August 18, 2025 – Tablets have become part of everyday life for work, play, and reading, but let’s face it — most new models feel like reheated leftovers. They look the same, work the same, and don’t give you many reasons to upgrade. But every once in a while, a device comes along that genuinely offers something fresh. The TCL Nxtpaper 11 Plus is that device.
Priced at just $249 and available now at Walmart, TCL’s new 11.5-inch Android tablet is making waves — not because it’s just another cheap alternative, but because it’s combining features we’ve long wanted in one place. If you’ve ever wished your iPad, Kindle, and notepad could all merge into one smart, eye-friendly device, this might be it.
A Tablet That Feels Like Paper — and Then Some
What really makes the Nxtpaper 11 Plus stand out is its ability to switch seamlessly between a vibrant full-color screen and a soft, E Ink-like paper mode — all with a single button press. This isn’t a software trick buried in a settings menu. TCL has added a physical shortcut button on the side of the device that toggles display modes instantly. Want to watch a video? Use full color. Need to dive into a book at bedtime? Switch to ink paper mode, which mimics the feel of real paper while reducing eye strain.
And speaking of eye strain, that’s another area where TCL has gone the extra mile. The Nxtpaper 4.0 display filters out 61% more blue light than traditional tablets, helping you read or browse longer without the headaches or eye fatigue that often come with screen time. There’s also adaptive brightness and dedicated Reading Modes to further fine-tune the experience for your comfort.
Performance That Punches Above Its Price Tag
Under the hood, the Nxtpaper 11 Plus isn’t trying to be a powerhouse tablet like the iPad Pro — and that’s exactly the point. It’s not about overkill performance, but about smart performance for everyday use. Whether you’re streaming videos, flipping through eBooks, browsing the web, or using productivity apps, the tablet runs smoothly without hiccups.
You get a generous 256GB of internal storage, 8GB of RAM, and a fast 120Hz refresh rate on the display — an impressive spec for a sub-$300 device. And yes, there’s expandable storage too, if you need it. The experience feels fluid, responsive, and surprisingly premium, especially for something so affordable.
A Gorgeous Matte Display That’s Stylus-Ready (But BYO Stylus)
Another thing you’ll notice right away is the matte finish of the display. It’s not only fingerprint-resistant but also feels great to write on — if you’re the type who enjoys note-taking or sketching. However, the tablet doesn’t come with a stylus in the box, and there’s no case included either. You’ll have to grab those separately, but that’s a small trade-off considering everything else it offers.
One thing to note: At 17.3 ounces (just over a pound), it’s a bit heavier than your typical e-reader. If you plan on using it one-handed for long reading sessions, a case with a hand strap or stand will make things much more comfortable.
A Versatile Entertainment and Reading Tablet in One
Many people end up buying multiple devices: a Kindle for reading, an iPad for entertainment, and maybe a notebook for writing or sketching. The TCL Nxtpaper 11 Plus could replace all three. One reviewer even said they handed their iPad to their spouse and gave their Kindle to their child after trying TCL’s earlier Nxtpaper model — and they didn’t look back.
This new model builds on that earlier success with real improvements where it counts: better display quality, better performance, and an even smoother user interface. Watching videos is now a crisp and vivid experience, something that wasn’t always the case with the earlier Nxtpaper 10.
The Bigger Picture: A Glimpse at the Future
TCL is clearly thinking beyond the traditional tablet. With the Nxtpaper 11 Plus, the brand is quietly building a niche in a market that has long been stagnant. They’re offering a hybrid device that respects the user’s health and comfort while also delivering great value and performance. It’s the kind of innovation we used to expect from big tech — and now it’s coming from TCL.
Looking ahead, we might start to see more manufacturers embracing this dual-mode screen technology, especially as people become more concerned about eye health and screen fatigue. TCL seems to be leading the charge, and if they keep improving at this pace, they might just carve out a strong corner in the tablet world.
A Quick Look Back: How We Got Here
The first TCL Nxtpaper tablets appeared a few years ago, offering a unique matte screen experience that looked and felt different from the glossy displays we were used to. The Nxtpaper 10, in particular, caught the attention of tech reviewers, though its limited availability (especially being a Verizon exclusive) kept it from reaching a wider audience.
Now, the Nxtpaper 11 Plus is available to everyone — and it’s a clear upgrade in every way. TCL took the feedback from users and reviewers seriously, improving the display technology, boosting the specs, and making the device more versatile and accessible.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re tired of switching between devices or straining your eyes on harsh screens, the TCL Nxtpaper 11 Plus is worth every penny. It’s not trying to be an iPad killer, but in many ways, it becomes more useful — especially for those who read a lot, work lightly on the go, or want an all-in-one device that respects their eyes.
In a world where most tablets look the same, TCL has done something different — and better.
Where to Buy: Available now at Walmart for $249.