Tools for note-taking and organization are more important than ever. One popular option is Remarkable, a digital notebook, which is a tablet that feels like paper and allows users to easily take notes, sketch, and annotate documents digitally.
Similar to a digital writing pad, reMarkable and it’s alternatives are more focused as a standalone device.
There are several great alternatives available with an electronic paper reading display like reMarkable e-ink tablets – each with their own unique features and benefits.
The Kindle scribe is a close competitor and alternative of the Remarkable 2, you can see the differences between the Kindle Scribe and Remarkable 2 here.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best Remarkable alternatives that I’ve tested by hand and reviewed. I even did a re-test this month of each device and my findings remain consistent.
Related: 10 Best Tablets for Writers (Professional Writing)
At a Glance – Top Picks
As mentioned, the Kindle scribe is by far the closest competitor and best alternative to the reMarkable. It’s an Amazon device that competes on all levels, including bluetooth capability – something reMarkable doesn’t have currently.
But, there’s more than just the kindle scribe when it comes to alternatives to the reMarkable… the image below is an infograph I made that shows the Supernote, Mobiscribe wave, and others as strong choices:
Below are our top picks for the best reMarkable alternatives:
- Kindle Scribe – Top Alternative to reMarkable
- Kobo Elipsa 2E – Very powerful alternative – ideal for Power users because it has about the same size screen as the Kindle.
- iPad Air with Apple Pencil 2
- Onyx BOOX Note Air 2
- Mobiscribe Wave Color (One of the few that give your notes color! Most ReMarkable alternatives are black & White only)
- MeeBook
- Fujitsu Quaderno A5
- MobiScribe
- Super Note – Great choice, but may as well try out the remarkable as they are fairly similar.
Why would someone want a reMarkable alternative?
While reMarkable 2 is worth it in most cases, some want to stay within a budget, while otherswant appreciate the monthly subscription, which is now $3 per month. (previously almost $80 annually).
As mentioned above, the Mobiscribe wave color is a device that I found many other experts in this field forget on their list of top competitors. It’s a great alternative if you prefer an alternative that provides color and not just black and white e-ink.
What are the 7 closest reMarkable alternatives?
There aren’t too many competitors, but since reMarkable was launched there has been a few that are worth noting.
Let’s take a look at the best reMarkable alternatives & competitors, which serve as standalone tablets with writing capabilities and paper displays that can replace a paper notebook or digital notebooks
Related: What is E-Paper Technology?
Related: Best Remarkable 2 Templates (+ Custom & How to make your own)
1. Kindle Scribe
- Powerful reMarkable alternative
- Templates for notebooks, journals, and lists are available.
- Users can import and review documents, take notes, and export them via email.
- Lets you read and Write just like you would on a paper notebook, but digitally.
- Battery life is hard to compete w
The competition between e-ink paper tablets has just gotten a little more interesting with the recent release of Amazon’s Kindle Scribe.
What I found: The Kindle Scribe does not require a paid subscription, making it a great alternative. The Kindle scribe performed similarly to the reMarkable 2 during my tests.
Related: Kindle Scribe Review
Another key difference between the two is that while the reMarkable 2 doesn’t feature any LEDs for front lighting, the Kindle Scribe does.
A Very cheap alternative to the remarkable and kindle scribe is the Rocketbook, which uses technology to transfer from paper to computer.
This e-ink tablet appears to be a direct competitor to the reMarkable 2, which has been on the market for a while. Kindle scribe has a large E Ink display with a paper-like texture on the surface, which feels similar to writing on paper.
See more: Kindle Scribe vs Remarkable 2 (Which is better?)
Size: One of the main differences between the two tablets is the weight, with Kindle Scribe being 30g heavier.
| Feature | Kindle Scribe | reMarkable 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Same size | Same size |
| Weight | 30g heavier | – |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | – |
| Battery | Week and a half longer | – |
| Additional | None (this is an issue for many) | Cloud service, desktop and mobile app |
Related: Fire HD vs Kindle Paperwhite: Which is Better for Reading?
2. Kobo Elipsa 2E – For power users, students, and note-taking
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
From the moment I started using the Kobo Elipsa 2E, its 10.3″ glare-free E Ink touchscreen stood out as a significant advantage. The ComfortLight PRO feature, allowing adjustable brightness and color temperature, greatly reduces eye strain during long reading or note-taking sessions.
