- 6,13” e-Ink color display (300 ppi) optimized for reading, with super refresh mode and reduced ghosting.
- Solid performance (Dimensity 1080, 8/256 GB) and full connectivity: 5G Dual SIM, NFC, infrared and fingerprint.
- Android 14 with Google Play: Focus on reading and light productivity; ~21 fps limits video and gaming.
- Ideal for readers and digital detoxers; camera with useful OCR, no microSD, and a premium price.
The Bigme HiBreak Pro Color is designed to fill a very specific niche: those who want a mobile phone with the essentials, but optimized for reading without eye strain and featuring a color e-ink screen. Compared to traditional smartphones, it prioritizes eye comfort, battery life, and focus on reading, while offering all the features of a modern phone.
This model is an evolution of the original HiBreak and combines an advanced e-Ink display with 5G connectivity, Android 14, and features uncommon in its category (fingerprint reader, NFC, and infrared). Its purpose is clear: to minimize distractions and maximize readability, even in bright sunlight or at night with front lighting, without sacrificing the ability to install your favorite apps from Google Play.
Color e-Ink display: how it works and what it offers
The key to this device lies in its screen technology. E-ink screens don't work like LCDs or OLEDs : instead of emitting light, they contain microcapsules with tiny "droplets" of ink that move via electrical charges to form the image. Once fixed, the image remains flicker-free and consumes minimal power, making it ideal for extended reading.
This method of generating the image offers clear advantages: flicker-free reading , reduced eye strain due to the absence of direct blue light, and excellent visibility in ambient light. Furthermore, you don't need backlighting to view content indoors or outdoors, although the device does include front LED lighting for when you're reading in the dark.
The Bigme HiBreak Pro Color features a 6,13-inch E Ink Carta 1200 display with 824 x 1648 pixels and 300 dpi, a combination that makes text very sharp. The surface feels matte and defined; in fact, in specialized communities, the idea was circulating that "the surface looks good (matte, but sharp) ," emphasizing that paper-like feel that is so sought after in e-ink.
It's important to understand a structural limitation of color e-ink: to display a single colored pixel, several particles are combined, so the effective color resolution is lower than in black and white. In the previous generation (the standard HiBreak), the resolution dropped to about a third when switching to color, resulting in a pastel-pencil feel with few nuances. While Pro Color improves the overall experience, the nature of e-ink means that videos and games aren't its strong suit.
The original Bigme HiBreak Pro Color was advertised as having a 5,84-inch screen with 1440 x 720 resolution in black and white and 480 x 240 in color; the text was very sharp and reading was pleasant, but moving images showed the lower color definition. The HiBreak Pro Color raises the bar in terms of both readability and size, while maintaining that commitment to impeccable text.
The system's front lighting allows for comfortable reading in the dark. The previous model boasted up to 162 cd/m² of brightness, a figure that, while not the highest on the market, was more than sufficient for everyday use. It was noted that the Onyx Boox Palma had a slight advantage in maximum brightness , but in real-world use, reading was satisfactory in both cases.
E-ink displays have a slower response time than conventional screens, and this is even more pronounced in color. The Bigme HiBreak Pro Color boasts a refresh rate of around 21 fps , with an accelerated refresh mode that helps considerably, but still doesn't make it ideal for fast-paced clips or reflex-based games.
Refresh and ghosting modes
Bigme incorporates a "super refresh" mode designed to reduce ghosting and trails, with mention of an " SSS-level " that improves the experience compared to previous generations. This results in smoother navigation through menus, reading websites, and page turns, mitigating many of the typical e-Ink artifacts.
Even with these improvements, it's best to adjust expectations: smooth video isn't its strong suit . Where it shines is in reading apps, note-taking, basic messaging, and light productivity applications, which take advantage of image stability and low data usage.
Design and ergonomics
One of the most appealing aspects of the Bigme HiBreak Pro Color is its portability . Weighing around 182 grams , it's effortless to handle with one hand, and the matte screen prevents annoying reflections. It's an ideal format for pocket readers who want a functional phone without sacrificing the "pleasure of turning the page."
Hardware and performance
For a smartphone with eInk, the Bigme HiBreak Pro Color is surprisingly capable. It features a MediaTek Dimensity 1080 octa-core processor clocked at 2,6 GHz, paired with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage. In its category, this combination places it among the fastest and smoothest models.
The only downside in this regard is the lack of a microSD card slot . The 256GB should be sufficient for large libraries of books, PDFs, and apps, but if you frequently carry large video files or extensive collections, you'll have to manage everything on the internal storage.
Connectivity and sensors
One of the HiBreak Pro Color's strongest selling points is that it doesn't sacrifice smartphone features. It offers 5G with Dual SIM , Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS , NFC, and even infrared for controlling compatible devices. It also includes a fingerprint reader for quick unlocking, making it a very practical package for everyday use.
For those who are meticulous about orientation, the device includes a compass among its sensors, adding precision to its positioning. In short, it's not a reader with minimal functions: it's a full-fledged phone with an e-Ink screen.
Cameras and OCR
The rear camera boasts 20 MP and integrates OCR functions for scanning text, which is especially useful for students and professionals working with documents. The 5 MP front camera is adequate for video calls and basic selfies.
It doesn't compete with high-end camera phones, something that is openly admitted: the photo quality is standard and intended for documents and functional use, not for advanced creative photography.
Software and user experience
Out of the box, it comes with Android 14 and access to Google Play , so you can install e-book readers, Pocket, Kindle, Kobo, PDF managers, note-taking apps, messaging apps, calendars, or whatever you need for relaxed productivity. The combination of eInk with modern Android facilitates a more realistic digital detox : you stay connected, but without the constant pull of cluttered screens and animations.
