Xteink X4 Pro Adds Touchscreen and Light to Tiny E-Reader
Xteink has launched its new X4 Pro e-reader, featuring a touchscreen and integrated lighting. Despite hardware upgrades, the device's software limitations persist, though an alternative firmware is available from the community.
Xteink's latest compact e-reader, the X4 Pro, is now available for $99. This new model introduces a touchscreen and a built-in light, aiming to improve the user experience of its small-format devices.
The X4 Pro features a 4.26-inch E Ink display, making it a highly portable option. Due to its thin profile, it foregoes a traditional USB-C port in favor of a proprietary magnetic connector, requiring an included adapter for charging and data transfer. Magnets on the back allow for attachment to other devices, though their hold is considered less than ideal by testers.
The addition of a touchscreen simplifies navigation, complementing the physical page-turn buttons. Users can now tap screen edges for page turns and access a home button. While the touchscreen responsiveness is not on par with competitors like Kindle or Kobo, it represents a significant usability improvement over button-only navigation.
The integrated screen light offers adjustable brightness and color temperature, enhancing usability in low-light conditions. Xteink has updated its software to accommodate touch controls, streamlining menus. However, the native software still offers limited font choices without manual installation.
A significant improvement comes with the availability of the CrossPoint Reader software at launch. This community-developed alternative firmware is designed to enhance the user interface and reading experience. While the X4 Pro may not fully match the polished experience of larger e-readers even with this software, it stands as a capable choice in the niche of ultra-portable e-readers.