E Ink tablets can be preferable to an iPad for people whose main activities are reading and drawing. Their paper-like, reflective displays are generally more comfortable for prolonged use, perform well outdoors and can offer better battery life and lower weight, making them suitable for focused, low-power tasks.

However, E Ink devices are less versatile and responsive than iPads. Colour screens lack the vibrancy and accuracy of iPad displays, motion can cause ghosting and flickering, videos are often impractical, and slower processors and refresh rates make navigation and demanding apps feel sluggish.