First Impressions
The Boox Go 6 (Gen 2) arrives as a device that prioritizes portability without sacrificing the versatility expected from an Android-based e-reader. At just 160 grams and 6.8 millimeters thick, it is designed to slip into trousers or bags with minimal bulk. The form factor sits somewhere between a traditional tablet-style reader and a smartphone, offering a more square aspect ratio than phone-like devices such as the Boox Palma 2. This geometry feels more natural for reading standard books and browsing the web.
Priced at approximately £189 in its launch window, it positions itself as one of the more affordable entry points into the Boox ecosystem. The device is available in several colors, including a plum model that appears black but reveals a slight blue tint when tilted to the light, alongside lighter options like Shell, Custard, and Stone.
Design and Build Quality
The exterior design relies heavily on texture rather than premium materials. The back of the device features a textured plastic finish intended to provide grip. While this helps prevent slips, it also acts as a magnet for fingerprints and oils. Users with greasy hands or those who enjoy eating while reading should be prepared to clean the surface frequently.
The front bezels are relatively chunky but flush with the screen, contributing to the device’s slender profile. The display itself is a 6-inch E-ink panel with a matte finish and dual-tone front lighting. This setup effectively eliminates glare, making it suitable for outdoor reading even on sunny days. However, there is no ambient light sensor; brightness must be adjusted manually via the control center.
The device lacks water resistance, so it should not be taken into pools or baths despite its compact size. Boox offers an official cover that uses magnets to secure the device and automatically put it in hibernation when closed, which is a convenient alternative to pressing the power button repeatedly.
Setup and Security
Setting up the Go 6 Gen 2 involves signing into a Google account. For security, users must set a PIN code that is required every time the device wakes from sleep. There is no built-in fingerprint sensor on the power button to bypass this step, which can become tedious for frequent readers.
Software and Display Experience
The Go 6 Gen 2 runs Android 11, heavily customized by Boox. While Android 11 is an older operating system version, it remains fully functional for e-reading purposes. The device supports the full Google Play Store, allowing users to install apps like Kindle, Kobo, Crunchyroll, or even web browsers.
The user interface is streamlined around a library view that displays cover art and reading progress. Boox has improved the lock screen experience with cute images popping up upon waking the device. The main control center, accessible by dragging down from the top right corner, provides quick access to display toggles, stylus support, notification muting, and full-screen refreshes.
The Display
The 6-inch screen boasts a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (PPI). This density ensures that text is crisp and readable even at very small font sizes. The contrast is strong, which benefits both standard books and graphic novels. However, the monochrome nature of the display means it cannot render color comics or manga in their original format.
The E-ink wide refresh technology allows users to adjust refresh rates per app. This is particularly useful for web browsing, where a faster refresh rate reduces lag when scrolling through pages. Ghosting is generally minimal, though some faint remnants of previous images may occasionally appear during graphic novel reading.
Performance and Hardware
The most notable hardware upgrade in the Gen 2 model is the increase in RAM from 2GB to 3GB. This additional memory makes the device feel slightly nippier compared to its predecessor, though it does not transform it into a high-performance smartphone replacement.
Stylus Support
A key feature of the Gen 2 is support for Boox’s Ink Sense Plus stylus. This allows users to annotate PDFs, take handwritten notes, or sketch directly on the screen. The stylus pairs via Bluetooth and must be charged using a USB-C cable. While this adds utility for students or professionals who need to mark up documents, it does not fundamentally change the device's primary role as an e-reader.
Battery Life
The battery capacity remains at 1,500 mAh, unchanged from the previous generation. Real-world usage varies significantly based on activity:
- Web Browsing: Expect approximately 3 to 4 hours of continuous use.
- E-Reading: Reading books via apps like Kindle can yield 8 to 9 hours per charge.
This battery life is sufficient for a full day of reading by a pool or during travel, provided the user does not engage in heavy app usage. The device also supports Bluetooth 5.0 for audio streaming, which is useful for audiobooks via Audible, though it lacks internal speakers.
What Works Well
The Boox Go 6 Gen 2 excels in file support and portability. It handles a wide variety of formats including CBR, CBZ, MOBI, and PDF without issue. The compact size makes it ideal for travel, fitting easily into pockets or small bags. The display is bright enough for outdoor use, and the inclusion of stylus annotation adds value for those who need to interact with their documents.
Where It Falls Short
The device has several limitations that potential buyers should consider:
- No Cellular Connectivity: The Go 6 Gen 2 is Wi-Fi only. Users cannot download books or apps while on the go without access to a wireless network.
- Touch Controls: Swipe gestures can be fiddly and require precise positioning, which may lead to accidental inputs.
- No Auto-Brightness: Users must manually adjust lighting levels, which can be inconvenient in changing light conditions.
- Screen Size for Comics: While the display is sharp, the 6-inch screen is too small for detailed graphic novels. Speech bubbles and fine art details become difficult to read, causing eye strain over long sessions.
Who Is This For?
The Boox Go 6 Gen 2 is best suited for new users looking for a compact Android e-reader with stylus capabilities. It appeals to readers who want the flexibility of installing various apps and handling diverse file formats in a pocket-sized device.
However, existing owners of the original Boox Go 6 may find little reason to upgrade. The increase in RAM is marginal, and the lack of cellular connectivity or significant display improvements means the experience remains largely similar. It is also not recommended for avid comic readers due to the small screen size; those users would be better served by larger models.
Final Thoughts
The Boox Go 6 (Gen 2) is a competent, compact e-reader that balances portability with the flexibility of Android. The addition of stylus support and slightly improved RAM makes it a viable option for users who need to annotate documents on the go. However, its Wi-Fi-only limitation and small screen size restrict its utility for certain types of content, particularly graphic novels.
If you are entering the Boox ecosystem for the first time, this device offers a solid entry point with good file support and battery life. If you already own the Gen 1 model, the upgrades may not justify the cost unless stylus annotation is a critical feature for your workflow.