WHAT TYPEWRITER SHOULD I BUY?

What typewriter suits you the best depends on what you want to use the typewriter for. Do you want to use it every day, are you going to take it with you to travel or are you just searching for something special in your interior? We will help you out. 

The basic things to take care of is the keyboard. There are a lot of different keyboards for different countries. The most common one is a QWERTY keyboard, but there are for example also QWERTZ (German) or AZERTY (French) keyboard available. The difference is mostly the characters and a few of the letters are in a different order. 

I WANT AN EASY WORKING TYPEWRITER TO USE REGULARLY 

If you want to write letters every day or you want to write a book on a typewriter, make sure you have an easy working smooth typewriter. I would recommend a 'newer' typewriter from the '70s or '80s, since those are often smooth working. You can also choose for a (often from the 1950's or 1960's) desktop typewriter, since they have a lot of build- in options. The Hermes 3000 is for example a popular typewriter among writers, but also the Olympia SM Series are strong typewriters. 

WHAT TYPEWRITER TO BUY FOR CHILDREN 

Typewriters can be a very good way for children to learn about language and writing without the distraction of a screen. For children it is important to get a easy smooth working typewriter, since you have to press harder on the keys than on a normal computer keyboard. Also with children I would recommend a 'newer' ultraportable (small and portable) typewriter. This time, you can choose for a lighter typewriter made from plastic, or a stronger typewriter made from metal. 

I WANT TO TRAVEL WITH MY TYPEWRITER

If you want to travel with your typewriter, I would recommend an ultraportable typewriter with a metal case from the '70s or '80s. Make sure it has a carrying case too. 

When you want to make sure the typewriter is very lightweight, you can also go for a plastic ultraportable typewriter. Keep in mind that those typewriters are more fragile. 

A popular Ultraportable typewriter is the Hermes Baby, available in both metal and plastic.

I WANT A BLACK AND SHINY TYPEWRITER

Now we come to my favorite part; black and shiny typewriters! Oh they are so beautiful. Old black (and often shiny) typewriters are so special and can be a perfect addition to your interior or collection. However, there are some things to keep in mind.

The older the typewriter, the more damages and the more risk to get damaged. If you want a fully working black and shiny typewriter, I would recommend going for the 1930's, 1940's or even 1950's typewriters.

Why go for a 1930's, 1940's or 1950's typewriter? 

  • Younger and stronger
  • More common ink ribbon spools, which you can still buy online.
  • If it needs a repair, there are often many part typewriters out there

Why go for an older (<1930) typewriter?

  • Higher historical value
  • More rare - special to add to your collection

The most important part is to buy your black and shiny typewriter from a typewriter specialist. They often, well, most of the times don't work properly and need a lot of repairs. 

Be aware that most sellers on Ebay or other marketplaces have no idea about how a typewriter works. They press a key, think it works and then sell it as 'working'. But how many of those older black typewriters actually fully work? Not many. 

If you still don't know what typewriter to choose, don't hesitate to contact us! We will give you free advice. 

 

 

 

 

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