If you love the feel of writing on paper but need the convenience of digital, you're in luck. We've tested a bunch of digital notebooks and smart pens to find the best options, from budget-friendly smart pens to feature-packed tablets.
For those who prefer a traditional writing experience, the Neo Smartpen M1+ ($129) is a standout. It's incredibly thin and light, making it feel just like a regular pen, and it's comfortable to hold. The companion Neo Studio app (iOS, Android) is intuitive, allowing you to easily organize and search your notes. Plus, you can edit ink color and thickness even after you've written your notes.
Moleskine also offers a smart solution with its Smart Writing Set ($262), which includes both a notebook and a pen. This bundle is ideal for beginners, as it seamlessly digitizes your handwritten notes into the Moleskine Notes 2.0 app (iOS, Android). While an older app version is available, the 2.0 version offers a more streamlined experience. Note that the version tested was a 2018 model, with a newer version planned for testing.
Honorable mentions include the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft ($630) and the 3rd Gen Kindle Scribe ($500/$430). While these devices offer a good blend of e-reader and digital notebook features, their high price point, driven by AI features and connectivity, may be a barrier for some. Despite this, they boast impressive battery life. For those seeking more power, the Boox Note Air4 C ($470) runs on Android 13, giving it a tablet-like experience with an E ink screen, including web browsing and app access, though it's currently out of stock in the US.
Other noteworthy devices include the high-end Montblanc Digital Paper ($935) with its customizable pen buttons, the budget-friendly Neo Smartpen Dimo ($59) with replaceable batteries, the now refurbished-only ReMarkable 2 ($459), and the reusable Rocketbook Fusion Plus ($30), which uses a erasable pen and companion app for digitizing notes. For a compact option, the Supernote A6 X2 Nomad ($394) is a smaller, travel-friendly digital notebook.
While a digital notebook isn't essential, these devices are a solid choice if you enjoy the physical act of writing but require digital copies. E Ink screens are easier on the eyes and mimic the feel of paper better than standard tablet screens. While the initial cost can be significant, the long-lasting battery life, especially compared to traditional tablets, is a major plus.
