HONOR Pad X9b Max review: 13-inch tablet with paper-like anti-glare display and huge battery
HONOR has introduced the Pad X9b Max, a tablet that breaks with the company's naming convention. Unlike most models in the lineup, there is no smaller "X9b" sibling — the Max suffix here doesn't denote a version but describes the device itself: a 13-inch screen paired with a high-capacity battery.
The standout feature is the Paperlike anti-glare coating, which echoes HUAWEI's PaperMatte technology. It cuts reflections and makes the display easier on the eyes, whether you're reading outdoors or working under bright office lights. The panel also supports stylus input, opening up use cases from note-taking to sketching.
Despite the large diagonal, the tablet stays reasonably portable. The chassis measures just 6.7 mm thick and weighs 618 grams. Even with the optional keyboard case attached, it remains lighter than virtually any laptop — though the bezels around the screen are noticeably thick, leaving room for design improvements in future iterations.
Under the hood, the Pad X9b Max offers solid specs: up to 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, expandable via memory card. The audio system is certified under the IMAX Enhanced standard, promising immersive sound for movies and streaming content. The software environment is another highlight — HONOR has put effort into multitasking features and seamless integration with its ecosystem of devices.
The large battery is clearly designed for all-day use, making the tablet a viable companion for travel and business trips. Combined with the anti-glare display, the device positions itself as a bridge between conventional tablets and portable workstations — a tool for both productivity and entertainment that doesn't require constant access to a power outlet.
Overall, the HONOR Pad X9b Max looks like a deliberate attempt to carve out a niche in the crowded tablet market. It offers a big, reflection-resistant screen, enough performance for demanding workloads, and the kind of battery life that lets you leave the charger at home. While the thick bezels and the absence of a smaller model in the family may raise questions, the tablet delivers on its core promise of being a versatile, large-format device for work and play.
