Onyx Boox Go Color 7 Review: Not for the Casual Tablet User
In the crowded world of tablets and e-readers, the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 stands out as a unique choice featuring a color e-ink display. But while it boasts some impressive features tailored to avid readers, artists, and productivity enthusiasts, it’s not necessarily the best pick for everyone. This comprehensive review explores why the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 is better suited for advanced users rather than casual tablet buyers, covering its key features, benefits, drawbacks, and practical use cases.
Meta Overview
- Product: Onyx Boox Go Color 7
- Screen Size: 7.8 inches
- Display Type: Color E Ink Kaleido Plus
- Operating System: Android 11
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB-C
- Battery Life: Several weeks on a single charge
Introduction to the Onyx Boox Go Color 7
The Onyx Boox Go Color 7 is part of Onyx’s innovative line of e-ink devices designed to go beyond the capabilities of traditional e-readers. Unlike the monochrome displays found in Kindle or Kobo devices, the Go Color 7 features a color E Ink Kaleido Plus screen, which supports thousands of colors. This innovation allows users to enjoy everything from comic books to PDFs with color elements, making it a compelling device for professionals and creatives.
While first appearances might trick casual users into thinking this is a typical tablet, the technology behind the Go Color 7 sets it apart. Its slower refresh rate and specialized screen technology mean it caters to specific niches rather than broad mass usage.
Key Features and Specifications
Color E Ink Kaleido Plus Display
The standout feature of the Go Color 7 is its 7.8-inch color e-ink screen. Unlike LCD or OLED tablets, the color E Ink display provides paper-like readability even in bright sunlight while avoiding the eye strain caused by backlit screens.
- Supports 4096 colors, ideal for colored texts, comics, and illustrated documents
- Resolution of 1872 x 1404 pixels (300 PPI), crisp and clear reading
- Front-lit panel with adjustable warm and cold light modes for night reading
Performance and Software
Powered by a quad-core processor and running Android 11, the Go Color 7 offers flexibility many e-readers lack. Users can install third-party apps, including note-taking, productivity, and reading apps beyond the default ones.
- 3GB RAM and 32GB storage for ample app and file management
- Google Play Store access, but performance best on e-ink optimized apps
- Multiple reading formats supported: EPUB, PDF, MOBI, TXT, DJVU, and more
Battery Life and Build
Thanks to the energy-efficient e-ink technology, the battery can last up to several weeks depending on usage, significantly outlasting typical LCD tablets.
- 3,000 mAh battery
- USB-C fast charging
- Lightweight design at approximately 185 grams (0.41 lbs)
Who Is the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 For?
The Go Color 7 is designed with a particular audience in mind. It greatly appeals to:
- Avid digital readers: Especially those who enjoy comic books, magazines, and textbooks with color elements.
- Students and professionals: Who need to annotate PDFs, take notes, or use productivity apps without eye fatigue.
- Artists and designers: Who prefer natural paper-like viewing for sketches and references.
On the contrary, casual users who primarily want a fast, multimedia-rich tablet streaming video or gaming will find it limiting.
Benefits of the Onyx Boox Go Color 7
- Reduced Eye Strain: The e-ink screen mimics paper, making it gentler on the eyes than conventional LCD or OLED displays.
- Outstanding Outdoor Readability: Excellent visibility in direct sunlight, ideal for outdoor reading sessions.
- Color Support on E-Ink: Unique feature for e-readers, perfect for color-rich content without LCD drawbacks.
- Android OS Flexibility: Allows customization and access to a wide app ecosystem beyond reading apps.
- Lightweight & Portable: Easy to carry and hold for extended reading sessions.
Drawbacks & Limitations
While innovative, the Go Color 7 is not without its compromises. Below are some key challenges prospective buyers should consider:
- Slower Refresh Rate: The color e-ink technology refreshes slower than LCD screens, making fast scrolling or video playback impractical.
- Color Limitations: Despite supporting thousands of colors, the display is less vibrant and saturated compared to typical tablets.
- Price Point: The device is more expensive than many e-readers and some tablets, which may deter casual users.
- Not Ideal for Gaming and Multimedia: Apps with heavy animations or videos perform poorly due to screen technology.
- Learning Curve: Android on an e-ink device may feel less intuitive, especially for users accustomed to traditional tablets.
First-Hand Experience: What It’s Like Using the Go Color 7
In daily use, the Go Color 7 shines brightest as a reading tool and note-taking device. The resolution produces crisp text that rivals many dedicated e-readers. Comic books and color textbooks come alive with natural, pleasant hues, though colors appear muted when compared to LED tablets.
Thanks to Android 11, installing apps like Kindle, Pocket, or Moon+ Reader is straightforward. However, users should expect occasional lag and need to optimize app settings for an e-ink environment.
Battery life easily outperforms conventional tablets, making long trips or extended reading marathons effortless. The front light is adjustable with both warm and cold light options, allowing comfortable reading at night without disturbing sleep cycles.
“The Onyx Boox Go Color 7 is a niche device – a perfect companion for someone who reads professionally, annotates documents regularly, or wants color capacity without sacrificing eye comfort.”
Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Onyx Boox Go Color 7
- Use e-ink optimized apps: Prefer apps like NeoReader or BOOX’s native reader for smoother navigation.
- Adjust front light settings: Tweak warm/cold light depending on time of day to protect your eyes.
- Enable airplane mode: To extend battery life during long reading sessions without connectivity.
- Utilize note-taking features: Take advantage of handwriting or text annotation to enhance workflow.
- Regularly update firmware: Ensures better software performance and compatibility.
Conclusion: Is the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 Right for You?
The Onyx Boox Go Color 7 represents a fascinating fusion of e-ink technology and modern Android flexibility. Its color display, excellent readability, and long battery life make it a superb tool for certain reading enthusiasts, students, and professionals. However, it’s important to understand that this device is not designed to replace your everyday tablet or smartphone.
If you’re a casual user looking for a quick app launcher, smooth video playback, or gaming capabilities, the Go Color 7 will likely disappoint. But if you value eye comfort, color support in an e-reader, and appreciate the unique features tailored toward productivity and serious reading, this device can be an excellent long-term investment.
Ultimately, the Onyx Boox Go Color 7 shines brightest when used within its niche and is best suited for those ready to embrace an alternative tablet experience.