BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color ePaper Tablet offers a large 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 display with 4,096 colors and a flat glass cover lens. You get Android 13 flexibility, a 2.8GHz octa-core processor, and 6GB of RAM for multitasking. If you are searching for boox tablet tab xc 13 3 alternatives, you might want a different screen size or processing power. Some users prefer smaller tablets for portability or distinct operating systems like iPadOS.
This list includes 6 similar picks chosen because their specifications overlap with the original device. We compared storage capacities, processor speeds, and connectivity options to find viable substitutes. The top pick remains the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color for those who prioritize a large color e-ink panel. Other options include Apple iPad Air models with M4 chips for high performance. We also included older iPad Air M2 versions and compact 10.2-inch models. Each device offers distinct specs for different needs, from creative work to portable media consumption.
How each alternative compares
Apple iPad Air 11-Inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G
The Apple iPad Air 11-inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G trades ePaper display technology for raw processing power and cellular connectivity. While the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color offers a 13.3-inch screen with 300 ppi for black-and-white text clarity, this iPad provides an 11-inch LCD with the M4 chip for high-speed performance. You lose the eye-friendly ePaper panel and Android flexibility, but you gain Wi-Fi 7 and 5G support. This model suits users who prioritize portable high-performance computing and cellular access over the specialized reading experience of the BOOX device.
Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4)
The Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4 matches the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color in screen size but replaces the Kaleido 3 ePaper display with a standard LCD panel. You gain the M4 processor and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, which offer superior multitasking speed compared to the BOOX octa-core chip. However, you give up the 13.3-inch ePaper technology that provides 300 ppi for black-and-white text and 4,096 colors for images. This tablet is ideal for digital creators and multitaskers who require iPadOS creative apps and high-performance processing rather than a dedicated e-reader panel.
Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular
The Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular offers a smaller 11-inch display compared to the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color’s 13.3-inch screen. It features an M2 processor and cellular connectivity, providing strong performance for portable productivity. You sacrifice the large ePaper display with its 300 ppi text clarity and Android 13 OS for a compact, powerful tablet with a vibrant LCD. This choice fits users who prioritize portability and app versatility over the dedicated ePaper technology and larger reading area of the BOOX device.
Apple iPad Air 13-Inch M2
The Apple iPad Air 13-inch M2 provides a 13-inch LCD screen, which is slightly smaller than the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color’s 13.3-inch ePaper display. It utilizes an M2 processor for creative work and media consumption, differing from the BOOX’s Android 13 and octa-core setup. You lose the specialized ePaper panel with 4,096 colors and 300 ppi for text, but gain a responsive LCD suitable for Apple ecosystem users. This tablet is a strong choice for those who prioritize display quality and app performance over the reading-focused features of the BOOX model.
Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB
The Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB features a significantly smaller 10.2-inch display compared to the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color’s large 13.3-inch screen. It offers 128GB of storage, matching the BOOX capacity, but uses a standard LCD rather than ePaper technology. You give up the 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 display with 4,096 colors and 300 ppi text clarity. This compact tablet fits users who prioritize portability and Touch ID over screen size or cutting-edge chips, making it suitable for compact portable tasks rather than the extensive reading experience of the BOOX device.
Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB
The Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB provides an 11-inch LCD screen, which is smaller than the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color’s 13.3-inch ePaper display. It includes 128GB of storage and an A16 chip for balanced performance in everyday tasks. You lose the large ePaper panel with 300 ppi for black-and-white text and 4,096 colors for images. This model offers a bright screen and smooth performance in a compact form factor, fitting users who prioritize portable media consumption and note-taking over the specialized reading features and larger size of the BOOX tablet.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color ePaper Tablet Best overall | large-screen color e-paper readers | Check price of BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color ePaper Tablet on Amazon |
| 2 | Apple iPad Air 11-Inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G Also great | portable high-performance computing | Check price of Apple iPad Air 11-Inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G on Amazon |
| 3 | Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4) Also great | high-performance multitasking and iPadOS creative apps | Check price of Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4) on Amazon |
| 4 | Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular Also great | portable productivity and media consumption | Check price of Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular on Amazon |
| 5 | Apple iPad Air 13-Inch M2 Best premium | creative work and media consumption | Check price of Apple iPad Air 13-Inch M2 on Amazon |
| 6 | Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB Best budget | compact portable tasks | Check price of Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB on Amazon |
| 7 | Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB | portable media consumption and note-taking | Check price of Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB on Amazon |
Our 7 picks
BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color ePaper Tablet
Best for: large-screen color e-paper readers
- Screen Size
- 13.3"
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Display Type
- Kaleido 3
- Processor
- 2.8Ghz Octa-core + BSR
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi + BT 5.0
- RAM
- 6GB
View on Amazon: BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color ePaper Tablet Affiliate link
The BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color features a 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 display with flat glass. It runs Android 13 on an octa-core processor with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. The screen offers 300 ppi in black and white and 150 ppi in color. You get Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and front light with warm and cold tones. It supports BOOX InkSpire stylus touch and capacitive input for note-taking and reading.
