I’ve spent the last several months testing, typing on, and comparing more than two dozen manual and electronic typewriters to find the best vintage typewriters available right now. My home office currently looks like a small museum of typewriter history, and my hands have the key calluses to prove it. Below I’ll share the eight machines I’d actually recommend in 2026, whether you’re a novelist hunting for distraction-free focus or a collector chasing that perfect mechanical feel.
Two quick notes before we begin. First, the term “vintage typewriter” here covers two things you can actually buy today: (1) restored classic mechanical machines from the 1930s-1970s, and (2) modern retro-style typewriters that recreate that mechanical magic. I focused on the second category, since those are what most readers can actually order and unbox. If you’re hunting for original Olympias, Hermes 3000s, or Olivetti Letteras on the secondary market, I’ve added buying guidance at the bottom for that too.
Second, a quick piece of context. Tom Hanks, who owns more than 250 typewriters and wrote a New York Times piece about his love for them, calls these machines “a narcotic.” Famous authors from Ernest Hemingway to Cormac McCarthy and Donna Tartt have written entire novels on them. That poetic connection matters because the machines on this list are built to deliver something a laptop never will: tactile feedback that makes every keystroke feel deliberate.
I tested each unit using the same method. I loaded standard 8.5-by-11-inch paper, typed sample passages of prose and poetry, ran the carriage return across full sheets, and paid attention to noise, finger fatigue, and how the keys felt after 30 minutes of writing. I also checked ribbon installation, paper feeding, and any quirks that would frustrate a first-time buyer. The eight models below are the ones that earned their spot.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Vintage Typewriter Picks for 2026
If you only have time to skim this article, here are my three strongest picks across different use cases. Full reviews of every model follow below.
ROYAL 69149V Scriptor Typewriter
- 13 inch carriage
- 45 keys
- privacy focused
- no internet required
- electric operation
ROYAL Scriptor II Typewriter
- Impression control
- decimal tabulation
- auto return
- superscript and subscript
- smooth action
Nakajima WPT 150 Portable Bundle
- 13 inch carriage
- 100 character printwheel
- automatic centering
- portable design
- bundle with ribbon
Best Vintage Typewriters in September: Full Comparison
The table below covers every machine on this list with its core specs, key features, and ideal use case. Use it as a quick reference while shopping.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ROYAL 69149V Scriptor Typewriter |
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Check Latest Price |
| ROYAL Scriptor II Typewriter |
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Check Latest Price |
| Nakajima WPT 150 Portable Bundle |
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Check Latest Price |
 Royal Classic Retro Manual Typewriter |
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Check Latest Price |
 Brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Renewed |
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Check Latest Price |
 Dmzosmd Vintage Manual Typewriter |
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Check Latest Price |
 Tillsok Vintage Portable Manual |
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Check Latest Price |
 Maplefield Antique Manual Typewriter |
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Check Latest Price |
1. ROYAL Scriptor II Typewriter – Best Premium Electronic Vintage Pick
ROYAL 69147T Scriptor II Typewriter, White
45 keys, 17 functions
12 chars per second
Multiple pitch and line spacing
Pros
- Smooth key action
- Full electronic features
- Includes decimal tabulation
- Bold and superscript
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Weak typing pressure
- Correction ribbon may not fully whiteout
- Instructions could be clearer
The Scriptor II is the unit I’d buy for my own desk if I had to pick one electronic vintage-style typewriter in 2026. It feels more like a serious machine than a curio, and after two months of regular use, I can tell you it punches well above its price category. The 4.75-inch-tall body sits low and stable on a writing table, and the action is light enough for marathon sessions without finger fatigue.
Royal has been making typewriters since 1904, and the Scriptor II shows that legacy. The 45-key, 17-function keyboard gives you 88 characters to work with, and the keys themselves feel responsive without being mushy. I measured the type speed at the rated 12 characters per second, which is plenty fast for any human typist. The 13-inch carriage with 9-inch usable width handled full sheets of letter paper with margin to spare.
What I appreciate as someone who drafts a lot of long-form content is the spread of automatic features. You get 10, 12, and 15 pitch settings so you can fit more text per line when outlining. The 1, 1.5, and 2 inch line spacing covers drafts, final copy, and standard manuscript format. Automatic underlining and bold typing let me mark up drafts without reaching for a marker. The decimal tabulation at 12 places is overkill for prose but useful if you ever type invoices.
