While the look and feel of a good manual typewriter is undeniably unique, properly maintaining and utilizing such a beast is probably well beyond those with just a casual interest. Enter the Qwerkytoys Qwerkywriter (Amazon, Official Website), which gives you much of the look and feel of a good manual typewriter, but with the benefits of the digital age. Paired with your computer or a good tablet and the right app, you can create an alternative writing environment that just might be the envy of even some of the more dedicated manual typewriter enthusiasts (although probably not Mr. Schad).
A good, name brand mechanical keyboard - which anyone who spends any time typing should invest in - usually starts in the hundred dollar range and goes up from there. Even with those numbers in mind, the Qwerkywriter is pricey. And that price was lowered to $249.00. Of course, to be fair to the Qwerkywriter, it is a unique design, so it's not really surprising that it exceeds the price of most high-end mechanical keyboards, where it's probably easier to buy parts in quantity.
The US keyboard layout model I'm reviewing features 83 keys, while the UK version has 84 (where the left shift key is instead two separate circular keys). Most of the keys are circular, while others, like BACKSPACE and ENTER, are rounded rectangles. These keys are beautifully crafted, although the space bar is unique among the keys and is neither as stylish nor feels quite as good when typing.
A typewriter-style carriage return lever on the left side of the machine functions as a macro key, although, for enhanced authenticity, I just had mine duplicate the ENTER key's functionality.
This is a Bluetooth-only device that supports just one profile at a time, so to use it with multiple devices you'll have to pair it again between device changes. The microUSB port is only for charging. Since there's no backlight, you'll get up to three months of battery life. Although it has automatic power saving, there's also a discrete on/off rocker switch.
Towards the back, there's a generously-sized slot that should fit most tablets, like my Apple iPad Pro 9.7, or 2-in-1 computers, like my Microsoft Surface Pro 3, up to 5/8" in thickness. Of course, use of the slot is optional, and it's just as easy to use the Qwerkywriter with a desktop or other Bluetooth-enabled device. To the left and right of the slot are platen knobs, but sadly these are just for decoration and don't actually rotate (it would be cool to use them to move the cursor, similar to the dedicated cursor keys).
Device dimensions are about 13" wide and 7" deep. Thanks to its aluminum construction and other mechanical parts, it weighs a solid 3 lbs. That heft helps with stability, and, like the Freewrite I reviewed earlier, helps with the overall feel versus a regular keyboard.
I tried the Qwerkywriter with a variety of software and apps on my Surface Pro 3 and iPad Pro 9.7. It was on the latter that perhaps the most fun was had, using the popular Tom Hanks-driven Hanx Writer. Simulating the look, sounds, and yes, limitations of a typewriter on the iPad's screen paired perfectly with the authentic look and feel of the Qwerkywriter.
Just like with the Freewrite before it, although not without its flaws, the Qwerkywriter is unique in the market and it services the purpose it was designed for well. You can have as little or as much of the "romantic" typewriter writing experience as you'll likely want, without all the hassle that goes into owning a real manual typewriter.
Pluses:
- Classy design
- Good build quality
- Great manual typewriter-like feel
- Unique typing experience
Minuses:
- Pricey
- Only one Bluetooth profile, so need to resync each time you want to use a different device with it
- Space bar is a bit disappointing, though even that is somewhat authentic
- Platen knobs are just for decoration
Summary:
Although you probably won't want to use the Qwerkywriter as your daily driver keyboard, it's a great, if pricey way to create a unique manual typewriter-like writing environment while still maintaining the many advantages of today's digital world.
I LOVE THIS KEYBOARD! I do most of my writing on my iMac with an Apple Magic Keyboard or on my iPad Pro with a Logitech Slim Combo Keyboard, but when I'm doing long writing, I often put my Qwerkywriter front and center and type on it for awhile. I also occasionally use it with my iPad. I still have my first piece of tech, a 1950's Olympia SM-3 portable manual typewriter. I loved it, but I can't type on it now. It has a stepped keyboard, and you really have to pound on the keys--I mean you have to assault them. The Qwerkywriter lets me step back in time with keys that are easy to press and it let's me keep the convenience of modern word processing. And it has that nice clicky-clack sound.
