Refreshable Braille Displays and Notetakers

This page has products in the following categories:

• Braille Note Takers
• Refreshable Braille Displays
• Multi-Line and Tactile Graphics Displays

Disclaimer: We recommend 32 to 40 cells as this best promotes reading fluency. In uncontracted braille, these bolded 40 characters would show up on the braille display. If you had 18 characters, you would only see this many at a time.

Braille Note Takers

Android or Windows tablet with accessible OS or screen reader. Equipped with a braille keyboard and display, the devices feature menu-driven access to the blind user and promote braille use and literacy.

Actilino 3.0

Description: The Actilino 3.0 by Help Tech is a super-compact, portable Braille display and standalone note taker featuring 16 concave piezoelectric Braille cells. Designed for seamless on-the-go productivity. It incorporates patented Active Tactile Control (ATC) technology that automatically scrolls text by detecting your reading position. It also offers versatile connectivity, allowing you to link up to four devices simultaneously via Bluetooth and USB while utilizing built-in organizer tools, microphone, and speakers.

Price: $2,795
Manufacturer: Help Tech
Product Page: Actilino 3.0
Features:

• 16 Concave Braille Elements: High-quality piezo ceramic Braille cells with integrated cursor routing for ergonomic tactile reading.
  
• Active Tactile Control (ATC): Automatically senses reading position to scroll text seamlessly without needing to press advance keys manually.
  
• Multi-Device Connectivity: Supports simultaneous connections to up to four devices (three via Bluetooth and one via USB) across iOS, Android, and Windows systems.
  
• Built-in Suite of Organizer Tools: Operates as a standalone note taker with an editor, calculator, scheduler, timer, alarm clock, and interactive games.
  
• Integrated Audio Capabilities: Features built-in mini loudspeakers, microphone, and a 3.5 mm headset jack for calls, speech output, and audio playback.
  
• Expandable Internal Storage: Equipped with a 16 GB micro SD card to store thousands of books, documents, and personal notes.
  
• Long Battery Life: Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery providing over 30 hours of continuous wireless use.

b.book (32-cell) Braille Notetaker

Description: The b.book is a braille note taker that combines a 32-cell refreshable braille display, built-in accessible applications, and a full Windows computing environment in a single device. It can be used as a standalone notetaker, a braille display connected to other devices, or a full Windows computer.Students can work within the included Esysuite applications for writing, file management, braille math, and reading, or switch to the Windows environment to access mainstream software using screen readers such as NVDA or JAWS. This flexibility allows users to complete schoolwork and transition to more advanced computer-based tasks as needed.

Note: This device runs Windows 10/11 depending on configuration and is less commonly used in U.S. educational settings compared to other notetakers, which may impact training and support availability.

Price: $4,612
Manufacturer: Eurobraille
Product Page: b.book (32-cell)
Features:

• 32-cell refreshable braille display
  
• Windows operating system (Windows 10 or 11 depending on configuration)
  
• Esysuite built-in accessible applications (word processing, braille math, file management, etc.)
  
• Perkins-style braille keyboard (10-key input)
  
• Functions as a braille display via USB or Bluetooth (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android)
  
• Compatible with major screen readers (NVDA, JAWS, SuperNova, VoiceOver)
  
• Battery life up to approximately 10 hours.
  

BrailleNote Evolve (32-cell)

Description: The BrailleNote Evolve is a next-generation braille notetaker that combines HumanWare's braille-first KeySoft environment with a full Windows 11 Pro operating system.

Note: This device represents a major shift from previous BrailleNote models by moving from Android to a full Windows platform, providing improved long-term software support and compatibility with school and workplace technology.