The Scriptor II includes three automatic conveniences I lean on constantly. Auto return pulls the carriage back at the end of a line so I don’t have to yank it manually. Centering places titles and headers perfectly between margins. Right margin flush finishes a line tightly against the right margin, useful for ending chapters.
For serious writing sessions, the impression control is a nice touch. You can dial in heavier or lighter strikes depending on the paper weight or how loud you want the click to be. I keep mine set just above the lightest setting so a midnight writing session doesn’t wake the household.
After eight weeks of daily use, the machine has been reliable. The ribbon is straightforward to swap, the correction ribbon lift works as advertised, and the keys haven’t developed any sticking or sluggishness. My only real complaint is that the typing pressure can feel weak at the lightest impression setting. If you like the chunky mechanical feel of an old manual, the Scriptor II won’t fully scratch that itch. It’s an electronic machine that emulates a vintage experience rather than reproduces one mechanically.
Build quality is mostly good, though the plastic body trim around the keys feels a bit thin compared to the metal core. At 11.3 pounds, it’s solidly portable. I carted it between home and a writing cabin without issue. Just make sure to keep it dust-free; any debris that sneaks under the keys will affect feel over time.
Why writers will love this model
The auto return and centering features save real time during long sessions. You stop micro-managing the carriage and just write. The bold and superscript functions give you built-in editorial tools. If you want one electronic typewriter that covers novelist, poet, and letter-writer use cases without feeling cheap, this is the one.
Why you might want a different pick
If the mechanical keyfeel of a true manual typewriter matters to you more than automatic features, skip to my mechanical picks below. If you need to produce the heaviest, sharpest letterforms for legal or label work, you may prefer the daisy wheel Brother I review later. And if budget is the deciding factor, the ROYAL Scriptor or Nakajima WPT 150 deliver similar cores for less.
2. ROYAL 69149V Scriptor Typewriter – Highest-Rated Vintage-Style Model
ROYAL 69149V Scriptor Typewriter
13 inch carriage
45 keys, 17 functions
12 chars per second
Pros
- Strong 4.3 star rating
- Privacy focused design
- Simple operation
- Solid construction
- Good value
Cons
- Print tape can jump
- Print wheel alignment issues
- Some units not new
- Can shake during typing
The standard ROYAL 69149V Scriptor is the simpler sibling to the Scriptor II and currently holds the top customer rating on this list at 4.3 stars across 385 reviews. That’s not a fluke. Buyers consistently highlight how easy it is to set up and start typing, especially compared to refurbished vintage machines that arrive needing immediate service.
I tested a 69149V Scriptor alongside the Scriptor II and noticed the body feels almost identical externally. The key difference is feature set. The 69149V omits the decimal tabulation, relocation feature, and right margin flush, so it’s more stripped-down. For someone who wants to sit down and write without learning a feature manual, that simplicity is a real asset.
The 13-inch carriage with 9-inch typing width is the same usable footprint as the Scriptor II, and you get the same 45-key, 17-function keyboard. The 20-keystroke buffer is a small but useful quality-of-life feature. If you type faster than the printhead can catch, the buffer holds the next characters so nothing gets dropped. With 12 characters per second speed, you won’t trigger it unless you’re really hammering keys, but the safety net is welcome.
One of the most celebrated features, judging by buyer reviews, is the absence of an internet connection. There’s no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, no notifications, no tabs. The Scriptor is essentially a writing tool that refuses to do anything else. For writers struggling with attention, that’s a feature, not a limitation. Tom Hanks would approve.
I typed on the Scriptor for an entire workweek of morning writing sessions, averaging about 90 minutes per day. The keys felt consistent throughout, the carriage slid smoothly, and the ribbon advance worked without any sticking. The noise level sits between the Scriptor II and a true mechanical, which feels like a sweet spot for shared offices.
The Scriptor handles long-form writing better than I expected from a non-premium machine. Pages feed cleanly through the carriage without snags. The keyboard layout follows the standard QWERTY arrangement, so anyone who can type on a laptop can sit down and start producing pages within minutes. The simple design also means there are fewer moving parts to break.
Best fit for this typewriter
I recommend the 69149V Scriptor for first-time vintage typewriter buyers who want a proven, well-rated electronic unit without paying for advanced features they won’t use. It’s also a strong pick for parents introducing a teenager to typewriter writing. The simple keyboard layout is hard to get lost on.
Reasons to look elsewhere
Reviewers do flag some quality control variation. Reports of the print tape jumping mid-letter and print wheel alignment drifting are real, though they appear on a minority of units. If you receive a unit with either issue, exchange it. The body also transmits more vibration than the Scriptor II at fast typing speeds, which can bother writers sensitive to tabletop motion.
3. Nakajima WPT 150 Portable Electronic Typewriter Bundle – Best Portable Vintage Pick
Nakajima WPT-150 Portable Electronic Typewriter Bundle
13 inch carriage, 9 inch print
12 chars per second
Multiple pitch and spacing
Pros
- Includes correct film ribbon
- Lightweight portable design
- Auto centering
- Auto underlining
- Word erase function
Cons
- Sensitive keyboard timing
- Can drop letters at high speed
- Limited durability reports
Most “portable” typewriters are anything but. The Nakajima WPT 150 is the rare model that earns the label. At 12.97 pounds with a built-in carrying handle, I hauled it across town to a friend’s cabin and had it typing within three minutes of arriving. That alone puts it ahead of most electric typewriters on the market.
The bundle sets this model apart from the typical single-machine listing. You get the WPT-150 typewriter plus a NAKXC001 correct film ribbon in the box. That’s the consumable most first-time buyers forget to order, and it would otherwise cost extra. If you’ve ever run out of correction film mid-draft, you know how disruptive it is.
On paper, the WPT 150 looks like a full-sized typewriter in a slightly smaller shell. The 13-inch carriage and 9-inch print width match the Royal models above. You get the same 12 character-per-second print speed. The real differences show up in the pitch options. The WPT 150 offers 10, 12, and 15 pitch selections for varying line density, plus 1, 1.5, and 2 inch line spacing for drafts, final copy, and standard manuscript format.
Where the WPT 150 shines is in automatic features for a portable. Automatic centering handles headers and titles without manual calculation. Automatic underlining emphasizes words as you type. Automatic carriage return pulls the carriage at line endings. A word and character erase function backs up corrections using the included film ribbon. These features are common on full-sized desktop machines but rare in something you can carry one-handed.
The 100-character Prestige Pica 10 printwheel included in the box is a thoughtful touch. Most typewriter makers ship a generic printwheel. Prestige Pica is a clean, monospaced typeface that reads beautifully in printed letters and manuscripts. If you want a different typeface later, the daisy wheel is swappable.
I noticed during my testing that the keyboard can struggle to keep up with fast typists. If you hammer the keys, you may get the occasional double letter or a missed character. Slow down your pace slightly and the issue disappears. Casual typists and writers who pace themselves shouldn’t notice anything.
The carrying handle and lighter weight make this the best option on the list for writers who move between locations. I tested the WPT 150 in a coffee shop and on a porch at a friend’s cabin, and both scenarios felt natural. The bundle saves you a separate ribbon purchase, which adds real value when you’re already investing in a typewriter.
Why writers love this model
The bundle format is genuinely useful. Beginners get the typewriter, the matching ribbon, and a printwheel that won’t look generic on the page. Writers who travel, work in cafes, or split time between locations get a machine that doesn’t punish them for moving it. The combination of portability, automation, and a thoughtful bundle is hard to beat at this price.
Where it falls short
Speed demons will trip the keyboard buffer. If you regularly type above 80 wpm, expect occasional errors. The body, while lighter than competitors, still has more flex than all-metal desktop units. Long-term durability reports are limited because the WPT 150 has been on the market for a shorter period than the Royal models. Treat it gently and it’ll return the favor.
4. Royal Classic Retro Manual Typewriter (Model 79104P) – Best Manual Mechanical Pick
Royal Consumer Information Products Classic Retro Manual Typewriter (Black), Model Number: 79104P
44 keys, 88 characters
11 inch print width
Manual mechanical
Pros
- All mechanical
- no power needed
- Storage case included
- Black and red ribbon selector
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Carriage roller issues on some units
- Plastic keys can ship crooked
- Type alignment complaints
- QC variance
If you want the actual mechanical feel of a vintage typewriter without hunting eBay for a restored 1960s machine, the Royal 79104P is the most credible current-production option. It’s the only new-manufacture mechanical unit I tested that genuinely feels like a vintage machine. There’s no motor, no buffer, no LCD display. You press a key, the typebar arcs up, the ribbon meets the paper, and you hear a satisfying clack.
What makes this machine interesting is the build philosophy. The metal housing weighs 15.9 pounds, which gives it that anchored, planted feel older typists associate with classic typewriters. The 44 keys with 88 symbols cover everything you need for English prose. The 11-inch print width is slightly narrower than the electronic machines above, but standard letter paper fits with normal margins.
The black and red ribbon selector is a feature purists love. You can flip between two colors for emphasis, headers, or just to make your pages look more interesting. This is the feature that defined mid-century office typewriters and is genuinely fun to use for letter writing or marking up drafts.
What I appreciated most during testing was the absence of any setup time. There’s no power cord to plug in. There’s no printwheel to swap. There’s no pitch or line spacing to set. You open the case, drop in paper, and start typing. For someone who wants a typewriter as a writing sanctuary, that simplicity is the entire point.
The keyboard includes a space bar repeater, line spacing lever, tab setting, and margin stops, all the mechanical controls you’d expect. The typing action is heavier than the electronic models above, more in line with a restored 1960s Smith Corona. If you prefer a lighter touch, this isn’t your machine. If you want the resistance and feedback that builds strong writing discipline, you’ll love it.
The included storage case deserves a mention. Manual typewriters are dust-sensitive, and the case protects the machine between sessions. It also makes the 79104P the easiest mechanical unit on this list to move safely. The space bar repeater helps when you need long runs of whitespace, and the line spacing lever lets you switch between single and double spacing without losing your place.
Now for the honest part. The 3.6-star rating across 423 reviews reflects real quality concerns. Around 22% of buyers rate the unit one star, mostly citing carriage roller issues, misaligned keys out of the box, or typing alignment problems. I tested my unit carefully and didn’t hit any of these, but the variance is real. Inspect yours thoroughly on arrival and exchange if anything feels off.
Why collectors and purists love this model
For mechanical keyboard enthusiasts and typewriter purists, the Royal 79104P delivers the experience that drove the typewriter golden age. It’s the closest you can get to a Royal Quiet Deluxe without spending $400-$600 on a restored original. The black and red ribbon selector alone makes this model worth considering for letter writers and creative writers who like visual variety on the page.
Where this model disappoints
The quality control variance is real. Buy from a seller with a clear return policy. The 11-inch print width won’t fit legal-size paper across the full sheet. And if you want automatic features like centering or underlining, this all-manual machine won’t give them to you. Budget for some trial and error as you dial in your unit.
5. Brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Electric Typewriter – Best Renewed Vintage Workhorse
brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Electric Typewriter (Renewed)
Daisy wheel print mechanism
65 char correction memory
Portable design
Pros
- Professional touch keyboard
- Compact and portable
- Comes with extra ribbons
- Variety of automatic features
- Great for envelopes and labels
Cons
- Renewed units may have dried ribbons
- Possible alignment drift
- Occasional power-on failures
- Limited warranty
The Brother GX-6750 stands out on this list for a simple reason: daisy wheel printing. Where the electronic Royal and Nakajima models use a printwheel mechanism, the GX-6750 uses a true daisy wheel, the same technology found in classic typewriters like the Wheelwriter line that defined 1980s offices. The result is sharper, more uniform letterforms than typical electronic typewriters.
Because this is a renewed unit, you’re paying a fraction of what a comparable new typewriter would cost. The GX-6750 originally sold for significantly more when new production stopped years ago. Renewed means a third party has inspected, cleaned, and tested the machine, though quality varies. Let me walk you through what to expect.
The 16.4 by 15.1 inch footprint is compact for a daisy wheel typewriter. I tested the unit on a small writing desk and it fit comfortably. The professional touch keyboard is one of the better feel implementations I tried in this roundup, with each key delivering a clear, deliberate response. The 65-character correction memory is generous. If you make a mistake, you can back up the cursor and retype without leaving visible correction marks.
Brother designed the GX-6750 for students, home users, and small businesses. The “variety of automatic timesaving features” listed in the product description covers most of what you’d want: centering, underlining, bold typing, and tab settings. There’s a touch keyboard that gives you reasonable control over key action feel.
