Modern Typewriters

Arya Mueller
12 min readMar 25, 2024

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Are you craving a sense of nostalgia when you type? Look no further than our round-up of the best modern typewriters! In this article, we’ll explore the unique charms and features of these retro devices, ideal for anyone seeking a break from screens yet still craving productivity. Whether you’re a writer, a collector, or just want to experience a piece of artisanal mechanics, these modern typewriters are a must-try. Let’s dive into the world of these delightful throwbacks and find your perfect mate!

The Top 7 Best Modern Typewriters

  1. Write a clean and optimized title for a typewriter-inspired mechanical keyboard. — Experience the vintage charm of the QWERKYWRITER Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, combining retro aesthetics with modern functionality and robust build quality for a nostalgic typing experience.
  2. Vintage Manual Typewriter for Home and Office Decor — Experience the nostalgic allure of Maplefield’s vintage manual typewriter, offering a unique blend of timeless charm and modern practicality, making it a perfect gift for writers and a stylish addition to any workspace.
  3. Royal 79100g Epoch Black Manual Typewriter — The Royal Epoch Manual Typewriter (Black) offers a nostalgic and efficient writing experience, with 44 keys, 88 symbols, and an adjustable impression control lever, making it perfect for personal and professional correspondence or typing scripts.
  4. Royal Scripter Modern White Portable Electronic Typewriter — Enhance your writing experience with the Royal Scriptor Portable Electronic Typewriter, featuring 45 keys, 17 functions, superscript and subscript options, variable line spacing, and an automatic word spell checker.
  5. Professional Touch Keyboard Daisywheel Typewriter — The Brother SX-4000 Portable Daisywheel Typewriter offers a professional touch typing experience, 70,000-word dictionary, and automatic correction features for mistake-free documents on-the-go.
  6. Nakajima WPT-160 Electronic Portable Typewriter — The Nakajima WPT-160 Electronic Portable Typewriter combines the best of both worlds: the speed and efficiency of modern technology with the durability and portability of a traditional typewriter.
  7. Freewrite Smart Typewriter for Distraction-Free Writing — The Freewrite Smart Typewriter (Gen 3) offers a modern take on old-school typewriting, boasting a warm frontlight and improved battery life for distraction-free writing anytime, anywhere.

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Reviews

Write a clean and optimized title for a typewriter-inspired mechanical keyboard.

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As a writer myself, I’m always on the lookout for unique tools to enhance my creativity. So when I came across the QWERKYWRITER Typewriter Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Integrated Tablet Stand, I was intrigued. The moment I laid my hands on it, I felt like I was transported back in time to the golden era of typewriters. Its all-metal construction, including the cast metal programmable return bar, gives it an undeniably retro vibe.

However, don’t let its retro appearance fool you; this keyboard is fully functional with modern technology. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to my tablet, smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer, making it incredibly versatile. The tactile mechanical switches under each keycap deliver that satisfying clicky feel that traditional typewriters are known for.

One feature that really stands out is the dual scroll knob. While one knob controls the volume, the other knobs through pages, adding another layer of functionality to the keyboard. The integrated tablet/smartphone stand is also a nice touch, capable of supporting up to a 12.9-inch device.

In terms of size, the QWERKYWRITER is compact yet sturdy, measuring 13"w x 2 1/2"h x 7"d. Its dimensions make it perfect for tight spaces or mobile workstations.

Now onto some cons. Although I love the vintage aesthetic, some might find it rather bulky or heavy compared to regular keyboards. Additionally, the price tag might be a bit steep for those who are just casually interested in typewriter-inspired keyboards.

All in all, I’d say that the QWERKYWRITER Typewriter Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Integrated Tablet Stand is a solid choice for writers who want to experience the joy of typing on a mechanical keyboard while enjoying modern functionality. It not only looks good but also offers a unique typing experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Vintage Manual Typewriter for Home and Office Decor

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As a writer myself, I couldn’t resist the allure of the Maplefield Manual Typewriter. This vintage masterpiece instantly transported me back to the golden days of writing, where every stroke of the key felt like an exciting discovery. The tactile satisfaction of typing on its robust, mechanical keyboard is unrivaled.

One thing that particularly stood out was its durability. Despite its old-school charm, this typewriter is surprisingly sturdy, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go writers. Its portability makes it possible to take your writing anywhere, from the cozy comfort of your home to the bustling excitement of a cafe.

However, there are a few cons to consider. The lack of a backspace key can be a source of frustration, especially if you’re prone to making mistakes. Additionally, the absence of an erase ribbon means any errors are permanent, which may not suit everyone’s writing style.

In conclusion, the Maplefield Manual Typewriter is a charming throwback that adds a touch of vintage elegance to any workspace. Its mechanical keys offer a unique writing experience that’s both nostalgic and practical. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s definitely worth considering for those who yearn for the simple joys of manual typing.

