Portable Typewriter

Portable Typewriters

Although computers have mainly taken their place in the modern world, typewriters and word processors still have their benefits and admirers. Unlike desktop typewriters, portable typewriters allow you to conveniently take them wherever you go and are not just office equipment.

What Are the Design Types of Typewriters?

Typewriters typically come in a number of different operational designs, namely:

  • Manual Typewriters: These typewriters are fully mechanical, which means that when a key is pressed, a typebar would press the typewriter ribbon into the paper.
  • Electric Typewriters: Rather than having each key connect to an individual typebar, electric typewriters use electric switches to rotate a single mechanism with all the letters on it and then press that into the paper.
  • Electronic Typewriters: These typewriters actually feature a small electronic memory, allowing you to correct mistakes before text is printed.

What Are Some Trade-Offs of Different Typewriter Types?

Each of the different designs comes with its own strengths and weaknesses, like:

  • Vintage Typewriters: Since their designs have been around a lot longer, most vintage typewriters are either manual or electric typewriters.
  • Even Typing: Since their keys are under electrical control, electric and electronic typewriters always print letters evenly, while manual ones can unfortunately vary.