A compact e-reader proved superior to my large device during travel
The author replaced their bulky Onyx Boox Tab C Ultra with a smaller Palma 2 Pro for a vacation, discovering that the compact size was far more practical for on-the-go reading. Despite the larger device’s advantages for work and creativity, its portability issues made it impractical for travel. The experience led to the realization that smaller e-readers are often better suited for everyday reading needs.
The author, Tom Bedford, replaced his large Onyx Boox Tab C Ultra e-reader with the smaller Palma 2 Pro during a week-long Mediterranean vacation in October 2026. The Tab C Ultra, weighing 480g with a 10.3-inch screen, was deemed impractical for travel due to its bulk, despite being well-suited for work and creative tasks. In contrast, the Palma 2 Pro, at just 170g with a 6.13-inch display, fit easily into his backpack alongside clothing and beach essentials—so compact it could be carried like a passport. Though he hadn’t used the Palma in months, having misplaced it temporarily, its portability proved decisive. The device runs Android, offering access to the Play Store and apps like Netflix or games, though Bedford used it solely for reading. He appreciated the ability to access books from multiple platforms, including Play Books and Kindle, but noted that the Android power came at a cost: two charges were needed during the week-long trip, unlike e-readers such as the Kindle with multi-week battery life. After returning, he reused the Palma 2 Pro in a remote Welsh cottage, reinforcing its utility beyond vacation. The Tab C Ultra remains unused, symbolizing a shift in personal tech priorities.
Bedford’s experience reflects broader tensions in mobile device design: balancing functionality with portability. His prior reporting on devices for remote work and travel underscores his credibility as a tech reviewer who values practicality. Onyx Boox markets the Palma 2 Pro as a t
The story highlights a growing tension in consumer electronics: the trade-off between versatility and simplicity. As devices become more powerful, they risk losing their core purpose—especially in reading, where distraction-free design is prized. Bedford’s experience with the Palma 2 Pro suggests that even tech-savvy users may revert to simpler tools when portability becomes paramount. This could influence how manufacturers position e-readers: either as minimalist, long-battery devices (like Kindle) or as multifunctional Android tablets (like the Palma). The latter may appeal to power users but struggle with battery life and user focus, potentially limiting their adoption for reading alone. A comparable earlier case is the rise of the iPad, which initially succeeded by offering a versatile platform but later faced criticism for encouraging distraction—leading to the resurgence of simpler devices like the Kindle. Looking ahead, e-reader makers may experiment with modular designs or app-