Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Wacom Bamboo Slate

$149

The Wacom Bamboo Slate smartpad allows you to write naturally with pen on any paper and convert your handwritten notes into digital files. It supports real-time export to cloud services.

Our take

Effortlessly digitize your writing with Wacom.

Alright, let's talk about the Wacom Bamboo Slate. This thing is pretty cool if you're someone who loves writing by hand but wants to keep things digital. You jot down your notes or sketches on regular paper with a real pen, and then the Slate magically makes them appear on your device. It's like the bridge between old-school and new-school ways of working. The best part? You don’t have to change your writing habits. It just blends with what you’re already doing, turning your scribbles into digital files that you can edit or share. The tech is smooth, but it does need a bit of patience to set up.

Now, let's get real about the digital conversion. The Wacom app, where your notes get stored, is decent but not perfect. Sometimes, it feels like it’s still finding its footing — like it could be a bit more intuitive or faster. Don't get me wrong, it does the job, but it’s not going to win any speed races. If you're expecting every stroke to be captured with laser precision, there might be a couple of hiccups. But for most everyday uses, it does a solid job of capturing your notes as they are.

On the hardware side, the Slate feels sturdy and well-made. It’s got that quality feel you’d expect from Wacom. However, the pen is another story. It’s not bad, but it’s not great either. It’s enough to get the job done, but if you’re picky about your writing tools, you might find it lacking. The pen is kind of the weak link here. It’s not the most comfortable for long writing sessions, and if you run out of ink, it’s not as easy as grabbing another pen from your drawer. You’ve got to get refills that fit, which is an extra step.

The Slate is powered by a rechargeable battery, and it's surprisingly good on the juice. I’ve gone days without having to plug it in, which is a sweet relief in a world where everything else seems to need charging constantly. But, here's the catch: if you forget to charge it, you’re back to old-school paper. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning on using it for important meetings or classes.

Overall, the Wacom Bamboo Slate is a handy tool for those who live in both the analog and digital worlds. It’s not going to replace your tablet or your laptop, but it’s a nice companion for those who love the feel of paper but want the convenience of digital storage. Just know that it’s not perfect and might require a bit of adjustment to fit into your routine. If you’re cool with that, then the Slate could be a neat addition to your tech arsenal.

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