What is the reMarkable 2?

The simplest description of the reMarkable 2 might be “a Kindle with writing capabilities.” However, this comparison doesn't do justice to the device's unique features.

While the reMarkable 2 is indeed a tablet, it significantly differs from traditional tablets like the iPad. For instance, it lacks a web browser, an app store, email functionality, and calendar access.

The reMarkable 2 is primarily designed for taking notes, reviewing documents, and reading. It boasts a 10.3-inch CANVAS display, similar to Kindle’s e-ink technology, and while you can navigate the system through touch, writing or drawing requires a reMarkable Marker.

The price point is significant: the reMarkable 2 costs £399 in the UK, but you must also purchase a Marker, which adds £79 for the standard version or £129 for the Marker Plus, which includes an eraser. Thus, the total minimum cost is £478, and for those opting for the Marker Plus, it’s £528. This doesn’t account for other potential expenses, which I will discuss later.

Design, Screen, and Battery Life

The reMarkable 2 is slightly smaller than an A4 sheet, making it a convenient size for note-taking. It has a solid construction and weighs 0.89 lbs, providing a good balance between portability and heft.

The device features a magnetic attachment for the Marker and charges via USB-C, adding to its user-friendly design. Its battery life is particularly impressive, lasting two weeks of active use and up to three months on standby.

The monochrome digital paper display has a resolution of 226 DPI, ensuring clarity and comfort for the eyes. However, it lacks a backlight, which was initially surprising, but it performs excellently in direct sunlight. The absence of a backlight is a design choice to maintain a thinner profile and minimize the gap between the marker tip and the on-screen ink.

Note-taking and the Marker

Note-taking is the core function of the reMarkable 2. I recently transitioned to digital note-taking, finding great success with my iPad Mini 6, Apple Pencil, and a Paperlike screen protector.

The initial interaction with the reMarkable 2 is pivotal. It closely mimics the feel of writing on paper, thanks to the friction and the satisfying sound of the Marker gliding across the display. The device has a latency of 21ms, comparable to the Apple Pencil, and feels responsive enough despite the display's refresh rate.

Users have access to various pen styles, paper types, and templates. The team at reMarkable has curated these options effectively, avoiding overwhelming users.

The Marker itself is enjoyable to use, offering a better grip than the Apple Pencil. Upgrading to the Marker Plus provides enhanced materials and a useful eraser, eliminating the need for charging. It also features tilt and pressure sensitivity for a genuine writing experience.

Each Marker tip eventually needs replacement, and while nine spare tips come with the purchase, reMarkable estimates their lifespan to be between three to seven weeks, depending on usage. This might seem short, but further testing will clarify the accuracy of this estimate.

Overall, the writing experience on the reMarkable 2 is exceptional, marked by a user-friendly display and thoughtful design features.

File Management and Sharing

This is where things become intriguing... and potentially costly. Feedback from my YouTube audience indicated concerns regarding the ease of transferring notes.

Many expressed dissatisfaction with the subscription model. However, it’s crucial to note that while the reMarkable 2 can function without a monthly subscription, there are limitations. Without the Connect service, notes synced to the desktop app remain accessible for only 50 days if not reopened. Otherwise, they will only be on the reMarkable device.

Connect offers two tiers: Connect Lite (£4.99/month) provides unlimited cloud storage, while the full Connect option (£7.99/month) includes Dropbox, OneDrive, Google Drive support, handwriting conversion, and screen sharing, along with an extended warranty.

To fully experience the reMarkable 2, the total cost including the device, Marker, and a year of Connect subscription can reach approximately £624. While living without Connect is possible, the 50-day limit might be restrictive for users like me, who rarely revisit old notes.

Criticism arises from the subscription model's limitations. Many feel that the additional cost for peace of mind and flexibility is excessive, especially given the tablet's already high price.

What Else Can You Do with the reMarkable 2?

Although primarily designed for note-taking, the reMarkable 2 has other useful applications. Its CANVAS display makes it a great e-reader, allowing users to send PDFs and ePUB files for reading and annotating.

Setting it up as an e-reader does require some manual effort, as there’s no built-in bookstore, but it serves as a viable Kindle alternative due to its annotation capabilities.

Additionally, a Google Chrome extension lets users send simplified web articles to the device, although this requires a Connect subscription. The performance mirrors that of Kindle devices, with a slight delay in screen interactions typical of this display technology.

reMarkable 2 vs. iPad Mini

When I first expressed interest in reviewing the reMarkable 2, the company raised concerns about my comparison with the iPad Mini 6. They pointed out that the iPad Mini is a multifunctional tablet with stylus support, while the reMarkable 2 is strictly a note-taking device.

Despite the differences in technology and functionality, I believe this comparison is valid for two key reasons:

1. Many individuals, including myself, prefer digital note-taking.
2. The reMarkable 2's pricing positions it within the iPad's range, making the comparison inevitable for potential buyers.

My iPad Mini setup includes the tablet, an Apple Pencil, a Paperlike screen protector, and the Notability app, totaling around £636. Alternatively, opting for the standard 9th generation iPad reduces the cost to approximately £446.

In terms of note-taking, the reMarkable 2 is superior. Its CANVAS display provides a more paper-like experience than the Paperlike screen protector. Additionally, the Markers are more enjoyable for extended use compared to the Apple Pencil.

However, the iPad Mini excels in functionality, offering a wider range of capabilities. For serious digital note-takers with a budget, the reMarkable 2 is the better option.

Conclusion: Who is the reMarkable 2 For?

My experience with the reMarkable 2 has been impressive. Its writing experience, build quality, and thoughtfully designed accessories make it an outstanding premium note-taking device.

However, it requires a strong commitment to digital note-taking to justify the cost. The steep price and subscription model introduce unnecessary barriers to entry.

If the device remained at its current price but included the standard Marker and unlimited syncing with the free plan, it could attract a broader audience.

Despite its niche appeal, there is a market for the reMarkable 2. Some users adore it, and its charm grows with use. It’s disappointing that the pricing and subscription model may deter many potential users from experiencing its benefits.

I appreciate innovative technology, and the reMarkable 2 epitomizes this. I hope its success leads to a more accessible price point in the future.

Before You Go

Join my behind-the-scenes mailing list

If you enjoy my writing, it’s just a taste of what I share on Medium. I’m a paying member and highly recommend joining. Click here to join (a portion of your membership fee supports my work!).

This post includes affiliate links.

Originally published at https://markellisreviews.com on February 25, 2022.