The inclusion of the Kobo Stylus 2 enhances this experience, enabling smooth and intuitive note-taking directly on eBooks and PDFs. This feature alone sets the Elipsa 2E apart from many eReaders, offering a more interactive and engaging reading experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 10.3 inches (Exact screen size as ReMarkable 2) |
| Storage | 32GB |
| Display Technology | E Ink Carta 1200 |
| Stylus | Kobo Stylus 2 included |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Battery Life | Up to several weeks (dependent on usage) |
| Special Features | Adjustable brightness, ComfortLight PRO, Note-taking capability |
| Eco-friendly Aspect | Made with recycled and ocean-bound plastic |
| Price | $399.99 |
Comparatively, the Kobo Elipsa 2E holds its own against devices like the Kindle Scribe. The Elipsa 2E’s large screen and stylus functionality cater well to those who require more than just an eReader – it’s a notetaker and a reader in one. While the Kindle Scribe also offers note-taking capabilities I found that the the Elipsa 2E’s 32GB storage is impressive and more than enough for most users who store Books and notes (like myself)
Moreover, Kobo’s focus on eco-conscious materials adds a unique selling point, appealing to environmentally aware consumers. You can also grab the Kobo Elipsa Directly from kobobooks.com if Amazon isn’t your jam.
In terms of technical capabilities, the Kobo Elipsa 2E showcases advanced features like the E Ink Carta 1200 technology, ensuring a crisp, clear display. However, it’s essential to note the slight latency issues during writing or drawing, as highlighted by sources like Digital Trends.
This minor drawback is offset by the device’s vast eBook marketplace, rivaling even the Kindle store in its range. The Elipsa 2E’s versatility in handling different types of content, from eBooks to PDFs (excluding those with digital rights management), further demonstrates its utility as a comprehensive reading and writing tool.
3. iPad Air with Apple Pencil 2
When it comes to digital note-taking and sketching, the iPad Air with Apple Pencil is a viable option to consider.
See our in-depth comparison: reMarkable 2 Vs iPad Pro & Air – Which is better?
(In the above photo) I mention how you can also use GoodNotes or Notability, which is likely one of the best alternative ways to go for students .
However, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this device as a reMarkable 2 alternative.
What I liked about the iPad air as a remarkable alternative:
- The iPad Air is more than just a note-taking device, it also functions like a large smartphone.
- The iPad Air and reMarkable 2 are similarly priced depending on the model
Drawbacks I found:
- The additional features of the iPad Air may be a drawback for some as they can be distracting.
- The reMarkable 2 allows users to focus solely on their note-taking and sketching tasks, which may be a pro for some or a con for others.
- The iPad Air does not offer a E Ink display with a paper-like texture on the surface, but you can still write on it with the Apple Pencil 2.
- The reMarkable 2 has a cloud service and a desktop and mobile app, which allows users to access documents on all devices, but it comes with a subscription.
Ultimately, the choice between the iPad Air with Apple Pencil and the reMarkable 2 will come down to personal preference and the specific features that are important to the individual user.
Related: Is the ReMarkable 2 good for drawing?
4. Onyx BOOX Note Air 2
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
When it comes to digital note-taking and sketching, the ONYX BOOX Note Air 2 and Air 2 plus are viable options to consider, especially if you’re looking for a device that is similar to the reMarkable 2.
(See the Boox Note air 2 Plus vs ReMarkable 2 -Full Comparison)
The BOOX Note Air 2 has been one of reMarkable’s main competitors for some time now, and it offers some unique features and advantages that make it a solid choice for those in the market for a paper tablet.
Note: There a standard model and a plus model of the BOOX Note Air 2 (See the differences)
What we liked about the ONYX BOOX Note Air 2 as a remarkable 2 alternative:
- The WACOM sensor makes it possible to take notes both in a separate application and directly in the text.
- The wide side field allows you to hold the device with one hand for extended periods of reading or writing.
- The device is equipped with a E Ink Carta screen with a diagonal screen size of 10.3 inches, backlit Moon Light 2 and Asahi protective glass.
- The BOOX Note Air 2 has Wi-Fi module, which allows you to access the Internet, use a browser and connect to network libraries.
- Internal storage is sufficient for most business and professionals that need a digital paper tablet.
Disadvantages of ONYX BOOX Note Air 2:
- Some users have reported that the device is a bit laggy.
- The BOOX Note Air 2 doesn’t have a cloud service and a desktop and mobile app, which allows you to access documents on all devices.
