ReMarkable Paper Pro Review: A Sleek, Colorful, Distraction-Free, 11.8″ Digital Notebook for Writers and Thinkers

There’s something undeniably magical about the feel of pen on paper. But let’s be honest, in a world powered by cloud sync and touchscreens, handwritten notes are about as practical as a fax machine in a coffee shop. That’s where the reMarkable Paper Pro comes charging in like a caffeinated librarian on a mission, rescuing the timeless joy of handwriting and transforming it into a sleek, modern tool that actually keeps up with your 21st-century life. No distracting apps. No intrusive notifications. No pop-ups at all. Just you, your thoughts, and one seriously sleek slab of cloud-connected digital paper.

What You Get in the Box

Unboxing the reMarkable Paper Pro feels like unwrapping a fancy notebook from a boutique stationery shop, but with better tech hiding inside. In the box, you’ll find the reMarkable Paper Pro tablet, which features a full 11.8″ color Canvas display and a USB-C to USB-C cable.

When ordering the reMarkable Paper Pro, you’ll have the option to choose the writing implement you’ll use with it: either the Marker (included with the purchase) or the Marker Plus (an additional $50 with the Paper Pro purchase). Both feel great in hand and write beautifully on the tablet, but the Marker Plus has a built-in eraser on the flip side, which is a chef’s kiss feature if you ask me.

With either Marker model, you’ll also get six extra Marker tips, because yes, they do wear down (more on that later).

First Impressions: The Physical Experience

The reMarkable Paper Pro doesn’t mess around when it comes to first impressions. It’s ultra-slim at just 0.1″ thick (thinner than a magazine!) and weighs about 1.16 pounds; it’s light enough to toss in your bag without a second thought.

The gray aluminum body feels sturdy and premium without tipping over into “I’m too precious to actually use” territory.

On the back of the reMarkable Paper Pro, there are four magnetic feet that allow it to snap into the Book Folio or the Type Folio, should you opt for a cover. Pogo pins are also present, so it can integrate with and power the Type Folio. We’ll talk more about both covers a little further in this review.

Once you get past the sleek build and premium feel, the next thing you’ll probably notice is the display — and not just the size, though the 11.8″ screen definitely makes a statement. What really sets the reMarkable Paper Pro apart is its use of color E Ink, which brings a quiet elegance to everything from note-taking to sketching.

Speaking of that color E Ink screen, let’s get real for a second: it won’t blow your mind with bright, saturated hues like an iPad. It’s subtle. Pastel. Muted. But that’s kind of the point — the color is there to help you organize your ideas, not to distract you with Instagram candy.

The Writing Experience: As Good as Advertised?

If you are the kind of person who judges a tablet by how it feels under the tip of your pen, prepare to be impressed. Writing on the reMarkable Paper Pro’s custom-textured Canvas Color display feels more like dragging a fine rollerball across premium paper than tapping glass with a stylus. There’s a slight but satisfying friction that makes writing, sketching, and annotating PDFs feel almost luxurious.

The included Marker feels great in hand — it’s well-balanced, responsive to pressure and tilt, and glides across the screen with just the right amount of friction. It doesn’t have the built-in eraser like the Marker Plus, so you’ll need to tap the on-screen eraser tool when fixing a mistake (or you can tap the display with two fingers), but that quickly becomes second nature.

If you’re a heavy note-taker or sketcher, be aware that the Marker tips do wear down over time. Luckily, swapping them out is easy, and the extras included in the box mean you’re covered for a good while.

Main Differences between the reMarkable Paper Pro and the Previous Generation reMarkable 2

Performance-wise, the reMarkable Paper Pro’s writing lag clocks in at just 12 milliseconds. To put it plainly: it’s sometimes faster than your own brain.

Compared to the 10.3″ reMarkable 2 ($399), the E Ink tablet that I’ve been using since late 2022, the Paper Pro feels noticeably snappier and smoother, especially when juggling color notes or annotating large PDFs.

The reMarkable Paper Pro and its Marker on the left and the reMarkable 2 and its Marker Plus on the right

That performance jump is thanks to its 1.8GHz quad-core Cortex-A53 processor, paired with 2GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 64GB of internal storage. That’s double the RAM and a huge leap in storage over the reMarkable 2’s 1GB RAM and 8GB internal storage, making the Paper Pro much more comfortable for heavier workflows and file management.