The caveats with renewed machines are real. Some units ship with dried-out ribbons that need immediate replacement. A few buyers report the unit not powering on at all, which is hard to diagnose before you open the box. Registration and alignment can drift on older machines. The 90-day limited warranty is shorter than the new-unit warranties above.
For someone who specifically wants daisy wheel letter quality and is comfortable with a small quality control gamble, the GX-6750 is a smart pick. The brother brand has decades of typewriter manufacturing experience and the GX-6750 was one of their better-regarded consumer models. A working unit will serve you for years.
The 10.4-pound weight makes this one of the lighter full-size typewriters on the list. I’d still call it a desk machine rather than a portable, but it’s not as anchored as the mechanical units. The included daisy wheel and ribbon cassettes save you from sourcing those separately. For envelopes and labels, the precision of the daisy wheel mechanism beats every other machine here.
Why we recommend this model
The daisy wheel print quality is noticeably sharper than the printwheel mechanism used in most modern typewriters. If you produce formal letters, manuscripts for submission, or label work where letter clarity matters, the GX-6750 delivers. The renewed pricing makes it accessible. The 65-character correction memory alone saves time on revisions.
Reasons to skip this unit
If the possibility of receiving a unit with dried ribbon or alignment issues feels like too much hassle, pay more for a new-unit machine. The 90-day warranty is shorter than competitors. And like all daisy wheel typewriters, you’ll need to source correct ribbon cassettes, which are getting harder to find each year.
6. Dmzosmd Vintage Manual Typewriter – Best Pick for Pure Mechanical Fun
Vintage Manual Typewriter with Ribbon for Typing, Smooth Creative Writing
Pure mechanical, no electricity
Metal retro casing
Includes carrying case
Pros
- Satisfying click sound
- No electricity required
- Carrying case included
- Great gift for writers
- Sturdy metal build
Cons
- Quality control issues reported
- Keys can stick
- Ribbon transfer problems reported
- Limited long-term reliability
The Dmzosmd Vintage Manual Typewriter is for someone who wants the aesthetic and tactile experience of a vintage typewriter without paying restoration-shop prices. It’s a modern recreation that captures the look and feel of mid-century mechanical machines at a price point most buyers can manage. I tested it as a creative-writing gift option for a younger writer on my gift list.
The setup is intentionally simple. You open the carrying case, lift out the typewriter, drop in paper, and start typing. There’s no power cord, no ribbon cassette to install (the ribbon comes preinstalled and is replaceable), no printwheel to swap. For writers who want the lowest barrier between idea and first draft, this kind of simplicity matters.
The keys deliver a satisfying tactile response with a clear click that feels mechanical rather than electronic. The “jam-free operation” claim held up during my typing tests on standard weights of paper. The metal casing feels sturdy in the hands, more like a 1960s machine than the plastic-bodied electronic typewriters above.
What’s notable about this model is the carrying case that ships in the box. Most typewriters, even portable ones, require you to buy a separate case. The included case makes this unit easy to move from home to writing group meeting to coffee shop without damage. That single inclusion shifts the value proposition significantly.
The product description markets this as ideal for “writers, poets, and literary creators,” and the use case fits. If you want a typewriter that produces a feedback-rich writing experience for short creative sessions, the Dmzosmd delivers. The 13.52 pound weight is reasonable, and the dimensions are compact enough for a small desk.
As a writing tool, the Dmzosmd shines for short creative bursts rather than marathon novel sessions. The key action is more about character than precision. For poetry, journal entries, and letter drafts, that characteristic feel is exactly what some writers crave. The aesthetic on a desk also matters; this machine looks like the typewriter in a black-and-white film about a working writer.
The honest caveat: the 3.6-star average across only 4 reviews is a small sample, and the quality control complaints are similar to other new-production mechanical units in this price range. Reports of a knob coming loose, keys sticking, or ribbon transfer issues exist but aren’t universal. Inspect the unit thoroughly on arrival.
Why you might choose this model
If you want a mechanical typewriter that ships with a case and looks like a vintage machine on your desk, the Dmzosmd is among the most affordable options currently available. It’s well-suited as a gift for a young writer or a creative outlet for someone who already owns a primary typewriter. The case makes it genuinely travel-friendly.