- The BOOX Note Air 2 doesn’t have a subscription for it’s digital paper display tablet.
Ultimately, the choice between the ONYX BOOX Note Air 2 and the reMarkable 2 will likely be based on budget. Both devices offer similar features and capabilities, but the BOOX Note Air 2 does have some added benefits that may make it a better choice for some users.
Related: SuperNote A5x/A6x vs reMarkable 2
5. MeeBook
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Meebook, with the Android 11 system, open android system for installation of more third party apps, abundant reading resources available, and the high performance, it can store more than 10,000 books storage and support expansion to 256GB.
Related: BOOX Note air 2 vs SuperNote A5x/A6x
Advantages of Meebook:
- 7.8″ E-ink Touchscreen: 1404 by 1872 resolution. Every word was clear.
- Flat Bezel design with tempered glass design
- Eye protection: Built-in upgrade cold and warm light mixing 24 levels of adjustment.
- More capacity: PDF professional optimization, Six major optimizations for PDF rearrangement and layout.
The Meebook is a great alternative to the Remarkable 2… however one of the main advantages of is its cost. It is significantly less expensive than the Remarkable 2 or an iPad Pro with an Apple Pencil 1 or 2. However, the lower cost of the Meebook does come with some disadvantages.
Drawbacks:
- It has a bit of a lag with the E Ink refreshing when writing with a Bluetooth keyboard.
- The Meebook is not a multi-purpose device, it is specifically tailored for note taking and editing PDF files – some find that standalone devices are the advantage here.
- The device doesn’t have a cloud service and a desktop and mobile app, which allows you to access documents on all devices.
Related: 15 Best e-ink Tablets for Reading, Note Taking, and Annotation
6. Fujitsu Quaderno A5
The Fujitsu Quaderno A5 is a great device for those who are looking for a natural writing and reading experience, and with the split screen view and side by side view it’s a great tool for juggling a heavy workload, and it’s a great device for sheet music annotations.
What I liked about the f Fujitsu Quaderno A5:
- You can have one PDF file for reference and another your editing, or have a note taking app on one side and the scheduler on the other.
- A4 size document support that fits full size sheet music in pdfs, all organized in folders.
- Super light to carry around, and works great outdoors, under the sun light and it’s ideal for annotations with the stylus.
- You can sync it with a MacBook through WiFi in the same iCloud folder that is shared with your iPad.
Drawbacks of the Fujitsu Quaderno A5:
- The model is based on the Sony DPT-RP1 hardware, which is four years old.
- The device doesn’t have a cloud service and a desktop and mobile app, which allows you to access documents on all devices.
- The Fujitsu Quaderno A5 is not a multi-purpose device, it is specifically tailored for note taking and editing PDF files
The Fujitsu Quaderno A5 is a great device for those who are looking for a natural writing and reading experience, and with the split screen view and side by side view it’s a great tool for juggling a heavy workload, and it’s a great device for sheet music annotations.
6. MobiScribe
The MobiScribe Origin E-Ink Notebook is a device that is worth considering as a reMarkable alternative.
It’s an ideal device for those who are looking for a natural writing and reading experience, and with the folder management system and search feature, it’s a great tool for keeping your documents organized.
There’s also the MobiScribe Wave, which has a color display, You can see our review comparing the two: MobiScribe Wave vs reMarkable 2
What I liked about the MobiScribe Origin E-Ink Notebook as a reMarkable paper tablet alternative:
- Micro-SD card slot for expansion
- Rechargeable battery
- USB-C charging input
- The e-ink display is on par with the Kindle’s, making it easy on the eyes and it has an option to change the color temperature of the screen when using the backlight.
- It has a folder management system that keeps everything organized
- A search feature that can search for keywords, starred documents, or pages with labels, which was one of the deciding factors for me.
- Responsive writing experience that feels natural
Disadvantages of MobiScribe Origin E-Ink Notebook:
- The CPU felt laggy and had some small delays,.
- The device doesn’t have a cloud service and a desktop and mobile app, which allows you to access documents on all devices.
Both devices offer similar features and capabilities, but the MobiScribe Origin E-Ink Notebook has some unique advantages that make it a solid choice.
8. Super Note
When it comes to digital note-taking and sketching, the Supernote A5X is a device that is worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a device that is similar to the reMarkable 2.
Both devices offer large E Ink displays with a paper-like texture on the surface, providing a natural writing experience. The software on the Supernote A5X makes taking notes easy, with everything feeling almost instant.