I should mention that because reMarkable tablets don’t run third-party apps or multitask like traditional tablets, they don’t need as much RAM or storage as you’re used to seeing offered on other tablets. Even 8GB can hold thousands of handwritten pages and PDFs, so the Paper Pro’s 64GB is more about future-proofing than necessity; it ensures you’ll never have to worry about space, no matter how prolific your note-taking becomes.

The reMarkable Paper Pro’s new 11.8″ Canvas Color display, based on E Ink Gallery 3, is also a meaningful upgrade. It retains the paper-like feel that reMarkable is known for but adds a soft, muted color to your notes and sketches.

At 2160 x 1620 resolution (229 PPI), it’s crisp and easy on the eyes, and the adjustable front light is a welcome addition for reading in dim environments. While the reMarkable 2 still offers that same textured writing surface and excellent stylus feel, it lacks both color and front lighting, which now feel like noticeable omissions.

Physically, the Paper Pro is slightly thicker at 5.1mm (0.201″) and heavier at 1.16 pounds compared to the 4.7mm (0.185″), 14.23-ounce reMarkable 2, but that extra heft brings a sturdier aluminum build and a significantly larger 5,030 mAh battery. Both devices will offer up to 14 days of regular use, and they both run the same minimalist reMarkable OS, support handwriting-to-text conversion, and work seamlessly with reMarkable’s mobile and desktop apps through the Connect subscription.

If the reMarkable 2 was a beautifully stripped-down digital notebook, the Paper Pro feels like its fully realized evolution; it’s more powerful, more capable, and somehow even more refined without adding unnecessary complexity.

If you’re planning to upgrade from the reMarkable 2 to the new reMarkable Paper Pro and you already own the Marker Plus, there’s something you should know before you make the switch: your existing stylus won’t work with the new tablet. Even though both models come from the same company, the stylus tech inside each is different, which means they’re not cross-compatible. So if you were hoping to keep using the built-in eraser on the end of your current Marker Plus with the Paper Pro, you’re out of luck. You’ll need to pick up a new Marker Pro designed specifically for the Paper Pro to get that same functionality.

Display and Reading: Big, Bright (Enough), and Colorful (Sort of)

The reMarkable Paper Pro’s 11.8″ screen is an absolute treat for anyone tired of scrolling through tiny PDFs on a phone. With a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels, text looks crisp and sharp without the eye strain that comes from a backlit screen.

The new adjustable reading light is another welcome addition. It isn’t blazing bright (thankfully), but it’s plenty strong enough for late-night study sessions or airplane cabin reading. Plus, it’s way easier on the eyes because it’s a front light (not a backlight like on your phone).

Now, about that color display. If you’re expecting fireworks, manage your expectations. It’s more of a “tastefully muted watercolor palette” than a “4K OLED blast.” But for highlighting notes, color-coding tasks, and sketching, it works beautifully.

Everyday Use: Distraction-Free Productivity, Finally

Let’s get one thing out of the way: the reMarkable Paper Pro is not trying to be your laptop. It’s not even trying to be your Kindle. It’s a dedicated, minimalist note-taking and reading machine. There’s no app store. No web browser. No buzzing notifications to yank you out of your zone.

And that’s honestly the point.

This is the device you reach for when you need to read, write, brainstorm, or sketch without falling down a digital rabbit hole. It syncs notes to your computer and phone via reMarkable’s cloud service, which is free for the basics, but can be upgraded with a Connect subscription to give you extra features like unlimited storage and handwriting-to-text conversion.

Endless Pages, Endless Possibilities: Custom Templates That Fit Your Workflow

The Paper Pro includes a wide range of templates—from blank pages and lined journals to planners, calligraphy sheets, music staff paper, and even guitar tabs. My favorite style for journaling is Lined Heading, but it is easy to switch things up at any time for a new page.

If you need a template beyond what is already included on the device, there are plenty of other free ones to choose from and download on the reMarkable Method subsite. If you still don’t find what you’re looking for, check out the ridiculous number of templates available at various price points by third-party designers on Etsy.

I use the reMarkable Paper Pro as my daily journal, and it’s become one of my favorite rituals. There’s something grounding about putting pen to digital paper without the noise of apps, alerts, or other distractions elbowing in.

Whether I’m reflecting on the day, jotting down goals, or just brain-dumping ideas, it gives me the same sense of clarity I used to get from traditional notebooks — but with the added perks of cloud sync and searchability.

I also appreciate that I can lock the tablet with a PIN. It’s a small but meaningful touch that lets me write freely, knowing my private thoughts aren’t accessible to anyone who might casually pick up the device. It’s a journal I can trust, both in its simplicity and its security.

Downloading Files and Linking Cloud Storage Services to Your reMarkable Tablet

The reMarkable Paper Pro might be all about minimalism, but that doesn’t mean it lives in a vacuum. If you’re someone who works across devices or pulls reference files from multiple places, the ability to connect to Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive is a quiet superpower. Once set up, you can pull files onto your Paper Pro, annotate them, and send them right back—no email chains or thumb drives required.

Setting up cloud integrations takes just a couple of minutes. Log in at my.remarkable.com, go to Integrations, and link your preferred service.

You can even add up to five accounts (think personal Dropbox and work OneDrive), and rename them for easy sorting. Once connected, you’ll see those services in the sidebar menu on your tablet. Tap into one, long-press a compatible file, and hit Import to bring it into My Files for reading or markup. Need to send a file back? Long-press it again and tap Export—done.

Bonus points: reMarkable supports shared Google Drives and Microsoft SharePoint folders, which means even your team’s most buried meeting agenda is now accessible on your distraction-free workspace. And while it doesn’t support every file under the sun, PDFs, non-DRM protected EPUBs, and Office docs (converted via the Read on reMarkable extensions) are all fair game. You can also import JPG and PNG files, which will be converted to PDF on your reMarkable tablet.

ReMarkable works best when paired with its custom-built apps for iPhone, Android, PC, and Mac—they make syncing and transferring files seamless. But if the apps aren’t available, you’ve still got options. You can upload files directly through your browser at my.remarkable.com, plug in with a USB-C cable, or even email documents to yourself. And thanks to those cloud integrations, you can also upload or pull files straight from Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive whenever inspiration—or obligation—strikes.

So while the reMarkable Paper Pro isn’t a traditional tablet, it plays surprisingly well with the services you’re already using—and it does so in a way that keeps your workflow focused, clean, and clutter-free.

Taking Your Workflow Further with or without a Connect Subscription

While the reMarkable Paper Pro can absolutely stand on its own, adding a Connect subscription unlocks its full potential. Think of it like upgrading from a reliable bicycle to a sleek electric bike — you’re still doing the work, but everything flows faster, smoother, and farther.

With Connect, you get unlimited cloud storage, which means your notes, documents, and doodles are always backed up and available across your devices. Capture a random idea on your phone, build it out on your Paper Pro, and polish it on your desktop — it’s a seamless, cross-platform workflow. You’ll also unlock features like cross-device editing, version history, and a little extra peace of mind thanks to the included reMarkable Protection Plan. If anything goes wrong with your device due to a manufacturing defect (not user error), they’ll replace it for free for up to three years.

The good news? New Paper Pro buyers get a 100-day free trial of Connect, with no strings attached and easy cancellation if it’s not for you. After that, it’s just $2.99/month (plus tax) or $29.90 (plus tax) billed yearly.

That said, you don’t need a subscription to make the most of the Paper Pro. Out of the box — and without paying a dime extra — you can still integrate with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive; convert your handwriting to text; send articles and Office files via the Read on reMarkable extension; and use features like Tags, Send by email, and Screen Share for presentations and virtual meetings. You’ll even have access to reMarkable’s cloud service through the mobile and desktop apps — albeit limited to your last 50 days’ worth of synced files.

So whether or not you opt into Connect, the Paper Pro gives you the tools you need to stay organized, stay focused, and stay in control of your workflow. Connect just makes everything a little more seamless — and a lot more backed up.

Accessories: Worth It or Nah?

Optional accessories for the reMarkable Paper Pro beyond the previously mentioned $129 Marker Plus (with the built-in eraser on its end) include the Book Folio and the Type Folio. If you pick up either or both of those, you’ll learn that they each add a layer of functionality without making the whole setup feel like you’re lugging around a brick.

The Book Folio is available in recycled fabrics ($89 to $139) or buttery brown or black leather ($179); it’s a stylish and protective case that snaps magnetically onto the back of the Paper Pro. It holds the Marker securely and makes it feel like carrying an expensive notebook. I really love the look and feel of the leather Book Folio. While it’s not cheap, if you want to keep your device safe in style, it feels worth it.

For journaling or note-taking in meetings, anything I prefer to do in longhand, I gravitate toward the brown leather Book Folio. There’s something about the tactile feel and timeless look of the leather that makes the whole experience feel more grounded. The Book Folio is sleek and quietly luxurious in a way that perfectly complements the minimalist design of the Paper Pro.

