Waveshare 13.3 Review

Full review coming soon…

Waveshare is making a mark in the e-ink monitor market with their 13.3-inch model, priced at an affordable $770. This cost-effective choice offers a unique blend of attributes that meet the basic requirements of those seeking the benefits of e-ink technology.

First and foremost, the Waveshare 13.3 offers a screen size that strikes a balance between readability and portability. With a 13.3″ display, this e-ink monitor provides enough space for users to comfortably view content, whether it’s long-form text, coding work, or even graphic designs. The overall display experience is further enhanced by a 1600×1200 resolution which, while not the highest in the market, still delivers a decent image quality for a range of tasks.

The pixel density of 150 PPI is slightly on the lower side compared to other e-ink monitors. While this might affect the sharpness of text and images to a certain degree, it should still provide an adequate viewing experience for most users, especially those primarily using the monitor for text-based tasks. For those looking for a higher DPI in the same form factor, the Boox Mira or Dasung Paperlike HD-F/HD-FT may be a better fit.

In line with many 13.3″ e-ink monitors, the Waveshare 13.3 follows the 4:3 aspect ratio, a format that resembles the proportions of traditional print paper. This aspect ratio is particularly suited for reading and writing tasks, providing a display that is neither too wide nor too tall, thereby offering a balanced, pleasant reading experience.

A noticeable absence in the Waveshare 13.3’s feature set is the lack of a frontlight and touchscreen. The absence of these features might limit the monitor’s usability in low-light conditions and for those who prefer a more interactive display. Again, the Boox Mira and Dasung Paperlike monitors have these features. However, it’s important to note that these omissions might be a significant factor in keeping the device’s price on the affordable end of the spectrum.

Connectivity options on the Waveshare 13.3 are somewhat limited. With only a Mini HDMI port available, it restricts the range of devices that can be easily connected to the monitor. The lack of USB-C and Display Port inputs is a considerable drawback, especially as USB-C has been widely adopted as a standard for power and data transfer across various devices.

One might argue that the lack of a built-in speaker is not necessarily a disadvantage, as e-ink monitors are typically used for tasks where sound is not essential, like reading and writing. However, it might limit the monitor’s multimedia capabilities for users interested in more versatile usage.

An interesting feature of the Waveshare 13.3 is its VESA compatibility. This allows users to mount the monitor on a wall or an adjustable arm, offering flexibility in setting up an ergonomic workspace that caters to individual needs.

Looking at its physical specs, the Waveshare 13.3 impresses with its relatively light weight of 685g and modest thickness of 9mm. This portability makes it a convenient choice for users who need a monitor on the move. The dimensions (305mm wide and 221.9mm high) further contribute to its compact and practical design.

In conclusion, the Waveshare 13.3 e-ink monitor is a viable option for users looking for an affordable entry into the e-ink monitor market. It provides a decent display quality and a satisfactory size for an array of tasks, primarily centred on reading and writing. While the absence of certain features like frontlight, touchscreen, and diverse connectivity options may deter some potential buyers, the Waveshare 13.3’s overall balance of affordability, performance, and portability makes it an attractive choice for those seeking the essential benefits of an e-ink monitor.

Full Specs