- E-readers
- PocketBook, Kobo, reMarkable
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The Meebook M8C is the company’s attempt to regain relevance in the e-reader market, featuring a Kaleido 3 color e-paper display, a Wacom pen, Android 14, an octa-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB of storage. While the specifications sound promising, the device struggles to deliver a satisfactory user experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Style and Build
The design of the M8C is unremarkable, with a plain rear surface prone to fingerprints. The hardware includes a USB-C port, dual speakers, an SD card slot, and dual microphones. However, the build quality is average at best.
User Interface (UI)
The UI is similar to competitors like Onyx Boox and Bigme but lacks a distinctive “Meebook character.” Controls such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, display modes, and shortcuts are standard, but the overall UI feels clunky and unreliable. The touch input is inconsistent, often leading to frustrating user experiences. However, the option to toggle between monochrome and color display is a standout feature that few other devices offer.
Stylus and Note-Taking
The included Wacom stylus is functional but feels slippery and lacks the tactile feedback of writing on paper. Note-taking features are basic, with options for pen customization, colors, and shapes, but the overall experience is subpar due to the device’s unresponsive touch input.
Reading Experience
• Manga: The M8C excels as a manga reader, with its 7.8-inch display providing clear, detailed visuals. Speed and refresh settings allow users to customize the experience for clarity or faster performance.
• Books: The reading experience is less impressive, with a darker display compared to monochrome e-paper devices. Front-lighting is necessary to improve readability, and the quality varies depending on the app being used.
Performance Issues
The M8C suffers from significant performance drawbacks:
• Touch input frequently fails or misinterprets commands.
• The UI is slow and unintuitive.
• The device often resets or sends users back to the home screen unexpectedly.
• The learning curve is steep due to unnatural English translations and poor UI design.
Strengths
• Excellent for manga reading.
• Customizable speed and contrast settings for display optimization.
• Unique feature to toggle color display on or off.
Weaknesses
• Poor touch sensitivity and unreliable UI.
• Mediocre note-taking experience with the Wacom stylus.
• Dark display unsuitable for general e-reading without front-lighting.
• Slow, unresponsive performance.
• High learning curve due to design and software flaws.
Conclusion
The Meebook M8C has potential but falls short in its current state. While it shines as a manga reader and offers a unique monochrome toggle, these strengths are overshadowed by its sluggish performance, unresponsive touch input, and uninspired design. With significant software updates, the M8C could become a viable option, but for now, it is difficult to recommend.
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpGu2rIVAMQ
Source: Full Review of the Meebook M8C Color e-Reader
