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    Kindle Scribe vs. Remarkable 2 (Best Digital Notebook Under $400)


    A woman writing on ReMarkable 2 tablet.
    Table of Contents

    A digital notebook is an essential tool for writers, students, designers, and anyone who loves to capture ideas on the go. Thanks to AI, cloud syncing, and ultra-responsive e-ink screens, digital note-taking is smarter than ever.

    Among the top contenders in the market are the Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable 2. However, which one offers the best writing experience?

    Let’s explore this battle of digital giants and break down everything you need to know.

    The Contenders: Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable 2

    Both the Kindle Scribe and the ReMarkable 2 are highly regarded e-ink tablets designed for note-taking, reading, and creativity, but each offers a unique set of features.

    Kindle Scribe: Amazon’s E-Ink Overachiever

    Amazon’s Kindle lineup is created for readers, and the Kindle Scribe is no exception. However, it steps up the game by combining the signature Kindle experience with an intuitive note-taking feature.

    It features a large 10.2-inch screen, making it the perfect size for both reading and writing. The Kindle Scribe also supports stylus input, which allows users to jot down notes, highlight text, or even sketch freely.

    Here are some key features:

    • Large Screen: 10.2-inch, 300 PPI E Ink display for sharp text and images.
    • Stylus Input: Comes with a basic stylus (and a premium option) for note-taking.
    • Amazon Ecosystem: Integrates seamlessly with Kindle books, audiobooks, and documents from Amazon.
    • Storage Options: 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, with ample space for documents and books.
    • Battery Life: Weeks of use on a single charge—typical Kindle durability.
    A person holding a cup of coffee in one hand and an e-reader in the other, sitting at a wooden table.
    Shutterstock

    ReMarkable 2: The Digital Paper Dream

    The ReMarkable 2, on the other hand, is focused entirely on creating the best possible note-taking experience with a sleek design and some truly impressive hardware.

    It features a 10.3-inch screen, slightly larger than the Kindle Scribe, but with a thinner and lighter build. Known for its ultra-low latency and paper-like writing feel, the ReMarkable 2 is aimed at professionals who want to replace traditional paper notebooks.

    Let’s look at the key features of ReMarkable 2:

    • E Ink Carta 1200 Display: 10.3-inch, high-resolution screen with a unique paper-like texture for a more natural writing experience.
    • Stylus Input: ReMarkable’s Marker stylus is precision-engineered to feel like a real pen on paper. No lag. No delay.
    • Notebooks and PDFs: Optimized for taking handwritten notes, sketching, and annotating PDFs.
    • Slim Design: At just 4.7-mm thin, the ReMarkable 2 is incredibly lightweight and portable.
    • No Distractions: Unlike the Kindle Scribe, ReMarkable focuses solely on note-taking with no extra apps or distractions.

    Here’s a quick breakdown of Kindle Scribe 2024 vs Remarkable 2: The Best Digital Notebook Under $400.

    FeatureKindle ScribeReMarkable 2
    Operating SystemCustom Kindle OS (based on Linux)Custom ReMarkable OS (Codex, Linux-based)
    Handwriting ConversionNo built-in handwriting-to-text conversionYes, built-in handwriting recognition
    Cloud StorageAmazon Cloud (limited syncing)ReMarkable Cloud (subscription required for full sync)
    Third-Party App SupportLimited (no external apps)No external apps, but integrates with Google Drive & Dropbox
    Export OptionsPDFs, Kindle Notes, limited sharingPDFs, PNGs, SVGs, email export
    Pen LatencyRegular updates focused on Kindle featuresUltra-low latency, near-instant feedback
    AccessoriesPremium pen with an eraser, folio coversMarker Plus stylus, folio covers, keyboard folio (future)
    Software UpdatesRegular updates, focused on Kindle featuresFrequent updates, improving handwriting & UI
    Offline UsabilityFully functional offlineFully functional offline
    CustomizationBasic note templates, pen typesMultiple note templates, layers for sketching
    Environmental ImpactMade with recycled materials, energy-efficientDesigned for minimal environmental impact, repairable
    PriceStarts at $339 (includes basic pen)Starts at $399 (stylus sold separately)
    Quick Comparison of Kindle Scribe 2024 vs. Remarkable 2

    Design and Build

    Both devices take advantage of E Ink technology to offer a glare-free, paper-like display, which is gentle on the eyes during long reading or writing sessions.

    However, when it comes to design, they each have their own flair.

    • Kindle Scribe: At 10.2 inches, the Scribe offers a spacious screen with a bit of a bulkier design. It’s sturdy but still feels like a typical Kindle in comfort and portability. It’s definitely bigger than the traditional Kindle but still manageable on the one hand.
    • ReMarkable 2: ReMarkable has created a slim, sleek design with a 10.3-inch display. It’s impressively thin, like holding a premium piece of digital paper. The matte finish adds a nice tactile quality, making the overall feel high-end.

