For anyone who loves the typewriters and does not own one yet, the wave of electronic typewriters is here! Check out our list for the 5 best electric typewriters out there.
Table of Contents
Best Electric Typewriter Comparison
| Rank | Rating | Brand | Price | ||
| Best Overall | 9.5 | Brother ML-300 | $849 | ||
| Runner-Up | 9.4 | IBM Lexmark | $749 | ||
| Most Efficient | 8.5 | Nakajima WPT-150 | $232 | ||
| Most Versatile | 8.2 | Brother GX-6750 | $744 | ||
| Most Reliable | 8.1 | Brother SX-4000 | $240 |
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What is an Electric Typewriter?
An electric typewriter is a type of typewriter that uses electricity to power its internal motor, which controls the movement of the typing mechanism. Unlike manual typewriters, electric typewriters require less physical effort to operate.
Types of Typewriters
There are actually three different types of typewriters, and yes, you can still buy them!
Mechanical
The original typewriters are mechanical typewriters (also known as manual). These machines would operate by making a letter-shaped impression after striking an ink-soaked ribbon on a piece of paper.
These devices required writers to manually move the carriage when moving to type onto the next line. Although they don’t have many advancements and features, manual typewriters offer a portable, distraction-free way to write.
Electromechanical
These machines have a wall plug and feature normal mechanical keys and other features including that the carriage is completely automated so you don’t have to worry about always moving it back to the start.
These devices basically wiped out the previous version because they were much easier to get pages and pages of writing done at a time, but, of course, they do require electricity to function.
Electronic / Digital
Digital typewriters can be paired with Bluetooth devices or USB ports. You can even connect to the cloud meaning your files will never get lost. Some models even have an LED screen which allows for digital files to be organized in folders.
Typically these typewriters are very compact and portable and offer more features than the traditional models. If you’re looking for nostalgia, digital typewriters are probably not the best route, but if you’re looking for a portable way to carry your files and be able to write wherever you want, they are a great option.
Things To Consider Before Buying a Typewriter
If you’re considering buying a typewriter, you need to think about a couple of things beforehand.
What You Want
This may seem like an easy question, but it’s really not. You have to decide what exactly you want from your typewriter. Do you want it to be portable? Do you want it to be corded? Do you want to have certain special features? All of these questions and more need to be answered before you invest in a typewriter.
Where To Find One
Now, even if you know what you want, you need to figure out where you can get it. You can find a lot of typewriters in places such as antique stores, yard sales, flea markets, and typewriter sales shops. Naturally, most of these places won’t have many options to choose from, but don’t let the availability stop you from getting one you actually want. Even typewriter shops are hard to come by, so you may have to really do some looking here.
Condition
If you don’t have many concerns about your typewriter’s features or simply want one for the aesthetic, buying from flea markets and garage sales can be a great option. However, it is still important that you evaluate the condition of the typewriter that you intend to purchase. You won’t want to see sticky keys or dents and marks all over it. You’ll even want to evaluate the label so you know how much the typewriter is worth compared to what it is being asked for.
Brand reputation
Look for a reputable brand that offers high-quality electric typewriters. Brands like Brother, Olympia, and Smith-Corona have a long-standing history of producing reliable typewriters.
Size and portability
Consider the size and weight of the electric typewriter if you plan to move it around. Some models are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry, while others are bulky and less portable.
Typing speed
Look for a typewriter that offers a decent typing speed, as this can help you to save time and increase productivity. The typing speed can vary from model to model, so make sure to check the specifications.
Noise level
Electric typewriters can be noisy, which can be a problem if you plan to use them in a quiet environment. Look for a model that produces minimal noise while typing.
Power source
Some electric typewriters are powered by batteries, while others require an electrical outlet. Consider which type of power source is most convenient for you.
Keyboard layout
Look for a keyboard layout that you are comfortable with. Some models offer a QWERTY keyboard, while others offer a different layout.
