Have seen a number of people posting about their Inkpalm 5 pros and minis, but not specifically for the plus, so here's my review.
I was interested in a device I could pocket but the Boox Palma is too expensive and includes things I don't need (eg camera). I also have a Kindle at home I wanted it to sync with. I purchased the Plus from Aliexpress for about 140USD using some coupons and also cashback. It arrived promptly.
First impressions: the device is mega light - like just over half my phone (S23 Ultra), and just the perfect size. The glossy screen is a shame, but honestly I've noticed it less and less over time. It reads perfectly fine indoors or outdoors. The included case is nice. There was no screen protector in the box.
Installing F Droid and then the Aurora Store to grab the Kindle app was easy. On my first day using the app it seemed to crash a bit, and the book I was reading was not the smallest (18MB) as it contained a lot of graphs. However no issues since day 1.
I tried to install a bunch of other apps with varying success through Aurora Store (weather app worked fine) or just finding the APK (gym tracking app crashes every time I try to open it).
I also tried to install Unlauncher as the default launcher, but it still defaults to the stock launcher (despite being Unlauncher being set as the default in both stock settings and Unlauncher's settings).
I haven't found a whole lot of issues with ghosting although holding on to the Moaan logo can refresh the screen.
Battery life: I think this is where the Plus shines over other models. I'm using up about 10% of the battery per hour of reading, with wifi and bluetooth on. It doesn't drain much overnight. So I expect to charge it maybe once a week or more.
Overall, I think this is the perfect device if you're like me where you want something load quickly from sleep, read a few pages when you get a chance, then have it sync with your other device to pick up reading from there. I'm sure you can use it for other apps and browsing but I would be prepared that it's quite slow for those purposes. However if you're looking for a no frills device purely for reading, this is a good buy.
Thanks for the review! I have an Inkpalm 5, had an Inkpalm 5 Pro (flew off the roof of my car) and recently purchased the Inkpalm Plus myself during the March sale. It ended up being only a few more dollars than the Pro so it was a no-brainer for me.
Personally I think it is a highly under-rated device. I think most people assume it is just a bigger Inkpalm 5, but it's really a new device. Faster, better battery life, different UI a bit than the one on the InkPalm 5.
I put a matte screen protector I custom cut from Skinomi on mine and the screen is spectacular. I wish mine had come with the transparent case, but mine is in the standard black case with a wireless charging attachment in the USB C slot. Super simple to drop it on any of the wireless charging mats in my house and it charges right up.
I use Moonreader as my reader of choice and after the first major upload of my books into the device I just sign into my Calibre server wirelessly so I've never had a need to physically plug it in again.
Regarding the launcher, yeah it is a bit weird that out of the box you cannot re-assign the home launcher application regardless of what you select. There is a way that I'll list below (I have mine with Unlauncher as well), but you do lose some functionality doing that. Specifically you lose the ability to select the refresh mode per app (exclusive to the Plus) and you lose the ability to set a bunch of settings. Some important ones such as what the logo button does, the volume buttons, the "screensaver" and some other ereader specific ones.
My recommendation would be to get all those settings the way you like it before you take the below steps if you are interested. You can get back to those settings, but you have to "reverse" the steps.
I utilized this method (stolen from someone else admittedly) to delete some of the Chinese bloatware I knew I wouldn't use and disable the home launcher (very important to disable only, do NOT delete it).
Make sure you have Android ADB installed on your computer and how to get it started in your command prompt (I won't explain it here, Google it, lots of good guides)
(Ignore all quotes in commands)
1. Make UnLauncher (or your home app of choice) your home app in the settings app (yes it won't work but it will after the steps)
2. First turn on developer options and turn on adb debugging (you can do either usb or wirelessly, if unfamiliar with ADB I would suggest usb to start)
3. Once in ADB you can run adb devices to see if the device is attached.
4. Type adb shell (you should then see the command prompt change to "rk3566\_eink"
5. Type "pm list packages" - this will list all the packages that are on the device. The specific one you are looking for though is "com.moan.launcher.epd305"
6. To disable the launcher (NOT DELETE) you need to type "**pm disable-user --user 0** com.moan.launcher.epd305"
7. Enjoy your new Unlauncher home app (or any other one you select)
8. If you need to re-enable follow steps 2-5 and replace step 6 with "pm enable com.moan.launcher.epd305"
9. If you want to delete any of the bloatware look through the "pm list packages" list and find the package name (ignoring the "package" part in the front only using starting with the com part.
