Smartpens are transforming how people take notes. With the ability to capture handwriting and audio, they help users stay focused, especially students, professionals, and people with learning differences. Two top options in the market are the Livescribe Symphony and the Livescribe Echo 2. This post compares both to help you choose the one that fits your daily needs.
Overview of the Livescribe Symphony
The Livescribe Symphony is a slim, lightweight smartpen that pairs with your phone or tablet through Bluetooth. It uses the Livescribe+ app to sync handwritten notes and audio. This setup works best for users who want digital backup and access to their notes from cloud platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox. It uses special Livescribe dot-pattern paper that allows the pen to track your handwriting in real time. For more details, you can check the official Livescribe website.
Pros and Cons of the Livescribe Symphony
Pros:
- Syncs notes and audio in real time
- Works with both Android and iOS
- Supports cloud backup
- Converts handwriting into searchable text
Cons:
- Needs a phone or tablet for full functionality
- Requires special Livescribe paper
- Initial setup may take time for first-time users
Overview of the Livescribe Echo 2
The Livescribe Echo 2 is a standalone smartpen. It records handwriting and audio without needing a mobile device. The pen includes a microphone, speaker, OLED screen, and 4GB internal memory. You transfer notes via USB-C to your computer. It’s perfect for users who want to avoid the need for Bluetooth or mobile apps.
Pros and Cons of the Livescribe Echo 2
Pros:
- Works without a smartphone
- Onboard memory holds thousands of notes and hours of audio
- Built-in display makes navigation easy
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Cons:
- Bulkier than the Symphony
- No Bluetooth or wireless sync
- Still requires special Livescribe paper
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the Livescribe Symphony if:
- You prefer a lighter pen
- You don’t mind using your phone for syncing
- You want notes backed up to the cloud in real time
Choose the Livescribe Echo 2 if:
- You want a pen that records without apps or Bluetooth
- You need onboard storage and direct USB transfers
- You’re okay with a slightly larger device
Studies show that tools like these improve focus and memory retention, especially for students with learning challenges. See this ResearchGate study, this ACM accessibility article, and this case study from AHEAD.
FAQs
What is the difference between Livescribe Symphony and Echo 2?
The Livescribe Symphony works with a mobile app via Bluetooth and requires a smartphone or tablet to function fully. The Echo 2 is a standalone pen with built-in storage, display, and recording capability, and it connects to a computer via USB.
Do both Livescribe pens require special paper?
Yes, both the Livescribe Symphony and Echo 2 use Livescribe dot-pattern paper. This paper allows the pens to track handwriting accurately.
Can I use Livescribe pens without the app?
The Echo 2 can function completely without an app, as it stores notes and audio internally. The Symphony requires the Livescribe+ app for syncing and recording.
Do these pens convert handwriting to text?
Yes, the Livescribe+ app used by both pens supports converting your handwriting into searchable, editable text.
Can I record audio with both pens?
Yes. Both pens can record audio. The Symphony does this via your mobile device, while the Echo 2 records audio directly using its built-in microphone.
How much storage does the Echo 2 have?
The Echo 2 comes with 4GB of internal memory, which can store thousands of pages and several hours of audio recordings.
Are these pens compatible with iOS and Android?
The Symphony works with both iOS and Android through the Livescribe+ app. The Echo 2 doesn’t require a mobile device but supports Windows and macOS for file transfer.
Can I share my notes and recordings?
Yes. Both smartpens allow you to share notes and audio via cloud platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or email once synced with the Livescribe+ app or your computer.
Is it easy to set up a Livescribe pen?
Setup is simple but slightly different:
- Symphony: Pair with your phone, install the app, and start writing.
- Echo 2: Charge the pen, write on Livescribe paper, and connect it to your PC/Mac with USB to sync.
Which smartpen is better for students?
Students who want offline functionality and don’t want to depend on their phone may prefer the Echo 2. Those who enjoy mobile syncing and cloud backups might go with the Symphony.
Conclusion
Both Livescribe pens are great smart note tools. If you’re tech-savvy and want cloud syncing, go for the Symphony. If you want a fully independent device that works offline, the Echo 2 is a better fit.
Want more details? Explore our full reviews: