A new Kickstarter project proposes a very interesting e-reader that goes against the current trend: the HaxMini e-reader is a small, easy to carry, affordable and functional e-reader.
While most e-reader designers are starting to offer models with ever larger screens, color and even foldable, HaxMini is a e-reader with a small 5.83-inch screen, a powerful processor and - most importantly - a small footprint for easy carrying.
The case of the HaxMini e-reader is reminiscent of those of higher-end e-readers like the Kobo Libra 2 or the Kindle Oasis. We find physical buttons on the sides of the screen (on the left this time) for a good grip.
In addition to its e-ink screen with a resolution of 648 x 480 pixels from another time, it should be noted that this HaxMini meets the needs expressed by many readers:
- Presence of an expansion port for SD card up to 128 GB
- Very fast quad-core processor
- Android 8.1 with Google Play installed and allows the addition of Android applications (Kindle, Kobo, etc.)
- Low weight of 155 grams
- Dimensions of 138.5 mm x 113 mm x 6.8 mm
- Night mode to display white characters on a black page
- Native support for EPUB, PDF, MOBI, TXT and FB2 formats
- 16GB of storage
- USB-C charging
- Wifi
Of course, there are also some shortcomings compared to the e-reader models that have come out in recent years.
The first is the resolution of the screen with 648x480 pixels. This reminds us of the cheapest 6-inch e-reader models released 10 to 5 years ago.
Nevertheless, this should not hinder the experience of reading ebooks on such a small screen. But, it will seriously handicap the reading of PDF documents and manga.
There is no lighting either, let alone a blue light filter. So, the Haxmini e-reader is a matter of compromise that will not suit all reading lovers.
That being said, this reader offers a very small footprint that makes it easy to carry around and it should be possible to easily add additional reading applications. This is an aspect that is difficult to find today on e-readers that all have a screen of 6 inches and more.
The project is only in the funding stage and if all goes well, the Haxmini e-reader will be available this summer - in July - at a price of $138. But, you can get it for $79 by participating in the Kickstarter campaign.
If your are looking for a very small e-reader, you can see this Woxter ereader review with a small 4.7-inch screen.