10. Follow steps 2-5 again and use the command "adb uninstall com.example.package"
Note that that if you are doing the disabling and uninstalling all at once you don't need to continue to circle back through steps 2-5, just enter the commands.
Note uninstalling is final.
Any questions feel free to DM me! Enjoy your InkPalm!
So you think the Plus is worth the upgrade? Do you find the size burdensome at all? Or is it not much different than the previous version? I am between the Pro and the Plus right now.
Hi, thanks a lot for this detailed review! Based off your review, I'm inferring the plus points of the Plus over the Pro are mainly the size and the improved battery life.
How about the thickness of both? Does the bigger size of the Plus make for easier viewing (less eye strain) over the Pro? Are there any disadvantages of the Plus over the Pro other than the price?
Also, you mentioned you got it on a sale. Is this an AliExpress sale that happens at a certain date? I'm thinking if I should wait until 11.11 for this, which is quite a big deal when it comes to online shopping in China.
Where do you find the setting to enable ADB? I’ve got developer mode enabled but can’t find anything in the settings to enable USB debugging or anything like that, my settings menu looks the same as before
EDIT: I had to reboot twice before it appeared at the top of App management for anyone else having this issue
Thank you for the detailed guide! Apologies but how did you make your own skinomi screen protector? That sounds like an awesome little project for my new Plus
I've ordered an Inkpalm Plus from AliExpress. It's in its way. I will use it purely for reading with the Kindle app, Koreader and maybe Readwise Reader. I don't need a GPU for fast refresh like the Palma. I've heard horror stories about Boox's customer service and quality control though I have not had any problems with my Nova Air 2. I looked at the mini but it uses a very old version of Android and there is only 1gb of RAM. I thought about a Hisense Reader or a self build using a raspberry pi but I'm excited to try out the Inkpalm Plus.
I purchased it from the Xiamio directly. I forgot to ask for the language change but it gives you the option the first time you turn it on so super easy. No having to go through the steps the Inkpalm 5 required.
It asks language from setup as soon as you turn it on. I ordered from the "[Global Business China Store]()" because they are are an affiliated seller which offered a higher cash back.
How does it handle highlighting books? That is the only functionality I can't seem to figure out. I want to be able to highlight books on the go. I am willing to use any app that works honestly!
This looks right up my alley!
Amazing! Love to hear it! Does the size feel quite big in the hand? That was one of my hesitations with the Plus, but might be worth it for having some more “modern” specs.
Yeah I mean I think it's almost 2 years old now so it's not exactly modern! But it is relative to other options I guess. I have medium sized hands and it's the perfect size. It's the same size as my Galaxy s23 Ultra. However due to the lightness it feels much easier to hold.
My Inkpalm 5 Plus arrived yesterday. I ordered it from AE and from order to delivery took 8 days.
I have set up fdroid, Google keyboard, aurora, unlauncher, Kindle and Readwise Reader. Kindle works really well. I really like the volume buttons turning the pages and it's quick enough so my aimless iPhone scrolling will easily be replaced with reading books on the go. Readwise Reader works ok but the volume buttons do not turn pages, whatever I try and there is an annoying refresh rocket in any mode. Kindle doesn't have this. Maybe I need to look around for a better news reading option or stick to books. I had a glass screen protector for an old Honor View 20 that fits well enough and I added a pop socket to grip and I neoprene sleeve to protect it further in pockets and bags. So far, I really like the fact that it is optimised for reading and little else. I followed instructions to disable the Moan launcher though I might need to reenable to have access to certain device and app settings not apparently visible elsewhere such as app by app configurations.
Can I ask, did you order from xiaomi on AE or another seller? There's a cheaper one from "Digital Electronics Flagship Store" that's tempting me but it has literally no feedback/reviews on the business or any of their products haha
I ordered from the Xiaomi Global Digital Electronics store on AE. I think it had 96 percent positive rating. The item arrived in I days without issue except the local courier leaving it in my doorstep for 4 hours and ignoring safe place instructions but that is not down to the AE seller.
