I’m a huge fan of the reMarkable brand. I’ve been using the writing tablets since the reMarkable 2, and I’ve reviewed the Paper Pro and the Paper Pro Move. Each offers a unique writing experience that is market-leading. However, the latest offering, the Paper Pure tablet, is a spiritual successor to the reMarkable 2. Therefore, it focuses on more refined qualities and a longer battery life.
Although the simplicity may disappoint those who use the Paper Pro, I like the monochromatic screen, the rapid UI, and the distraction-free design. Furthermore, the slim Folio case and the exceptional stylus make this a phenomenal writing tool with some deliberate restrictions. The lack of installable social media and external apps ensures that you cannot be distracted. Additionally, the feeling of pen on virtual paper was superb. Consequently, you retain a traditional and tactile experience with all the modern bells and whistles.
This larger writing tablet is perfect if you want a bigger screen size or carry your gear in a large shoulder bag or backpack. I stored mine in the UAG Civilian 20L Backpack, and it fits comfortably in the laptop compartment. However, if space is limited or you wish to have something more portable, the Paper Pro Move should be your go-to option.
What’s in the box of the Paper Pure tablet?
- The packaging is alluring and professional. Moreover, it can be recycled.
- The Paper Pure tablet has a 10.3” screen and a slim case. It has a streamlined design and one tactile button.
- I was supplied with an attractive Folio case.
- The Marker Plus is a premium writing tool.
- Charge the device with the slim charging cable.
- Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
A monochromatic-only screen may seem like a step backwards. However, if colour is not essential or you are using the Paper Pure tablet as an E-reader, this offers a comfortable and upmarket feel. The pleasant contrasts work exceptionally well because reMarkable can remove the unnecessary colour layer. This makes the black ink pop without being horribly intrusive.
The now-defunct reMarkable 2 unit was fantastic. Yet, time and technology move on. Therefore, if you invest in its spiritual successor, you’ll enjoy a quicker and smoother UI, improved battery life, and higher storage. Let me break down each of these essential elements for you.
The UI runs nicely with or without an Internet connection. However, if you want to use some key features, you’ll need a subscription and a Wi-Fi connection. One essential feature I use is the text-to-type conversion. This requires both additional elements, and this may be a sticking point for some. I wasn’t too worried as I simply waited until I got into the office to finish my work.
The improved battery life and 4x increase in storage are major upgrades. This tablet offers up to 3 weeks of use from one charge. This was fantastic as I could chuck it into my bag and forget about it. The battery charges quickly, and I was able to use it while it was plugged in. The storage is now increased to 32 GB. This may not be enough for heavy users, but I found it to be suitable for my needs and never ran out of space.
Distraction-free and a true writing experience.
The Paper Pure tablet is designed with immersion and distraction-free use at the fore. With no additional apps, Internet browsers, or noise, you can focus on your writing and reading and nothing else. This offers a clean working environment that is ideal for those who become easily distracted. We’ve all been there where messages are pinging off, or emails keep hitting your inbox. This prevents you from focusing on your work or enjoying your book. Luckily, these problems are a thing of the past as you lose yourself in your work or your favourite novel.
The refined UI ensures that you waste little time navigating complex menus. Furthermore, the ability to work with preloaded PDFs or change your paper from plain to lined was fantastic. This easy-to-handle design appeals to technophobes or anyone who wants a hassle-free experience.
What makes the Paper Pure tablet stand out from its peers is the amazing tactile nature of the Marker stylus on the screen. The feel of resistance and familiar scraping noise as the nib floats across the screen was exceptional. You forget that you are using technology to write your notes. Instead, you are connected with your work as you lose yourself in the moment. The lack of social apps and modern distractions lets you find your flow and reconnect with the joy of writing.
Usability.
The Paper Pure tablet has a deliberately small compatibility list. Accordingly, users can upload PDF, EPUB, JPEG, and PNG files. The latter 2 are automatically converted to PDFs whenever uploaded from the free-to-download phone or tablet app. This tiny list of files may seem frustratingly small, but I liked the simplicity. Working with mainly PDF format and mastering annotation is part of the appeal.
A non-subscription account is useful for basic tasks such as making notes, reading books, annotating files, and refined syncing. However, if you want to maximise potential, you’re best to invest in the “connect” service. This allows users to enjoy multiple benefits for only £39.90 for the year. Unlimited cloud storage, AI-powered tools, service integration with Google Drive and other similar platforms, and much more can be enjoyed.
Build quality.
If you are investing in a premium product, you are right to have high expectations. Well, the Paper Pure tablet will not disappoint! The stylus, folio case, accessories, and tablet offer an upmarket finish and a professional design. Each item is built with durability in mind, and the folio case is particularly hardwearing. This ensures that it’ll look like new no matter how many times you chuck it in your bag.
The textured glass screen is smooth to the touch, but the stylus offers minor resistance to replicate the feeling of a pen on paper. This is easy to maintain, and I didn’t struggle with keeping it clean. The folio is the ideal choice to keep the device protected and free from dust and other dirt.
If you like to write or read in bed, you may struggle a little with this tablet. Unlike its peers, this has no built-in light. Therefore, if you need to use it in the dark, you’ll have to use an external light source. This wasn’t a problem for me, but if you like to relax in the dark without switching on the lights, you will find this an issue.
Is the Paper Pure tablet worth it?
ReMarkable offers some incredible products, and choosing between its flagship models and its latest product is a bit of a minefield. However, I’m going to try to make this easy for you. If you need a larger colour screen and increased storage, the Pro model should be your port of call. Alternatively, if portability is your thing, the Pro Move is a must. However, if you are happy with a black-and-white screen and better battery life, the Paper Pure tablet offers the best of both worlds. On top of this, it is an affordable choice.
Whichever tablet you pick, you will not be disappointed. Designed with distraction-free work at the fore, you’ll reconnect with the love of writing. Moreover, moving away from your mobile phone or laptop feels incredible. There is also an environmental impact that cannot be ignored. Dropping paper for a modern alternative without undermining your writing experience is amazing. Accordingly, I love this tablet, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on reMarkable can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
