Despite a natural inclination towards chaos, I’ve become something of a notebook and tablet tester. Over the past few years, I’ve sought out devices promising ultimate organization, and the best ones genuinely inspire a desire for order. The XP-Pen Magic Note Pad initially seemed like it would fit that bill – a versatile LED Android tablet boasting multiple screen modes, aiming to transform between a vibrant notebook, a media player, and a calming e-reader.
Surprisingly, its true strength lies elsewhere. The Magic Note Pad isn’t a productivity powerhouse; it’s a remarkably capable drawing tablet. I confess, artistic talent isn’t a strong suit of mine, but this device ignited a longing to learn. Currently marked down 35% for a limited time, it’s available for $260 – a significant drop from its original $400 price, and even lower than previous sales.
The core of the Magic Note Pad is its “X-Paper” screen, featuring a crisp 1920 x 1200 resolution and a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. It attempts to bridge the gap between LED and e-ink technology with three distinct color modes: Nature, Light, and Ink Paper. While a true transformation to e-ink isn’t possible with a backlit screen, the device is certified for low blue light emission and boasts a paper-like display, aiming for a more comfortable reading experience.
However, the real magic unfolds for digital artists. The stylus included with the Magic Note Pad is a standout feature, offering an astonishing 16,384 levels of pressure sensitivity – four times that of the Apple Pencil. This heightened sensitivity translates to unparalleled control, allowing for incredibly precise sketching and digital painting, mirroring the nuance of traditional art forms.
Even beyond its artistic capabilities, the Magic Note Pad presents excellent value at its current price. Equipped with a Mediatek MT8781 Octa-core processor, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, it functions admirably as a general-purpose Android tablet. The substantial 8000mAh battery provides days of use on a single charge, and a front-facing camera facilitates video calls.
For those seeking a tablet primarily for drawing, and hesitant about the combined cost of an iPad and Apple Pencil, the Magic Note Pad offers a compelling alternative. It’s a chance to explore digital art without a significant financial commitment. The current discounts represent a rare opportunity to acquire a feature-rich tablet at an exceptionally attractive price.
Black Friday sales are officially underway, extending through “Cyber Week.” While the traditional timeframe runs from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday, retailers are increasingly offering deals earlier and extending them longer. Expect sales to gradually subside by early December, but the core discounts are available now.
Black Friday remains a valuable opportunity for savings, particularly on technology, home improvement, and fitness equipment. If you have specific purchases in mind, or are planning to buy gifts, now is an ideal time to search for discounts. However, the most effective way to save money is always to avoid unnecessary purchases.
The lines between Black Friday and Cyber Monday have blurred. Both days now feature widespread sales from major retailers. The key is to identify your desired items, utilize price tracking tools, and avoid fixating on finding the absolute “perfect” moment to buy.
