In today’s digital era, artists, illustrators, and writers are constantly seeking tools that strike a balance between traditional expression and modern convenience. Two of the most talked-about devices in the realm of digital handwriting are the Supernote and the reMarkable tablet. Both are designed to offer a focused, distraction-free environment for handwriting, sketching, and note-taking. But how do they truly perform when placed in the hands of a creative? And is there another, perhaps more flexible, alternative out there?
Let’s explore the handwriting experience on Supernote and reMarkable from the perspective of artists and creatives — and introduce a refreshing option that blends the best of both worlds: the XPPen Magic Note Pad.
The Handwriting Experience
One of the most important aspects of any digital note-taking device is how it feels to use. Supernote offers a soft-film screen and a ceramic nib stylus. The writing sensation is smooth and pleasant, with just enough resistance to simulate real paper. Since the nib never wears down, you don’t need to worry about replacements — a small but meaningful perk. However, the stylus lacks pressure sensitivity, which may limit its appeal for illustrators or calligraphy artists who rely on nuanced strokes.
reMarkable, on the other hand, is widely praised for providing the closest experience to actual paper. Its textured screen and responsive stylus create a subtle “scratch” sound and feel, making writing and sketching deeply satisfying. It supports tilt and pressure, making it a better fit for light drawing or artistic exploration. Still, it’s not without flaws — grayscale output and occasional input lag may frustrate those with more advanced artistic needs.
Workflow and Creative Integration
Supernote is ideal for users who appreciate structure. It has a clear, folder-based file system that makes it easy to stay organized. However, it’s relatively isolated — integration with third-party services like Evernote or Google Drive is minimal, and exporting files can feel cumbersome for fast-paced creative workflows.
reMarkable takes a step further with cloud integration, offering desktop and mobile apps for syncing content. Its Connect subscription enables links to services like Dropbox and OneDrive, making it more flexible for those managing large volumes of creative notes or drafts. That said, both devices are primarily designed for writing and sketching in black and white, with limited functionality for more dynamic or colorful artistic processes.
A Minimalist’s Dream — But Not for Everyone
The minimalist nature of both Supernote and reMarkable can be a double-edged sword. They are designed to keep you focused — no notifications, no social media, no distractions. That’s perfect for writers or thinkers who want to be fully present with their thoughts. But for visual creatives who thrive on spontaneity, mixed media, and color, these devices can feel restrictive.
This is where a different kind of tool shines — one that doesn’t attempt to imitate paper but instead embraces it.
Enter the XPPen Magic Note Pad
The XPPen Magic Note Pad offers an entirely different approach. It lets you write or draw with a real pen on real paper — while simultaneously capturing your every stroke digitally via the XPPen Notes App. You don’t have to simulate a paper experience — you’re living it.
For creatives, this means total freedom. Sketch ideas in your natural flow, scribble storyboards, draw thumbnail concepts, or jot down spontaneous thoughts — and everything is backed up digitally without interrupting your analog process. You’re not forced to adapt your style to a screen — instead, the technology adapts to you.
The Magic Note Pad supports exporting your work as PDF, images, or jnotes. Whether you’re a writer outlining a novel or a designer mapping a concept, you can organize and share your ideas with just a few taps. And the display has gained TÜV SÜD Low Blue Light Certification, there’s zero eye strain — perfect for long creative sessions.
Perhaps the most refreshing part? You get to keep your physical notebook. There’s something deeply satisfying about flipping throtugh actual pages of your own handwriting and sketches, and XPPen understands that.
A New Kind of Hybrid Creativity
Supernote and reMarkable are great choices for those who want a focused digital notebook experience. Supernote leans toward structure and durability, while reMarkable offers a more tactile and responsive feel for drawing and writing. But if your creativity lives between worlds — part analog, part digital — the XPPen Magic Note Pad offers the best of both.
It doesn’t ask you to give up the tactile joy of paper, nor does it trap your creativity in a walled garden of grayscale. It gives you freedom — to write, draw, store, and revisit your ideas however you like. In doing so, it becomes more than just a tool — it becomes an extension of your creative process.
For artists and creatives who want the immediacy of pen and paper with the convenience of digital organization, the XPPen Magic Note Pad might just be the quiet revolution you didn’t know you were waiting for.