It's well designed and is built like a tank. Someone complained about the plastic keys. Guess what? My 60 year old Olympia has plastic keys, and it was often described as being built like a tank. I use the little carriage return instead of the Enter key because that's part of the fun.
I fully appreciate modern keyboards, but sometimes it's relaxing to slow down a little and enjoy an old-timey keyboard. I don't recommend this for your regular keyboard, but if you're into this type of thing--and I am--this beautifully crafted artifact is worth the money.
Oh, and it just looks beautiful on my desk, sitting right below the 27-inch iMac screen. Together, they're a visual timescale of tech.
It's beautiful, and nostalgic, and fun to use. Obviously not the most affordable keyboard solution, but if you have the money to throw at it and love both old typewriters and your iPad, this is for you. It's solidly built, feels very nice to use and works just the way it should. My only disappointment: the roller wheels don't move. The carriage return lever does work though and is fun to use. Definitely pair this up with Hanx Writer app if you're using iOS. :-)
I love to write but often really dislike the new and modern keyboards so avoid writing since that is all I have to use. I saw this beauty and decided that I had to have one. I have an IPad Pro 12.9 inch and was a bit skeptical that it would work in the upright position without falling over or out. It works beautifully, as I type now I must say I am thoroughly enjoying leaving a review for the first time in ages. My IPad Pro is sitting up in the stand and the keyboard is in my lap on the couch and it is perfect, comfortable and a thoroughly enjoyable experience. I say if you have the money and enjoy the old typewriter keyboard style like I do then its a must have!! It came quickly, it connected via Bluetooth with no problem, and it works like a charm!
I absolutely LOVE this thing! There is something indefinable about the sound of a typewriter keyboard, some connection to the words pouring out of you onto the paper that's just missing with a silent, membrane keyboard. For several years in my twenties I freelanced on the side, pounding out copy on an Olivetti manual, and the hours spent revising and re-writing in the quest for clean copy were a nightmare and a financial drain. When word processors first appeared in the mid eighties, I bought in and never looked back. But something was missing, and I couldn't quite put my finger on it.
Since buying the Qwertywriter I've developed a new routine. I have it plugged in via the USB cord, and I also have a bluetooth keyboard. When it's time to write I put the bluetooth aside, and use the Qwertywriter. It somehow makes this connection in my brain that it's time to write, and I'm no longer tempted to start surfing every time I get stuck or frustrated. I feel like I'm back sitting in front of that old Olivetti, only without the table pounding and swearing over every typo or spelling error.
Some have said it takes some getting used to, but I had no trouble in that regard at all. In just a couple of minutes I felt right at home, and the copy just pours out onto the page. And somehow, deep in the gray matter, your brain is acknowledging the sound of each keystroke as one more step on the journey, one step closer to your goal. I find I'm no longer so quick to delete whole paragraphs or pages, or to send everything to the trash bin thinking “This sucks. I'll start over tomorrow.” There's a desire to salvage whats' in front of you, what you've accomplished so far, and in doing so finding your errors and discovering your way forward.
Is it worth the price? That's a question each has to answer for themselves, but for me...it's priceless.
Feature Product
- s is the original typewriter inspired mechanical Keyboard.
- New wired USB mode with NKRO and multi device wireless connectivity!
- Dual scroll knob encoders and Cherry MX Blue mechanical switches!
- Integrated tablet stand up to 12 inches and a macro programmable return Bar!
- All new scratch Resistant aluminum chassis and round typewriter inspired keycaps.
Description
You can have it all with the new QWERKYWRITER S, the ORIGINAL Typewriter Inspired Mechanical Keyboard. Unmatched in its aesthetic design, the QWERKYWRITER S easily is one of the most stunning devices you will ever own. But don't let that distract you! The new QWERKYWRITER S is jam-packed with industry leading features and patented design you won't find anywhere else.