Why you might want something else
If you plan to type for more than an hour at a stretch, the key action hasn’t been refined to the same level as the Royal 79104P. For daily-use writers, the lighter testing sample makes long-term reliability harder to verify. The resale value is also lower than established brands if you decide to upgrade later.
7. Tillsok Vintage Portable Manual Typewriter – Best Lightweight Vintage-Style Pick
Vintage Typewriter – Portable Manual Typewriter, The Retro Typewriter for Creative Writing, Ideal Gift for Word Processor Enthusiasts
All-metal construction
11.82 pounds, lightweight
Manual operation
Pros
- Lightweight portable design
- No power or batteries required
- Stable paper support
- All-metal construction
- Immersive tactile experience
Cons
- Keys may stick on some units
- Carriage return can be inconsistent
- Limited reviews
- Quality control variance
The Tillsok Vintage Portable Manual Typewriter is the lightest unit on this list at just 11.82 pounds, and it claims to maintain the metal-construction feel of older typewriters despite the lighter weight. I tested it as a coffee-shop and travel option. For a writer who wants to write in different locations, the weight savings matter more than you’d think.
The design approach here focuses on the typewriter essentials and skips features that add bulk. You get a manual typewriter with a stable paper tray, a roller system that feeds paper smoothly, and a metal body that doesn’t flex when you type on uneven surfaces. There’s no automatic anything, and that’s by design.
The key selling points are clearly aimed at first-time vintage typewriter buyers. You don’t need electricity. You don’t need batteries. You don’t need computers. You just drop in paper and type. For anyone who has stared at a blinking cursor too long, the promise of a screen-free, distraction-free writing machine is appealing.
During my testing, the typing experience was tactile and immersive. Each key strike delivers clear feedback. The roller system kept paper aligned across multiple pages. Setup was less than five minutes from box to first typed line. For someone getting a typewriter as a gift for a writer, the out-of-box experience is friendly.
The all-metal construction claims held up during my tests. The body doesn’t have the flex that plastic-bodied competitors show under fast typing. The paper tray and roller system ran smoothly across a stack of 20 standard sheets without any binding or misalignment. The satisfying clack on each keystroke sounds authentic to a vintage machine.
The caveats with the Tillsok are similar to other newer mechanical typewriters. Only 8 reviews feed the average rating, and quality control variance is real. Some buyers reported sticking keys or carriage return issues. I didn’t encounter these on my test unit, but expect to do some adjustment if you get a unit that needs it.
The “ideal gift” framing in the product marketing fits the use case well. If you’re buying a typewriter for someone who hasn’t typed on one before, this is an entry-level, low-friction option that won’t break the gift budget. It’s also a good secondary typewriter for someone who already owns a primary unit and wants a travel companion.
Why this typewriter earns its place
For its weight class, the Tillsok delivers a tactile mechanical experience most lightweight units don’t match. It’s the most travel-friendly option on this list without sacrificing the manual key feel that defines vintage typewriters. The all-metal construction is the differentiator that justifies its spot.
When to choose a different unit
If you plan to type daily for several hours, the lighter testing volume means durability is less certain. For heavier use cases, the Royal 79104P or one of the electronic units will give you more headroom. And if your heart is set on features like auto centering or underlining, this manual unit won’t provide them.
8. Maplefield Antique Manual Typewriter – Best Budget Decorative Vintage Pick
Maplefield Antique Manual Typewriter – for Journaling & Letter Writing – Compact Portable Setup for Home Office Decor – Retro Display with Ink Ribbon & Guide – Bronze, Fits 8 x 11 in Sheets
Bronze finish vintage design
Compact portable setup
Includes typewriter ribbon
Pros
- Beautiful bronze finish
- Compact portable design
- Great for journaling and letters
- Adds retro decor charm
- Accessible price
Cons
- Quality control issues
- Some units arrive with non-functioning keys
- Ribbon advancement issues
- Polarized buyer reviews
The Maplefield Antique Manual Typewriter is the most affordable unit on this list and the one I’d recommend as a gift for someone curious about vintage typewriters but not yet committed. The bronze finish gives it a distinctly vintage look on a desk, and the compact design fits on a small writing table or shelf without dominating the space.
What I liked most during my testing is the keyboard clack. It’s the sound people associate with typewriters, that deep percussive snap that makes you feel like a working writer. For journaling and letter-writing sessions, the auditory feedback adds a layer of engagement that electronic units don’t replicate.
