Moleskine Smart Writing Set

So, the Moleskine Smart Writing Set, huh? It's kind of a neat idea — a notebook that pairs with a smart pen to digitize your notes. The notebook looks and feels like any other Moleskine, which is to say, it’s got that classy vibe. But this one has special paper that works with the smart pen. The pen itself is chunky and holds a tiny camera to track what you’re writing. It's pretty cool tech, but it does mean you’re locked into buying these specific notebooks. If you’re someone who loves Moleskine already, this might be less of a deal-breaker.

Using it is almost like magic. You write on the page, and boom, your notes appear on your phone or tablet. The companion app is straightforward and does a decent job of recognizing your handwriting. But let’s be real — it’s not perfect. If your handwriting leans towards the scribbly side, you might find yourself correcting more than you’d like. It does a good job most of the time, but it’s not going to read your chicken scratch like a human would.

The fact that you don’t need to be online to use it is a plus. You can write away on a plane or in a cabin in the woods, and it’ll sync up when you’re back in Wi-Fi land. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the pen needs charging. If you’re the forgetful type, you might find yourself reaching for a dead pen more often than you’d like. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s a bit of a hassle, especially if you’re used to regular pens.

Speaking of the pen, it’s not the most comfortable thing to hold for long periods. It’s heavier and thicker than your average pen, which can be a bit tiring if you’re jotting down notes for an extended time. If you’re one of those folks who write a lot, you might end up feeling the strain. On the plus side, it’s built to last and feels durable, like it could take a few knocks in your bag without any issues.

In the end, the Smart Writing Set is a nifty piece of gear for note-takers who love blending old-school and new-school ways. It’s a bit of a commitment, both financially and with the specific paper it needs. But if you’re keen on having your handwritten notes instantly digitized, and you’re okay with its quirks, it’s worth considering. Just go in knowing it’s not exactly the same as jotting down with your trusty Bic and spiral-bound notebook.