The Qwerkywriter S is the best keyboard I have owned, and trust me when I say I have bought many from Amazon. Needless to say up front that I will not be buying anything else but Qwerkywriter S, unless they can somehow top what they have. The keyboard is nice looking, well-constructed, and smooth running. The design I love. It works beautifully with my Mac Air laptop using bluetooth or the usb plug in. It is so nice to have the option to use either. I had no issues with hooking it up to bluetooth or using it strictly as plug and play. I can't empathize enough how beautiful and how smooth this keyboard is. If you are trying to decide whether or not to purchase one... the price is well worth it. I have a Mac Desktop Computer that I am planning to purchase another Qwerkywriter S for. I am very, very satisfied and happy with it and would more than highly recommend it to anyone. As a matter of fact, it will be the only keyboard I will recommend from here on out. Love it. Thank you Qwerky... you rock the big one! Oh, and one more mention, the keyboard comes in a nice box and is well packaged. If I could give this product 10 stars, I would.
I really like this keyboard. I have not had problems with it not working as some other reviewers have. Perhaps that's a weakness in the Bluetooth connection? My keyboard connects (and charges) via a USB connection, so there is no delay between keyboard and computer screen. I learned to type on a manual typewriter, then moved to electric typewriter, and then to computers. My newest computer (bought last year) has a small keyboard. Although I have small hands I often got started on the wrong keys, producing gibberish, or a hit the Caps Lock key instead of an A. It was frustrating. Although this keyboard is small, the keys are more separated from each other than a regular keyboard, and they are round, with a slight indentation that helps my typing be more accurate. I also like the click. I used to get "clicky" computer keyboards, but it seems they have become a thing of the past. My one complaint is that it is heavy. It seems to be made of metal, not plastic, which means it is probably sturdier than a plastic keyboard. However, although I had planned to take it along when I traveled to use with my tablet (which has a keyboard I despise), but it's not something I would want to put in my carry-on bag. Also, when you open the box there is a note to go to the website to view the video on how to set it up, but the first video they show is... how to open the box.
This product is so much FUN!! I love typing on this keyboard! The clicky keys are not too clicky that it annoys my office mate. While the keyboard is a bit pricey, I still think it was worth every penny. I love antique type things and this fits the bill perfectly. I love quirky things and again this fits perfectly!! My coworkers think it’s a hoot! I only use it plugged in because I’m using it with a thin client at work and the thin client doesn’t have Bluetooth capability. It’s super responsive and I do not lose keystrokes. I don’t usually pay this much for tech but this time I treated myself and I was not disappointed!! If you are considering this splurge, do it!! Seriously, so much fun!!
I rarely write reviews, but this keyboard is SWEET. Great clean retro look, satisfying "clicky-clacky" of the keys, easy setup. I noticed other reviewers have a problem waking it up, but I haven't experienced that yet after about a week of use.
Environment:
As a professional writer, this keyboard has been a great enjoyment to have just for adding to my environment when writing/working. The atmosphere for many of us is critically important, and I want other writers to know, this really fits the bill regarding our environment. It does exactly what you are hoping it to from this respect.
TRAVEL:
Yes, it is light enough for most of us to travel with. I can't see a reason not to travel with it. I will highly suggest making sure you have the keyboard cover for protection. I have not yet bought this item, instead, I have been temporarily using the packaging clear hard plastic cover that comes with it for shipping (more for a dust cover on my desk for now). I have not yet traveled with this board, but have moved room to room with it, and can see easily that I will have no issues for traveling using a very decent carry case. I can see it being great for hotels.
While I write professionally I am also a medical practitioner, and when attending long conferences where I have space, this little board would be nice...with one hold back, the sound of the typewriter ha! I love the sound, but I do not advise it being used in group settings such as meetings. I have not taken this into the office yet when seeing patients, but I do plan on getting a second one for my practice office and using it full time in there for clinical chart notes, even when entering into EMR's.
TYPING SPEED : (the issue addressed here)
I literally fly on this keyboard and was worried it was going to slow me down. Not at ALL! BUT here is where the issue comes in... for some unknown reason the keyboard double enters a word! I cannot for the life of me figure out what is going on. If I enter the word... Word..it will type out Word Word... Not kidding! I then have to catch it, backup and erase it and keep going. I'm extremely fast on the board and I do find this annoying. But more than anything, I'm trying to figure out WHY it is happening! I keep wondering, am I hitting a key that is causing this double entry? If so, what key? How on earth is this happening?? I'm totally stumped! But when it does, one choice to be had, back up, delete and keep going. Is it worth the headache? Well actually YES! I have to admit, this is by far NOT a deal breaker. This keyboard is THAT good!
