Boox might finally fix my pocket ereader envy
Android Police 2026-07-24 20:23:59
Context: The author, Chandra Steele, has been experiencing "ereader envy" due to the compact size and features of the Xteink X4, a tiny ereader that weighs less than 3 ounces and costs $69. Steele, a long-time book enthusiast, has been searching for a pocket-sized ereader that meets her needs, but existing options have tradeoffs, such as lack of background light or limited book download options. Boox has announced a new ereader, the Picco, which seems to address some of these concerns.
Key Facts
- The Xteink X4 measures 4.49 × 2.72 × 0.23 inches and weighs less than 3 ounces, making it an extremely compact ereader option.
- The Xteink X4 uses physical buttons for turning pages, has no background light, and costs $69, but has limited book download options and software that can drain the battery.
- Boox's new ereader, the Picco, features a 3.97-inch front-lit display and physical buttons, and the company has told The Verge that it will be available at "an accessible price point."
- The author, Chandra Steele, has been writing about tech for her entire journalism career and previously worked as a senior features writer at PCMag.
- The Boox Palma 2 Pro, another ereader option, measures 6.3 x 3.1 x 0.35 inches and costs $399.99, making it larger and more expensive than the Picco.