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Supernote Manta Set to Launch Soon, Priced at $459
The long-awaited Supernote Manta, previously teased under the name A5 X2, is creating a buzz in the world of e-ink devices. Originally previewed over a year ago, official details about the new e-note have remained sparse until now. Thanks to a recently leaked page from Supernote's own website, some enticing details have finally emerged — enough to captivate enthusiasts of paper-like writing tablets.
Introducing the Supernote Manta
The Supernote Manta is a sleek, premium e-note design aimed at providing a distraction-free writing environment, ideal for users who prioritize handwriting and note-taking over multimedia features. Priced at $459, it is undoubtedly not the cheapest e-note device available. However, its design philosophy — prioritizing the tactile experience of handwriting — addresses a specific niche of users looking for a near-paper feel.
One notable omission is the absence of a front light, a feature that has become common in many e-readers and e-note devices. While this might seem like a disadvantage, it is actually a deliberate choice. A front light typically adds an additional layer above the e-ink screen, increasing the distance between the stylus and the display. This affects the pen-on-paper experience, which Supernote has carefully preserved. The resulting design reflects their commitment to achieving a more authentic writing feel, making the device perfect for writers and users who prefer minimal distractions.
Comparisons with Competitors
In the growing market of e-note tablets, the Supernote Manta will face stiff competition from established players like the Kindle Scribe, Kobo Elipsa 2E, and Onyx Boox Go 10.3. These devices, while competent, are often tied to their respective content ecosystems, making the user's experience slightly less flexible. For example, the Amazon Kindle Scribe 2, which recently launched with new upgrades, appeals to users looking for enhanced features but remains tethered to Amazon's ecosystem.
The reMarkable lineup offers perhaps the closest comparison to what the Supernote Manta aims to deliver. With products like the reMarkable Paper Pro priced at $580, the competition provides a highly polished writing experience. However, the Manta's relatively lower price point and intentional focus on pure writing functionality might position it as an appealing alternative for budget-conscious buyers seeking similar features. Likewise, some may look to alternatives like the Onyx Boox Note Max, which offers advanced versatility but lacks the Supernote's singular emphasis on handwriting.
Front Light Controversy: A Tradeoff Worth Making?
For traditionalists who appreciate a genuine paper-like writing experience, the lack of a front light on the Supernote Manta might not be a dealbreaker. The absence of an integrated light may require users to work in well-lit environments, just as they would with paper. This compromise helps preserve the tactile sensation of writing directly onto the screen, free of the subtle disconnect that illuminated surfaces sometimes create.
On the other hand, users who prefer versatile functionality may find the tradeoff difficult to accept, especially in dimly lit conditions. Whether this design choice caters to your needs depends entirely on your priorities — immersive, distraction-free writing or convenient all-hours usability. Those seeking cutting-edge e-ink innovation might also want to explore emerging devices like the recently launched AOC XiaoQ Reader, which emphasizes advancements in display technology.
Anticipated Release Date
Supernote has yet to confirm an exact launch date for the Manta. With Christmas right around the corner, it seems unlikely the device will be available for holiday shoppers. However, there is speculation that the company may aim for an early 2025 release. Events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January could provide an ideal platform for a full reveal, potentially followed by pre-orders and shipments soon after. This potential timeline not only builds anticipation but could coincide with the release of other new devices, such as the expanded 2024 Kindle Range set to debut in global markets next year.
Final Thoughts
The Supernote Manta is shaping up to be a compelling contender in the e-note market, especially for professionals and creatives who value the feel of writing on paper. With its minimalist design and focus on handwriting excellence, the Manta distinguishes itself from more general-purpose e-notes and tablets. Priced at $459, it fits into a competitive bracket, offering potential buyers an affordable yet premium alternative to other high-end writing devices.
Whether you’re an author, student, or someone who values writing as an art form, the Manta has the potential to provide that authentic and distraction-free writing experience. That said, the absence of a front light and reliance on ambient lighting could influence its appeal depending on individual usage preferences. All eyes are now on Supernote for the upcoming release — perhaps the Manta will usher in a new standard for e-note writing devices in 2025.
