Conclusion:

I think this is a very good idea, but it could be so much more. I think one major omission is the lack of a built-in pen holder. While Rocketbook does sell a pen holder, I really think this should be standard given the consequences of using the wrong pen. Doing so means you won’t be able to erase and reuse the page. Seems like it would be an easy thing to add.

Or better yet; I would like to see Rocketbook come out with designer holders for these notebooks that include a spot for your pen and maybe a small swatch of microfiber towel. While I used this in several client meetings, there were a few times I felt a bit self-conscious when everyone had their leather portfolios out. It just doesn’t have a polished look like it belongs in the boardroom, but a simple cover would fix that and would be well worth the money to me.



Overall I think this is a very good product and well worth the $30 or $32 (depending on size) entry fee at Amazon.com. But, you do have to consider a few main drawbacks. First, if you are a leftie, this is a no go. Since the ink doesn’t dry for at least 10-15 seconds it is very likely you will smudge your notes. Second builds off the first, if you are taking frantic notes and need to flip the page before it dries you will smudge as well. I did have some luck placing a sheet between so it didn’t transfer to the previous page but there was some loss of fidelity to the last few lines as some ink was transferred to the liner sheet. I also found it somewhat hard to see the grid lines in a room if they dimmed the lights for a presentation. It might be nice if they offered a few pages with standard lines to ease my aging eyes. And finally, always make sure you have a back-up FriXion pen. Eventually you will run out of ink and with this notebook you can’t just borrow a pen, so plan ahead.

Honestly I like this so much I want to pick up the Rocketbook Color for my son. For $22 it works much the same way, but using Crayola Dry Erase products. I don’t know about your kids, but mine can go through paper like there is no tomorrow. Not to mention how upset he gets when someone forgets to take their masterpiece home. This can eliminate all of this waste and directly send the artwork where he wants and there are no hurt feelings.

For the convenience, performance, and novelty, the Rocketbook Everlast reusable smart notebook earns the Bigbruin.com "Great Idea" and "Highly Recommended awards.



Pros:

» Great for the environment with unlimited uses.
» Super easy to keep your notes organized and sent to the right destination.
» Includes FriXion pen and towel to get you started.
» Great for those that need to keep notes private.

Cons:

» Not for lefties
» 15 second dry time
» Needs better accessories
» OCR with formatting would be a great addition.

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