Why it matters

The screen-size gap changes where these devices live. Palma behaves like a phone-shaped reading companion that can open several storefronts and services. Paperwhite behaves like a focused book appliance with a larger page and stronger water protection. The right answer depends less on raw storage than on whether you want one simple library or a small Android device that needs more setup.

What to compare

  • Palma uses a 6.13-inch 300ppi screen and weighs 170g. Paperwhite uses a 7-inch 300ppi screen and weighs 211g, a 41g difference. Palma fits more pockets and one-handed moments; Paperwhite gives paragraphs, manga panels, and larger type more width.
  • Palma runs Android 13 with Google Play, 6GB of memory, 128GB storage, microSD, physical page buttons, and a programmable smart button. Paperwhite has 16GB and a Kindle-first library with Send to Kindle support. More storage does not make Palma simpler, and fewer apps are part of Paperwhite's appeal.
  • BOOX calls Palma water-repellent for spills, splashes, and light rain and explicitly says it is not waterproof. Amazon rates Paperwhite IPX8 and tests it for immersion in 2m of fresh water for 60 minutes. Only Paperwhite supports the stronger water-use case.
  • Palma contains a 3950mAh battery, but BOOX does not publish a directly comparable weeks figure. Amazon's up-to-12-weeks Paperwhite claim assumes 30 minutes of reading per day, wireless off, and light level 13. App mix, refresh mode, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and front light prevent a fair headline battery winner.
  • BOOX currently lists Palma 2 at $249.99. Amazon's current official page did not show a stable exact price for the relevant Paperwhite ads configuration, so no price gap is claimed. Account migration, cases, subscriptions, regional app access, and future software support belong in the final budget.

Who it is for

  • Buy BOOX Palma 2 if a 170g phone-shaped reader, Android 13, Google Play, 128GB plus microSD, and physical page controls let you combine Kindle, other bookstores, web articles, and documents in one pocket.
  • Buy Kindle Paperwhite 2024 if a 7-inch page, IPX8 protection, a focused Kindle library, 16GB, and the official up-to-12-weeks usage profile matter more than installing multiple apps.

Watch-outs

  • Palma 2 is not a phone and has no cellular-service promise. Its phone-like body does not replace emergency calling, mobile data, or a conventional smartphone.
  • Water-repellent and IPX8 are not equivalent. BOOX says Palma must not be submerged; Amazon's Paperwhite test is 2m of fresh water for 60 minutes, not permanent immunity.
  • The 12-week Paperwhite claim and Palma's 3950mAh capacity use different evidence bases. Heavy Android apps, fast refresh, audio, Wi-Fi, brightness, and Bluetooth can change runtime sharply.
  • $249.99 is BOOX's official store price checked July 24, 2026. Confirm Paperwhite's exact ads option, market price, warranty, and case before comparing total cost.
  • Android app access adds flexibility but also notifications, permissions, account setup, and per-app e-paper behavior. Paperwhite's narrower software scope can be a benefit.