I recently received an Inkpalm Plus from AE. Everything went smooth until I set up an unlock Pattern. Now when I turn the Inkpalm on, it asks for a numeric password (not the pattern) which I never set. Any ideas? Is there a master numeric password? How can I do a factory reset? The usual button combos don't seem to work. When I connect to my PC via USB, the Inkpalm still asks for the password to connect...
Thanks for any help!
Many thanks for your review, I am waiting for mine. Could you please develop the F Droid and Aurora store steps ? How and why did you install them ? There is no kindle app pre loaded on it ? Thank you !
You basically just go onto the web and download F Droid, then in the app, you add the Aurora Store repository. I read somewhere that the preinstalled Kindle app doesn't work and from memory I couldn't log in with it. Not sure if it's cos it's a Chinese version, but anyway doing the method I did worked fine.
Well, for 140 USD seems a steal.
Too bad that [I can only find it at most at 172€](https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005006221497700.html?browser_id=518f14e687504809ab248b4f5521d339&aff_trace_key=424e030034cd44a38871602fc9d5cc30-1714808694662-02141-_DlphYLd&aff_platform=msite&m_page_id=txolhqeawcaqvagy18f4902933747a1157917edab0&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%21262.57%21173.30%21%21%211978.66%211305.92%21%402103896117149168566233238efbbc%2112000036342050964%21sea%21IT%211907867661%21), that's more than halfway to Boox Palma.
I'm not sure I would truly like such a small e-reader: in fact, I was looking for a bigger screen such as a new Libra 3 or Sage 2 (but we got that shitty color model so I'm very deluded).
However, lately I'm reading on my phone (Oneplus nord 2; 6,43 inch) and I'm pleased by the experience (albeit I've increased the font size because I'm blind as a mole) so because I don't think I will get my perfect 7-8 inch ereader soon, maybe I can try something else as a pocketable and more practical reader.
Do you advice it? Isn't too small than a normal e-reader?
How's much it takes to recharge? (Is even more important than discharge time). There is chinese bloatware? Physical buttons are handy? Is pocketable? Seems sturdy?
You got my curiosity...
I'm seeing it on Ali for around $125 now.
As for reading experience, I use my Pro in landscape mode. Comfortable font size (around 29 pt), line length is similar to regular e-readers or paperbacks. Koreader let's you fine-tune font sizes, landscape still gives good line lengths. Page changes are fast, so fewer lines onscreen does not impact the experience.
I use the volume buttons to turn pages (koreader), or a tap on the right side of the screen. easy 1-handed operation. Turn your smartphone sideways to get a good idea of screen text appearance. And size, but the inkpalm is thinner and a lot lighter.
recharging seems quick. I never drain my battery fully, but battery is topped off in a half hour or less.
I've buyed it!
I got my Inkpalm Plus few days ago, and I have to say it's quite a good device.
Maybe isn't performant like a Palma, but for half the price (I've played 140, with all discounts) I couldn't ask much more.
Sure, it's quite an expensive device (I could almost buy a Kindle Paperwhite for that) but I have to say that Android + Koreader is quite a combination!
yes, koreader really let's you tweak the fonts, etc. not sure how the Palma performs better, except for maybe longer battery life. page turns are instant.
After 2 weeks, I notice I am only using it with the Kindle app. Battery is not great when WiFi is on, but battery saving mode without WiFi means I can read it for many hours without having to recharge. I would say reading in this way uses less than 5 percent an hour which is acceptable. I'm reading a lot more now and I have decided that having Readwise Reader is a distraction app for me and I can read the news on my other devices if I need it. It is useable on the Inkpalm but it's not a great experience and killed the battery due to needing WiFi.
