The Boox Note Air 4 C is the most flexible e-ink tablet you can buy — it runs full Android so it covers reading (any app), writing (excellent native note tools), and annotation in color. PCMag and Android Central both rate it 4.5/5, the highest in this category. The tradeoff is that color E Ink dims the display versus monochrome rivals, and the Android layer is more moving parts than reMarkable's locked-down purity. Best for people who want one device to replace a Kindle + notebook + tablet.
Full review
Design and Build Quality
The Onyx Boox Note Air 4 C presents a sleek, refined profile that balances portability with durability. At just 420 grams, it feels substantial yet lightweight, resembling a premium notebook more than a gadget. The device's slim profile and sturdy construction make it comfortable for extended reading sessions or note-taking. The magnetic folio case included in the package adds protection without adding bulk, folding back flat for comfortable use. Reviewers like those from Android Central noted the device's build quality as 'sturdy but lightweight' and 'refined,' with the folio cover offering a reassuring layer of protection. The device's design reflects Onyx Boox's iterative approach to refinement, with improvements over previous models like the Note Air 3 C. However, some reviewers, including those on Reddit, noted that the device lacks an IP rating, which may be a concern for users who frequently use it outdoors or in environments where water exposure is possible.
Display and Visual Experience
The 10.3-inch Kaleido 3 E-Ink display offers a vibrant color experience that significantly enhances reading and note-taking. While not matching the vibrancy of OLED screens, it provides over 4,000 colors, making highlights, charts, and comics pop in ways traditional black-and-white e-readers cannot. Reviewers from Android Authority and PCMag noted that the display handles PDFs and textbooks well, with color enhancing navigation and readability. The screen's performance is further improved by the Boox Super Refresh technology, which reduces ghosting by a significant margin. However, some users, particularly on Reddit, reported that the colors aren't great in many apps and that the screen can appear slightly grainy up close. The front light is bright enough to illuminate the screen effectively, though it does contribute to noticeable battery drain. The device also supports both color and black-and-white modes, allowing users to choose based on their environment and reading preferences.
Performance and Software
Running on Android 13 with Google Play Store access, the Note Air 4 C offers a flexible, open ecosystem that sets it apart from traditional e-readers. The device's performance is enhanced by a faster processor and more RAM compared to its predecessor, delivering better multitasking capabilities. PCMag's Sarah Lord noted that the device offers 'better performance' and 'faster processor and more RAM deliver better performance,' while Android Authority's Kaitlyn Cimino highlighted that it 'blends the open ecosystem of Android 13 with a vibrant color display and useful stylus support.' However, some users on Reddit reported that the device sometimes struggles with handling the OS and apps, particularly when running multiple applications simultaneously. The device also supports cloud syncing and expandable storage via microSD, allowing users to manage their content effectively. Despite these advantages, the device isn't optimized for multimedia use, with video playback hindered by the screen's slow refresh rate and gaming being impractical.
Stylus and Note-Taking Capabilities
The Note Air 4 C supports stylus input, making it ideal for digital note-taking and sketching. The device comes with a stylus, and users can enhance their experience with accessories like the Amazon Scribe pen with titanium nibs, which provides a realistic writing feel. Reddit users noted that the stylus experience is particularly good for reading comics and manga, with one user sharing a photo of the device in use while reading a manga. The built-in Notebook app is well-suited for sketching and note-taking, though some users reported that the erasing experience is clunky. Android Authority's Kaitlyn Cimino noted that the device's native offerings for sketching are preferred over third-party apps, indicating that the device's software is optimized for its core functions. The stylus support, combined with the color display, makes the Note Air 4 C a strong contender for users who want a device that can handle both reading and creative tasks.
Battery Life and Power Management
Battery life on the Note Air 4 C is described as 'insane' by Android Central, lasting between two to three weeks with moderate use. However, this longevity comes with trade-offs, particularly when using features like the front light or color display. Reddit users noted that while the battery lasts a long time, it can feel sparse compared to simpler e-readers, especially when using the front light or color mode frequently. The device's power management is designed to optimize performance while maintaining long battery life, but users who rely heavily on color and front light features may find the battery drain more noticeable. PCMag's Sarah Lord emphasized that the device offers 'insane battery life that lasts between two to three weeks,' but the trade-off is clear when considering the device's advanced features. The device's power efficiency is a key selling point, particularly for users who want a device that can last for extended periods without recharging.
