The Xteink X4 E-Ink Reader(blog.omgmog.net)
276 points by felixdoerp 20 hours ago | 157 comments
tl;dr: The Xteink X4 is a £40 pocket-sized e-ink reader with a crisp display, instant page turns, and a MagSafe mount, though its stock firmware is bare-bones. Custom firmwares forked from CrossPoint (Papyrix, Inx, MicroSlate, TernOS) unlock the device's potential, adding features like Knuth-Plass typography, Calibre/KOReader sync, reading statistics, and even writing or PalmOS-style modes. The author concludes that for pure reading, the X4's extreme portability beats larger or colour e-readers like the Kobo Clara Colour or Bigme B6.
HN Discussion:
  • Owners confirm the X4/X3 with custom firmware is an excellent dedicated reader
  • ~Screen is too small or fades in sunlight, limiting usability
  • Skeptical of the hype and can't see appeal of such a small reading device
  • Users sharing complementary tools and hacks built for the device ecosystem
  • ~Wishlist for future hardware improvements like backlight, higher DPI, better display