Price: $6,199
Manufacturer: HumanWare
Product Page: BrailleNote Evolve
Features:

• 32-cell refreshable braille display
  
• Windows 11 Pro operating system
  
• KeySoft interface combined with full Windows environment
  
• High-performance processor with up to 32 GB RAM (varies by configuration)
  
• Perkins-style braille keyboard with additional function keys
  
• Compatible with screen readers such as NVDA and JAWS
  
• No built-in screen (braille-first)
  

BrailleSense 7 Series (40-cell, 32-cell, 20-cell)

Description: The BrailleSense 7 Series is a next-generation braille notetaker designed to support strong braille literacy while providing advanced performance and seamless access to mainstream technology. Available in 40-cell, 32-cell, and 20-cell configurations, these devices feature refreshable braille displays, a Perkins-style keyboard, and optional detachable QWERTY keyboard for flexible input.The BrailleSense 7 Series is a next-generation braille notetaker designed to support strong braille literacy while providing advanced performance and seamless access to mainstream technology. Available in 40-cell, 32-cell, and 20-cell configurations, these devices feature refreshable braille displays, a Perkins-style keyboard, and optional detachable QWERTY keyboard for flexible input.

Note: This is the newest BrailleSense platform and replaces the previous BrailleSense 6 series, offering updated hardware and ongoing operating system support.

Price: $6,495 (40-cell) | $5,995 (32-cell) | $5,295 (20-cell)
Manufacturer: Selvas BLV
Product Page: BrailleSense 7 Series
Features:

• Available in 40-cell, 32-cell, and 20-cell refreshable braille displays
  
• Android 15 operating system
  
• Perkins-style keyboard with optional detachable QWERTY keyboard
  
• Active Responsive Touch (ART) with automatic braille scrolling
  
• Scroll wheel for quick navigation of documents
  
• Google Gemini integration for voice interaction, dictation, and AI supported tasks
  
• Multi-device connectivity and Human Interface Device (HID) braille support
  

BrailleSense 6 (32-cell) & BrailleSense 6 Mini (20-cell)

Description: The BrailleSense 6 series are high-performance braille notetakers designed to support students with powerful hardware and built-in Android-based functionality. They feature refreshable braille displays, Perkins-style keyboards, and access to many mainstream apps available through Android 12. The BrailleSense 6 series runs Android 12 and does not support updates to newer Android versions.

Price: $4,995 (32-cell) | $3,995 (20-cell Mini)
Manufacturer: Selvas BLV
Product Page: BrailleSense 6 Mini , BrailleSense 6
Features:

• Available in 32-cell and 20-cell refreshable braille displays
  
• Android 12 operating system
  
• 8-core CPU
  
• 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage
  
• Perkins-style braille keyboard with function keys
  
• Access to many Android applications (limited to Android 12 compatibility)
  
• Built-in applications for word processing, file management, and productivity
  

insideONE+ (32-cell tactile braille tablet)

Description: The insideONE+ is a braille tablet that combines a 32-cell refreshable braille display with a touchscreen interface and integrated Perkins-style keyboard. By merging tactile Braille with a full visual display and Windows 11 environment, it allows students to take notes, complete assignments, and collaborate directly with sighted teachers and peers without requiring specialized translation tools.
Price: $6,495
Manufacturer: Inside Vision
Product Page: insideONE+ Braille Tablet
Features:

• Tactile Braille Touchscreen: Features a 32-cell integrated Braille display with tactile Braille keyboard markings engraved directly into the Gorilla Glass surface.
  
• Full Windows 11 OS: Operates on Windows 11 Home or Pro, running standard screen readers like NVDA and JAWS, allowing users to run mainstream educational software and applications.
  
• Dual Interaction & Screen Flipping: Allows sighted teachers, parents, or peers to activate an on-screen virtual keyboard or flip the display for seamless face-to-face collaboration.
  
• High-Performance Hardware: Powered by an Intel Core i7 processor with 16 GB RAM and up to 1 TB SSD storage for fast multi-tasking.
  
• Built-In AI Integration: Incorporates AI tools including Windows Copilot and ChatGPT integration to assist with web research, writing, and creative assignments.
  
• Versatile Connectivity Options: Equipped with USB-C, USB 3.0, Micro HDMI, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 4.1 to easily connect to external displays, peripherals, or school networks.
  
• All-Day Battery Life: Built with a 45Wh battery providing up to 10 hours of active use in a portable 3.3-lb anodized aluminum body.