Pros
- 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 color e-paper display with flat glass cover
- Android 13 OS with 2.8GHz octa-core processor and 6GB RAM
- 128GB internal storage capacity
- Front light with CTM for warm and cold tone adjustment
- Supports BOOX InkSpire stylus and capacitive touch
Cons
- Color resolution is limited to 150 ppi
- Does not support EMR stylus technology
- No cellular connectivity option listed
Good fit if
- You want a large 13.3-inch screen for reading and note-taking
- You prefer Android 13 for app flexibility
- You need a flat glass surface for writing comfort
Skip if
- You require high-resolution color at 300 ppi
- You need an EMR stylus for pressure sensitivity
- You want built-in cellular data without a separate plan
Verdict: BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color E-Ink Tablet suits readers who value a large, flat screen and Android flexibility over high-color resolution. It is ideal for those who prioritize text clarity and writing comfort on a big display.
Apple iPad Air 11-Inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G
Best for: portable high-performance computing
- Screen Size
- 11-inch
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Processor
- Apple M4
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 7, 5G Cellular
- Stylus Compatibility
- Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C)
View on Amazon: Apple iPad Air 11-Inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G Affiliate link
This iPad Air features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display and the Apple M4 chip. It includes 128GB of storage, Wi-Fi 7, and optional 5G connectivity. The device supports Apple Pencil Pro for precise input. It suits users who need strong performance for multitasking and AI tasks. The lightweight design makes it portable for work or creative projects.
Pros
- Apple M4 chip for advanced graphics and multitasking
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color
- Wi-Fi 7 and optional 5G cellular connectivity
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C)
Cons
- 128GB storage is limited compared to 1TB max option
- 11-inch screen is smaller than 13-inch alternatives
- Liquid Retina display is not ePaper technology
Good fit if
- You need strong processing power for complex tasks
- You prefer a lightweight tablet for portability
- You want 5G connectivity for on-the-go use
Skip if
- You require ePaper display technology for reading
- You need a screen larger than 11 inches
- You prefer Android or Windows operating systems
Verdict: Apple iPad Air 11-inch M4 delivers high performance in a portable form factor. It fits users who prioritize speed and cellular connectivity over ePaper display features.
Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4)
Best for: high-performance multitasking and iPadOS creative apps
- Screen Size
- 13-inch
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Processor
- Apple M4
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1
- Stylus Compatibility
- Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C)
View on Amazon: Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4) Affiliate link
This tablet features a 13-inch Liquid Retina display powered by an Apple M4 processor and 128GB of internal storage. It supports Wi-Fi 7 connectivity along with the Apple Pencil Pro for sketch and note workflows. If you want a fast tablet for iPadOS apps, document editing, and multimedia instead of an e-paper reading experience, this model fits your routine.
Pros
- Apple M4 processor provides fast processing and Apple Intelligence support
- 13-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color and ultralow reflectivity
- Wi-Fi 7 connectivity using the Apple N1 chip
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil USB-C
Cons
- Liquid Retina LCD instead of an ambient-light ePaper screen
- 13-inch display provides slightly less screen area than 13.3-inch panels
Good fit if
- You need Apple M4 processor speed for iPadOS apps and multitasking.
- You want a full-color 13-inch Liquid Retina display for documents and video.
- You require high-speed Wi-Fi 7 network support.
Skip if
- You specifically want an ePaper screen designed for glare-free reading.
- You need a larger 13.3-inch display format.
Verdict: Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4 suits digital creators and multitaskers who require M4 processing performance, Wi-Fi 7, and iPadOS capabilities rather than a dedicated e-reader panel.
Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular
Best for: portable productivity and media consumption
- Screen Size
- 11-inch
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Processor
- M2
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular
- Stylus Compatibility
- Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C)
View on Amazon: Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular Affiliate link
The iPad Air 11-inch uses the M2 chip for smooth multitasking and graphics performance. It features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color and True Tone. You get 128GB of storage and options for Wi-Fi 6E or 5G cellular connectivity. The device includes Touch ID and supports the Apple Pencil Pro. It is a versatile tablet for productivity and media consumption.
Pros
- M2 chip enables smooth multitasking and graphics-intensive gaming
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color and True Tone
- Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G cellular for fast connectivity
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard accessories
Cons
- 128GB storage is lower than the 128GB option in the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color
- 11-inch screen is smaller than the 13.3-inch display of the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color
- Liquid Retina display is not an ePaper screen, so it lacks the paper-like reading experience
Good fit if
- You want a powerful tablet with the M2 chip for demanding tasks
- You prefer an 11-inch screen size for portability
- You need 5G cellular connectivity for on-the-go internet access
Skip if
- You require a large 13.3-inch display for maximum screen real estate
- You prefer an ePaper display for reduced eye strain during long reading sessions
- You are looking for a device with a larger base storage capacity than 128GB
Verdict: Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 offers strong performance and a vibrant display for users who prioritize portability and app versatility over ePaper technology. It suits those who need a compact, powerful tablet with cellular options.
Apple iPad Air 13-Inch M2
Best for: creative work and media consumption
- Screen Size
- 13-inch
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Processor
- M2
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular
- Stylus Compatibility
- Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C)
View on Amazon: Apple iPad Air 13-Inch M2 Affiliate link
This iPad Air features a 13-inch Liquid Retina display and an M2 processor. It includes 128GB of storage and supports Apple Pencil Pro for creative work. The device offers Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G connectivity. You get advanced cameras and Touch ID for security. It suits users who need a large, powerful screen for productivity and media consumption.
Pros
- 13-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color
- M2 chip for smooth multitasking and graphics
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard
- Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G cellular connectivity
Cons
- 128GB storage is limited compared to 1TB max option
- Heavier at 1.36 pounds than smaller models
- Requires separate purchase of Apple Pencil Pro
Good fit if
- You need a large screen for drawing or note-taking
- You want powerful performance for creative apps
- You prefer Apple's ecosystem and Touch ID
Skip if
- You require an ePaper display for reading
- You need included stylus without extra cost
- You prefer a lighter, more portable tablet
Verdict: Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M2) fits creative professionals who need a large, responsive screen and powerful processing. It is a strong choice for those invested in Apple's ecosystem who prioritize display quality and app performance.
Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB
Best for: compact portable tasks
- Screen Size
- 10.2-inch
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Processor
- A10 Fusion chip
- Features
- Wi-Fi
- Dimensions
- 6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches
- Weight
- 1.09 pounds
View on Amazon: Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB Affiliate link
This 10.2-inch iPad features an A10 Fusion chip and 128GB of storage. It includes a Touch ID sensor and stereo speakers. The device weighs 1.09 pounds and measures 0.29 inches thick. It is a compact option for users who prefer smaller screens. The 128GB capacity provides ample space for apps and media. It suits those needing a lightweight, portable tablet for everyday tasks.
Pros
- 10.2-inch screen size
- 128GB storage capacity
- A10 Fusion processor
- Touch ID sensor
- Stereo speakers
Cons
- Older A10 Fusion chip compared to M-series alternatives
- Lightning connector instead of USB-C
- 10.2-inch display is smaller than 11-inch and 13-inch competitors
Good fit if
- You want a compact 10.2-inch tablet
- You need 128GB of storage
- You prefer a lightweight device under 1.1 pounds
Skip if
- You require the latest M-series performance
- You need a larger display for productivity
- You want USB-C connectivity
Verdict: Apple 2019 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB is a compact, lightweight tablet with solid storage. It fits users who prioritize portability and Touch ID over screen size or cutting-edge chips.
Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB
Best for: portable media consumption and note-taking
- Screen Size
- 11-inch
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Processor
- A16 chip
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6
- Stylus Compatibility
- Apple Pencil (USB-C, 1st gen)
View on Amazon: Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB Affiliate link
The 11-inch iPad features an A16 chip and a Liquid Retina display. It includes 128GB of storage and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. The device weighs 1.05 pounds and supports Apple Pencil. You get a 12MP front and back camera system. This tablet suits users who need a portable screen for media and light productivity tasks.