In practice, the app experience benefits from the super refresh rate mode to minimize ghosting, and from the panel's sharpness when working with text. However, consider limiting your video and gaming usage, as the typical 21 fps on color e-Ink won't provide the smoothness you expect from demanding multimedia.
Autonomy and charging
The 4500 mAh battery , combined with the efficiency of the e-Ink display, allows for longer battery life compared to phones with conventional screens. It also features 18W fast charging , sufficient to quickly recharge the device during short breaks.
However, some users have pointed out some nuances: criticisms have been made regarding battery life and the potential fragility of the screen . These are minority comments compared to those who value the screen's comfort for the eyes, but it's advisable to consider using a protective case and adopting sensible charging habits to maximize its lifespan.
Who it's for (and who it's not for)
The Bigme HiBreak Pro Color is a perfect fit for those who prioritize reading and concentration . If you're someone who devours books, long articles, papers, or likes to study on your phone, you'll notice a real improvement in comfort and focus.
- Ideal if You want a functional mobile phone without glare, you prioritize the visual health and you are looking for digital minimalism.
- Also if you work with documents: the OCR The rear camera and text clarity make scanning and reviewing easier.
- Perfect for those who want disconnect from your conventional smartphone without sacrificing connectivity, payments and biometric security.
However, it's not the best option if your daily use involves videos, highly visual social media, or fast-paced games. It's also not the best choice if you need to expand storage with a microSD card or if you demand high-quality photography from your main phone.
Comparison with the previous HiBreak
The original HiBreak was notable for its 5,84-inch e-Ink panel , offering excellent text sharpness and a pleasant reading experience, but with limited color resolution (dropping to a third of the color resolution, especially noticeable with moving images). Additionally, its brightness reached approximately 162 cd/m² , sufficient for daily use, though not exceptional.
The HiBreak Pro Color increases to 6,13 inches , 300 ppi, and offers a much more ambitious set of features in terms of power, storage, connectivity, and cameras. Even inheriting the inherent limitations of color e-Ink, it represents a clear generational leap for those who want a single device that functions as both a reader and a smartphone with modern conveniences.
Real performance and long reading
For tasks like reading, library management, consulting long articles, and light document editing, the Bigme HiBreak Pro Color feels responsive and stable . The combination of an 8-core CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and fast refresh mode reduces lag and ghosting compared to other e-Ink printers.
The text shines especially brightly on this screen: crisp fonts , clean outlines, and a glare-free background reminiscent of paper. For avid readers, this combination makes all the difference compared to traditional screens, where glare and flickering eventually take their toll.
Full connectivity in e‑Ink
Few e-readers claiming to be "mobile" achieve this level of connectivity: 5G Dual SIM to separate personal and work lines, NFC for payments and cards, Bluetooth 5.2 for headphones and keyboards, GPS with compass for maps, and infrared for remote control. Having it all in an e-ink phone is its greatest strength.
Biometric fingerprint security adds convenience. A very complete combination for those who want to reduce screen size without sacrificing key everyday features.
Price, availability and purchases
The price positioning is around €439 (some listings also show around £330 ). In retail environments, it's common to see modules like " Have you found a lower price? Let us know," with forms that even ask for your province if you've seen an offline offer. These practices suggest that the mobile e-ink market is a niche but competitive one.
In official communications, it's promoted as the first 5G color e-Ink smartphone with Dual SIM and Android 14 , featuring messages like "Coming soon!" and the classic "stay tuned for updates." The official store (store.bigme.vip) is also mentioned, and campaign hashtags such as #Bigme #eink #color #eyefriendly #hibreak pro color are used , highlighting its focus on healthy reading.
Community opinions and feelings
Those who have tried it summarize their impression by highlighting that it is " probably the best current pocket e-reader that combines smartphone functions with an excellent reading experience." This balance between phone and e-reader is the most frequently mentioned theme in positive reviews.
A recurring observation is that the screen surface is matte but well-defined, with minor details that could be improved but aren't a major issue. On platforms like Amazon, the digital detox , reading comfort, and OCR are praised, although occasional criticisms arise regarding battery life and screen durability under heavy use.
The best and the improvable
Among its clear advantages, the HiBreak Pro Color offers fatigue-free reading , remarkable performance for its class, portability, and full smartphone functionality. Its advanced refresh rate mode and ghosting elimination tangibly improve the everyday experience.
On the downside, the refresh rate (~21 fps) limits video and gaming, there's no microSD expansion , and color reproduction remains rather pastel compared to LCD/OLED screens. The camera is adequate for documents and practical tasks, but not for demanding photography.
Quick Facts of What It Offers
For those looking for a snapshot of the whole package, this model features a 6,13″ E Ink Carta 1200 display (824 × 1648, 300 ppi) , MediaTek Dimensity 1080 , 8/256 GB, Android 14 with Google Play , 5G Dual SIM connectivity, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, NFC and infrared , 20 MP (with OCR) + 5 MP cameras and a 4500 mAh battery with 18 W.
The idea is not to compete with multimedia "all-rounders", but to optimize reading without sacrificing the fact that the mobile is, in fact, a modern and complete mobile.
Those who prioritize reading, eye health, and a more serene lifestyle will find the HiBreak Pro Color a well-rounded ally : it's powerful for an e-ink device, easy to use, offers ample connectivity, and its screen invites you to read for hours without fatigue; however, it's worth noting that smooth video and advanced photography aren't its strong suit. Share this guide so more users can learn all about the Bigme HiBreak Pro Color.