Overview of the ViWoods AiPaper
The ViWoods AiPaper is a 10.65-inch E Ink tablet that stands out for its lightweight design and unique features. Upon unboxing, it immediately caught my attention due to its slim profile and magnetic case, which holds the stylus in place. The device feels significantly lighter than other 10-inch E Ink tablets I’ve used, despite its larger screen size. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize portability and ease of use.
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Design and Display
The AiPaper’s design closely resembles the Onyx Boox Go 10.3, with silver edges and whitish-grey bezels. One of the standout features is the stylus, which magnetically attaches to the top of the screen rather than the sides. This not only keeps the stylus secure but also enhances the overall user experience by making it easier to access when needed. The display is a hybrid of two E Ink screens, combining the E Ink Carta 1300 for writing and reading with the flexible E Ink Mobius base. While the contrast on the screen is good for handwritten notes, it isn’t as sharp when reading ebooks, especially compared to devices like the Amazon Kindle Scribe.
Software and User Experience
Running a custom version of Android 13, the AiPaper offers a streamlined user interface that balances simplicity with functionality. It comes preloaded with essential apps such as Chrome, Google Play Store, and productivity tools like OneNote and Libby. The user interface is intuitive, allowing for easy navigation and quick access to frequently used applications. However, there were some minor issues during setup, including difficulties accessing the Play Store initially. Despite this, the overall software experience was smooth and efficient, making it a great option for users who prefer an open ecosystem.
Writing and Productivity Features
The AiPaper excels as a digital notebook, offering a variety of features for writers and creatives. The Paper app is well-designed, providing ample tools for note-taking, scheduling, and organizing tasks. The stylus input is lag-free, with a smooth feel that mimics writing on paper. However, the number of pen options for drawing is limited, which might be a drawback for artists. Despite this, the stylus works well for most users, and the AI-powered handwriting recognition is generally accurate, though it occasionally struggles with certain handwriting styles.
Reading Experience
While the AiPaper isn’t optimized as an ereader due to the lack of a frontlight, it still performs adequately for casual reading. The screen resolution is sufficient for most ebook formats, including EPUB, MOBI, and CBZ. However, the absence of a frontlight means it may not be the best choice for nighttime reading. The file support is decent, but it doesn’t match the breadth of formats offered by some competitors. Overall, the reading experience is passable, but it’s clear that the AiPaper is primarily designed for writing and productivity.
Performance and Battery Life
The AiPaper is powered by a 2GHz octa-core MediaTek MT8183 processor, which delivers excellent performance for an E Ink tablet. It handles multitasking and app switching smoothly, making it a reliable choice for daily use. The battery life is decent, with a 4,100mAh capacity that provides up to two weeks of use with moderate usage. However, heavy tasks such as downloading apps or importing documents can drain the battery faster. Charging is quick, with the device reaching full charge in under two hours when connected to a dock.
Value for Money
Priced at $799 / £610 / AU$1,199, the AiPaper is one of the most expensive E Ink tablets available. While it offers impressive features and performance, the high price point may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers. There are more affordable alternatives such as the Onyx Boox Go 10.3 and the Amazon Kindle Scribe, which offer similar functionality at a lower cost. However, for users who prioritize performance and a premium design, the AiPaper could be worth the investment.
Alternatives to the ViWoods AiPaper
For those looking for alternatives, the Onyx Boox Go 10.3 is a more budget-friendly option with a slightly older Android version. The reMarkable 2 is another strong contender, offering a minimalist interface that appeals to writers and artists. The Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024) is ideal for users who want a device that doubles as an ereader, thanks to its auto-brightness adjusting screen and excellent readability.
Final Thoughts
The ViWoods AiPaper is a compelling choice for users who value performance, design, and a versatile feature set. Its lightweight build, responsive stylus, and robust software make it a standout in the E Ink tablet market. However, its high price and limited storage may not appeal to everyone. If you’re looking for a premium device that excels in writing and productivity, the AiPaper is definitely worth considering.
