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reMarkable Paper Pure vs reMarkable 2
Quick Answer
The reMarkable Paper Pure and reMarkable 2 are nearly the same size and run identical note-taking software. The Paper Pure adds a 50% faster, higher-contrast Canvas display, about 30% more battery, and longer firmware support, but drops the keyboard folio and RM2 pens. New buyers should get the Pure. Most current RM2 owners can wait.
The reMarkable Paper Pure and reMarkable 2 look like different tablets at a glance, but set them side by side and they are far more alike than the launch hype suggests. This video walks through what actually changed between the two e-ink devices, what stayed exactly the same, and whether the Paper Pure upgrade is worth it if you already own a reMarkable 2 or you are shopping for your first distraction-free writing tablet.
I put both devices on the table and laid them on top of each other so you can see it for yourself. The screens measure out almost identical in height, the Pure is a hair wider, and that big left bezel lines up on both. The real differences hide under the glass: more RAM, a third-generation Canvas surface, a brighter screen with 20% more contrast, and a back panel you can open with screws. A few things you counted on with the RM2 are simply gone, including folio keyboard support and pen compatibility.
By the end you will know exactly which device fits your budget and your writing habits, whether a discontinued reMarkable 2 is still a smart buy, and where the Paper Pure earns its higher price. For the full breakdown of setup, features, and templates, see the complete reMarkable Paper Pure digital planner guide. You can also read reMarkable's official Paper Pure specifications for the full hardware list.
Video Transcript
With the release of the new reMarkable Paper Pure, so many people are asking, should I upgrade to the Pure over the reMarkable 2? Or if I'm new to the market for an e-ink device, should I consider a less expensive used reMarkable 2 that's now been discontinued, or should I take the technical upgrade that comes with the Pure? In this video, I'm going to talk about all the hype, everything you need to know, whether the upgrade is necessary if you're a current user, and what you gain and what you don't gain. So stay with me.
When you first see these two devices side by side, you noticeably think that the new Pure is smaller than the RM2, but the reality is they're much more the same than they are different. We can look at them side by side and see the actual screen total height is relatively exactly the same, and the width actually appears to be slightly wider, if not the same, than reMarkable 2. But the biggest thing that I noticed was this huge bezel down the left side. Now, one thing that reMarkable 2 did is they kind of broke that bezel up by putting a little metal bar down the side. Because when you take the two devices and lay them on top of each other, that bezel is identical. We do gain a little bit of base on the bottom. For those who work in landscape, the reMarkable 2 was really nice to have that bezel to still be able to use it. But using the Pure itself, the device is actually a little lighter when you're holding it because of some of the new hardware finishes, and I'm still able to use it in landscape mode just as easily.
Some things that are noticeably different, that you don't necessarily see when you're just looking at the devices themselves, is there is a faster processor, more RAM, and a whole new writing technique. If I take a reMarkable 2 pen and bring it over to the new one, it doesn't work. Same thing for the Pure. If I bring it over here, it doesn't work. But both write respectively on their own device. All the new reMarkable devices that have been released have this new screen. It's a little faster and a little sharper, but they both do not come in color, the Pure or the RM2. And there is no front light as part of the Pure either.
When we flip the devices over, we notice one thing about the Pure that you do not see in the reMarkable 2: it has these screws that allow you to basically open up the device. So if there were any repairs you need to do, likely you'd be able to do that by opening up the device. The knobs on the bottom of the device are a little bigger, and I think that's kind of nice, especially if you're sliding across the table. This has a little bit more friction to work with than what the 2 did. The other thing you're going to notice is on the RM2 there were these pin dots. These pin dots are no longer on the Pure. And why is that such a big deal? You cannot get a keyboard that works with this device. You'd have to go with a Pro model. You still have that capability, if you can find it aftermarket, for the RM2.
