5 C 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 4.0). The gap is mostly about professionals who need large-format document work — read the strengths below before deciding.

Boox Note Air5 C
Ranked #6 in Best E-Ink Tablets
Boox Note Air5 C
7 sources2 derived$529.99as of Sep 28

The Onyx Boox Note Air5 C is a solid evolution of its predecessor, featuring a sleek metal design at 440g, which ewritable found heavy for an e-ink tablet. TechRadar called it a 'casual evolution' that improves on previous specs but doesn't offer enough upgrades to warrant switching if you already own the Note Air 4C. The tablet supports an optional keyboard case, though it's not bundled with the device. It comes with a stylus and magnetic case, making it ready for reading and note-taking right out of the box. This tablet is best suited for users who value portability and e-ink reading, but those seeking a full keyboard experience may find the lack of included accessories limiting.

Strengths
  • — Kaleido 3 color e-paper display showing 4,096 colors
  • — Runs Android 15 with full Google Play Store access
  • — Includes the BOOX Pen3 stylus with 4,096 pressure levels and tilt sensitivity
Watch-outs
  • — No keyboard case included in the box
  • — At 440g it is heavy for an e-ink tablet, per ewritable
  • — Price may be steep for some buyers
$529.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
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
$629.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

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

Boox Note Air5 C

The Boox Note Air5 C offers a sleek aluminum design and lightweight build that the Kindle Scribe doesn't match, but it lacks an included keyboard case unlike the Kobo Elipsa 2E. Compared to the Supernote Manta, it provides Android flexibility and app support but is less portable and lacks the flexible screen technology.

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

SpecBoox Note Air5 CBOOX Note Max 13.3
Display Size10.3-inch13.3-inch E Ink Carta 1300
Weight440g615 grams
StylusIncludedBOOX stylus touch (4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity)
Resolution300PPI (B&W) and 150PPI (Color)3200 x 2400
Storage6GB + 64GB128GB
ProcessorOcta-core CPU2.8GHz octa-core
RAM6GB6GB
Battery3700mAh3,700mAh
Dimensions9"L x 6"W x 0.2"Th11.3"L x 9.6"W x 0.18"Th
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