My first notetaker (Formerly the BrailleNote Touch Plus)

Description: This braille notetaker is designed specifically for young students (ages 4-8) to introduce digital braille in a structured and engaging way.The device includes KeySoft core applications and the complete Take-Off braille learning curriculum to support early literacy, math, and independent learning.

Note: This product is the same hardware as the previous BrailleNote Touch Plus (32-cell model) and is now sold under a new name due to software limitations and changes in platform support.

Price: $2,995
Manufacturer: HumanWare
Product Page: My first notetaker (Formerly the BrailleNote Touch Plus)
Features:

• 32-cell refreshable braille display with cursor routing
  
• Android 8.1 platform with 64 GB storage
  
• KeySoft applications (KeyWord, KeyFiles, Math Editor, KeyGraph, KeyCalc, KeyBrf, etc.)
  
• Built-in Take-Off braille learning curriculum
  
• Touchscreen with Touch Braille input
  
• Perkins-style keyboard
  
• Supports DOCX, PDF, HTML, and BRF files
  

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Braille Displays

Braille displays are devices featuring rows of Braille cells for reading, writing, and editing digital content. Each cell has movable pins enabling users to feel and read Braille text as it updates. They vary from 12 to 80 cells per row, often single-rowed. They can function independently for note-taking or connect to computers, smartphones, or tablets with a screen reader for extensive tasks like accessing digital curriculum or web browsing.

Activator

Description: Activator is a next-generation Braille display concept designed by Help Tech that seamlessly bridges tactile Braille input with standard text entry using an innovative 2-in-1 folding keyboard. When paired with an iPhone via the magnetic SmartDock, it transforms into a complete mobile workstation equipped with extended hardware connections and synchronized charging capabilities. Additionally, its integrated translation software and companion iOS app deliver advanced file management, speech output, and real-time Braille monitoring features.

Price: $6,595
Manufacturer: Help Tech
Product Page: Activator
Features:

• 40 Concave Braille Elements: Features ATC (Automatic Touch Control) technology, cursor routing keys, and adjustable pen thickness.
  
• 2-in-1 Folding Keyboard: A high-quality aluminum folding design that transitions smoothly between standard QWERTY typing and 8-key Braille input.
  
• Magnetic SmartDock: Extends connectivity to an iPhone while providing an extra USB-A port for external thumb drives, SD readers, or headsets.
  
• Shared Charging Capability: Powers both the Activator display and a docked iPhone simultaneously using a single power adapter.
  
• Integrated Translation Engine: Built-in RTFC (Rich Text Format Converter) software provides onboard translation and back-translation for Grade 1, Grade 2 contracted Braille, and UEB (Unified English Braille).
  
• HelpTech and iOS App Integration: Unlocks additional features including a live visual Braille monitor for sighted users, voice dictation, and speech output.
  
• Long Battery Life & Portable Design: Offers over 30 hours of continuous battery life while weighing 970 grams with an ultra-slim profile.
  

Activator Pro

Description: The Help Tech Activator Pro is an ultra-slim, ergonomic Braille display engineered to increase workplace efficiency through hardware innovations like built-in function keys and custom macro execution. Available in 64 or 80-cell configurations, it seamlessly connects to multiple devices and integrates with mobile platforms via the HelpTech+ iOS app for real-time Braille monitoring, dictation, and speech output.

Price: $12,700 (varies by 64 as compared to 80 cell model)
Manufacturer: Help Tech
Product Page: Activator Pro
Features:

• 64 or 80 Concave Braille Elements: High-end refreshable cells with adjustable dot firmness tailored for reading comfort.
  
• Integrated Precision Keyboard: Premium typing mechanics supporting both traditional text typing and Braille input modes.
  
• Workplace Access Keys: Dedicated row of function keys (F13 - F24) plus 10 QuickAccess keys (on the 80-cell version) for fast custom commands.
  
• Macro Workflow Recording: Built-in capability to record multi-step routines and trigger them at the touch of a single button.
  
• Active Split and ATC: Advanced Active Tactile Control automatically routes input tools and screen reader focus to the active Braille segment.
  