Compatibility
Consider whether the electric typewriter is compatible with your computer or other devices. Some models allow you to connect to a computer, while others do not.
Price
Electric typewriters can range in price from affordable to expensive. Consider your budget and look for a model that offers the features you need at a price you can afford.
Warranty
Look for a model that comes with a warranty, so you can have peace of mind knowing that the manufacturer stands behind their product.
Extra Features to Look for
Memory storage
Some electric typewriters come with memory storage that allows you to store frequently used phrases, sentences, or paragraphs, so you can easily access them when needed. This feature can be especially useful for repetitive tasks or for creating standardized documents.
Correcting function
Many electric typewriters have a correcting function that allows you to erase or overwrite mistakes, without having to use correction fluid. This can save time and make the typing process more efficient.
Spell check
Some electric typewriters come equipped with a spell-checking feature that helps you to avoid spelling errors as you type. This can be especially useful if you’re working on a document with complex or technical terminology.
Variable line spacing
Some electric typewriters offer the ability to adjust the line spacing, allowing you to create documents with a variety of line heights. This can be useful for formatting documents, such as letters or reports, to meet specific requirements.
Automatic paper insertion
Some electric typewriters come with an automatic paper insertion feature that can make it easier to load paper into the machine. This can save time and effort, especially if you need to load multiple sheets of paper at once.
How to Use an Electric Typewriter Step by Step
Step 1: Plug in the power cord
Before using an electric typewriter, make sure it is plugged into a power source. Most electric typewriters will have a power cord that needs to be connected to an electrical outlet.
Step 2: Load the paper
Insert a sheet of paper into the paper tray, making sure that it is aligned properly. Many electric typewriters have a paper guide that can be adjusted to ensure that the paper is straight.
Step 3: Turn on the machine
Turn on the power switch located on the typewriter’s control panel. Depending on the model, this may be a physical switch or a button.
Step 4: Adjust the settings
Adjust the settings on the typewriter to suit your preferences. This may include adjusting the margin settings, line spacing, and font size. Consult the user manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance on how to do this.
Step 5: Begin typing
Start typing on the keyboard. As you press each key, the typebars or print head will move into position, striking the ink ribbon and transferring ink onto the paper to create the typed characters.
Step 6: Use the correcting function
If you make a mistake while typing, many electric typewriters have a correcting function that allows you to erase or overwrite the error without having to use correction fluid. Consult the user manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance on how to use this feature.
Step 7: Change the ink ribbon
When the ink ribbon starts to fade, you will need to replace it. Consult the user manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance on how to do this. In general, the process involves removing the old ribbon, attaching the new one, and making sure it is properly aligned.
Step 8: Save frequently used phrases
If your electric typewriter has a memory storage feature, consider saving frequently used phrases or paragraphs to save time and effort. Consult the user manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer for guidance on how to do this.
Step 9: Turn off the machine
When you are finished using the electric typewriter, turn off the power switch located on the control panel. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
Step 10: Clean and maintain the machine
To keep your electric typewriter in good working condition, clean it regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris. Have it serviced regularly by a qualified technician who can check for any issues and make any necessary repairs.
The 5 Best Electric Typewriters
1. Brother ML-300 Electric Typewriter
This electronic typewriter is multilingual- you can type in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. It also has a professional touch to the keyboard and comes with the guarantee of Brother.
This typewriter features automatic center, bold, underline, and right-margin printing as well as a 78,000 word dictionary and an error location FIND feature which is pretty cool and very handy! It has a 16-character LCD display and a professional keyboard. This typewriter features automatic center, bold, underline, and right-margin printing as well as a 78,000 word dictionary and an error location FIND feature which is pretty cool and very handy! It has a 16-character LCD display and a professional keyboard.
+ Easy to use
+ 78,000 word English dictionary
+ 16 character LED display
2. IBM Lexmark Wheelwriter 1500 Typewriter
IBM is known for being one of the largest computer producers in the world and this electronic typewriter stays true to the brand that it is.