Aesthetics Matter...
to me...and many other writers and professionals, so I'm addressing it specifically!
This keyboard will look good in the highest class environment, to the little writer's nook in a corner somewhere. It is for those in the million dollar state of art office, private library, to those in a small apartment on the Northside of Chicago, to a practice office, (such as my second one will be), off the east coast by the ocean..and at home it works well in my home office writers space with a lot of dark woods, and low lighting. I sometimes travel to a cabin in the mountains of NC and this would be so relaxing to take and sit out and write by the fire. I already use it fireside in my home. For writers, we all know the appeal in our environment matters when we are going to sit for hours and write, look around, ponder and relax our minds and bodies, ...the environment for most of us is KEY (Pun intended ha!)...
LIGHTED KEYS...
No, it does NOT have lighted back keys. And for me at first, was almost a deal breaker. I tend to love lighted keys, in fact, I am a stimuli freak (sensory is a huge issue for me)... but once it arrived, I realized quickly, I will never ever miss not having lighted keys. This very much surprised me! Don't let this be a deal breaker for you!
SET UP:
Connection is super fast on my Ipad Pro 12"... powers right on, syncs super fast, (do give it a couple of secs the first time!)... but I have had zero issues with connection and power. I keep mine charged on my desk on a USB tower plugged to my wall, unplug when using in various rooms in the home or sitting outside on the deck, etc. I keep the board covered with the clear hard plastic keyboard cover that came with shipping until I can take the time and buy a cover (they do make them, and I highly suggest keeping keys covered, so that you can keep it dust free when not in use).
Another accessory I did get when I bought this keyboard was the wrist rest... I can say the one I bought on AMAZON when I purchased this was of good quality (I am sure its the same company too by the way), and is a smart item to use for protecting yourself when using for long hrs. of writing as many of us do.
I cannot encourage you enough to give this keyboard the time it deserves! An additional note worth mentioning "Small" but imperative to mention... in the end, it may be what matters most:
It arrives in a really nice black box, with a message from the family/makers of this product. I love the attention that they pay to their customers with their note introducing themselves, and of quality packaging. This tells the pride taken in their product....if you are a company that pays attention to these details, I've little doubt that you paid attention to the quality of your product performance...and in fact, that is apparent every time I use this keyboard!
FINAL NOTE:
YES absolutely buy this board! Don't worry about the price compared to other boards. I feel quite sure that this is made much better than the $89 dollar ones. Really at that price point, my expectations would not be that great. I'd rather buy an item for double the price and get 10 times the quality and what I hope to be 10 times the life from. That can't be determined for some time to come. So far, outside of the double word issue, this one is hands down the best quality product of this type out there! I would have given this a 5 star (a VERY Strong 5 star if it had not been for the one functional issue I can't figure out yet). Again don't let the lack of backlights stop you! Truth is from what I've come to believe, it would have taken from it, (and taken from battery life) not enhanced it! And I am surprised by my own self feeling this way! I'd have never guessed it, but glad I took the leap to check it out. I have no regrets... soon as I figure out the double word thing...and if I never do, frankly, I'll live with it. ... or maybe I can return for one that doesn't do this? I need to contact the company and find out. I have not had a chance to do so. But need to. In all fairness to them, until I do, they can't really help me...but AMAZON asked me to leave my product rating and all tonight, and so I figured I should go ahead and do this now and deal with the issue when I get around to it.
I hope that this helps others make a determination for themselves as they hunt for the keyboard they would love. And I truly believe this one is worth loving! I am not in any way affiliated with this company, sure not getting paid for the review...always wonder how people get to do that! HA! But for me, this is more because for other writers out there (professional or not), and for young student writers, I like to do all I can to assist through feedback.
If anyone knows what is causing the double word issue when typing, pls pls. find a way to leave me a msg. thanks! And post the answer here please for others to see. Surely I'm not the only one? Left to ponder...
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