Traveling with manta

My journey with Supernote devices started in October of 2020 when I purchased the A6X. It’s been an amazing and transformative journey for me. So much so that this has just turned into one of my passion projects. So with that being said, Supernote is not paying me for any of this content here or any of the contents on my site. They have generously gifted me this TEST Prototype of Manta and the half folio. I took Manta on a recent 3 week tour of Europe so this is me just sharing my user experience.

My Four Year Journey

Pros

A Slimmer Profile

One of the most striking differences that I noticed right away was Manta’s slimmer profile.

Supernote Sandwich ( Top to Bottom) : Manta, Nomad, A6X, A5X

I primarily use my A5x on my desk and had to rethink how I would be using my Manta. If you look at the Supernote Sandwich picture and look at the center of each device. The Manta and the Nomad are noticeably thinner and lighter than their predecessors .

The bezel space on the bottom of A5x2 combined with the lighter profile allows me to comfortably hold the A5x2 for longer periods of time. The slimmer profile also allows me to form a better grip on the Manta in this position as well.

My hands are small so this allows me to hold A5x2 in landscape mode which I couldn’t do before with A5x without being uncomfortable. When I need just a little bit more space to take notes or draw than what the Nomad can provide then I simply take out the A5x2 and get to work. Being able to single handedly hold the A5x2 in this orientation to draw or take notes has become one of the best new things.

This reduction in thickness makes it even more portable and comfortable to carry around. The slimmer design, without compromising on screen size or battery life, is an upgrade for me because I prioritize portability.

Higher Resolution

When the Nomad was launched I could definitely tell the difference in my artwork when comparing the Nomad against the A5x. Now with the introduction of a higher resolution of 300 DPI (1920x2560) on the A5x2 I now have the consistency in aesthetics with my artwork and notes for both the Nomad and A5x2. My OCD brain is jumping for joy here.

A5X vs Manta: Same heart drawing on Atelier

Half-Folio

I was fairly skeptical about the half-folio at first. Much like the rail system in the A6x-A5x line and the magnets in the Nomad, I learned to love the half folio. This is because of two factors: durability and ease of cleaning everything else for me is extra. I’m glad to be surprised at how durable the half-folio is. I can’t tell you how many folios I’ve gone through over the years but I can tell you I’ve managed to spill a drink on ALL of them 😆. The A5x2 is no different BUT what sets it apart is the material the half folio is made out of. Now I generally have my folios folded over the back like I’m not supposed to but I do it anyway. This action usually ends up with either the inside or the outside of the folio getting dirty when it picks up any of the liquid from the table. This time I spilled coffee on the half-folio I was able to simply take the half folio off and run cold water over it and wipe it down.

Disclaimer: Do NOT run cold water on half folio while Manta is attached! This Manta doesn’t know how to swim!!!!!!

Added feature I’ve found a use for is that the half-folio doubles as a ruler. I been using the edge to make straight lines. Supernote, can we pretty please have the ability to create simple shapes?

Exposed Frame ( Back )

The A5x2 had a Humpty Dumpty moment when I was on the York Wall. I was drawing on top of the Wall when I accidentally knocked the A5x2 over with my book bag. The A5x2 came crashing down on the cobblestone to my horror. To make matters worse I jumped back trying to catch it and accidentally stepped on the screen instead. Talk about clumsy but Manta is a soldier and survived!

Screen held up to my foot and the back survived the cobblestones. It did however leave little scuff marks on the back of the device. But again this is a Test Prototype so this is not the Final Production version!

I was so glad it didn’t go over the other side of the wall either. I would’ve had a hard time explaining that to the Supernote team. Dear Supernote Team, Manta has fallen and can’t get up.

Footpads

There are little footpads that are on the back of the device. So I haven’t encountered any sliding issues when placed on a desk. The whole York Wall doesn’t count cause technically my book bag knocked it off the wall.

Software

Not much to be said here as of 12/08/2024. Same features and functionality found in Nomad and other devices.

Cons

Pen Loop

The A5x2 introduces a pen loop on the A5x2 itself. I am only putting this on the con list because I am not gentle with my devices and I foresee this pen loop breaking on me. The material feels a little like canvas or cloth. There are what looks like screws holding the pen loop in place. So I might try to replace the pen loop with a customized pen loop in the future. In the meantime to circumvent this I bought adhesive pen loops to stick to the back of the device as a second pen loop to prevent flapping. To be fair this is only a Test Prototype so there is a lot of room for improvement here.

Final User Experience thoughts

Supernote has consistently impressed me with its innovative note-taking devices. The latest iteration, Manta builds upon the success of its predecessor, the A5x, offering several notable improvements.

While the A5x remains a capable note-taking device, the Manta offers several compelling reasons to consider an upgrade. The slimmer design, and potentially improved durability make it a compelling choice for those seeking a more portable and practical note-taking experience.

Ultimately, the decision to upgrade depends on your specific needs and preferences. The A5x2 is a worthy investment. However, if you're satisfied with the A5x's performance and design, it continues to be a reliable and versatile option.

Manta on top of Drachenfels (Dragon’s Rock) in Germany

Stay tuned….

Unboxing Test Manta, Production Manta and…..more

Random Travel stories with Manta

Oh you’re still here huh?

When I was passing through customs in Scotland. Customs did pull me to the side to ask about the Manta which in turn almost made me miss my connecting flight.

Manta and Nomad almost got pickpocketed in Germany when I had to leave it in the bin while I got strip searched by security.

Well , I did ask for an adventure…🤷🏻‍♀️