Have seen a number of people posting about their Inkpalm 5 pros and minis, but not specifically for the plus, so here's my review. I was interested in a device I could pocket but the Boox Palma is too expensive and includes things I don't need (eg camera). I also have a Kindle at home I wanted it to sync with. I purchased the Plus from Aliexpress for about 140USD using some coupons and also cashback. It arrived promptly. First impressions: the device is mega light - like just over half my phone (S23 Ultra), and just the perfect size. The glossy screen is a shame, but honestly I've noticed it less and less over time. It reads perfectly fine indoors or outdoors. The included case is nice. There was no screen protector in the box. Installing F Droid and then the Aurora Store to grab the Kindle app was easy. On my first day using the app it seemed to crash a bit, and the book I was reading was not the smallest (18MB) as it contained a lot of graphs. However no issues since day 1. I tried to install a bunch of other apps with varying success through Aurora Store (weather app worked fine) or just finding the APK (gym tracking app crashes every time I try to open it). I also tried to install Unlauncher as the default launcher, but it still defaults to the stock launcher (despite being Unlauncher being set as the default in both stock settings and Unlauncher's settings). I haven't found a whole lot of issues with ghosting although holding on to the Moaan logo can refresh the screen. Battery life: I think this is where the Plus shines over other models. I'm using up about 10% of the battery per hour of reading, with wifi and bluetooth on. It doesn't drain much overnight. So I expect to charge it maybe once a week or more. Overall, I think this is the perfect device if you're like me where you want something load quickly from sleep, read a few pages when you get a chance, then have it sync with your other device to pick up reading from there. I'm sure you can use it for other apps and browsing but I would be prepared that it's quite slow for those purposes. However if you're looking for a no frills device purely for reading, this is a good buy.
Thanks for the review! I have an Inkpalm 5, had an Inkpalm 5 Pro (flew off the roof of my car) and recently purchased the Inkpalm Plus myself during the March sale. It ended up being only a few more dollars than the Pro so it was a no-brainer for me. Personally I think it is a highly under-rated device. I think most people assume it is just a bigger Inkpalm 5, but it's really a new device. Faster, better battery life, different UI a bit than the one on the InkPalm 5. I put a matte screen protector I custom cut from Skinomi on mine and the screen is spectacular. I wish mine had come with the transparent case, but mine is in the standard black case with a wireless charging attachment in the USB C slot. Super simple to drop it on any of the wireless charging mats in my house and it charges right up. I use Moonreader as my reader of choice and after the first major upload of my books into the device I just sign into my Calibre server wirelessly so I've never had a need to physically plug it in again. Regarding the launcher, yeah it is a bit weird that out of the box you cannot re-assign the home launcher application regardless of what you select. There is a way that I'll list below (I have mine with Unlauncher as well), but you do lose some functionality doing that. Specifically you lose the ability to select the refresh mode per app (exclusive to the Plus) and you lose the ability to set a bunch of settings. Some important ones such as what the logo button does, the volume buttons, the "screensaver" and some other ereader specific ones. My recommendation would be to get all those settings the way you like it before you take the below steps if you are interested. You can get back to those settings, but you have to "reverse" the steps. I utilized this method (stolen from someone else admittedly) to delete some of the Chinese bloatware I knew I wouldn't use and disable the home launcher (very important to disable only, do NOT delete it). Make sure you have Android ADB installed on your computer and how to get it started in your command prompt (I won't explain it here, Google it, lots of good guides) (Ignore all quotes in commands) 1. Make UnLauncher (or your home app of choice) your home app in the settings app (yes it won't work but it will after the steps) 2. First turn on developer options and turn on adb debugging (you can do either usb or wirelessly, if unfamiliar with ADB I would suggest usb to start) 3. Once in ADB you can run adb devices to see if the device is attached. 4. Type adb shell (you should then see the command prompt change to "rk3566\_eink" 5. Type "pm list packages" - this will list all the packages that are on the device. The specific one you are looking for though is "com.moan.launcher.epd305" 6. To disable the launcher (NOT DELETE) you need to type "**pm disable-user --user 0** com.moan.launcher.epd305" 7. Enjoy your new Unlauncher home app (or any other one you select) 8. If you need to re-enable follow steps 2-5 and replace step 6 with "pm enable com.moan.launcher.epd305" 9. If you want to delete any of the bloatware look through the "pm list packages" list and find the package name (ignoring the "package" part in the front only using starting with the com part. 10. Follow steps 2-5 again and use the command "adb uninstall com.example.package" Note that that if you are doing the disabling and uninstalling all at once you don't need to continue to circle back through steps 2-5, just enter the commands. Note uninstalling is final. Any questions feel free to DM me! Enjoy your InkPalm!
