Interest Form

TROR's first drop was a success! I would like to thank everyone again for purchasing your ereader through The Roots of Reading. To readers, if you're interested in purchasing an Inkpalm 5 from TROR make sure to fill out the interest form. This allows for a better understanding of how many are needed in stock for next time. Interest form can be found under the forms section of the site or click here. 

The Roots of Reading appreciates your continued interest and support! The project heavily relies on word of mouth so make sure to talk about it. 

🔴 September Drop - Sold Out!

Awesome news! Our stock has been sold out for the month of September. TROR truly was not expecting such a fast sell out but it happened! Definietely learned a lot during this time. Thank you for those who purchased your Inkpalm through TROR. Hopefully soon there will be updates about the next incoming batch for our Oct/Nov Drop. 

And we are live! First Drop

The Roots of Reading: September Drop 

We are approaching the season of sugar, spice, and everything. Where we'll be trading our tank tops for hoodies, and our flip flops for fall boots. If a TROR modified Inkpalm peaks your interest purchase directly from TROR's ebay.

Note

For a quick view of stock, at the bottom of the blog there is a table that is consitently updated.

Commenting on the Inkpalm 5 Mini

My desire for a device like this stems from my attempts at living a more intentional life. I won't go in on the logic behind it but this device is something that has helped me in that pursuit! It’s exactly what I wanted when it comes to discreteness, and portability. It took some time to set up the device to my liking but it was manageable and I am now happy with how it flows. I was pleasantly surprised at how good looking the device is, it definitely exceeded my expectations. I thought it would be gaudy but its pretty sleek in design. The only real con thus far is the battery being so quick to go. Though, that's me comparing it to my other reader, the Kindle Paperwhite(10th gen), which may be an unfair comparison. But it does last me through the day when not near its charger. I guess that's the sacrifice you make for such a device. 4/5 stars from me!

Is a pocket ereader necessary?

 What is a pocket reader? 

A pocket reader or pocket e-reader is an electronic e-ink mobile device that is designed primarily for the purpose of reading digital files such as epub, pdf, doc, etc... What makes an ereader a 'pocket ereader' is the size of the device. The size of the pocket ereader will typically run between 5" and 6" inches, which should allow the device to be pocketed by most individuals. Think if you could easily slide your nook or kindle into your pocket. 

The Benefits of having a pocketable ereader 

It's convenient, portable, and less apparent. 

Options

It's a hassle to find reliable pocket sized e-readers in todays market since there are so few reliable options. I came across theebookreader.com 5" inch ereader comparison table and many of the devices are outdated and just don't fit the script for what many of us are looking for in terms of aesthetic and design. Which can be expected as it is widely known that e-ink technology is slow to develop. But not to fret, there are a couple of reliable options. Both coming from Chinese manufacturers, Xiaomi and Hisense Group. Both have e-ink devices to offer, the Inkpalm and Hisense line respectively. I'd reccommend starting your research into either of these. Depending on what model of device you plan to purchase, the inkpalm 5 would be a great entry level device as its budget friendly. While the Hisense line brings an air of sophistication and more to the table technologically. 

Do you need one? 

I'm sure you dont need one but you may like to have one. I use the Inkpalm just as much as I use my Kindle Paperwhite. I use it comfortably when I'm out while I leave my Kindle for when I am lounging around at home. But with all things, it's necessary to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. 

Resources

Point of Post 

Like many others I dreamed of having a phone sized e-ink ereader. After doing some research I stumbled upon the Xiaomi Moaan Inkpalm 5. Because this device is intended for usage within China and not much elsewhere georgraphically the barrier the device presents is in language and launcher. To overcome these woes I took to the internet. many people have graciously posted their knowledge on the device, or devices similar to it, for the everyday man to follow. Below is a list of resources I have used thus far. Ideally this list will be updated continuously. 

The List 

• Review and Full Setup - Reddit
• jvscholz blog post
• Frankdux blog post
• Philips setup guide - Github Repo
• Goodreader Inkpalm Setup - Github Repo
• Inkpalm Unboxing/Review - HẢI KINDLE Youtube

What Is an Inkpalm?

 

Gist

Launched in 2021, Xiaomi's Inkpalm 5 is an ereader small enough to fit inside your pocket! The device runs on Android 8.1 currently and is the perfect entry-level compact e-ink device. This device is only an ereader so it can't squelch your desire for an e-ink phone. The Inkpalm 5 was designed for a Chinese consumer base so those looking to use it outside of China will have to do further modifications for desired product. 

More in depth description can be found here on goodereaders website. 

Additional Resources: 

James Scholz - the best productivity device you've never heard of!

Good e-reader - Xiaomi Moaan Inkpalm 5 mini ereader unboxing 

Liliputing | Brad Linder - Xiaomi Inkpalm 5.2" ereader is available...