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the Note Air 4 C for its vibrant color display, which significantly enhances the reading experience for comics, textbooks, and graphic novels. Android Authority's Kaitlyn Cimino highlighted the device's ability to 'blend the open ecosystem of Android 13 with a vibrant color display and useful stylus support,' making it ideal for users who want more than a basic e-reader. The device's access to Google Play Store and third-party apps, including Kindle, Audible, and various productivity tools, was also a major plus. PCMag's Sarah Lord emphasized that the device 'doubles as an e-note as well as an Android tablet for light to moderate office and school work,' indicating its versatility. Additionally, the device's portability, with its slim profile and lightweight design, was appreciated by users, with Reddit reviewers noting that it feels like 'carrying a premium, well-made notebook.' The device's ability to sync content across devices and support expandable storage via microSD was also a significant advantage for users who manage large digital libraries.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Note Air 4 C is not without drawbacks. One major concern is the device's price point, which is higher than some competitors, particularly when compared to the Note Air 3 C, which offers similar features at a lower cost. Reddit users noted that the device's performance can be sluggish when running multiple apps, and the interface is described as 'imperfect' by Android Authority. The battery life, while impressive, is not as long as some users might expect, especially when using color and front light features. Additionally, the device lacks an IP rating, which may be a concern for users who frequently use it outdoors or in environments where water exposure is possible. The stylus erasing experience is also clunky, according to some reviewers, and the device is not optimized for multimedia use, with video playback and gaming being impractical. These limitations, while not dealbreakers, are important considerations for potential buyers.
Who It's Best For
The Onyx Boox Note Air 4 C is best suited for users who want a versatile e-reader that can handle both reading and note-taking, particularly those who value color displays and stylus support. It's ideal for students, educators, and professionals who need a device that can manage digital textbooks, PDFs, and creative tasks without the distractions of a full tablet. The device's Android 13 OS and Google Play Store access make it a strong choice for users who want access to a wide range of apps. However, it's not ideal for users who primarily read in low-light conditions or those who require a device with an IP rating. The device is also not recommended for users who want a device optimized for multimedia use, as video playback and gaming are impractical. For users seeking a device that offers a balance of reading, note-taking, and light productivity, the Note Air 4 C is a strong contender, though it may not be the best fit for those who prioritize battery life or multimedia capabilities.
Strengths
- +Kaleido 3 color E Ink display renders illustrations and highlighted notes in muted color while keeping paper-like contrast for text
- +Runs full Android 13 — any app (Kindle, Notability, OneNote, Kobo) installs from the Play Store, something reMarkable and Supernote fundamentally can't do
- +Built-in front light with adjustable warm/cool temperature for reading in any lighting
- +Excellent handwriting latency with BOOX SuperNote app plus robust PDF and EPUB markup tools
- +Pressure-sensitive stylus included at no extra cost
Watch-outs
- −Color E Ink is dimmer and lower-resolution than monochrome — text is sharper on the reMarkable 2 or Kindle Scribe
- −Android layer adds complexity and occasional performance hiccups that pure e-ink devices avoid
- −Battery life trails single-purpose rivals, especially with color/front-light use and Wi-Fi on
Who this is for
At a glance: Best for for power users — full Android plus Kaleido 3 color.
Why you’d buy the Boox Note Air 4 C
- Kaleido 3 color E Ink display renders illustrations and highlighted notes in muted color while keeping paper-like contrast for text.
- Runs full Android 13 — any app (Kindle, Notability, OneNote, Kobo) installs from the Play Store, something reMarkable and Supernote fundamentally can't do.
- Built-in front light with adjustable warm/cool temperature for reading in any lighting.
Why you’d skip it
- Color E Ink is dimmer and lower-resolution than monochrome — text is sharper on the reMarkable 2 or Kindle Scribe.
- Android layer adds complexity and occasional performance hiccups that pure e-ink devices avoid.
- Battery life trails single-purpose rivals, especially with color/front-light use and Wi-Fi on.
Rating sources
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