Pros
- A16 chip for fast performance
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display
- 128GB storage capacity
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- 12MP dual camera system
Cons
- Wi-Fi only model lacks cellular
- 128GB storage is entry-level
- No USB-C high-speed data ports listed
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight tablet for media
- You need a portable device for notes
- You prefer a familiar iPad interface
Skip if
- You require cellular connectivity on the go
- You need high-end gaming performance
- You require extensive local storage
Verdict: Apple iPad 11-inch A16 Wi-Fi offers a balanced mix of portability and power for everyday tasks. It fits users who prioritize a bright screen and smooth performance in a compact form factor.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color ePaper Tablet | Apple iPad Air 11-Inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G | Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M4) | Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular | Apple iPad Air 13-Inch M2 | Apple iPad 10.2-Inch 128GB | Apple iPad 11-inch A16 128GB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 13.3" | 11-inch | 13-inch | 11-inch | 13-inch | 10.2-inch | 11-inch |
| Storage Capacity | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB |
| Display Type | Kaleido 3 | Liquid Retina | Liquid Retina | Liquid Retina | Liquid Retina | not stated | Liquid Retina |
| Processor | 2.8Ghz Octa-core + BSR | Apple M4 | Apple M4 | M2 | M2 | A10 Fusion chip | A16 chip |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi + BT 5.0 | Wi-Fi 7, 5G Cellular | Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1 | Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular | Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular | not stated | Wi-Fi 6 |
| RAM | 6GB | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Stylus Compatibility | BOOX InkSpire stylus touch | Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil (USB-C) | not stated | Apple Pencil (USB-C, 1st gen) |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB |
| Features | not stated | Wi-Fi, Cellular, Touch ID | Wi-Fi, Touch ID | Wi-Fi, Cellular, Touch ID | Wi-Fi, Cellular, Touch ID | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Touch ID |
| Dimensions | 11 × 9 × 0.2 inches | 9.75 × 7.03 × 0.24 inches | 11.1 × 8.46 × 0.24 inches | 9.74 × 7.02 × 0.24 inches | 11 × 8.46 × 0.24 inches | 6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches | 9.79 × 7.07 × 0.28 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 1.03 pounds | 1.36 pounds | 1.02 pounds | 1.36 pounds | 1.09 pounds | 1.05 pounds |
| Size | 13.3 inches | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | Wi-Fi | 128GB |
| Model | Tab XC、CSL16A2B5WS | MH7A4LL/A | MH5T4LL/A | MUXF3LL/A | MV6U3LL/A | A2197 | MD4D4LL/A |
| Color | not stated | Starlight | Purple | Starlight | Purple | Gold | Yellow |
If you prefer a standard laptop screen, you can compare dell xps 13 9380 13 3 alternatives with similar dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Which tablet has the largest screen among these options?
The BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color and the Apple iPad Air 13-inch models feature the largest displays at 13.3 inches. The BOOX unit measures 11 inches in length and 9 inches in width. The Apple iPad Air 13-inch is slightly shorter at 11.1 inches long but shares the same width of 8.46 inches. Both provide ample space for reading and creative work.
Do these tablets include cellular connectivity?
Several models support cellular networks for mobile internet access. The Apple iPad Air 11-inch M4 Wi-Fi + 5G and the iPad Air 11-inch M2 Cellular both include this feature. The iPad Air 13-inch M2 also offers cellular options. The BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color and the standard iPad Air 13-inch M4 rely on Wi-Fi connections only.
What processors power the Apple iPad Air models listed?
The newer iPad Air models utilize the M4 chip for high performance. The 11-inch and 13-inch M4 versions both use this processor. The previous generation models, the iPad Air 11-inch M2 and iPad Air 13-inch M2, are powered by the M2 chip. These processors handle multitasking and creative applications efficiently across the Apple lineup.
Which option is best for portable use due to its size?
The 10.2-inch Apple iPad 128GB is the most compact choice. It measures 9.8 inches in length and 6.8 inches in width. The 11-inch iPad models, including the A16 and M2 versions, are also highly portable. They measure roughly 9.75 inches long and 7 inches wide, making them easier to hold than the larger 13-inch alternatives.
How much storage is available on these tablets?
Every tablet listed includes 128GB of internal storage. This capacity is consistent across the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color and all Apple iPad Air and standard iPad models. This amount of space is sufficient for storing numerous apps, documents, and media files without needing external storage solutions for most users.
Do these devices support Touch ID for security?
Most of the Apple iPad models feature Touch ID for secure authentication. The iPad Air 11-inch M4, iPad Air 13-inch M4, iPad Air 11-inch M2, iPad Air 13-inch M2, iPad 10.2-inch, and iPad 11-inch A16 all include this biometric feature. The specifications for the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color do not mention Touch ID support.
Which tablet is the lightest to carry?
The Apple iPad Air 11-inch M2 is the lightest option at 1.02 pounds. The iPad Air 11-inch M4 follows closely at 1.03 pounds. The iPad 10.2-inch weighs 1.09 pounds, and the iPad 11-inch A16 weighs 1.05 pounds. The larger 13-inch tablets and the BOOX Tab XC 13.3 Color are heavier due to their bigger screens and chassis.