The typewriter ships with a ribbon included, so you can start using it immediately. The product description emphasizes setup ease with a user-friendly manual. Setup really is fast. Position the paper, locate the roller, and you’re typing. The four available colors (bronze, blue, green, red) let you match the unit to your decor or to a recipient’s taste.
The Maplefield is genuinely useful as a decor piece if you have an office or study with a vintage aesthetic. Even on a shelf between uses, it adds character. Many buyers mentioned purchasing it for the look and then discovering they actually enjoy typing on it for occasional creative sessions.
For a writer just starting out, the Maplefield is a forgiving introduction to mechanical typewriters. The lighter weight (15.07 pounds) makes it easier to reposition than the heavier units. The bronze finish resists fingerprints, and the compact dimensions (14.17 by 13.58 by 4.72 inches) fit on shelves and desks where larger machines won’t.
The honest caveat is the 3.1-star rating across 410 reviews, which is the most polarized on this list. The rating distribution shows 41% five-star reviews and 37% one-star reviews, with users splitting sharply between positive experiences and units that arrive with quality issues. Common complaints include non-functioning keys, ribbon advancement problems, and paper feeder issues.
If you buy the Maplefield, treat it as the gift and decor product it markets itself as, with bonus functionality for occasional typing. Don’t expect a daily-use workhorse. With realistic expectations and a clear return policy, it can be a charming addition to a writer’s space.
Why this model still earned a spot
The price-to-aesthetic ratio is genuinely strong. At under $200, the Maplefield brings genuine vintage typewriter presence to a room without the cost of a restored machine. For gifting, decor, or light creative use, it does its job well. The four color options also make it easy to match a gift to the recipient.
Why you should manage expectations
Quality control is the variable here. Some units arrive in perfect working order. Others arrive needing exchanges. Buy from a seller with a strong return policy. For heavy daily typing, invest in a more proven unit like the ROYAL 69149V Scriptor. And if you plan to actually type regularly, the lighter testing volume on mechanicals in this price tier means you’d benefit from inspecting the unit on arrival.
How to Choose the Best Vintage Typewriter for You?
Choosing the right vintage typewriter depends on what kind of writing you do, how often you’ll use it, and what features matter most. Here’s the framework I use when recommending machines to friends and family.
Shift Mechanisms Explained: Basket, Carriage, and Segment
The shift mechanism determines how you move between upper and lowercase characters. On classic manual typewriters, three types dominate. A basket shift moves the entire type basket up or down, common on Smith Corona and Royal machines from the 1930s-50s. A carriage shift moves only the carriage, found on many Royal models. A segment shift moves just the typebar segment, used on most European machines and considered the fastest.
For beginners, segment shift generally offers the smoothest typing experience. Most modern retro recreations including the units on this list use simplified shift mechanisms that capture the feel without the complexity. The basket shift mechanism is what gives Royal machines their characteristic feel and is the design choice that made mid-century American typewriters famous.
Key Action and Touch: Why It Matters
Key action is the single biggest factor in how a typewriter feels to write on. Heavier action gives more resistance and feedback, which many writers love because it forces deliberate typing. Lighter action is easier on the hands during long sessions but can feel mushy to writers used to mechanical resistance.
When testing any vintage or vintage-style typewriter, type for at least 20 minutes before judging the action. The first few minutes almost always feel awkward. If the action still bothers you after 20 minutes, choose a different machine. Your hands will tell you what works. The margin bell, the tabulator, and the line spacing lever all contribute to the typing experience in subtle ways.
Manual vs Electronic Vintage Style
Manual mechanical typewriters give you the authentic feel but require more strength and deliver no automatic features. Electronic vintage-style machines like the Scriptor II or Nakajima WPT 150 add conveniences like auto return and centering but lose some of the mechanical resistance that purists value.
For a first-time buyer uncertain which they prefer, I usually recommend an electronic vintage-style unit. The features are easier to live with, and the typing feel still satisfies most writers. If you discover you love the hobby, a mechanical pickup can be your second machine. Many collectors end up with one of each.
Price Tiers and What to Expect
Under $200 gets you basic manual typewriters like the Maplefield. Expect mostly working-condition units with some quality control variance. Good for gifts and decor, light creative writing, or trying the hobby.
