TCL Note A1 NxtPaper: A Hybrid Note-Taking Tablet That Blends Paper Feel With Android Power
TCL's new Note A1 NxtPaper tablet offers a convenient AI-powered note-taking tool, though its file management and interface have notable quirks. The device now ships with Google Play Store built in, unlike its original Kickstarter version.
TCL has released the Note A1 NxtPaper, a tablet that combines digital notebook features with the capabilities of a full Android tablet. Reviewers were particularly pleased with the note-editing interface — tapping a note with the stylus opens an edit mode with a toolbar for choosing pen type, color, and line thickness, striking a balance between simplicity and useful control.
Another standout feature is the so-called Inspiration Space, a tool for clipping and saving text snippets from any document or webpage, which can then be converted into editable text or processed with the tablet's onboard AI tools. It's been described as one of the best clip-and-save tools available since giving up on Evernote.
Interface Shortcomings
The file management system, however, drew criticism. For instance, there's no way to open a note in reading mode and then switch to editing within that same note — users must exit back to the main menu and reopen the note in edit mode. Getting two documents open side by side also required consulting the manual, since the device lacks the drag-and-drop functionality found on other Android devices.
From Kickstarter to Retail Shelves
Notably, despite being a large publicly traded company, TCL originally launched the Note A1 through a Kickstarter campaign, while already supplying units to YouTube influencers. Early Kickstarter buyers complained about limited app availability and the absence of the Google Play Store, forcing them to sideload apps via tools like F-Droid and the Aurora Store. The version now sold at retail comes with Google Play Store preinstalled, though managing installed apps through the sidebar menu still feels somewhat clunky.
How It Compares
The main competition comes from E Ink tablets, which offer a more authentic paper-like experience but aren't suited for watching video or browsing social media. The Note A1 delivers roughly 80 percent of that paper-like feel while retaining full Android tablet functionality, making it an appealing choice for those who want both in one device.
