A Chinese company named Xteink has announced the X4, a compact e-reader with a 4.3-inch E Ink screen that’s more pocketable than the smallest Kindle or Kobo. Like a wireless power bank, the e-reader can magnetically attach to the back of an iPhone, Pixel 10, or any device that supports Qi2 or Apple’s MagSafe. If your phone doesn’t, the company includes a couple of magnetic stick-on rings.

At $69 from Xteink’s online store, the X4 is also cheaper than Kindles and Kobos, but there are more than a few trade-offs when it comes to features and functionality. The X4’s E Ink screen’s resolution is limited to 220ppi, while most modern e-readers offer 300ppi, which means text won’t look as sharp. You’ll need a nearby lamp if you plan to read at night, since the screen doesn’t have its own light. B

See Full Page