Remarkable 1 vs 2: Which Paper Tablet Reigns Supreme?
Are you torn between the original and the upgraded? The reMarkable paper tablets have revolutionized how we take notes and read documents. But with the release of the reMarkable 2, is the first generation still a worthy contender?
This comparison dives deep into the heart of the reMarkable experience. We’ll explore the key differences between the reMarkable 1 and the reMarkable 2, helping you decide which device best suits your needs and budget. Get ready to discover which paper tablet will become your new digital companion.
From design and performance to features and overall value, we’ll leave no stone unturned. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone who loves the feel of pen on paper, this comprehensive guide on the remarkable 1 vs 2 will provide the answers you seek.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | remarkable 1 | 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 10.3-inch | 10.3-inch |
| Screen Technology | Carta E-ink | Carta E-ink |
| Processor | 1 GHz | 1.2 GHz |
| RAM | 512MB | 1GB |
| Storage | 8GB | 8GB |
| Weight | 350g | 403.5g |
| Battery | 3000 mAh | 3000 mAh |
| Stylus Support | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure Sensitivity | 2048 levels | 4096 levels |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Ports | Micro-USB | USB-C |
| Operating System | Codex | Codex |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Hardware Design & Build Quality
- Remarkable 1: Features a minimalist design with a matte black finish, offering a premium feel. However, some users found the original design less durable and prone to scratches compared to the newer model.
- 2: Boasts a sleek and refined design, with a more durable construction and improved screen protection. The device feels solid and premium, with enhanced resistance to wear and tear.
- Winner: 2
Screen Technology & Writing Experience
- Remarkable 1: Utilizes an E-ink display with good contrast, providing a paper-like writing experience. It offers a responsive feel but can have slight latency compared to the newer model.
- 2: Features an improved E-ink display with reduced latency and better contrast, resulting in a smoother and more natural writing experience. The updated display technology enhances the overall responsiveness.
- Winner: 2
Processor & Performance
- Remarkable 1: Equipped with a processor that provides adequate performance for basic note-taking and reading tasks. However, it can occasionally experience slowdowns with complex documents or multitasking.
- 2: Offers a more powerful processor, leading to faster page turns, quicker response times, and smoother multitasking capabilities. It handles complex documents and tasks with greater ease.
- Winner: 2
Battery Life
- Remarkable 1: Delivers a decent battery life, typically lasting several days with moderate use. Battery life can vary based on usage patterns and the frequency of writing.
- 2: Provides improved battery life compared to the original, allowing for extended use on a single charge. Users can expect longer usage times, making it ideal for travel and extended note-taking sessions.
- Winner: 2
Stylus & Accessories
- Remarkable 1: Compatible with the original Marker stylus and offers basic functionality for writing and drawing. Accessory options were somewhat limited compared to the updated model.
- 2: Supports the Marker Plus stylus, which offers advanced features like tilt detection and a better grip. The range of accessories has been expanded, including a folio, offering greater functionality.
- Winner: 2
Software & Features
- Remarkable 1: Offers a streamlined interface with basic note-taking and document organization features. Software updates and feature additions have been limited compared to the updated model.
- 2: Includes a refined software experience with enhanced features like handwriting recognition, improved document organization, and cloud integration. Regular software updates add new functionality.
- Winner: 2
Cloud Integration & Synchronization
- Remarkable 1: Offers basic cloud integration for syncing notes and documents. Syncing capabilities are functional but may be less seamless compared to the updated model.
- 2: Provides enhanced cloud integration with improved synchronization across devices. Offers a more reliable and user-friendly experience for syncing notes and documents.
- Winner: 2
Price & Value
- Remarkable 1: Originally launched at a premium price point. While the price might have decreased over time, it may still be considered expensive, especially considering the available features.
- 2: Represents a significant upgrade with improved performance and features. The price is justified for the enhanced functionality and overall experience it provides.
- Winner: 2
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Processor Speed | 2 |
| Pressure Sensitivity | 2 |
| Port | 2 |
| Overall Performance | 2 |
What They Have in Common
- E-Ink Display: Both devices utilize E-ink technology, providing a paper-like reading and writing experience, reducing eye strain, and allowing for comfortable use in direct sunlight.
- Stylus Support: Both the remarkable 1 and 2 come with stylus support, enabling users to take handwritten notes, sketch, and annotate documents directly on the device.
- Note-Taking Capabilities: Both devices are designed for note-taking and offer a range of features for organizing and managing handwritten notes and documents.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Both devices support Wi-Fi, allowing users to sync their notes, access cloud storage, and download software updates.
- Lightweight Design: Both remarkable tablets are designed to be portable and lightweight, making them easy to carry around for work or travel.
- Built-in Templates: Both offer a variety of templates for note-taking, sketching, and document creation, providing users with a range of options for their projects.
Remarkable 1 Vs 2 Buying Guide
Screen and Display
The screen is a crucial aspect of any e-ink tablet. The reMarkable 2 boasts a slightly improved display compared to its predecessor, the reMarkable 1. It features a sharper resolution and a faster response time, leading to a more natural and fluid writing experience. While both devices offer a paper-like feel, the reMarkable 2’s enhanced display minimizes latency, making writing feel even closer to pen and paper. Consider your need for visual clarity and responsiveness when choosing between the two.