See: SuperNote A5x/A6x vs reMarkable 2 (In Depth Comparison)
What I liked about the Supernote A5X as a reMarkable 2 alternative:
- The massive 10.3-inch screen delivers a sharp and crisp greyscale display that makes text easy to read and write. The E INK Möbius touchscreen display with a resolution of 1404×1872 with 226 PPI
- Provides a fantastic reading experience with no fear of glare, or other distractions.
- The touchscreen also just feels great to write on, giving you a near-paper experience as you jot down information.
- The pen included with the Supernote A5X is easy to use. It also has a very classic look similar to a high-end pen you would see around a luxury office or business setting.
- From the point of turning on the device, you will quickly be able to open a new note and get to writing. It overall feels very natural and easy to make part of a routine.
Disadvantages of Supernote A5X:
- In testing, we found that the device was quite laggy – but many alternative to the reMarkable are.
- The USB-C connector makes charging easy, with it feeling more in line with what you can expect in longevity from a Kindle compared to your standard color tablet.
Related: Kindle (Ads vs NO Ads) – for e-reader fans.
The Supernote A5X is a great device for those who are looking for a natural writing and reading experience, but it may not be the best choice for those who are looking for a more powerful device.
Related: Supernote A5X A6X Review
Everything you need to know about reMarkable Competitors & alternatives
When considering a digital note-taking device like the Remarkable 2, you’ll want to consider your budget and what type of features you’re willing to sacrifice if you choose a lower priced device with less capabilities.
Note: When choosing an alternative to the Remarkable 2, it’s important to consider factors such as lag, syncing capabilities, and file compatibility. Also, make sure that the device supports the file formats you need for your work or personal use.
Some things to consider include the size and resolution of the screen, the operating system and apps supported, the processing power and storage capacity, and the overall design and user experience.
Related: How to use Layers on the Remarkable 2
Look for devices with minimal lag and the ability to sync across multiple devices for a seamless experience (ex. work documents you need on google drive or google documents).
What can I use instead of a reMarkable?
The high cost of a remarkable 2 and subscription options for the pro version have led many to explore alternative options; for example the supernote and kindle scribe have become some of the most common alternatives.
There are several devices on the market that offer similar features at a more affordable price point and with similar features:
When looking for an alternative to the reMarkable, there are seven main options to consider: the Kindle Scribe, the iPad Air with Apple Pencil 2, the Onyx BOOX Note Air 2, Super Note, MobiScribe, Fujitsu Quaderno A5, and MeeBook.
Note: If you have a Macbook, you could also use a drawing tablet.
Each of these devices offers a unique set of features and capabilities, making it important to carefully evaluate your needs and preferences before making a decision.
- Kindle Scribe, for example, is an e-reader that allows you to take notes and annotate documents using a stylus.
- iPad Air with Apple Pencil 2, on the other hand, is a more full-featured tablet that offers a wide range of apps and tools for note-taking and document editing.
- Onyx BOOX Note Air 2, Super Note, MobiScribe are all e-ink devices and offer similar features with some differences in the software, display and battery life.
- Fujitsu Quaderno A5 is a digital note-taking device with a 10.3 inch screen, perfect for viewing and editing PDF files, taking notes, freehand drawing, and keeping track of all of your schedules and meetings.
- MeeBook offers an open android system and allows installation of more third party apps, abundant reading resources, and has a high performance with low power consumption.
Ultimately, the best alternative to the reMarkable will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a more affordable option or a device with more advanced features, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from.
Related: 7 Ways to Write and Draw on a Non Touch Screen Laptop
What is a reMarkable tablet and what makes it different?
The reMarkable tablet is a digital note taking device that utilizes electronic ink technology, also known as an electrophoretic display.
This technology allows for a flat panel display that emits light, similar to reading a physical book. The device runs on Linux-based Codex operating system and uses EMR technology for the stylus/pen.
The latest model is the reMarkable 2 (RM2) which has a high resolution display and improved performance.
Related: E-ink Tablet vs iPad: Choosing between an E-Book reader and a Tablet
However, there are some downsides such as lag when scrolling, zooming, and moving files. Despite this, the reMarkable tablet is a popular alternative to traditional sketchbooks and paper documents, and can be used for reading, sketching, and note-taking.
reMarkable 1 vs 2: Which is better?
The reMarkable 2 is a significant improvement from its previous model, the reMarkable 1, which is still a great option for those who are looking for an advanced e-ink writing tablet.
