The Xteink X3 is a tiny, magnetic e-ink reader

The Xteink X3 is a tiny, MagSafe-compatible e-ink reader priced at $80. Featuring a 3.7-inch screen, the device is designed to attach magnetically to the back of a smartphone using MagSafe—Apple’s magnetic accessory standard. This pocket-sized gadget is positioned as a dedicated reading tool that could stop users from doomscrolling, offering a physical alternative to the constant distraction of social media feeds. While avid readers—such as those who read at least 50 books a year—often struggle with screen time on standard smartphones, the X3 attempts to redirect that attention back to text. Unlike its predecessor, the larger Xteink X4, the X3 is compact enough to fit standard smartphone dimensions.

To achieve its minimalist design, the manufacturer, Xteink, made several distinct hardware trade-offs. The device lacks features common to modern consumer electronics:

• No USB-C port: The reader relies on a magnetic charger rather than the industry-standard USB-C connection.
• No touch screen: Users must navigate the interface using physical buttons.

Despite these limitations, the hardware delivers notable power efficiency. During a two-week testing period, the battery charge dropped from an initial 100% to 96%, suggesting that the device requires infrequent charging. For protection, a matching magnetic case is available for $9, which can also magnetize to a phone.

The software experience also requires some user adaptation. The default firmware is functional but unpolished, leading many users to install CrossPoint, a community-made, open-source firmware. While installing third-party firmware can be intimidating, instructions and videos make the process manageable. Loading books onto the device must be done manually, as the X3 lacks native integration with major digital reading ecosystems. It does not support Amazon’s Kindle platform or Libby, an app used for borrowing library e-books, due to digital rights management restrictions on protected files. Instead, users must transfer DRM-free files, such as public domain books or converted documents, over Wi-Fi from a phone or computer, or via the magnetic cable.

Why it matters

The Xteink X3 represents a growing niche of minimalist hardware designed to combat digital fatigue. However, its lack of standard connectivity and library integration limits its appeal to a broader audience, remaining a product suited primarily for users willing to navigate open-source firmware.