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Supernote A6X2 as a Reader


In this article we are going to talk about the Supernote A6X2 from the viewpoint of someone wanting to replace their current reading device. I must admit to some mixed feelings on this one going in. As you will see throughout the review, I try to examine this from different reading perspectives. For some, the Nomad is exceptional. For others, it is not great at best, and frustrating at its worst. Enough with the introduction, let’s dive in to the specifics.

Kindle

First, let’s start with the Kindle app. Supernote is unique in that although it runs Android (11 on the Nomad), they do not allow for or have Google enabled. To me, this is one of the most awesome characteristics of the device. It provides for less distractions, while allowing you to find useful information. Here in the US, you also can use Libby (formerly Overdrive) to send books to Kindle for reading. While it is not seamless, there is a lot of utility in the app. You can still add notes (including via the handwriting recognition in the Supernote) and highlight accordingly. It also syncs across devices (regardless of if it is the A5X or A6X2). Additionally, you get most of the Kindle functionality except for being able to purchase books directly from the app (as with all Android devices) and the availability of a front light.   

Kobo

This is a new addition to the A6X2, which I have been unable to recreate on the A5X yet (probably user error). The experience is very good here. You get to add notes, see your current library, and even purchase new titles. The interface is very snappy but one thing that you can't do is link to Facebook, which on a Kobo device allows you to share titles. Personally, I never used that feature so it is not  a loss for me. I have to admit that this is a huge selling point for the new A5X2 and A4X2 when the time comes. The ability to not have to “hack” the OS to install third party Android apps is a dream come true. This truly separates the Supernote from other devices. You can have the apps you “need” on the device without having to deal with the entire “Google” experience.

Libby

As a library nerd, this is perhaps my favorite. Although it is true that you can “send to Kindle” from the Libby app, it is not universal. If you are not in the U.S., this functionality does not necessarily exist. Also, it is important to remember that not every title is available this way. Being able to interface with your local library is an awesome tool for knowledge. Again, I cannot overstate the importance of this addition. As for the app, it works fine. It was easy to log in to, you can easily search, place holds, and check out books. You can also choose to read in the app or still "send to Kindle." The interface is not as snappy as Kobo and I am unable to keep the pages from doing the animation (even when changing the accessibility settings). However, you can still highlight, bookmark, and change the fonts.

PDFs and EPUBS

This is another important aspect of the A6X2, and may be why you might want to wait for a larger device. The reading experience with an EPUB is ok, and very similar to the apps mentioned before. However, the the PDF experience, especially for academic purposes, especially if annotations are a necessary part of your workflow, is not not really tenable for the A6X2. You just really need more screen real estate to make this happen. Don't get me wrong, I love the Supernote software, but the issue is the size. If you can't effectively write in the margins, this is not the device for you. 

Conclusions

While it is important to note that this is a huge improvement for Supernote and a tremendous step forward in functionality, there are still a few missing components. I think enabling Google Play Services, just to get Google Books, is an important priority for an e-ink device. Also, the inclusion of Audible would be extremely important for those who listen to audiobooks (although this may be able to be accomplished through Kindle). I would think this may be outside the scope of this particular device if not for the Bluetooth functionality that is built into the system. With a few improvements, Ratta and Supernote can separate themselves from the pack. Boox is a full-on Android experience while Remarkable is a completely closed ecosystem. Ratta would be wise to position themselves in this middle space.

As always, please leave your comments below and follow my blog if you are interested in future updates. Until next time, be well.
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Comments

  1. AnonymousMarch 8, 2024 at 5:11 PM

    As an google play books user I couldn’t agree more. I just need to read anything that I’ve purchased there. Other Android functionalities can use my phone

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ed FinnMarch 9, 2024 at 11:37 PM

      I do think this is a difficult one though, although it might be worth it long-term for Ratta. Here is a good discussion of some of the hoops they would have to jump through to make Google Services a reality: https://www.reddit.com/r/Supernote/comments/1b6cmah/comment/ktbfc8p/?context=3

      Delete
  2. MonochromiosMarch 23, 2024 at 4:17 AM

    Thank you for sharing. A a philosophy researcher I totally agrre with you: I use the A5x to read many (many!) PDFs and the A6x for my annotation/zettelkasten. But I'm out for a weekend and I brought with me the A6x: with the cropping available, I'm reading a new resewrch a colleague just shared with me abd the reading experience isn't that bad. Thank you so much for your video and your posts. I love Supernote and having a good source of informations about it is precious for me. Most of my colleagues use iPads, few a RM. I'm the only Supernote user in my University. Reading you I feel no more alone. Have a wonderful weekend

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ed FinnMarch 23, 2024 at 1:58 PM

      Thank you very much for your comments and sharing how you use these tools to be successful. I completely understand that you might feel like you are one of the only users, it is partly the aggressive marketing of the other products. I know most people ask if my Supernote is a Remarkable 2. Please keep sharing your thoughts.

      Delete

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