In the evolving world of display technology, color E Ink monitors are making waves, albeit with certain compromises. Our reviews of devices like the reMarkable Paper Pro and Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft have highlighted challenges such as washed-out colors, low refresh rates, and a grainy appearance—issues not present in traditional black-and-white E Ink displays. Nevertheless, device manufacturers continue to innovate, and Onyx International has recently unveiled a remarkable offering: the Boox Mira Pro, a $1,900 color E Ink monitor designed for seamless connectivity with both PC and Mac systems.
The Boox Mira Pro features an impressive 25.3-inch screen with a resolution of 3200×1800 and a 16:9 aspect ratio, building on the foundation established by Onyx’s previous black-and-white Mira Pro monitors. This new model utilizes E Ink Kaleido 3 technology, capable of displaying up to 4,096 colors. However, users should be aware that both image quality and refresh rate will vary depending on the monitor’s four available presets. While the exact refresh rate details are not disclosed, it is noted that E Ink monitors generally offer lower refresh speeds compared to traditional displays, which can lead to increased ghosting effects at higher speeds.
The Boox Mira Pro is equipped with multiple connectivity options, including a full-size HDMI port, a mini HDMI port, a USB-C port, and a DisplayPort. Its default stand bears a resemblance to the popular Apple Studio Display while also allowing for VESA mounting, enhancing its versatility in various setups. This monitor is part of Onyx International's broader range of Boox devices, which primarily focus on Android-powered E Ink tablets. These tablets provide the advantages of E Ink technology—such as eye-friendly text and long battery life—while offering access to numerous bookstores and content sources through Google Play, unlike proprietary ecosystems like Amazon's Kindle.
While E Ink monitors are not entirely new, Onyx's black-and-white Mira Pro has set a precedent in this niche market. The competition includes Dasung, which offers a similar 25.3-inch, 33 Hz color E Ink screen priced around $2,000, and Acogedor, which produces smaller black-and-white models. Additionally, there are general-purpose E Ink displays designed for use with Raspberry Pi. However, Onyx Boox stands out as a leading name in this domain, and the Mira Pro presents a more appealing design compared to its competitors.
For those in the US interested in purchasing the Boox Mira Pro, it's crucial to note that Onyx Boox’s website mentions potential tariffs on imported goods, which can vary by country. To understand the specific tariffs applicable, customers should consult their local customs department. Currently, shipments are dispatched exclusively from Onyx's Hong Kong warehouse, where goods are subject to the same tariffs as those imposed on mainland China by the Trump administration. At this time, it appears that Onyx Boox has not included these potential tariffs in the listed price of the monitor. While some monitors may qualify for broad exemptions covering many smartphones and PC hardware, the situation regarding tariffs remains fluid and is subject to change.
The Boox Mira Pro represents a significant advancement in the world of color E Ink technology, catering to users who seek a unique display experience. With its high resolution and color capabilities, it stands as a promising option for those willing to navigate the nuances of pricing and import regulations. As Onyx International continues to innovate, the future of E Ink displays looks increasingly bright.
