Xiaomi Pad 6: Note taking & handwriting review

Summary

In this review of the Xiaomi Pad 6 and Smart Pen Gen 2, the focus is on their handwriting and note-taking performance. The pen offers impressive features like over 4,000 levels of pressure sensitivity and palm rejection but is sold separately for around $50. While the default Notes app is basic, alternative apps like Concepts and Microsoft OneNote provide better functionality. The tablet’s laminated display ensures a smooth writing experience with minimal lag. Overall, the combination is deemed a great value at $350 for the tablet and $50 for the pen, making it a solid choice for note-taking enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Xiaomi Pad 6 is paired with the Xiaomi Smart Pen Gen 2, enhancing handwriting and note-taking capabilities.
• 🖊️ The Smart Pen Gen 2 costs around $50 and features over 4,000 levels of pressure sensitivity, palm rejection, and customizable buttons.
• 📱 The default Notes app on the Xiaomi Pad 6 is basic and not recommended for serious note-taking; it’s better for quick, superficial notes.
• 🎨 Third-party app Concepts is great for visual note-taking, offering good latency and effective handwriting capture.
• 📓 Microsoft OneNote supports pressure sensitivity and provides a reliable handwriting experience with minimal pen movement.
• ❌ The GoodNotes app is only available on Samsung tablets for Android and operates on a subscription basis, limiting accessibility.
• 📏 The 11-inch tablet may wobble during use due to its camera module; using a case is advisable to reduce this issue.
• 📏 The laminated display eliminates the gap between the pen tip and the line, providing a smoother writing experience.
• 🔄 Split-screen mode allows users to utilize the note-taking app alongside another application, improving productivity.
• 💰 The Xiaomi Pad 6 and Smart Pen Gen 2 together offer good value for money at around $400 total.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the review?

The review focuses on the handwriting and note-taking performance of the Xiaomi Pad 6, especially when used with the Xiaomi Smart Pen Gen 2.

What are the key features of the Xiaomi Smart Pen Gen 2?

The Xiaomi Smart Pen Gen 2 features over 4,000 levels of pressure sensitivity, palm rejection, two customizable side buttons, and connects via Bluetooth.

Is the Xiaomi Smart Pen Gen 2 included with the Xiaomi Pad 6?

No, the Xiaomi Smart Pen Gen 2 is sold separately and is priced around $50.

How does the default notes app on the Xiaomi Pad 6 perform?

The default notes app is basic with limited features, suitable only for quick or superficial notes. It lacks advanced note-taking capabilities.

What note-taking app does the reviewer recommend for visual note-taking?

The reviewer recommends the app 'Concepts' for visual note-taking, highlighting its good latency and handwriting capture capabilities.

What issue does the reviewer mention about tablet stability while writing?

The reviewer notes that the tablet can wobble due to its camera module, especially when writing in landscape orientation, suggesting the use of a case to improve stability.

How does palm rejection work with the Xiaomi Pad 6?

Palm rejection works effectively, allowing users to place their palm on the screen while writing without interference.

What observation does the reviewer make about the pen nib?

The reviewer mentions that the pen nib has some resistance, which is beneficial for drawing, while still being smooth enough for writing.

Can the Xiaomi Pad 6 support split-screen mode for note-taking?

Yes, the Xiaomi Pad 6 supports split-screen mode, allowing users to work with a note-taking app alongside another application.

What is the price of the Xiaomi Pad 6, according to the review?

The Xiaomi Pad 6 is priced at approximately $350.