Key Takeaways:
- Onyx International releases a $1,900 color E Ink monitor called the Boox Mira Pro.
- It features a 25.3-inch screen with 3200×1800 resolution.
- Uses E Ink Kaleido 3 tech for up to 4,096 colors.
- Supports multiple connection options like HDMI, USB-C, and DisplayPort.
- Limited by lower refresh rates and potential ghosting.
Color E Ink: The Struggle Is Real
Let’s face it: color E Ink screens aren’t perfect yet. Devices like the reMarkable Paper Pro or Amazon’s Kindle Colorsoft show why. Colors look faded, the screens refresh slowly, and there’s a grainy texture you don’t see on regular black-and-white E Ink displays. But companies keep experimenting, hoping to make it better.
This time, Onyx International jumped into the mix with a pricey $1,900 color E Ink monitor. It’s called the Boox Mira Pro, and it’s a big step up from their older black-and-white models. Is it worth the money? Let’s dive in.
Meet the Boox Mira Pro
The Boox Mira Pro is a 25.3-inch monitor with a 3200×1800 resolution. That’s pretty sharp for an E Ink screen. It also has a 16:9 aspect ratio, which is great for watching videos or multitasking. The screen uses E Ink Kaleido 3 technology, which can show up to 4,096 colors. That’s a lot more than older models!
But here’s the catch: the image quality and refresh rate depend on the preset you choose. The faster you want it to refresh, the more ghosting you’ll see. Ghosting is when images leave a faint trail, like when you scroll too fast. The exact refresh rate isn’t mentioned, but it’s clear it’s not as smooth as a regular monitor.
Ports Galore
The Boox Mira Pro has plenty of ways to connect. You get a full-size HDMI port, a mini HDMI port, a USB-C port, and even a DisplayPort. Whether you’re using a PC, Mac, or something else, you’re covered. The stand looks a lot like Apple’s Studio Display, but it also supports VESA mounting. That means you can attach it to a wall or an arm if you want.
What’s the Big Deal?
So, why should you care about this monitor? Well, E Ink screens are easier on the eyes than regular LED screens. They’re like reading a book, and that’s perfect for long study sessions or work hours. The colors are a big plus too. Imagine editing photos or watching videos on a screen that feels less stressful for your eyes.
But let’s not forget the downsides. The high price tag is a shock. $1,900 is a lot for a monitor, especially when you can get a regular 4K monitor for less. The lower refresh rate and ghosting issues might also be annoying if you’re used to smoother screens.
Who Is This For?
The Boox Mira Pro seems aimed at people who value eye comfort and want color on an E Ink screen. Graphic designers, writers, and anyone who reads or works for hours might love it. But for gamers or video editors who need fast refresh rates, it’s probably not the best choice.
Digital Chew’s Take
Is the Boox Mira Pro worth it? It depends on what you need. If you’re okay with the high price and lower performance, this could be a great option. It’s a big step forward for color E Ink tech, and it might be worth the investment if you want something unique.
For now, it’s a niche product. But who knows? Maybe one day, color E Ink will be as good as regular screens without the eye strain. Until then, the Boox Mira Pro is an interesting option for those willing to try something new.