State of E-ink Monitors for Programming in 2024

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E-ink monitors offer a paper-like display that can significantly reduce eye strain during extended programming sessions. While they may not match the color vibrancy or refresh rates of traditional LCD or OLED screens, their reflective e-paper technology provides a comfortable viewing experience, especially in well-lit environments. Here are some top e-ink monitors suitable for programming:

Large Monitors

Dasung Paperlike 253

This 25.3-inch grayscale e-ink monitor boasts a high resolution and refresh rate, making it ideal for coding and reading. The Paperlike 253 is considered a premium product, with prices reported around $2,400. Its large screen facilitates split-screen and multi-window operations, enhancing productivity. The monitor is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux (specifically Ubuntu)

Specifications

Product Listing

  • Display: 25.3-inch E Ink screen
  • Resolution: 3200×1800 pixels
  • Refresh Rate: Enhanced by Dasung's Turbo High-Speed Refresh technology
  • Connectivity: HDMI, USB-C, DisplayPort
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac (OS X 10.11 or higher), Linux (specifically Ubuntu)
  • Color: No
  • Additional Features:
    • Front Light: Adjustable brightness and color temperature (available in specific models)
    • VESA Mount: Compatible with 100×100mm VESA mounts
    • Speakers: Built-in stereo speakers
    • Display Modes: Multiple modes (e.g., Graphics, Text) to optimize performance for different tasks

Pricing: $2400 - $1799

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Reviews:

Online Ratings:

  • 4.2/5 (3 reviews): Amazon
    • Positive Feedback: Users have praised the monitor for its eye-friendly display, noting significant reductions in eye strain and headaches during prolonged use. One reviewer mentioned that the monitor allowed them to work longer hours without experiencing migraines, describing it as akin to using a "giant windows powered paperwhite."
    • Considerations: Some users pointed out that the monitor's high price point and grayscale display may not be suitable for all tasks, especially those requiring color accuracy. However, for activities like coding, reading, and general computing, the monitor was found to be effective.

Onyx Boox Mira Pro

Featuring a 25-inch e-ink display with a resolution of 3200×1800, the Mira Pro supports both horizontal and vertical orientations. It includes front lighting for use in various lighting conditions and offers multiple connectivity options, such as HDMI, Mini HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. The monitor is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Android, and Linux.

  • Display: 25.3-inch E Ink screen
  • Resolution: 3200×1800 pixels
  • Refresh Rate: Enhanced by Onyx's BSR super refresh technology
  • Connectivity: HDMI, Mini HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Android, Linux
  • Additional Features:
    • Supports horizontal and vertical orientations
    • All-aluminum alloy body
    • Multiple speed modes (e.g., Normal, Text, Video) to cater to various tasks

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Small Monitors

DASUNG 13.3"

  • Display: 13.3" E-Ink screen
  • Resolution: 2200×1650 pixels (2k)
  • Refresh Rate: ?
  • Connectivity: Mini-HDMI, USB-C
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac
  • Color: Yes
  • Vesa Mount: Yes
  • Additional Features:
    • 3.5mm Earphone jack

https://shop.dasung.com/products/dasung-13-3-paperlike-hd-e-ink-monitor

Dasung Paperlike Color

This portable 12-inch color e-ink monitor provides a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. It's designed to reduce eye strain and is suitable for remote work, offering touchscreen functionality and physical buttons for display adjustments. Connectivity is via USB-C, and it weighs 439 grams, making it highly portable.

  • Display: 12-inch color E Ink screen
  • Resolution: 2560×1600 pixels
  • Refresh Rate: Up to 33Hz with Dasung's Turbo Refresh technology
  • Connectivity: USB-C
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac
  • Color: Yes
  • Additional Features:
    • Touchscreen functionality
    • Physical buttons for display adjustments
    • Highly portable, weighing 439 grams
    • Front light for use in various lighting conditions

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Onyx Boox Mira

A 13.3-inch e-ink monitor with a resolution of 2200×1650, the Mira is designed for portability and ease of use. It offers multiple connectivity options, including HDMI and USB-C, and supports both Windows and Mac OS. Its compact size makes it a versatile choice for programmers seeking a secondary display.

  • Display: 13.3-inch E Ink screen
  • Resolution: 2200×1650 pixels
  • Refresh Rate: Enhanced by Onyx's BSR super refresh technology
  • Connectivity: HDMI, USB-C
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS
  • Additional Features:
    • Compact and portable design
    • Multiple refresh modes to balance performance and ghosting

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Dasung Paperlike HD-F

This 13.3-inch e-ink monitor is tailored for coding, writing, and reading, aiming to alleviate eye strain. It provides good visibility in direct sunlight and supports various refresh rate settings to balance performance and ghosting. The monitor is compatible with multiple operating systems, including macOS.

  • Display: 13.3-inch grayscale E Ink screen
  • Resolution: 2200×1650 pixels
  • Refresh Rate: Comparable to LCDs, enhanced by Dasung's Turbo technology
  • Connectivity: HDMI, USB-C
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, Ubuntu
  • Additional Features:
    • Front light for improved visibility in various lighting conditions
    • Touchscreen functionality (with limited compatibility on Mac)
    • Portable design with a magnetic protective case

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When selecting an e-ink monitor for programming, consider factors such as screen size, resolution, refresh rate, connectivity options, and compatibility with your operating system. Additionally, assess whether you prefer a grayscale or color display, as this can impact the clarity and readability of your code.