Royal 79100g Epoch Black Manual Typewriter

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Imagine yourself as a writer with a nostalgic love for the classics. You discover the Royal Epoch Manual Typewriter, a sleek black machine that transports you back to the good ol’ days when letters and stories were physically crafted, one keystroke at a time.

The Royal Epoch is more than just a typewriter; it’s a portal to a simpler time where words flowed with the rhythm of mechanical keys. With 44 keys and 88 symbols, this wireless typewriter offers everything you need to create timeless correspondence or professional scripts. Its manual function allows you to control the formatting of your document, making it perfect for personal letters or professional manuscripts.

One of the standout features of the Royal Epoch is the impression control lever, which lets you adjust the depth of your keystrokes for that perfect touch. It also includes a ribbon color selector switch, giving you the flexibility to switch between colors based on your preference. However, one drawback is the typewriter’s sturdy plastic construction, which requires careful handling and storage.

Despite its old-school charm, using the Royal Epoch can be a learning curve compared to modern electric typewriters. Some users mention that the keys need to be pressed firmly for a visible print, while others highlight the lightness of the type. However, most users agree that the mechanical feedback provided by the typewriter is uniquely satisfying and encourages a more thoughtful approach to writing.

Overall, the Royal Epoch Manual Typewriter is a delightful addition to any writer’s desk, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and functionality. Despite some minor drawbacks, the experience of typing on this classic device is hard to beat. Whether you’re crafting a personal letter or a professional script, the Royal Epoch will bring an unmatched sense of style and authenticity to your writing.

Royal Scripter Modern White Portable Electronic Typewriter

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I recently got my hands on the Royal Scriptors Portable Electronic Typewriter, and I must say I’m quite impressed with its performance. Its standard qwerty key layout design, 45 keys, and 17 functions make typing a breeze, even when working on lengthy documents. Variable line spacing has been a game-changer for me — it allows me to easily customize the line spacing according to my needs. Plus, the built-in superscript and subscript options make formatting documents much simpler.

The word correction feature is another standout feature. Say goodbye to messy correction fluid and tape pens! The typewriter’s spell check function with the Merriam-Webster Dictionary has saved me from countless spelling mistakes.

However, one drawback I’ve noticed is that the print size could use improvement. It’s a bit small for my liking, which can be a pain when typing long passages.

Overall, the Royal Scriptors Portable Electronic Typewriter has been a reliable addition to my office inventory. With its ease of use, variety of functions, and word correction feature, typing has never been more enjoyable!

Professional Touch Keyboard Daisywheel Typewriter

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I have been using the Brother SX-4000 Portable Daisywheel Typewriter for a while now and I must say, it has truly revolutionized my typing experience. The Perfectype professional touch keyboard has made my typing faster and more accurate than ever before. The 16-character LCD display has also been a game-changer, allowing me to see what I am typing without constantly adjusting the paper.

One of the standout features of this typewriter is its 70,000 word dictionary with an error-locating FIND feature. This has helped me ensure that my documents are mistake-free, saving me a lot of time and effort. The automatic “word-out” and “line-out” correction memory have also been very helpful, making it easy to correct errors without having to retype entire sentences.

However, there are a few downsides to this typewriter. For instance, the daisy wheel print technology is relatively slow compared to other modern typewriters. Additionally, replacing the ink can be quite challenging as the spot is hard to reach.

Overall, I am very satisfied with the Brother SX-4000 Portable Daisywheel Typewriter. It has made my typing experience more enjoyable and efficient. If you are in the market for a reliable, high-quality typewriter, I highly recommend giving this one a try.

Nakajima WPT-160 Electronic Portable Typewriter

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Using the Nakajima WPT-160 typewriter feels like a throwback to the good old days, when typing was a tactile, satisfying experience. I’ve found this typewriter to be incredibly fast, with a 12 characters per second speed. Plus, its LCD screen keeps me updated on the number of characters and the CODE/MODE functions, making it user-friendly and efficient. The highlight for me, however, has to be the 80,000-word spell check and memory protection feature, which is a godsend for someone like me who is prone to typos.

On the downside, the typewriter’s cover is not included, which is a bit of a bummer considering its price tag. Also, the instructions can be a bit confusing, so you might need to spend some time figuring out how to set up folders.

Overall, the Nakajima WPT-160 typewriter is a reliable, efficient piece of equipment that takes me back to the days of old-school typing. It has its flaws, but its speed and efficiency more than make up for them. I’d recommend it to anyone who appreciates the tactile experience of typing.

Freewrite Smart Typewriter for Distraction-Free Writing

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As a dedicated writer, I’ve been searching for a tool that can help me focus on my craft and unlock my creativity. The Freewrite Smart Typewriter (Gen 3) has been a game-changer for me. This modern typewriter provides a distraction-free environment, allowing me to dive into my writing without being interrupted by email notifications or other digital distractions.