• BrailleShot Screenshot Tool: Captures current screen reader Braille output into a text file for quick extraction and sharing.
  
• HelpTech and iOS Integration: Connects with iPhones and iPads to provide speech output, live visual Braille monitoring, and file management.

Active Braille

Description: Description: The Active Braille by Help Tech is a compact, 40-cell refreshable Braille display designed for seamless integration with PCs, laptops, and smartphones. It doubles as a standalone organizer, offering 64 GB of internal storage for books and notes alongside quiet, ergonomic typing tools. With automatic scrolling driven by patented ATC technology, it delivers a continuous and effortless tactile reading experience.

Price: $6,495
Manufacturer: Help Tech
Product Page: Help Tech Braille Displays
Features:

• 40 Concave Braille Cells: Ergonomically designed piezoceramic cells equipped with cursor routing and adjustable dot firmness.
  
• Patented ATC Technology: Automatic Touch Control (ATC) detects your reading position to scroll text automatically without manual button presses.
  
• Multi-Bluetooth Connectivity: Pairs wirelessly with up to three smart devices simultaneously for both Braille and audio output.
  
• Built-in Organizer Features: Standalone functions including a text editor, calculator, scheduler, clock, and alarm.
  
• Polyphonic Audio & MP3 Player: Integrated high-quality stereo speakers and microphone for playing audiobooks, music, or listening to speech.
  
• Discreet Vibration Feedback: Dual internal vibrators deliver tactile signals for quiet notifications during meetings or in classrooms.
  
• 40-Hour Battery Life: High-capacity 5000 mAh rechargeable battery supporting quick 3-hour USB-C charging.

Basic Braille

Description: The Basic Braille by Help Tech is an affordable, entry-level refreshable Braille display designed for reliable access to computers and mobile devices. Housed in a durable, space-saving aluminum casing, it is available in 40, 64, or 80-cell configurations featuring built-in cursor routing keys and straightforward six-key navigation. Using Human Interface Device (HID) technology, it operates instantly via USB without requiring any driver installation, with optional Bluetooth functionality for wireless connectivity.

Price: $3,295 (base model; varies depending on cell count and Bluetooth option)
Manufacturer: Help Tech
Product Page: Basic Braille
Features:

• Multiple Cell Size Options: Available with 40, 64, or 80 flat Braille cells featuring integrated cursor routing keys.
  
• Durable Aluminum Housing: Built with a sturdy, anodized aluminum casing and non-slip plastic side panels for long-lasting use.
  
• Plug-and-Play HID Technology: Connects instantly via USB without needing any additional driver installations or software.
  
• Streamlined 6-Key Navigation: Features 3 low-noise function keys on each side for straightforward, two-handed navigation.
  
• Universal Screen Reader Compatibility: Works seamlessly with major screen readers like JAWS, SuperNova, NVDA, and Apple VoiceOver.
  
• Optional Bluetooth Connectivity: Available with integrated Bluetooth and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for wireless mobile use.
  
• Flat & Compact Design: Ultra-slim profile fits comfortably in front of desktop keyboards or laptop computers.
  

Brailliant BI 40x and 20x

Description: The Brailliant BI series consists of portable and ergonomic refreshable braille displays designed for high-efficiency reading and writing. Available in both 20 and 40-cell configurations, these devices are built to be lightweight and compact without sacrificing the tactile quality required for professional and educational use. They feature a high-quality braille keyboard and integrated intelligence that allows for basic productivity tasks even when not connected to an external device.

Price: $3,759 for 40-cell | $1,849 for 20-cell
Manufacturer: HumanWare
Product Page: Brailliant BI Braille Display
Features:

• Embedded Text-to-Speech: Integrated into the firmware to provide audio reinforcement alongside tactile output.
  
• Cursor Router Keys: Positioned behind the braille cells to allow for quick navigation and precise editing.
  
• Connectivity: Supports both USB and Bluetooth options for seamless pairing with PCs, Macs, and mobile devices.
  