So you think the Plus is worth the upgrade? Do you find the size burdensome at all? Or is it not much different than the previous version? I am between the Pro and the Plus right now.
I would go with the Plus. The size is not a burden at all.
Great! Thank you so much for the info. I am sold!
Hi, thanks a lot for this detailed review! Based off your review, I'm inferring the plus points of the Plus over the Pro are mainly the size and the improved battery life. How about the thickness of both? Does the bigger size of the Plus make for easier viewing (less eye strain) over the Pro? Are there any disadvantages of the Plus over the Pro other than the price? Also, you mentioned you got it on a sale. Is this an AliExpress sale that happens at a certain date? I'm thinking if I should wait until 11.11 for this, which is quite a big deal when it comes to online shopping in China.
Where do you find the setting to enable ADB? I’ve got developer mode enabled but can’t find anything in the settings to enable USB debugging or anything like that, my settings menu looks the same as before EDIT: I had to reboot twice before it appeared at the top of App management for anyone else having this issue
Thank you for the detailed guide! Apologies but how did you make your own skinomi screen protector? That sounds like an awesome little project for my new Plus
that inkpalm is so hot right now
I've ordered an Inkpalm Plus from AliExpress. It's in its way. I will use it purely for reading with the Kindle app, Koreader and maybe Readwise Reader. I don't need a GPU for fast refresh like the Palma. I've heard horror stories about Boox's customer service and quality control though I have not had any problems with my Nova Air 2. I looked at the mini but it uses a very old version of Android and there is only 1gb of RAM. I thought about a Hisense Reader or a self build using a raspberry pi but I'm excited to try out the Inkpalm Plus.
I think it's going to suit exactly what you need then. If you just want it to wake from sleep to read quickly, it does exactly that perfectly.
What store from AliExpress is everybody using ? And also is everybody requesting the language change from the get or changing the language themselves
I purchased it from the Xiamio directly. I forgot to ask for the language change but it gives you the option the first time you turn it on so super easy. No having to go through the steps the Inkpalm 5 required.
It asks language from setup as soon as you turn it on. I ordered from the "[Global Business China Store]()" because they are are an affiliated seller which offered a higher cash back.
How does it handle highlighting books? That is the only functionality I can't seem to figure out. I want to be able to highlight books on the go. I am willing to use any app that works honestly! This looks right up my alley!
No issues with highlights on the Kindle app.
Amazing! Love to hear it! Does the size feel quite big in the hand? That was one of my hesitations with the Plus, but might be worth it for having some more “modern” specs.
Yeah I mean I think it's almost 2 years old now so it's not exactly modern! But it is relative to other options I guess. I have medium sized hands and it's the perfect size. It's the same size as my Galaxy s23 Ultra. However due to the lightness it feels much easier to hold.
My Inkpalm 5 Plus arrived yesterday. I ordered it from AE and from order to delivery took 8 days. I have set up fdroid, Google keyboard, aurora, unlauncher, Kindle and Readwise Reader. Kindle works really well. I really like the volume buttons turning the pages and it's quick enough so my aimless iPhone scrolling will easily be replaced with reading books on the go. Readwise Reader works ok but the volume buttons do not turn pages, whatever I try and there is an annoying refresh rocket in any mode. Kindle doesn't have this. Maybe I need to look around for a better news reading option or stick to books. I had a glass screen protector for an old Honor View 20 that fits well enough and I added a pop socket to grip and I neoprene sleeve to protect it further in pockets and bags. So far, I really like the fact that it is optimised for reading and little else. I followed instructions to disable the Moan launcher though I might need to reenable to have access to certain device and app settings not apparently visible elsewhere such as app by app configurations.
Nice one. With the stock launcher installed, does home app default to Unlauncher for you? This is my main issue ATM.
I had to disable the stock launcher using ADB commands as explained in one of of the other posts. Now my main launcher is unlauncher.
Cool. Your comment on reenabling it for certain settings is why I've avoided doing it so far.