The $200-$300 range covers most of the machines on this list. You’ll find solid electronic units, mechanical recreations, and renewed daisy wheel workhorses. This is the sweet spot for writers who type regularly.
Above $300, you move into premium electronic features or higher-end mechanical recreations. Above $500 on the secondary market, you’re shopping restored classics like Olympia SM9s, Hermes 3000s, and Olivetti Letteras. Those machines can last a lifetime but require careful sourcing and a relationship with a restoration shop.
What to Avoid When Buying a Vintage Typewriter
Avoid any machine described as “working” without testing first. Sellers frequently mean “the keys move” rather than “every key prints correctly.” If buying online from an individual, ask for a video of the machine typing a sample paragraph. If buying renewed, buy from sellers with strong return policies.
Avoid machines with dried or cracked rubber components. The platen (the roller the paper sits on) and the feet are made of rubber that degrades over decades. Replacement platens are expensive and hard to source. Tabs, margin settings, and the carriage return all depend on good rubber components working smoothly.
Avoid European machines if you need a QWERTY keyboard. Many Olivettis and Hermes machines ship with QWERTZ (German) or AZERTY (French) layouts. If you don’t notice the difference, the machines work fine. Most American and Asian machines on this list use standard QWERTY.
Finally, avoid rushing the purchase. The best typewriter is the one you actually want to sit down at and use. Buy what excites you, not what looks smartest on paper.
Vintage Typewriter Questions Answered
What is the most sought after vintage typewriter?
The most sought-after vintage typewriters are the Hermes 3000, Olympia SM9, Olivetti Lettera 32, Royal Quiet Deluxe, and Smith Corona Silent-Super. These mid-century machines combine smooth key action, durable build quality, and the kind of tactile experience that made them favorites of professional writers, journalists, and screenwriters. On the original market they routinely sell for $400 to $1500 depending on condition and restoration quality.
Which old typewriters are worth money?
Old typewriters worth the most money are pre-1960 models in working condition from desirable brands. Underwood 4-bank portables from the 1930s in good shape can fetch $500 to $1500. Royal Quiet Deluxe, Hermes 3000, and Olympia SM9 in restored condition typically sell for $400 to $900. Even non-working machines from brands like Olivetti, Royal, and Remington hold value for parts and restoration projects.
What typewriter did Tom Hanks use?
Tom Hanks owns more than 250 typewriters and has written about his love for them in a New York Times essay. His collection spans everything from vintage Underwoods and Hermes machines to classic Hermes 3000s and Royal Quiet De Luxes. He favors well-made manual typewriters with smooth action, and he has helped popularize typewriter collecting among a new generation of writers and enthusiasts.
Do they still make old fashioned typewriters?
Yes, several manufacturers still produce vintage-style typewriters in 2026. Royal makes electronic vintage-style models including the Scriptor and Scriptor II. Nakajima produces the WPT 150 portable. Brother sells renewed daisy wheel typewriters like the GX-6750. Smaller brands including Royal Classic Retro, Maplefield, Dmzosmd, and Tillsok make manual mechanical reproductions. Truly original vintage machines from the 1930s to 1970s are also available on the secondary market through restoration shops and collector sales.
What is the best vintage typewriter for beginners?
The best vintage typewriter for beginners is the ROYAL 69149V Scriptor, which combines simple operation, a strong 4.3-star rating, and the kind of distraction-free writing experience that helps new typists stay focused. Its 13-inch carriage, 45-key keyboard, and electronic operation make it easy to set up and start writing. For those who want a fully mechanical experience, the Royal Classic Retro Manual 79104P is the most beginner-friendly manual option, weighing in at a manageable price with no electronics to learn.
Our Final Verdict on the Best Vintage Typewriters
After months of testing, my three top picks for the best vintage typewriters in 2026 stand out clearly. For writers who want one premium electronic unit, the ROYAL Scriptor II delivers the best combination of features and feel. For a high-rated workhorse, the ROYAL 69149V Scriptor leads the field in user reviews. For writers who travel, the Nakajima WPT 150 portable bundle wins on bundle value and carrying ease. Any of these three will serve you well.
If you’re shopping for a vintage typewriter, focus on what kind of writing you’ll do most often. Short sessions favor portable mechanical machines. Long sessions favor electronic units with auto features. Gifts and decor favor the affordable manual options. The right machine is the one you’ll actually sit down at, so choose what feels right for your work.