Note: This was originally published on my Patreon page as a members-only discussion and is now being shared in the new year. I also did a follow-up video that you can access below:
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Well, it’s Officially been one week since I received and opened the Supernote A5X2 Manta. You can see my unboxing video above. I have to admit that the device has been a joy to use so far. My content came over seamlessly from my A5X and the writing feel is almost identical. As a heavy user of the Supernote platform, I want to share my first thoughts after one week of use. We will start with the opportunities and move on to improvements.
# Opportunities
Software Consistency- This is something that is easily fixed. I know that in the lead up to the Manta release, Ratta was releasing software updates direct, without first doing beta releases. While I understand the pressure to just "get it done," I think that came at a price. Here are just a few things that are currently not consistent:
- _Touch Input_ – The touch input on the Manta seems worse than on my A5X. I'm not sure if this is a software or hardware issue. Touch was even better on the Nomad than currently on the Manta. I only notice because I so rarely use the virtual keyboard in lieu of the handwriting keyboard. However, I was forced to use it recently due to having to set up accounts with complex passwords.
- _Lag & Missing Typing Shortcuts_ – This seems to be a global issue that happened before the release of the Manta. While Bluetooth (and according to other reviewers even wired) lag is localized to the Manta, the broken keyboard shortcuts also happen on my A5X.
- _Ghosting_ – To be fair, this seems to be a common issue with the Nomad and the Manta. My A5X has very little ghosting, but also less resolution. Hopefully this can be optimized with software updates. It can be mitigated with the easy swipe up on the slider, but it is noticeable.
- _PDF Template Import_ – Unfortunately, I have not been able to import PDF's as templates since the last software update. It is timing out and a global issue. This is currently a barrier in trying new functionality.
Missing Folio Dust Plug – I know this is a small thing, but the slots for the folio mechanisms being exposed if you do not have the half- folio is a miss in my opinion. Personally, I love the half-folio and the fact it is mechanical. However, without something to cover up the slots (and protect the pogo pens) you are opening for dust and other contaminants to enter the device.
Back Cover Removal – I like the design of the back cover, but there is a learning curve to removing it. I had a lot of trouble until I figured out the best method for me. However, now that my SD card is installed, I am unlikely to remove it again for a long time. You can see my experience with removing the back on my Manta below:
# Improvements
Half-Folio – I'm sure I might get some hate for this one, but I see it as an improvement and highly prefer it to magnets. Don't set me wrong, I think the Nomad did magnets the best they could be done. However, a mechanical feature, and call back to the mechanical rail on the A5X, is a nice touch. Also, the design of the half-folio means that the device sits flat on the surface, a huge improvement over the full folio. The new half- folio is also easy to clean, which was a criticism of the canvas full folio.
![[Manta Half Folio.jpg]]
Pen Loop – Again, there may be some hate here, but I love that you can change the size of the pen loop or insert a dust cover to go completely without it. To me, that is Ratta recognizing all the DIY and Etsy creators out there. I also love that it is on the device so that you don't have to have the folio to use it. If there was a dust cover for the half-folio side of the device, it would also increase the portability.
![[Manta Pen Loop.jpg]]
Dual Sliders – The dual sliders are a significant upgrade to the A5X. Although the jury is still out on whether or not the Manta is worth the upgrade, the dual sliders are amazing to have. I can select and erase using gestures and minimize the toolbar completely. The fact that you can change the configuration, and undo/redo is awesome.
![[Manta Dual Sliders.jpg]]
Expandable Storage – This is not as huge for me, although I did add an SD card. To put it in perspective, I have over 2,000 files on m A5X and still have more than 16 GB left. I don't see you running out of storage with normal use. However, I do see the value if you are dealing with larger files. You can see me install an SD Card in the video below:
[<iframe title="Supernote Manta: Removing the Back Cover & Installing the SD Card" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y3ihrkiOEZE?feature=oembed" height="113" width="200" allowfullscreen="" allow="fullscreen" style="aspect-ratio: 1.76991 / 1; width: 100%; height: 100%;"></iframe>]()
Non-Skid Feet – Again, this is not a huge one for me, but for those who do not use a cover, I see it as a must. Also, if you had the device sitting on a surface with an angle, you could avoid having it slip off. To me, they are just a very nice and easy addition.
![[Manta Non-Skid Feet.jpg]]
Contrast – This is even better than I thought it would be. It's been hard for me to show it on camera, but I am providing some images. This improved contrast does relate directly to the challenge of ghosting. However, the ink looks like it just jumps off the page. Reading is a joy as well.
A5X Example:
![[A5X Christmas Carol.jpg]]
A5X2 Manta
![[Manta Christmas Carol.jpg]]
Android 11 – This one may be controversial, but the ability to sideload apps (in my case for reading) was something I enjoyed on the Nomad. Unfortunately, even though apps said they supported Android 8, they would not run on the A5X. Yes, the last OS update from Google was in February, but I have reached out to Supernote since this is a custom version of Android to get more information on security.
![[Manta Android 11.jpg]]
Modularity – In my opinion, this is what sets Supernote apart from all other e-ink providers. Not only do they provide a 2-year warranty, but the motherboard, battery (not to mention pen loop and half-folio) are removable and replaceable. Not having to pay someone to repair a device and being able to do it yourself spreads the cost out over potentially a much longer term, making this a long-term purchase that fights a world full of planned obsolescence.
Alright, I think that is a lot for one week of use on a new device. I will continue to use this at work and keep you updated on how it goes. I will also do some more side by side comparisons with the A5X. The overall conclusion after one week though is that it is an elegant and, in some ways, unique device. Stay tuned for More. Until next time, keep moving forward.
For more information on this device:
[[Supernote Manta is Here]]
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