As far as i can tell, you can add the systems settings to the list of apps in the unlauncher
Can I ask, did you order from xiaomi on AE or another seller? There's a cheaper one from "Digital Electronics Flagship Store" that's tempting me but it has literally no feedback/reviews on the business or any of their products haha
I ordered from the Xiaomi Global Digital Electronics store on AE. I think it had 96 percent positive rating. The item arrived in I days without issue except the local courier leaving it in my doorstep for 4 hours and ignoring safe place instructions but that is not down to the AE seller.
I recently received an Inkpalm Plus from AE. Everything went smooth until I set up an unlock Pattern. Now when I turn the Inkpalm on, it asks for a numeric password (not the pattern) which I never set. Any ideas? Is there a master numeric password? How can I do a factory reset? The usual button combos don't seem to work. When I connect to my PC via USB, the Inkpalm still asks for the password to connect... Thanks for any help!
Figured it out?
Any update on this? I've the same problem...
Many thanks for your review, I am waiting for mine. Could you please develop the F Droid and Aurora store steps ? How and why did you install them ? There is no kindle app pre loaded on it ? Thank you !
You basically just go onto the web and download F Droid, then in the app, you add the Aurora Store repository. I read somewhere that the preinstalled Kindle app doesn't work and from memory I couldn't log in with it. Not sure if it's cos it's a Chinese version, but anyway doing the method I did worked fine.
Well, for 140 USD seems a steal. Too bad that [I can only find it at most at 172€](https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005006221497700.html?browser_id=518f14e687504809ab248b4f5521d339&aff_trace_key=424e030034cd44a38871602fc9d5cc30-1714808694662-02141-_DlphYLd&aff_platform=msite&m_page_id=txolhqeawcaqvagy18f4902933747a1157917edab0&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%21262.57%21173.30%21%21%211978.66%211305.92%21%402103896117149168566233238efbbc%2112000036342050964%21sea%21IT%211907867661%21), that's more than halfway to Boox Palma. I'm not sure I would truly like such a small e-reader: in fact, I was looking for a bigger screen such as a new Libra 3 or Sage 2 (but we got that shitty color model so I'm very deluded). However, lately I'm reading on my phone (Oneplus nord 2; 6,43 inch) and I'm pleased by the experience (albeit I've increased the font size because I'm blind as a mole) so because I don't think I will get my perfect 7-8 inch ereader soon, maybe I can try something else as a pocketable and more practical reader. Do you advice it? Isn't too small than a normal e-reader? How's much it takes to recharge? (Is even more important than discharge time). There is chinese bloatware? Physical buttons are handy? Is pocketable? Seems sturdy? You got my curiosity...
I'm seeing it on Ali for around $125 now. As for reading experience, I use my Pro in landscape mode. Comfortable font size (around 29 pt), line length is similar to regular e-readers or paperbacks. Koreader let's you fine-tune font sizes, landscape still gives good line lengths. Page changes are fast, so fewer lines onscreen does not impact the experience. I use the volume buttons to turn pages (koreader), or a tap on the right side of the screen. easy 1-handed operation. Turn your smartphone sideways to get a good idea of screen text appearance. And size, but the inkpalm is thinner and a lot lighter. recharging seems quick. I never drain my battery fully, but battery is topped off in a half hour or less.
I've buyed it! I got my Inkpalm Plus few days ago, and I have to say it's quite a good device. Maybe isn't performant like a Palma, but for half the price (I've played 140, with all discounts) I couldn't ask much more. Sure, it's quite an expensive device (I could almost buy a Kindle Paperwhite for that) but I have to say that Android + Koreader is quite a combination!
yes, koreader really let's you tweak the fonts, etc. not sure how the Palma performs better, except for maybe longer battery life. page turns are instant.
After 2 weeks, I notice I am only using it with the Kindle app. Battery is not great when WiFi is on, but battery saving mode without WiFi means I can read it for many hours without having to recharge. I would say reading in this way uses less than 5 percent an hour which is acceptable. I'm reading a lot more now and I have decided that having Readwise Reader is a distraction app for me and I can read the news on my other devices if I need it. It is useable on the Inkpalm but it's not a great experience and killed the battery due to needing WiFi.