• Standalone Productivity: Firmware includes built-in note-taking applications and reading capabilities.
  

Chameleon 20

Description: The Chameleon braille display boats 20 freshable braille cells, speech output in both English and Spanish, and an internal operating software that allows access to the web and BookShare and other book reading services.

Price: $1,715
Manufacturer: American Printing House (APH)
Product Page: Chameleon 20
Features:

• Available through APH quota funding
• Cursor router keys for ease with editing and navigation
• USB and bluetooth connection options
• Firmware includes note taking and some reading capability, and built in text to speech

Focus Blue 5th and 6th Gen

Description: The Focus line of braille displays seamlessly integrates into the JAWS and Fusion ecosystem. Options for 14 cells, 40 cells, 80 cells, and up to 5 different bluetooth connections, this device provides versatility across the work or school day. The most recent iteration of the Focus displays, the 6th generation, also allows for connectivity via NFC, instantly connecting by touching the device to the display.

Price: $9,996 for 80 cell braille display | $3,748.50 for 40 cell braille display | $1,622.25 for 14 cell braille display | $3,495 for 6th gen Focus 640 40 cell braille display
Manufacturer: Freedom Scientific
Product Page: Focus Blue 5th and 6th Gen
Features:

• Seamless integration into other Freedom Scientific products, such as JAWS
  
• Cursor router keys for ease with editing and navigation
  
• USB and bluetooth connection options
  
• Firmware includes note taking and some reading capabilities

Mantis Q40

Description: The Mantis Q40 braille display is an all-in-one device that combines a laptop-sized QWERTY keyboard with a built-in 40-cell refreshable braille display. It pairs seamlessly with smartphones and screen readers via Bluetooth or USB, while also featuring built-in memory and an Editor app for standalone note-taking and reading. Lightweight and portable, it eliminates the need to choose between a standard keyboard and a braille device on the go.

Price: $2,699 for 40 cells at Humanware | $2,682 for 40 cell at APH using quota Funds
Manufacturer: Humanware
Product Pages: Mantis Q40 (Humanware)
Mantis Q40 (APH)
Features:

• Also available through APH using Quota Funds
  
• Cursor router keys for ease with editing and navigation
  
• Use of full QWERTY keyboard and keyboard commands while maintaining ergonomic access to braille output
  
• USB and bluetooth connection options
  
• Firmware includes note taking and some reading capability
  

Orbit Reader

Description: The Orbit Reader 40 is a compact, 40-cell refreshable braille display and note-taker designed to function as both a standalone device and a screen reader companion. It features an 8-key Perkins-style keyboard, onboard applications like a calendar and calculator, and simultaneous Bluetooth and USB connectivity for up to five devices across multiple operating systems. Built with dust- and fluid-resistant construction, it includes a fast-charging lithium-ion battery, cursor-routing keys, and onboard translation support for over 40 languages.

Price: Starting at $1,899 (varies by cell count)
Manufacturer: Orbit Research
Product Page: Orbit Reader
Features:

• 20 cell or 40 cell options
  
• Dual Standalone & Connected Modes: Operates as a standalone book reader and note-taker, or connects to up to 5 devices simultaneously via Bluetooth and USB.
  
• Broad Screen Reader & OS Compatibility: Seamlessly works with major screen readers across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome OS, Fire OS, and Linux.
  
• Perkins-Style 8-Key Keyboard: Includes an ergonomic braille keyboard, a 4-way navigation pad, and panning rocker keys for easy text entry and scrolling.
  
• Onboard Apps & Multi-Language Support
  

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Multi-Line displays and Tactile Graphics

An evolution in braille display technology, multi-line devices provide presentation of braille spanning 32 cells over anywhere between 4 and 10 lines at a time. Multi-line displays allow spatial information such as tabular data, graphs, and images to be readily understood by users. Additionally, more reel-estate for braille text provides more continuous access to reading longform tasks.