    If you’re looking for portability, the ReMarkable 2 might have the edge due to its thinner, lighter design. But if you want a bit more screen real estate for both reading and writing, the Kindle Scribe’s slightly larger display might appeal to you.

    Flat lay of a Kindle on top of a notebook.
    Shutterstock

    Writing Experience

    Here’s where things get interesting. The Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable 2 offer exceptional writing experiences, but key differences exist.

    Kindle Scribe:

    The writing experience on the Kindle Scribe is smooth, but it doesn’t quite match the precision of the ReMarkable 2.

    The stylus that comes with the Kindle Scribe is responsive, but you might notice a slight delay when compared to ReMarkable’s near-instantaneous writing response.

    The Scribe offers different pen types and line thicknesses, but it’s more about versatility in integrating with Amazon’s ecosystem rather than a pure note-taking machine.

    ReMarkable 2:

    The ReMarkable 2 is often hailed for its lag-free writing experience, with a paper-like texture that makes it feel incredibly natural to write on.

    It uses a stylus with no batteries (unlike the Kindle’s rechargeable pen), offering a true pen-to-paper experience. There’s no noticeable lag, and the handwriting recognition is spot on.

    If you write a lot by hand or need to draw/sketch with precision, the ReMarkable 2 is your best bet for a seamless experience.

    On the other hand, if you’re a Kindle user who wants a good note-taking feature integrated into the Kindle ecosystem, the Kindle Scribe might do the trick.

    A smartphone displaying the reMarkable tablet's website with the tagline “The paper tablet.”
    Shutterstock

    Features & Functionality

    When choosing a digital notebook, features, and functionality can make or break the experience. Let’s explore how the Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable 2 stack up beyond just writing.

    Kindle Scribe:

    The Kindle Scribe is more than just a note-taking device. It’s also a full-fledged Kindle reader, allowing you to access thousands of books, documents, and audiobooks in the Kindle library.

    You can annotate books, highlight text, and even write in the margins—perfect for avid readers who also want to make notes or underline important parts.

    The Kindle Scribe supports Amazon’s cloud-based ecosystem, meaning your notes and books can sync across multiple devices, making it an excellent choice for users already deeply invested in Amazon’s ecosystem.

    ReMarkable 2:

    ReMarkable, on the other hand, is more focused on the creative and productivity side of things. While you can read documents and annotate PDFs, it’s not designed for immersive reading experiences like the Kindle Scribe. It doesn’t have an integrated bookstore or audiobook functionality.

    The focus here is entirely on writing, sketching, and PDF annotation, making it ideal for professionals, designers, and students who want a device dedicated to creativity and productivity.

    Battery Life

    Both the Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable 2 excel regarding battery life. Thanks to the efficiency of E Ink technology, both devices can last for weeks on a single charge.

    However, the Kindle Scribe edges out the ReMarkable 2 by a small margin, thanks to its integration with the Kindle ecosystem, which offers optimized battery usage for reading and light note-taking.

    • Kindle Scribe: Up to 12 weeks of battery life, depending on usage.
    • ReMarkable 2: Up to 2 weeks of battery life with heavy usage.
    "Low battery: Your Kindle needs to charge before use" displayed on Kindle Screen.
    Shutterstock

    Price

    The price difference between the two could be a dealbreaker for some.

    The Kindle Scribe starts at $339, making it affordable if you’re already part of the Amazon ecosystem.

    The ReMarkable 2, on the other hand, starts at $399, with additional costs for the stylus and accessories. The Marker (stylus) costs an additional $79, while the Marker Plus (which includes an eraser) costs $129.
    Folio cases are sold separately, ranging from $79 to $129.

    The Kindle Scribe is more affordable upfront, especially if you already use Amazon services. The ReMarkable 2 is more expensive, particularly when adding the stylus and accessories.

    Which One Is Right for You?

    Both the Kindle Scribe and ReMarkable 2 are excellent digital notebooks, each with its own strengths. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

    • Go for the Kindle Scribe if:
      • You want an all-in-one device for reading and note-taking.
      • You’re already invested in the Amazon ecosystem and want integration with Kindle books and audiobooks.
      • You need a reliable, versatile digital notebook without breaking the bank.
    • Go for the ReMarkable 2 if:
      • You’re a professional or student who needs a dedicated note-taking device with no distractions.
      • You love the idea of a paper-like writing experience with ultra-low latency.
      • You don’t mind spending more on a premium, focused device.

    The ultimate digital notebook depends on your needs—whether you’re after seamless integration with your reading habits or a pure, distraction-free writing and creative tool.

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