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| X4: Compact e-reader fits the iPhone. |
In a world of massive tablets and ever-expanding smartphone screens, a new device is betting on the appeal of going small. The Xteink X4, a compact e-reader now available for $69, is making waves not just for its pint-sized profile, but for its clever trick: it can magnetically attach to the back of a compatible smartphone, creating a unique two-device combo.
At first glance, the specs read like a gadget from a minimalist dream. Measuring a mere 114 x 69 x 5.9 mm and weighing just 74 grams, the X4 is barely larger than a credit card. Its design philosophy is refreshingly straightforward. Unlike most consumer electronics, it foregoes a traditional System-on-a-Chip (SoC) and is instead powered by an ESP32 microcontroller, a workhorse popular in DIY and maker projects for its versatility and low power consumption.
Storage isn’t an issue, thanks to a built-in 32 GB microSD card slot, and transferring your favorite reads or documents is simple via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Powering the device is a modest 650 mAh battery. While that capacity seems tiny by today's standards, the ultra-efficient e-ink display technology works its magic, promising up to 14 days of use on a charge with moderate reading of one to three hours daily.
The Heart of the Matter: That Screen
The centerpiece is, of course, the 4.3-inch e-ink display. With a pixel density of 220 PPI, it offers clear, paper-like text that’s easy on the eyes. However, the small size dictates a very specific experience. For avid readers of novels or long articles, the amount of text per page is limited, meaning more frequent page turns. It’s a trade-off for the ultra-portable form factor.
This leads to the X4’s interesting secondary identity. The company advertises it for a wide range of uses beyond just books. Its small, always-on screen makes it an ideal digital companion for displaying flight boarding passes, gym membership barcodes, your daily calendar, or even simple images. It supports ePUB, TXT, BMP, and JPG files, covering the basics for both reading and simple viewing.
Hands-On Operation
One crucial detail for potential buyers: the Xteink X4 does not have a touchscreen. Navigation is handled entirely by the physical buttons on its side. This can be a pro for those who prefer tactile feedback and hate smudges, or a con for users deeply accustomed to touch gestures. It’s an intentional choice that adds to the device’s simple, distraction-free ethos.
So, who is the Xteink X4 for? It’s a niche product that will strongly appeal to minimalists, tech enthusiasts intrigued by its maker-friendly ESP32 guts, and anyone who desires a dedicated, lightweight reading screen that doesn’t compete with their phone for attention—but can literally hitch a ride on it. It’s less about replacing your Kindle and more about offering a novel, supplementary display.
For full specifications, official accessories, and compatibility details, you can check out the product page directly on the manufacturer's website: https://www.xteink.com/products/xteink-x4.
The Verdict
The Xteink X4 is a fascinating gadget. At $69, it’s an accessible experiment in personal tech. It won’t satisfy everyone—the small screen is a limitation for long-form reading, and the lack of touch will be a dealbreaker for some. But as a portable information hub, a digital notepad for snippets, or a truly pocketable e-reader that lives on your phone, it carves out a unique and clever space of its own. It’s proof that sometimes, thinking small can lead to the most interesting ideas.
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| Boarding passes can also be displayed. |