BOOX Palma 2 Review: The Best eReader for Sunlight Reading in 2025
This BOOX Palma 2 review is based on a tested and reviewed experience with the Onyx BOOX Palma 2, a pocket-sized e-reader that feels like a smartphone but reads like a Kindle. If you want an e-reader that delivers the best overall outdoor reading experience, this device stands among the best e-readers and even rivals the best Kindle models.
Reading outdoors is one of summer reading’s greatest pleasures—but bright sunlight can wash out ordinary screens and strain your eyes. BOOX Palma 2, now joined by the new Palma 2 Pro and BOOX Palma 2 Pro, is a powerful e-ink tablet that offers a paper-like reading experience that’s easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight.
Unlike the standard Kindle, Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, 12th-generation Kindle Paperwhite, Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, Kindle Colorsoft Signature, or even the Colorsoft Kindle, BOOX uses advanced E-Ink tech and runs Android, giving you far more flexibility than Amazon’s Kindle or Kobo Libra Colour.
1. Glare-Free E-Ink Screen for Outdoor Reading
The e-ink screen on Palma 2 uses E-Ink Carta technology for crisp black-and-white text, while Kaleido 3 and E-Ink Kaleido color options appear on devices like Go Color 7 and Remarkable Paper Pro. With 300 PPI for text and 150 PPI for color, the Kaleido 3 display offers a natural reading surface that is far better for reading than LCD tablets.
Whether you’re comparing Kindle or Kobo, Kindle and Kobo, or like the Kindle, Palma 2 stands out because it remains clear in bright sunlight, supports low-light reading, and stays comfortable reading even during long sessions.
2. Freedom to Read Any Format & App
Unlike the locked Kindle ecosystem or the Kobo platform, BOOX lets you install reading apps freely. You can read Kindle books using the Kindle app, access Kindle Unlimited, browse the Kindle Store, or read files from any format.
It supports all major eBooks, making it one of the best ebook devices available. Whether you’re reading through Amazon Kindle Scribe, Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, or sideloaded content, everything works seamlessly.
With BOOX Go, Go Color 7, and Palma models, BOOX offers flexibility that no Amazon Kindle or Kobo Libra Colour can match.
3. Optimized for Reading Without Distractions
Palma 2 is truly optimized for reading. You can enjoy reading text, reading at night, and outdoor reading without glare or blue light fatigue. It’s designed for reading without interruptions — unlike a phone or tablet.
This boox ereader supports a stylus 2 for annotations and even includes a SIM card slot on certain models, making it unique among e-readers.
4. Like a Smartphone, But Built for Books
The Palma 2 feels like a smartphone, but delivers great for reading performance. It’s lighter than Amazon’s Kindle Scribe, more portable than Remarkable Paper Pro, and more flexible than any standard Kindle.
This is why many users say it’s like a Kindle — but smarter.
Final Verdict — The Best Ones for 2025
Whether you’re choosing between Kindle or Kobo, looking for the best ereader, or upgrading to a premium e-ink tablet, the BOOX Palma 2 Pro and Palma 2 deliver the best overall experience.
With Android apps, flexible formats, color support via Kaleido 3, and unmatched sunlight performance, Palma 2 truly makes reading easier, healthier, and more enjoyable — anywhere you go.
📚 BOOX Palma 2 – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can the BOOX Palma 2 be used in direct sunlight?
Yes. Palma 2’s advanced E Ink Carta 1200 display is glare-free and sunlight-readable, making it perfect for outdoor reading without straining your eyes.
Q2: What ebook formats does the BOOX Palma 2 support?
It supports nearly 20 formats, including PDF, EPUB, and MOBI, so you can access content from multiple sources without conversion.
Q3: Does the Palma 2 have access to Google Play apps?
Absolutely. The Android-powered Palma 2 supports Google Play, giving you freedom to install your favorite reading apps and tools.
Q4: How long does the BOOX Palma 2 battery last?
With typical use, Palma 2 can last for weeks on a single charge, making it ideal for travel, camping, and long summer adventures.
Q5: Is the BOOX Palma 2 portable and durable for travel?
Yes. Its lightweight, pocket-sized design and textured grip make it easy to carry in a beach bag or backpack, while its sturdy build handles outdoor use with ease.
