Supernote Nomad has turned out to be my favorite purchase of the past year, although choosing it was far from simple. I did not realize just how many e-ink tablets were available, and nearly every model I considered came with at least one compromise that ruled it out.
After comparing and eliminating more than half a dozen e-ink tablets, I eventually settled on the Supernote Nomad. It is not perfect, but five main factors made it the right choice for me. I am glad I went with it, because it is one of those devices that genuinely makes me enjoy using it. If you are deciding on an e-ink tablet, my experience may help narrow things down.
Bigger is not always better
When I bought my iPad Pro, I went for the larger 13-inch version because bigger seemed better. That turned out not to be true. Since my MacBook Pro is my main device, I prefer my companion devices to be compact and easier to carry around.
The Supernote Nomad’s size feels ideal for an on-the-go e-ink tablet. Its A6 form factor and 7.8-inch display make it well suited for reading and note-taking.
It fits easily in my bag, and I can read for long periods without my hands getting tired. The size also works well for handwritten notes. Some people may want more screen space, but for the way I use it, the smaller footprint fits my workflow better.
I also like the Nomad’s symmetrical design. Many e-ink tablets have a large chin or a visible sidebar, and I have never liked that look. The top and bottom margins are larger than the sides, but at least the layout feels balanced, which I find more appealing.
The software is where Supernote really stands out
Another major reason I prefer the Nomad is the strength of its software. Inside a notebook, I can create headings to move quickly through pages, mark important pages with stars and keywords, and add links to pages within the same notebook or even another notebook.
The Digest feature is especially useful. It lets me collect quotes from notes, PDF documents, and books, then place them wherever I want. Even better, digests can include a link back to the original source, so I can return to the document with a tap. That one feature alone makes note-taking much easier.
There is also on-device handwriting recognition, syncing that keeps notes updated across devices, sticker support, intuitive gestures, a built-in drawing app, and more.
Supernote also has a strong record of software updates and new features, which means the tablet should only get better over time.
The screen and pen experience is hard to beat
Supernote’s “For Those Who Write” tagline is accurate. The Nomad delivers one of the best writing experiences available on an e-ink device. Its FeelWrite 2 film has a textured, paper-like surface that makes writing feel natural.
Paired with the ceramic nib pen, the experience comes very close to writing on real paper. No other device I have used has matched the pen-on-paper feel as closely as Supernote.
Even at a glance, the Supernote Pen feels more like a real pen than a digital stylus when compared with the Apple Pencil Pro. If you want an e-ink tablet for handwriting, this is the best option I have tried.
No subscription fees, and that matters
I am tired of paying subscriptions for every device and app I use, so it was refreshing to see that Supernote does not charge one.
You buy the device, and that is it. On-device handwriting recognition, software updates, and cloud sync through the Supernote Partner app are all included. There are no hidden costs, and that makes a big difference.
Sustainability is built in, not just advertised
Supernote also takes repairability and sustainability seriously. You can open the device and replace the battery or even the motherboard. In the future, if a new processor becomes available, the idea is that you may be able to replace the motherboard instead of buying a whole new device.
The Nomad even includes a screwdriver in the box to make opening it easier. Repair parts are available on Supernote’s website, along with detailed guides for repairs and upgrades at home.
My experience with Supernote Nomad
It has been almost six months since I bought the Supernote Nomad, and it has been a pleasure to use. It is now my main device for reading and note-taking. I enjoy writing on it so much that it has replaced my pen-and-paper journaling setup.
There are still a few annoyances, as with any device, but overall my experience has been very positive. If you like what the Nomad offers but want a larger model, Supernote also makes the A5-size Manta, which has a 10.7-inch screen.
For me, the Supernote Nomad has been an excellent choice, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an e-ink tablet.