Processing Power and Performance
Processing power dictates the speed and responsiveness of the tablet. The reMarkable 2 has a more advanced processor than the reMarkable 1, resulting in quicker page turns, faster loading times, and a smoother overall user experience. This is especially noticeable when working with large documents or complex notebooks. If you frequently multitask or require a snappy performance, the reMarkable 2’s superior processing power will be a significant advantage. The reMarkable 1, while still functional, may feel slightly slower.
Design and Build Quality
Both devices share a minimalist and elegant design, but the reMarkable 2 has a slightly thinner and more refined profile. Both are built with premium materials, ensuring durability and a comfortable grip. The reMarkable 2 offers a more modern aesthetic that appeals to some, while the reMarkable 1 still maintains a timeless design. Consider the overall feel and aesthetics. The reMarkable 2’s design is more refined, but both offer a premium feel.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration for portability. The reMarkable 1 and 2 offer excellent battery life, allowing for weeks of use on a single charge depending on usage. While the exact figures vary based on usage patterns, both are designed to last. The slight improvements in the reMarkable 2’s power management do offer some minor improvements. Factor in your typical usage patterns and how often you’re willing to charge the device.
Pen and Handwriting Experience
The writing experience is the core of the reMarkable experience. Both tablets offer a very similar handwriting feel, emulating the sensation of writing on paper. The reMarkable 2’s pen is slightly improved, with better tilt detection and pressure sensitivity. However, the overall writing experience is very similar. The included pens offer excellent precision and comfort, making them ideal for note-taking and sketching. The slightly improved pen of the reMarkable 2 offers a slight advantage.
Software and Features
The software and features of the reMarkable tablets enhance their functionality. Both devices receive software updates, but the reMarkable 2 generally gets new features and improvements first. Both offer cloud syncing, note organization, and the ability to convert handwriting to text. The reMarkable 2’s software tends to be a bit more polished and offer a few extra features. Consider what features are important to you, like cloud syncing or handwriting-to-text conversion. The reMarkable 2 has an edge in features.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy remarkable 1 If…
- You’re on a budget and want a capable e-ink tablet without the latest features.
- You primarily need a device for basic note-taking and reading.
- You don’t need the faster processor and improved pressure sensitivity of the remarkable 2.
- You are satisfied with Micro-USB charging.
Buy 2 If…
- You want the improved performance of a faster processor.
- You value the improved pressure sensitivity for more nuanced writing and drawing.
- You prefer the convenience of USB-C charging.
- You want a more responsive and fluid writing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of the reMarkable tablets?
The reMarkable tablets are designed to replicate the experience of writing on paper. Their primary function is to provide a distraction-free environment for note-taking, sketching, reading documents, and creating handwritten documents. They prioritize the writing experience, offering a paper-like feel and focusing on productivity by minimizing digital distractions common to tablets.
What file formats do they support?
Both reMarkable 1 and 2 support a variety of file formats, including PDF, EPUB, and the reMarkable’s own document format. This allows users to read and annotate documents, as well as create their own notes and documents within the device. Importing and exporting capabilities, including converting handwriting to text, are also available, making file management relatively streamlined.
Can I sync my notes to the cloud?
Yes, both reMarkable tablets offer cloud syncing capabilities. This allows users to back up their notes and access them across multiple devices, including computers and smartphones. The cloud service ensures that your notes are accessible and safe, providing a convenient way to manage your documents and keep them synchronized across different platforms. This is a key feature for collaboration.
What is the difference in pen technology?
The reMarkable 2’s pen offers some improvements over the reMarkable 1’s pen, primarily in terms of tilt detection and pressure sensitivity. While both pens provide a comfortable and natural writing experience, the reMarkable 2’s pen is slightly more responsive, allowing for more nuanced strokes and a more precise writing experience. The differences are subtle but noticeable for users.
How long does the battery last?
Both reMarkable tablets offer excellent battery life, typically lasting for several days or even weeks on a single charge, depending on usage. The battery life is significantly better than that of many other tablets. Factors like screen usage, Wi-Fi usage, and the number of annotations affect the battery performance, but both models are designed for long-lasting use.
Can I convert my handwriting to text?
Yes, both reMarkable tablets support handwriting-to-text conversion. This feature allows users to convert their handwritten notes into editable text, making it easier to share, search, and edit their notes on other devices. The accuracy of the conversion depends on the quality of the handwriting, but the feature is a valuable tool for productivity and note management.
Are the reMarkable tablets waterproof?
No, neither the reMarkable 1 nor the reMarkable 2 is waterproof. They are designed to be used in a dry environment. Exposure to water can damage the device. Users should take care to protect the tablet from spills and moisture. Avoid using it in rainy weather or near water sources.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the reMarkable 1 and 2 depends on your needs. The reMarkable 2 offers improvements in processing power, display, and pen sensitivity, making it a slightly better overall experience. However, the reMarkable 1 remains a capable and affordable option for those looking for a distraction-free writing experience. Both excel as digital paper, but the reMarkable 2 has the edge.
Winner: reMarkable 2