A good e-reader doesn't have to be big. Today's pocket-sized E Ink readers offer a convenient way to carry your books, read on the go, and enjoy a distraction-free experience without carrying a full-size tablet.
Two devices worth comparing are the Xteink X4 Pro and the Metalio E-INK4 Plus, both available at Cubertime. While they share a compact design and an ESP32-S3 processor, they take different approaches to portable reading.
The Xteink X4 Pro focuses on lightweight portability and simplicity, while the Metalio E-INK4 Plus combines a sharper display with a larger battery, AI tools, and audio capabilities.
So, which pocket e-reader offers better value? Let's compare their key specifications and features to help you decide.
Xteink X4 Pro vs Metalio E-INK4 Plus: Specs Compared
Here's a quick look at how these two portable E Ink readers compare.
|
Feature |
||
|
Display Size |
4.3 inches |
4.7 inches |
|
Resolution |
800 × 480 |
684 × 1216 |
|
Pixel Density |
219 PPI |
297 PPI |
|
Front Light |
Adjustable warm and cool lighting |
Adjustable |
|
Battery |
1,100 mAh |
2,000 mAh |
|
Processor |
ESP32-S3 |
ESP32-S3 |
|
Storage |
16GB, expandable to 256GB |
16GB TF card included, expandable to 256GB |
|
Key Features |
Touchscreen, physical buttons |
Touchscreen, physical buttons, AI, voice Q&A, translation, AI drawing, speaker, microphone |
|
Weight |
72g |
Not specified |
|
Dimensions |
5.95mm thick |
122 × 71 × 7.8mm |
|
Price |
$99 (official price) |
$109.59 (Cubertime price, 20% OFF) |
1. Display Quality: Which E Ink Reader Is Better for Reading?
The display is one of the most important factors when choosing a pocket e-reader, and the Metalio E-INK4 Plus has the advantage here.
Xteink X4 Pro features a 4.3-inch display with 800 × 480 resolution and 219 PPI. It provides a readable screen in an exceptionally compact form, with adjustable warm and cool front lighting for different reading environments.
Metalio E-INK4 Plus steps up to a 4.7-inch display with 684 × 1216 resolution and 297 PPI. Its higher pixel density produces sharper text and cleaner edges, making small fonts and detailed content easier to read.
The slightly larger screen also provides more room for text and page layouts.
Our take: If display clarity and reading comfort are your priorities, the Metalio E-INK4 Plus is the stronger option.
2. Features and Performance: Simple Reading vs Smart Functions
Both devices use the ESP32-S3 processor, but their feature sets are quite different.
The Xteink X4 Pro is designed primarily for reading. Its touchscreen and physical buttons provide straightforward navigation, making it a good fit for readers who prefer a simple, distraction-free device.
The Metalio E-INK4 Plus offers more than a traditional e-reader. In addition to reading, it includes several extra features:
· AI Voice Q&A: Ask questions using voice input.
· AI Translation: Translate words and phrases while using the device.
· AI Drawing: Explore creative possibilities with AI-assisted image generation.
· Audio Playback: Use the built-in speaker for audio content and supported audiobook playback.
· Open-Source Firmware: Customize the software experience with community-supported projects such as CrossPoint.
These features make the Metalio a more versatile pocket device, especially for users who enjoy experimenting with new technology.
3. Battery Life: More Capacity for Everyday Use
Battery capacity is another important difference.
The Xteink X4 Pro comes with a 1,100mAh battery. Combined with its lightweight design and reading-focused functionality, it is well suited to everyday reading and travel.
The Metalio E-INK4 Plus features a larger 2,000mAh battery, offering nearly twice the battery capacity. This provides more room for extended use, particularly when using its front light and additional features.
Actual battery life will depend on screen brightness, reading habits, and how frequently you use audio and AI functions.
Our take: The Metalio's larger battery is a practical advantage for users who want more than basic reading from their device.
4. Portability and Design: Smaller or More Versatile?
Portability is where the Xteink X4 Pro makes its strongest case.
At just 72g and 5.95mm thick, it is exceptionally lightweight and easy to slip into a pocket. Its compact size makes it particularly appealing to commuters, travelers, and readers who want a device they can carry everywhere.
The Metalio E-INK4 Plus measures 122 × 71 × 7.8mm. Although slightly larger, it remains compact enough for everyday pocket carry.
The difference comes down to priorities:
· Choose Xteink X4 Pro if minimum size and weight matter most.
· Choose Metalio E-INK4 Plus if you prefer a larger screen and more built-in features.
5. Price and Value: Is the Metalio Worth the Extra $10.59?
Price is an important part of any e-reader comparison, and this is where the Metalio E-INK4 Plus becomes particularly interesting.
The Xteink X4 Pro has an official retail price of $99, while the Metalio E-INK4 Plus is available at Cubertime for just $109.59 after 20% OFF.
That's a difference of only $10.59.
For this small additional investment, the Metalio offers:
· A larger 4.7-inch display with higher pixel density.
· A 2,000mAh battery instead of 1,100mAh.
· Built-in speaker and microphone.
· Additional AI and translation functions.
· More flexibility beyond traditional reading.
Considering the display, battery, and additional features, the Metalio E-INK4 Plus offers compelling value at its current discounted price.
Final Verdict: Xteink X4 Pro or Metalio E-INK4 Plus?
Both devices have their strengths, and the better choice depends on how you plan to use your pocket e-reader.
The Xteink X4 Pro is a good choice if you want:
· An ultra-lightweight, compact reading device.
· A simple, distraction-free reading experience.
· Physical buttons and touchscreen navigation.
The Metalio E-INK4 Plus is a better fit if you want:
· A sharper, slightly larger E Ink display.
· More battery capacity for everyday use.
· AI voice Q&A, translation, and creative features.
· Built-in audio capabilities and open-source customization.
Overall, we recommend the Metalio E-INK4 Plus for most users. Its higher-resolution display, larger battery, and broader feature set make it a more versatile pocket E Ink reader.
And here's the best part: at $109.59 with 20% OFF, it costs only $10.59 more than the Xteink X4 Pro's $99 official price. For that small difference, you get a more feature-packed device with greater versatility.
If your top priority is having the smallest and lightest possible reader, the Xteink X4 Pro is still worth considering. But if you want a pocket-sized device that can do more than display books, the Metalio E-INK4 Plus is the one to look at.
Explore the Metalio E-INK4 Plus and Xteink X4 Pro at Cubertime, and find the right fit for your reading lifestyle.