Stick This Magnetic E-Reader to Your iPhone
▼ Summary
– The Xteink X4 is a compact, affordable e-reader with a 4.3-inch E Ink screen that magnetically attaches to the back of compatible smartphones.
– Its lower 220ppi screen resolution and lack of a built-in light are trade-offs compared to more expensive e-readers, but this contributes to a long battery life.
– The device is limited to reading sideloaded, DRM-free EPUB and TXT files, lacking direct access to major ebook stores like Amazon or Kobo.
– It features physical navigation and page-turn buttons instead of a touchscreen, and supports custom font installation.
– The X4 is designed to be pocketable and adds minimal bulk to a smartphone, similar to a thin wireless power bank.
For those who love reading but find dedicated e-readers too bulky, a new gadget offers a clever solution. The Xteink X4 is a compact e-reader with a 4.3-inch E Ink screen, designed to magnetically attach to the back of your smartphone. This makes it far more pocket-friendly than even the smallest Kindle or Kobo. The device works with any phone supporting Qi2 or Apple’s MagSafe, and for others, the company includes magnetic adhesive rings. Priced at just $69, it presents an affordable entry point into digital reading, though it comes with several notable compromises.
The most significant trade-off is in screen quality. The display resolution is 220ppi, which falls short of the 300ppi standard found on most modern e-readers. As a result, text won’t appear as sharp or crisp. Furthermore, the screen lacks a built-in front light, meaning you’ll need an external lamp for reading in dim conditions. On the positive side, this omission contributes to impressive battery life; the 650mAh cell can last up to two weeks with moderate daily use.
Another major consideration is content access. Unlike mainstream e-readers tied to large ecosystems, the X4 operates independently. It cannot directly access stores like Amazon Kindle or Kobo. Instead, it only reads DRM-free EPUB and TXT files. Users must sideload their books via a microSD card, supporting up to 512GB, or transfer them wirelessly over a Wi-Fi connection. This makes it best suited for those with personal libraries of non-DRM content.
The device features a button-based interface, which many readers prefer. It includes four physical buttons for navigation and turning pages, eliminating the need for a touchscreen. You can also customize your reading experience by installing additional fonts, moving beyond the two options preloaded on the device. Available in black or white, the X4 adds minimal bulk to a phone, similar to a slim wireless charger.
While it won’t replace a full-featured e-reader for everyone, the X4 carves out a unique niche. It’s a budget-friendly, ultra-portable second screen for your phone, perfect for readers who prioritize convenience and already have a collection of compatible ebooks.
(Source: The Verge)