That is one of the first things I'll tell you: the keyboard itself. If that is something you're looking to do, if you're into typing and using those tools and you don't want to use the desktop app, which I highly recommend if you're going to be keyboarding on this device, pull out your laptop, even your iPad with a keyboard, and use the desktop app to do those keystrokes. But if you want to have a keyboard and one device on the go, the RM2, or go ahead and upgrade to the reMarkable Paper Pro, which also has a keyboard, and we have a whole video on that in the description if you want to learn more. Overall thickness, the Pure just seems to be a little bit thicker. The power button on the Pure is a little wider and easier to reach, and they both charge by USB-C.
The last thing I'll tell you about the actual hardware of these devices that I feel is important for you to know if you're considering the RM2 is the firmware update ability. Obviously, with a new device like the Pure, it's going to have a longer cadence of time on the market for firmware updates. I'd imagine over the next five years reMarkable will phase out doing updates to the RM2. So if that is something where you don't see yourself upgrading the device in the next five years, you might want to consider going to a Pure just for that reason.
So what remains the same? The reMarkable family includes a strong lineup of products that help you keep focus without all the distractions you'd find from notifications, a web browser, or being able to check your email. It allows you to take handwritten notes and jot those thoughts and ideas down on paper, but in an e-ink state, so they follow you wherever you go. One thing that's really powerful about the software included in these devices is that, as of today, all the tools are the same. It doesn't matter if you're using the pen tool to write notes, or choosing different highlighting tools and thickness. All the software for taking handwritten notes is the same. And with the latest updates, there are so many new tools that make these devices powerful. If you're part of that Connect plan, you can search all your handwritten notes. And you can also customize all your pages and build your own templates with Tiles by Key2Success.
So what is new? Why would one consider upgrading to the Pure in the first place? Well, it's definitely a brighter screen. It's 50% faster. It's 20% more contrast. The third-generation Canvas gives you an entirely different feel when you write with the new pen and stylus updates. You can see from the text itself there's a little more sharpness, a little more clarity, and it pops just a touch more when you make those handwritten notes happen. What really takes the Pure to the next level, in addition to that 50% faster speed, is also the longer battery, nearly 30% more, and it's made out of 38% recycled materials. So it has a better green factor if that is something you're interested in.
But with that upgrade, there are some things you're missing out on. The folio keyboard and different case sleeves that come with the RM2 no longer work with the Pure, and they have a sleeve that you can use for inserting the reMarkable Pure in. And it's really important to know that none of the pens for the RM2 carry over for the reMarkable Paper Pure. So if there are any aftermarket pens that you have for the RM2, know that they will not work on the new Canvas that's part of the Pure. Also, if you're buying any additional third-party pens, make sure you take a closer look and confirm they're compatible with the Pure.
So let's talk money. Is the Pure truly worth it? When you factor in all the things like the faster display, longer battery lifetime, the new-generation Canvas, and having a product that is recycled and going to last for a longer period of time because it's able to accept firmware, that might just be the best investment if you are new to the market. If you are someone who has the RM2, I don't necessarily say today you need to upgrade. But if all those features matter, or you've been a heavy user and you need a new device, it might be time for you to consider the Pure. But maybe you're new to e-ink thinking, hey, I want to enter this market and test out these products; maybe a reused, discontinued model might be the best option for you.
No matter what the case is, the one thing that's brilliant about these devices is they are truly distraction-free. When it comes to your digital planning, determining what is most important to your goals in life each and every day, the hardware isn't going to change that. Those actions are on you. And with the Key2Success Planner, it's going to work across both platforms as long as both devices are supported by reMarkable. Our planning system, when it comes to doing daily scheduling, determining your to-dos, being able to figure out your vision for the year, or simply taking notes across the planning system, you can do that no matter if you are in a meeting or working on a project. All of our pages are designed to help and support you so you can get the most out of your day each and every day.
And the last thing I want to say before you land on either one of these products: I encourage you to check out the video where I compare the Pure to the reMarkable Paper Pro. That larger display with color and front light might be something that interests you. You also have the ability to add in a keyboard. So if you are in the market for an e-ink device from reMarkable that has all the bells and whistles, that might be the road you want to go. So check out that video to see if it is for you. And if you want to learn more about reMarkable daily planning and the tech that we offer, I encourage you to take a minute and subscribe to our channel. If I taught you just one thing, please do me a favor and subscribe so I can teach you more in coming videos. And Lord willing, I'll see you in the next video. I'm Branden Bodendorfer, creator and founder of the Key2Success Planner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the reMarkable Paper Pure and the reMarkable 2?