The $229 Type Folio is where things get a little more interesting. It turns your Paper Pro into a lightweight, distraction-free typing machine. No charging, no pairing — you just snap it on and start typing away on backlit keys with surprisingly satisfying travel. It’s like a typewriter for the digital age, minus the clackity noise and ink ribbons.

Compared to using the Marker alone, the Type Folio opens up a whole new layer of productivity, letting you bang out longer documents without having to switch devices. Just don’t expect it to replace your laptop for heavy-duty editing or spreadsheet work.

I tend to reach for the Type Folio while working on manuscripts. Typing helps me get into a better rhythm for storytelling, as I find it easier to chase a thought without the natural pauses that come with handwriting.

And because no notifications or app pop-ups are vying for my attention, it’s easy to settle into a focused writing session without distractions. While the Type Folio adds about a pound to the Paper Pro, it still feels incredibly portable, making it a great companion when writing on the go.

Whether I’m typing out chapters or scribbling down thoughts, the reMarkable Paper Pro adapts to the moment without ever getting in the way. Paired with the right Folio, it becomes more than just a tool—it becomes part of the creative process.

What Else Is Out There That Might Compare to the reMarkable Paper Pro?

Next to the reMarkable Paper Pro, both the 10.3″ BOOX Tab Ultra C Pro ($649.99) and the BOOX Note Air 4 C ($529.99) would probably be the most interesting E INK tablets that I would consider. Each is undeniably feature-rich, packed with Android OS flexibility, color E Ink displays, and hardware upgrades aimed at mimicking a full-fledged tablet experience. Best of all, you can run the Kindle app on them.

Yet the 11.8″ reMarkable Paper Pro stands apart from those because it doesn’t try to be everything; it just tries to be excellent at one thing: focused, analog-feeling productivity. The BOOX tablets, on the other hand, feel like powerful Android slates wearing E Ink disguises, loaded with app stores, audio players, and endless customization options that tempt you to do more but often end up doing too much. In the case of the BOOX Tab Ultra C Pro, there is even a 16-megapixel rear camera with an LED flash. I don’t need all of that!

In contrast, the reMarkable Paper Pro feels like it was designed by someone who understands that less can be more. Its larger Canvas Color display invites me to think bigger without getting louder. There’s no app drawer to distract me, no notifications to yank my attention mid-note, and no keyboard-turned-trackpad hybrid trying to mimic a laptop.

Everything from the minimalist OS to the tactile Marker is built with a singular purpose: to help you write, read, and think without interference. The result is a tablet that feels not just thoughtfully designed, but refreshingly intentional; it’s a digital tool that lets you work more like a human, and less like a device.

Why You Might Want One (and Why You Might Not)

If you’re someone who craves a quiet, focused workspace and loves the feel of pen on paper, the reMarkable Paper Pro is absolutely worth a look. It’s ideal for writers, designers, academics, or anyone who lives and dies by their notes. The large color screen, distraction-free environment, and natural writing feel are simply unmatched by anything else I’ve seen, much less trying to get the same experience on an iPad (which will constantly tempt you with cat videos).

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you need a traditional tablet experience of email, web browsing, or endless apps, you will be frustrated. If you demand a bright, vivid, fast-refreshing color display, you might find the pastel hues and occasional ghosting a little underwhelming.

The Bottom Line

The reMarkable Paper Pro feels like a love letter to the art of thinking slowly and writing thoughtfully. It’s a tool that respects your brain’s need for calm, gives your ideas space to breathe, and looks ridiculously good doing it.

It’s not the flashiest device in the room — and honestly, that’s its secret weapon. In a world that’s always demanding more, the Paper Pro dares to offer less — fewer distractions, fewer notifications, fewer digital detours — so you can focus on what matters.

If you’ve made it this far and nodded along with every section, the reMarkable Paper Pro probably isn’t just a good fit, it’s your next essential tool. Whether you’re a writer, a creative, a deep thinker, or someone who simply wants to reclaim a bit of quiet in your digital day, this tablet delivers the analog joy of pen and paper, with just enough tech to make it powerful.

The reMarkable Paper Pro retails for $579; it is available directly from the manufacturer and other retailers, including Amazon.

Source: Manufacturer-supplied review sample

What I Like: Exceptional writing feel with just the right friction; Distraction-free interface that keeps you focused; Beautiful, minimalist hardware design; Seamless cloud sync and handwriting conversion; Excellent third-party template support; Optional accessories enhance functionality

What Needs Improvement: Muted color display may underwhelm some users; Pricey accessories add up quickly; Lack of apps compared to traditional tablets may be a negative, depending on your needs; Can’t handle DRM-protected ebooks or media-heavy file types