Cadence (Tactile Graphics and Braille Tablet)

Description:The Cadence is a high-definition tactile graphics and multi-line braille display designed to act as a "tactile computer monitor." Developed by Tactile Engineering, it utilizes a unique "cell-less" design consisting of a continuous grid of 3072 independently controlled pins. This allows the device to display not only multiple lines of braille but also complex, high-resolution tactile graphics, animations, and even video in real-time. It is designed to bridge the gap in STEM education by making maps, graphs, and scientific diagrams instantly accessible. Unlike traditional braille displays that have gaps between 8-dot cells, the Cadence uses a uniform grid of pins. This "full-page" approach allows it to function more like a tablet screen where braille text and tactile images can be placed anywhere on the surface simultaneously.

Price: $5,750 for pocket | $11,500 for pro
Manufacturer: Tactile Engineering
Product Page: Cadence
Features:

• High-Resolution Grid: A surface of 3072 pins (arranged in a 48 x 64 matrix) that can represent any tactile shape or multiple lines of braille.
  
• Real-Time Animation: Pins can refresh fast enough to display moving tactile images, allowing users to "feel" animations or changing data.
  
• Integrated Touch Sensors: The surface is touch-sensitive, enabling "point-and-click" style interaction directly on the tactile display.
  
• Multi-Line Reading: Can display approximately 8 to 10 lines of braille at once, significantly increasing reading speed compared to single-line displays.
  
• Standalone Capability: Includes an internal processor, battery, and SD card slot for reading files and running tactile applications without a PC.
  
• Software Suite: Supports a range of educational tools, including the Graphiti interface and specialized tactile games.
  

Codex

Description: The Codex is a multi-line braille display designed to help blind and visually impaired individuals read digital text more naturally and efficiently. Instead of displaying just one line at a time, it uses air pressure technology to show four full lines of braille alongside an integrated touchpad for easy screen navigation. It connects seamlessly to computers and screen readers, making it ideal for reading documents, browsing the web, and working on complex tasks.

Price: $9,995
Manufacturer: NewHaptics
Product Page: Codex
Features:

• 4 lines of 32 braille cells
  
• Integrated touchpad
  
• Compatible with popular screen readers
  
• Native applications and games
  
• On-board braille curriculum
  

Dot Pad

Description: The Dot Pad X is an accessible tactile display that transforms digital text, images, diagrams, and maps into touchable content in real time. Designed primarily for blind and visually impaired users in education and the workplace, it combines a 300-cell graphics area with a 20-cell braille display to make complex visual information easy to explore. The device is lightweight and highly portable, featuring seamless compatibility with iOS, iPadOS, and Windows screen readers for effortless daily use.

Price: $8,515
Manufacturer: Dot Inc.
Product Page: Dot Pad
Features:

• Dual Display: Combines a 300-cell tactile graphics screen with a 20-cell braille text line.
  
• Instant Conversion: Real-time translation of images, charts, maps, and PDFs into feelable shapes.
  
• Wide Compatibility: Works with iOS, iPadOS, macOS, visionOS, and Windows screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver).
  
• Tactile Controls: Built-in buttons for zooming, panning, rotating, and inverting visual content.
  
• Portable Design: Lightweight (1.2 kg) and compact for easy daily transport in a bag.
  
• Dual Connectivity: Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth LE or through a USB-C cable.

Monarch

Description: The Monarch is a groundbreaking digital braille device designed by the American Printing House for the Blind to help students and individuals with vision loss easily access educational materials. It features a unique refreshable display that can render up to 10 lines of braille and tactile graphics, allowing users to touch and explore diagrams, maps, and graphs. With built-in tools for word processing, reading books, and graphing math equations, it replaces bulky paper materials and makes classroom learning far more interactive and accessible.

Price: $15,500
Manufacturer: APH (American Printing House)
Product Page: Monarch
Features:

• 10 lines of 32 braille cells
  
• On-board access to the APH tactile graphics library
  
• Braille cell spacing designed to maximize both literary braille access and tactile graphics
  
• Refreshable full-page tactile display
  
• Tablet technology for additional applications including book reader apps for eBRF access, periodic table, and applications for teaching tactile graphicacy
  
• Use with Wing-it application for on demand tactile graphics