The two devices share nearly identical screen size and run the exact same note-taking software. The Paper Pure adds a third-generation Canvas display that is about 50% faster with 20% more contrast, roughly 30% longer battery life, a body made from 38% recycled materials, and a back panel you can open with screws for repairs. The reMarkable 2 keeps compatibility with the folio keyboard and its older pens, which the Paper Pure drops.
Should I upgrade from the reMarkable 2 to the Paper Pure?
Most current reMarkable 2 owners do not need to upgrade today. The software and note-taking tools are the same on both devices. Upgrade if you write heavily and want the faster, sharper Canvas display, longer battery life, or you plan to keep the device more than five years and want ongoing firmware support.
Does the reMarkable Paper Pure have a color screen or front light?
No. Like the reMarkable 2, the Paper Pure is a black-and-white e-ink device with no front light. If you want color and a front light, look at the reMarkable Paper Pro instead.
Do reMarkable 2 pens work on the Paper Pure?
No. The Paper Pure uses a new Canvas surface, so reMarkable 2 pens and aftermarket RM2 pens do not write on it. If you buy third-party pens, confirm they are listed as compatible with the Paper Pure before you order.
Can you use a keyboard folio with the reMarkable Paper Pure?
No. The Paper Pure removed the pogo pin dots on the back, so the folio keyboard cannot attach. If you want a keyboard on a single device, stick with the reMarkable 2 or move up to the reMarkable Paper Pro. For heavy typing, the reMarkable desktop app on a laptop or iPad is the better route.
Is the reMarkable Paper Pure faster than the reMarkable 2?
Yes. The Paper Pure has more RAM and a third-generation Canvas display that reMarkable rates at about 50% faster with 20% more contrast. In practice the writing feels a touch sharper and the text pops a little more than it does on the reMarkable 2.
How much better is the Paper Pure battery life?
The Paper Pure offers roughly 30% more battery life than the reMarkable 2. Both devices charge over USB-C.
Is a used reMarkable 2 still worth buying now that it is discontinued?
It can be a smart entry point if you want to test e-ink writing without paying full price. The tradeoff is firmware support. reMarkable will likely phase out reMarkable 2 updates over the next several years, so if you want the longest runway of updates, the Paper Pure is the safer buy.
Does the Key2Success Planner work on both the Paper Pure and reMarkable 2?
Yes. The Key2Success Planner works across both devices as long as reMarkable still supports them. You get the same daily scheduling, to-do, vision, and note-taking pages regardless of which device you choose.
Can you repair the reMarkable Paper Pure yourself?
The Paper Pure has visible screws on the back that let you open the device, which suggests some repairs are possible without sending it in. The reMarkable 2 does not offer that same open-and-service design.
How to Choose Between the Paper Pure and reMarkable 2
- Decide if you need a keyboard on the device itself. If yes, rule out the Paper Pure and choose the reMarkable 2 or move up to the Paper Pro.
- Check how long you plan to keep it. Want firmware updates past five years? Lean Paper Pure. Testing e-ink on a budget? A discontinued reMarkable 2 works.
- Weigh the writing upgrade. If a 50% faster, higher-contrast Canvas and about 30% more battery matter to daily use, the Paper Pure earns the price.
- Confirm your accessories. reMarkable 2 pens, folios, and cases do not carry over, so budget for Paper Pure-compatible gear if you switch.
- Load your planning system. Set up the Key2Success Planner on whichever device you pick, since it runs the same on both.
Turn Your reMarkable Into a Real Planning System
The Key2Success Planner runs on both the Paper Pure and reMarkable 2, with daily scheduling, goals, and note pages built in. Still deciding? Read the full reMarkable Paper Pure guide.
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