Logitech io2 vs Livescribe Smartpen for Taking Digital Notes on Paper

Investors compares the two most popular writing devices for capturing electronic text on plain paper - it’s just like writing with ink on a Tablet PC but less expensive.

Logitech io2 Digital Writing System - Though it’s a little thicker than a normal pen, Logitech io2 works like your run-of-the-mill writing implement. But as you write across specially formatted paper, a tiny camera keeps an electronic version of your scribblings. Those can be transferred to your PC using the included docking cradle.

The software can transcribe your writing into text that can be edited or stored. It even works with OneNote, providing a low-cost alternative to buying a Tablet PC. It costs about $150, but you can find it cheaper if you shop around.

Livescribe Smartpen - Like the Logitech io2, the Smartpen is a pen-based note-taking device, with a few innovative features that could make it more useful. It’s set to begin selling this year for less than $200.

One noticeable feature is an onboard speaker and one-line LCD screen. It uses specially formatted paper to make a digital copy of handwritten notes, and a tiny LCD screen can display word definitions and translations, answers to handwritten math problems and more.

Think of Livescribe as a cross between the io2 and OneNote. In addition to storing digital copies of your handwritten notes, the Smartpen comes with a built-in audio recorder that links your handwritten notes to what you were writing at the time.

You can replay specific portions of the recording on the device itself or import them into a OneNote-like software application. Link.