The Onyx Boox Go Color 7 is a unique e-ink tablet that’s making waves in the minimalist screen gadget market. It’s not just about saving your eyes, but also about bringing the world of Android to reading devices. Onyx, a brand known for its exceptional e-ink devices, has outdone itself with the Go Color 7. This tablet, priced similarly to the Kindle Oasis, sports a distinctive off-balance design with two physical buttons. But the Boox Go Color 7 surpasses the Kindle in almost every way. From its vibrant color ePaper screen and fast processor to its impressive build and intuitive software, the device leaves little room for complaint.
Onyx consistently delivers aesthetically pleasing hardware. While brands like Kindle and Remarkable dominate the market, Onyx’s design ingenuity often goes unrecognized. The Boox Go Color 7 is a prime example, with its sleek metallic design and comfortable grip. The device’s matte ePaper display and leather-like rear panel evoke the feeling of reading a magazine or a classic book. It’s lightweight, weighing only 196 grams, and the thick bezels on the right side provide a secure grip. Left-handed users need not worry, as the tablet features a gyro sensor that automatically rotates the screen, along with four manual rotation presets. However, it’s important to note that not all apps support rotation adjustments, with Microsoft Teams being a notable exception.
The Boox Go Color 7 packs a punch with 64GB of onboard storage, leaving approximately 45GB available for storing files. While this ample space might be enough for most users, those who utilize space-intensive apps like Telegram and Slack might find themselves running out of room. Fortunately, the device includes a microSD slot for expanding storage. One minor disappointment is the absence of a headphone jack. However, the USB-C port can be used for audio output, although compatible earphones with a USB-C cable are required. Alternatively, you can connect wireless headphones or speakers to enjoy podcasts, audiobooks, and music. The built-in speakers are decent, but don’t expect exceptional audio quality.
The true strength of the Boox Go Color 7 lies in its software. It’s a game changer for e-ink readers, offering full Android support. This means you can run virtually any Android app on the device, eliminating compatibility issues. The tablet is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset, which has proven its capabilities in entry-level Android phones. The 4GB of RAM and 2,300mAh battery provide sufficient performance for everyday use.
While the hardware is impressive, the ePaper display technology has its limitations. The 7-inch Kaleido 3 display boasts a 1680 x 1264 resolution and a 300ppi pixel density, but the color mode reduces the pixel density to half. The slow refresh rate inherent in ePaper technology means that there will be noticeable lag and ghosting, particularly in apps with complex transitions. However, for casual reading and simple games, the display is perfectly adequate.
Despite the refresh rate limitations, the Boox Go Color 7 excels as a reading device. Its colorful ePaper screen offers a pleasant reading experience, and the Android compatibility opens up a world of possibilities. You can easily install your favorite reading apps, browse the internet, and utilize the device for other tasks, all within the confines of the 3:4 aspect ratio.
The built-in Boox Neo Reader app is a true gem, packed with features that enhance the reading experience. You can customize page scrolling behavior, adjust formatting and zoom settings, tweak image characteristics, and even access dedicated comic and article modes. There’s also a text-to-speech feature with voice customization options.
One of the most impressive features is the OCR system, which allows you to extract text from scanned images, including comics. You get 10 free OCR scans daily, with five for each format (horizontal and portrait). The app also offers extensive document editor options, including a dictionary, notebook, web search, hyperlinks, and more.
The Boox Go Color 7 also shines in terms of convenience. The screen temperature can be adjusted directly from the quick control panel, and a pale yellow night mode provides a comfortable reading experience. The battery life is impressive, lasting for several days even with heavy usage.
In conclusion, the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 is a remarkable e-ink tablet that surpasses traditional e-readers in both functionality and versatility. It’s a fantastic alternative to the Kindle Oasis, offering a vibrant reading experience and a level of Android compatibility that’s unmatched in its category. While the refresh rate might not be ideal for fast-paced apps, it’s a minor drawback that’s easily overlooked when considering the device’s overall strengths. If you’re looking for a high-quality e-reader with a splash of color and the power of Android, the Boox Go Color 7 is definitely worth considering.