The best part about using the Freewrite is its tactile keyboard, which has a satisfying clicky feel and reminds me of the old-school typewriters I used to write on. The front light for easy reading indoors or outdoors during the day or night has also been incredibly helpful in enhancing my writing experience.

One of the standout features of the Freewrite is its longer battery life, thanks to the updated processor and optimized design. This means I can write for hours without worrying about losing power — a significant improvement over my previous writing tools.

However, there have been some minor issues with the device. For example, I’ve experienced occasional delays in the screen response, which can disrupt my writing flow. Additionally, the Freewrite occasionally displays random characters on the screen, making it difficult to edit my work accurately.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Freewrite Smart Typewriter (Gen 3) has truly revolutionized my writing process. Its sleek design, coupled with its dedication to providing a seamless typing experience, makes it worth every penny.

Buyer’s Guide

After decades of digital dominance, the resurgence of modern typewriters is an interesting twist in the realm of technology. These tools offer a blend of nostalgia, creative freedom, and practicality that is hard to ignore. In this article, we will discuss the key features, considerations, and general advice while buying a modern typewriter. This guide will not mention specific product picks or external resources.

Features to Look for in a Modern Typewriter

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  1. Sturdy build quality: Look for models made from high-quality materials like metal and robust plastic that can withstand daily usage.
  2. Intuitive keyboards: A good typewriter should have well-spaced, easy-to-use keys that provide tactile feedback.
  3. Ink ribbon compatibility: Ensure that the typewriter uses replaceable ink ribbons, which are available in various colors and widths.
  4. Portable design: A lightweight and compact typewriter is easier to transport and store when not in use.

Considerations before Purchasing a Modern Typewriter

  1. Purpose of use: Determine if you want a typewriter primarily for writing or decoration purposes.
  2. Budget: Set a budget for your typewriter and compare prices from different sellers.
  3. Warranty and customer support: Choose a typewriter with a reliable warranty and a responsive customer support system.
  4. Spare parts availability: Ensure that spare parts, such as ink ribbons, are easily accessible.

General Advice for Using a Modern Typewriter

  1. Regular maintenance: Clean and oil your typewriter regularly to keep it functioning smoothly.
  2. Practice using the typewriter: Familiarize yourself with the keys and practice typing techniques to improve your speed and accuracy.
  3. Store in a proper case: When not in use, store your typewriter in a protective case to prevent dust accumulation and damage.

A modern typewriter can be a valuable addition to any writer’s inventory, offering an engaging and nostalgic writing experience. By evaluating the key features and considerations outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision when choosing the perfect modern typewriter for your needs.

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FAQ

What are modern typewriters?

Modern typewriters are updated versions of the traditional writing machines that take advantage of technology advancements. They typically feature electronic functions like backspacing, correcting errors, and customizing fonts and formatting. Some even come with a built-in USB port for storing data.

Are modern typewriters difficult to use?

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No, modern typewriters are designed to be user-friendly. While they might have more functions than a traditional typewriter, they are usually intuitive and come with easy-to-follow instructions. You’ll likely get the hang of it very quickly.

How much does a modern typewriter cost?

The cost of a modern typewriter can vary depending on the brand, features, and quality. Basic models may start at around $100, while advanced versions with additional features can cost over $500.

What can modern typewriters do that traditional ones cannot?

Modern typewriters provide users with a variety of additional features that traditional typewriters do not. Some of these include the ability to correct mistakes, change fonts and sizes, store multiple text files, and connect wirelessly to other devices.

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Do modern typewriters require ink or ribbons?

Many modern typewriters still require ink or ribbons to print characters on paper, similar to traditional ones. However, some models use laser or inkjet technology, which means they do not need ink cartridges or ribbons.

How long do modern typewriters last?

The lifespan of a modern typewriter depends on its quality and usage. A well-maintained, high-quality model can last for many years, even decades. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prolong its life significantly.

Can I use a modern typewriter with a smartphone or computer?

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  1. Yes, some modern typewriters are compatible with smartphones or computers, allowing you to sync your documents.
  2. Others offer USB connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer files to your computer.

How do modern typewriters compare to laptops or desktop computers in terms of productivity?

While laptops and desktop computers offer much more functionality than modern typewriters, typewriters can be more straightforward and focus-driven for some tasks. The tactile feedback from punching keys can enhance the writing experience for many people.

Where can I buy a modern typewriter?

Modern typewriters can be purchased online from websites such as Amazon and eBay, as well as from specialty retail stores that sell vintage and retro items.

Do modern typewriters need regular servicing?

Regular servicing is beneficial to keep your typewriter in good condition. At a minimum, cleaning it periodically and having professional maintenance done can help ensure optimal performance and extend its lifespan.

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Arya Mueller
Arya Mueller

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