This typewriter includes many advanced features such as a 10,000 character storage, envelope and label layout feature, 50,000 word dictionary, alternate languages, 6,000 correction buffer, selection of pitches, word erase/underscore/tab and it comes with a 90-day warranty.
+ Durable
+ Comes with a 1 year guarantee
+ Easy to use
– Expensive
3. Nakajima WPT-150 Electric Typewriter
This electronic typewriter by Nakajima is one of the best ones out there. It is lightweight, easy to use and fairly quiet.
This typewriter is not the most modern looking, but still is a good option for those who do not necessarily care to have the latest advancements and, instead, want a typewriter for the experience.
That being said, this typewriter does offer one-line correction memory, word and character erase, automatic centering, underlining and carriage return, allows you to type in bold, and has a 13-inch carriage and 9-inch print width.
+ Automatic centering and underlining
+ Portable
+ One line correction memory
– Key noises may be too loud for some people
4. Brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Electric Typewriter
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If you are looking for something interesting, this typewriter keyboard is for you. Connect it to your device and fell the old days of typewriting come to a modern era.
This typewriter has a self-demo feature that will show you all that this machine has to offer. With a 65- character lift off memory, the automatic correction rivals your laptop in regard to freedom while editing. This machine has automatic paper insertion to save you time and effort while working.
This typewriter has an incredible number of features considering the price. Also, given its size and weight, this typewriter is very portable.
+ Modern
+ Use it with your device, it is versatile
+ Easy to use
– No 15 (micro) printing pitch
5. Brother SX-4000 LCD Display Typewriter
The Brother SX-4000 is a great addition to this list. Adler ROYAL is a known company specializing in office supplies and this electronic typewriter is one of their best.
The Brother- SX4000 offers Word-Spell, which is a 70,000 word dictionary and even has an error FIND feature to ensure you stay on top of your spelling game. You can even check phonetics and grammar with this feature. There is an automatic paper insertion feature to keep your creative juices flowing with no interruption. Also, the machine comes with a handle, making it easy to carry and travel with.
+ Automatic paper insert feature
+ LCD screen
+ 15 inch paper width (maximum)
– LCD screen is on the small side
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are! There are still a few very big name typewriter brands out there.
Electric typewriters all for faster and more uniform typing, a lighter touch, more numerous and legible copies, and less operator fatigue.
It comes down to what stays in place and what moves. In a manual typewriter, the paper moves to the left while the type hammer stays in place. In an electric typewriter, it is the opposite: the paper and carriage stay in place while the daisy wheel moves to the right.
An electric typewriter uses an internal motor to power the movement of the typebars or print head. When a key is pressed, an electrical signal is sent to the motor, which moves the typebars or print head to the correct position. The ink ribbon then transfers ink onto the paper to create the typed characters.
Some disadvantages of using an electric typewriter include the need for a power source, the potential for technical issues or malfunctions, and the noise that they can produce.
To clean an electric typewriter, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior and remove any dust or debris. To maintain your typewriter, have it serviced regularly by a qualified technician who can check for any issues and make any necessary repairs.
To replace the ink ribbon in an electric typewriter, consult the user manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, the process involves removing the old ribbon, attaching the new one, and making sure it is properly aligned.
If you are experiencing issues with your electric typewriter, consult the user manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer. Common issues may include paper jams, typing errors, or issues with the power source.
Some electric typewriters offer the ability to connect to a computer, either through a USB or serial port. However, this feature may not be available on all models.
While electric typewriters are less common in offices today, they are still used in some industries or by individuals who prefer the feel and functionality of a typewriter over a computer.
Wrapping Up
Electronic typewriters are a great addition not just for your office space but also for your home and can help you bring out the writer in you. If you are still confused about which electronic typewriter would be the best fit for you, we would like to recommend the Brother ML-300, we this it is the best electric typewriter out there.