I have explored a variety of tablets this year, focusing on those that utilize e-ink technology or aim to emulate the e-paper display. Among these, the iFLYTEK AINOTE Air 2 and AINote 2 stand out as genuine e-ink tablets, enhanced with on-device AI capabilities for voice transcription. These devices excel in their primary functions: note-taking and audio transcription. However, a common drawback of e-ink tablets is their sluggish user interface, primarily due to slower refresh rates, which can hinder multitasking and other tablet functionalities.
Next, I assessed the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER, which strives to merge the benefits of e-ink with the versatility of a traditional tablet. Featuring a matte NXTPAPER display, it offers a more comfortable reading experience, and while writing with a stylus is satisfactory, it doesn’t quite match the natural feel of an e-ink display. Despite its limitations in reading and writing compared to e-ink, its powerful LCD display allows it to function effectively as a full-fledged tablet, albeit at a price point of £479.
In a similar vein, the Huion Note E presents a more budget-friendly alternative at £299. This Android tablet features a matte display and a customized user interface tailored for productivity and note-taking. Huion, known primarily for its drawing tablets, incorporates its PenTech 3.0 battery-free EMR pen technology into the Note E, which sits alongside the Huion Ink, a 10.3-inch E Ink tablet, and the original Huion Note paper-based smart notebook.
Specification
| Specification | Huion Note E |
|---|---|
| Model | X50 |
| Colour | Black |
| Operating system | Android 15 |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G99 |
| RAM | 6 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB |
| Display | 8.4-inch IPS, 60 Hz |
| Working area | 180.3 x 112.7 mm |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1200 (16:10), FHD+ |
| Pixel density | 270 PPI |
| Colour gamut volume | 99% sRGB |
| Display colours | 16.7 million (8-bit) |
| Viewing angle | 170° |
| Response time | 30 ms (typical) |
| Brightness | 300 nits (typical) |
| Contrast ratio | 1000:1 |
| Display surface | Anti-glare etched glass |
| Touch input | In-cell 10-point touch |
| Pen technology | PenTech 3.0 battery-free EMR |
| Included digital pen | PW510 |
| Pressure sensitivity | 8,192 levels |
| Tilt recognition | Supported |
| Rear camera | 8 MP |
| Speaker | Single speaker |
| Microphones | Dual microphones |
| Sensors | G-sensor, ambient light sensor, Hall sensor |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 |
| Battery capacity | 4,500 mAh |
| Listed output voltage/current | 5 V / 1 A; 9 V / 2 A |
| Charging time | Approximately 2 hours |
| Battery life | Approximately 6.5 hours at 50% brightness |
| USB connection | USB-C (USB 2.0) |
| Physical controls | Power button |
| Dimensions | 203 x 143 x 7.4 mm |
| Net weight | 348 g |
Design
The Note E is designed to resemble a hardback book, complete with a PU leather folio case that enhances its notebook-like appearance. The case features a textured finish and a subtle Huion logo, supporting auto wake and sleep functionality via the Hall sensor. However, the absence of magnets—likely to avoid interference with EMR pens—means the tablet secures into the case using hooks, which can be a bit cumbersome.
Measuring 7.4 mm thick and weighing 348 g, the tablet sports a matte back that is prone to fingerprints. The bezels are somewhat chunky, particularly on the left side, which has a textured spine for a comfortable grip. The power button integrates a fingerprint scanner for quick access, but the omission of volume buttons is an unusual design choice, requiring users to adjust volume through on-screen controls.
Display
The display is a key feature of the Note E, designed to mimic a paper-like experience. The matte, anti-glare etched glass surface diffuses light effectively, reducing reflections and making it easier on the eyes for reading. While colors may appear slightly muted compared to glossy displays, the 8.4-inch IPS LCD boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1200, providing sharp text clarity.
Although the display is fully laminated, enhancing the writing experience, its brightness is limited to 300 nits, which may not suffice in bright environments. The refresh rate is capped at 60 Hz, which can affect scrolling fluidity, especially when compared to higher-end tablets.
Reading Mode
Out of the box, the Note E does not deliver an e-ink-like reading experience. However, activating the Reading Mode, which switches the display to greyscale, transforms the tablet into a more comfortable reading device when combined with lower brightness settings. This feature allows for a pleasant reading experience, particularly for text-heavy documents, although it falls short for comics or magazines due to the smaller page layout.
Stylus & Writing
The writing experience on the Note E is a mixed bag. While the matte display offers some improvement over glossy surfaces, it does not replicate the tactile feel of writing on an e-ink tablet. The PW510 stylus, utilizing Huion’s PenTech 3.0 EMR technology, provides excellent accuracy and pressure sensitivity, but the writing surface feels too slippery for a truly paper-like experience.
Notes / Handwriting Recognition / Audio Notes
Note-taking capabilities are adequate, with the Huion notes app serving as the central hub for organizing notebooks and annotating PDFs. The handwriting recognition feature performs well, accurately converting handwritten notes into text. However, the absence of integrated voice transcription is a notable drawback, especially for users who rely on audio notes for meetings or lectures.
To-Do
The To-Do functionality is exclusively stylus-based, allowing for handwritten task entries. While the system is straightforward and effective, the lack of keyboard input and synchronization with external task management services may limit its appeal for some users.
Apps
Running on Android 15, the Note E features a custom Huion launcher that prioritizes note-taking. While this approach suits the device’s purpose, app management is basic, lacking features such as folders or sorting options. However, access to the Play Store allows users to install a variety of applications, enhancing the tablet’s versatility.
Performance and Benchmarks
Powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 processor, the Note E delivers smooth performance for general tasks, including note-taking and web browsing. However, it may struggle with heavier applications or multitasking scenarios. The absence of expandable storage and limited USB 2.0 speeds for file transfers are additional considerations for potential buyers.
Battery Life
The Note E houses a 4,500 mAh battery, providing approximately 6.5 hours of usage at moderate brightness levels. While this is sufficient for light tasks, it pales in comparison to the longevity offered by e-ink alternatives, necessitating more frequent charging.
Price and Alternative Options
Available at a retail price of £299, the Huion Note E presents a compelling option for those seeking a compact, note-focused tablet. Alternatives include the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER, which offers superior features at a higher price point, and various e-ink tablets that cater to specific user needs.
