How to Read PDFs on Supernote — Convert to EPUB for Better Text Flow
Supernote is an excellent e-ink device for reading and handwriting — but like all e-ink devices, it struggles with fixed-layout PDFs. Converting text-heavy PDFs to EPUB first gives you properly reflowing text, font size control, and a far more comfortable reading experience on Supernote's high-resolution screen.
Why PDFs read poorly on Supernote
PDFs are fixed-layout: each page is a precise rectangle. Supernote's PDF viewer renders them as images — you can zoom and pan, but text doesn't reflow. For academic papers and dense reports:
- Text is often too small at full-page view
- Zooming in cuts off columns and margins
- Two-column academic PDFs require constant scrolling
- Supernote's font size settings have no effect on PDFs
Converting to EPUB solves all of this — text flows to fill the screen at whatever size you set.
Step 1: Convert PDF to EPUB
- Go to pdf2epub.toolkit.bot
- Upload your PDF
- Wait ~30 seconds
- Download the EPUB
The converter handles academic two-column PDFs well, reconstructing the correct reading order. Research papers, reports, and books convert cleanly.
Step 2: Transfer to Supernote
- USB cable (fastest): Connect Supernote to your computer → it appears as a USB drive → drag EPUB into the Document folder (or a subfolder of your choice)
- Supernote app: Open the Supernote companion app on your phone → tap the + button → upload EPUB → syncs wirelessly to device
- Supernote Cloud: Log in at supernote.com → upload EPUB → it syncs to the device on next connection
Step 3: Reading settings on Supernote
Once the EPUB is on your Supernote, open it and adjust:
- Font size: Use the Aa button in the reading toolbar
- Font family: Supernote offers several fonts including a serif option good for long reading
- Line spacing: Adjustable in the settings panel
- Margins: Narrow margins give more reading space; wider margins provide room for handwritten notes
PDF vs EPUB on Supernote
| Feature | PDF on Supernote | EPUB on Supernote |
|---|---|---|
| Font size control | No — zoom only | Yes — full control |
| Text reflow | No — fixed layout | Yes — wraps to screen |
| Two-column papers | Requires constant scrolling | Single column, flows naturally |
| Handwritten annotations | Full support (PDF layer) | Full support (EPUB layer) |
| Best for | Figures, charts, scanned docs | Text-heavy papers, books, reports |
Frequently asked questions
Does Supernote support EPUB files?
Yes — all current Supernote models (A5X, A6X2, Manta) support EPUB files natively. Transfer EPUBs via USB cable, the Supernote mobile app, or Supernote Cloud sync. EPUB files display with reflowable text — you can adjust font size, font family, line spacing, and margins in Supernote's reading settings. This is much more comfortable for text-heavy documents than PDF mode.
What is the best way to transfer an EPUB to a Supernote?
Three methods: (1) USB cable — connect Supernote to your computer, it appears as a USB drive, drag the EPUB into the Document folder. (2) Supernote app — use the Supernote iOS or Android companion app to sync files wirelessly. (3) Supernote Cloud — upload the EPUB to your Supernote Cloud account at supernote.com, it syncs to the device. USB is fastest for large files; the app is most convenient for single files.
How does Supernote compare to reMarkable for reading EPUBs?
Both read EPUB files and have e-ink screens optimized for reading and handwriting. Supernote's EPUB reader offers more typography customization (multiple fonts, size, spacing). reMarkable's EPUB reader is cleaner but has fewer options. Supernote A5X has a larger screen (10.3 inches) than reMarkable Paper (10.3 inches also — they're similar). Both are excellent for research reading. The key difference is the handwriting experience: Supernote's pen has a different feel and annotation system than reMarkable's proprietary markers.
Can I annotate an EPUB on Supernote?
Yes — Supernote supports EPUB annotation: highlight text, add comments, and make handwritten margin notes. Highlights are saved within the Supernote system and can be exported. Note: EPUB annotations on Supernote are stored separately from the EPUB file itself, not embedded in standard EPUB annotation format. If you need to share annotated EPUBs or use them in another app, check Supernote's export options for the specific model.
What types of PDFs benefit most from conversion to EPUB before reading on Supernote?
Text-heavy PDFs benefit most: academic papers, reports, books, long articles, documentation. PDFs with complex multi-column academic layouts (IEEE, ACM, Springer format) become significantly more readable after EPUB conversion. PDFs that are primarily images (scanned documents, photography books, visual layouts) don't benefit from conversion — keep those as PDF for the Supernote PDF viewer. PDFs with lots of tables and figures convert well but keep the original PDF handy for reference.