Three main features make the reMarkable 2 better than the reMarkable 1:
- The reMarkable 2 boasts a 30% thinner design at only 4.7mm and offers up to two weeks of battery life, which is three times longer than the reMarkable 1.
- Second-generation CANVAS display, which reduces the writing latency to just 21 ms, making it twice as fast as the reMarkable 1. This allows for a more seamless and responsive note-taking and sketching experience.
- reMarkable 2 also offers a wide array of accessories that snap magnetically to the device and features USB-C for fast charging and data transfer.
When it comes to comparing the reMarkable 1 and 2, the latter definitely has some advantages over its previous model, but is it worth the price difference will depend on your budget and requirements for work or creative writing.
Related: 9 Best Stylus for Android Tablets & Phones (Drawing)
Choosing between the best reMarkable alternatives
The reMarkable 2 has quite a few alternatives and the features vary from device to device.
The Kindle Scribe, for example, is a more budget-friendly e-reader that also allows for note-taking and annotation. It has a lower resolution display and a slower writing experience, but offers a longer battery life and the ability to read Kindle e-books.
Compared to alternatives, the reMarkable 2 is geared towards professionals and power users who prioritize speed and accuracy in their note-taking, while the Kindle Scribe might be better suited for those who value battery life over functionality.
Additional alternatives include the iPad, Onyx Boox note air 2, supernote, and mobiscribe.
How we ranked and picked our top reMarkable alternatives
When ranking and picking our top reMarkable alternatives, we considered several factors. Firstly, we looked at the battery life of the devices.
A long battery life is crucial for a seamless and uninterrupted writing and reading experience. Secondly, we evaluated the pen on paper experience. Devices that provided a smooth and responsive writing experience were ranked higher.
We also looked at the operating system and the apps available on it and the device’s price point. The remarkable 2 alternatives that provided the best overall balance of features and performance were ultimately ranked higher and selected as our top alternatives to the reMarkable.
We also considered other factors such as the device’s thickness, the quality of the display, and the availability of accessories.
If you’re still unsure on an alternative, we have a post on the best e-ink tablets where you can review all of our top picks with e-ink technology
FAQ
Why would someone want to return a reMarkable 2?
If you aren’t a fan of the reMarkable 2 or its subscription price model, then this could deter your overall decision. Even alternatives will be very similar to the remarkable 2. If it’s not the type of device you prefer, you may want to try an iPad or surface pro that utilizes a stylus pen.
Do you need a case with a reMarkable 2?
While a case isn’t necessary it can help those who use their reMarkable frequently. For example, the one from KuRoKo, is a great way to protect your device from scratches and damage.
The KuRoKo case is a budget-friendly alternative to the official Remarkable Folio, at roughly $20 on Amazon (varies). It functions just like the official folio, allowing you to stand your device in portrait mode and providing similar protection. It is a great alternative to the official Remarkable Folio due to similar functionality at a lower cost.
How long has reMarkable 2 been out?
The reMarkable 2, has been out since 2020. The second-generation e-ink tablet, was announced in March 17, 2020 and marketed as the thinnest tablet in the world, measuring 4.7mm thick. Pre-orders for the device began in 2017 and it was made available for purchase in batches starting in mid-2020. The price has increased significantly since the original model.
Why does reMarkable 2 have a monthly fee?
reMarkable announced changes to its Connect subscription service that will save users up to 60% a month and give all users access to all features on the reMarkable paper tablet. Connect is now priced at $2.99/mo and includes cloud functionality, safe storage, and exclusive offers in the reMarkable shop and Protection Plan for reMarkable 2.
Does the reMarkable 2 Actually feel like paper?
The reMarkable 2 tablet is designed to mimic the feel of writing with a real pen on paper. The device has a CANVAS display – experience of writing on it feels smooth and natural.
The reMarkable 2, like many alternatives , uses a electronic ink, also known as an electrophoretic display, which gives the screen a paper-like look, making it easy on the eyes. The stylus pen that comes with the device uses EMR technology.
Dan
Sunday 11th of June 2023
When will one of the E-Ink Tablets provide graph API integration with OneNote?
Paul Michael
Sunday 11th of June 2023
that would be awesome to have a Graph API integration with different apps. The best way to figure this out would be to reach out to OneNote or the E-ink Tablet of you're choice and see which ones have this coming up in a future update. They usually respond with a comprehensive answer from my experience.