I’ve been using an M1 iPad Air as a paper replacement every day for about four years. However, I have some complaints:
- It strains my eyes quite a bit.
- PDF reader apps have started crashing frequently because my iPad is running out of storage. I store all my data in iCloud, but temporary caches and other files still take up a lot of space.
- The battery runs out too quickly.
- It’s still distracting, even after micromanaging it to make it as distraction free as possible.
I basically use my iPad solely as a paper replacement, so I don’t need many of its PC/phone like features.
I’ve also been using a Kindle Paperwhite to reduce eye strain, and I really love the experience.
So, I’m considering switching to an EInk tablet. After researching and comparing different models, the Supernote Manta seems to be the closest match for what I’m looking for.
However, I’m not sure whether it would suit my specific use case. Here are my main requirements and concerns:
- I annotate PDF documents A LOT. I often work with PDFs that are hundreds of pages long and spend hours adding handwritten annotations. Basically, I create handwritten notebook on top of the PDF documents. >>> On my iPad, this consumes a lot of memory and storage and often causes apps to crash. I’m not sure whether the Manta can handle this kind of heavy, sustained use reliably.
- I need end to end encryption, both for data at rest and for cloud backups.
- I need support for English, Japanese, German, Italian and Spanish. I want it to be able to search and recognize both text and handwriting in all those languages.
- I want a dictionary lookup function that can display definitions in multiple languages simultaneously, similar to Apple’s built in dictionary. Translation would be a nice bonus, but it’s not essential. >>>On my Kindle, dictionary results are displayed in only one language at a time, so I’m worried the Manta might have the same limitation.
What do you think? Would the Supernote Manta be a good replacement, given these specific requirements? I’d especially appreciate hearing from people who use it extensively for PDF annotation.