Electric typewriter
Provide a smooth, effortless typing experience for office tasks or long writing sessions with this powered machine.
Desk & Work
Typewriters
6 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.
Typewriters tend to go to people who like writing slowly and on purpose: writers who want a first draft with no distractions, students who like how they look on a desk, and grandparents who learned to type on one. The ones that get used are easy to find ribbons for, sit well on a real desk and have keys that feel good to press. An electric typewriter suits someone who wants to write pages quickly. A vintage typewriter is more about character and history. Think about whether the person will type letters, poems or journal pages, or mostly wants a handsome object to display, and choose the kind that matches.
Kind 1 of 6
Electric models for steady, fast typing
An electric typewriter strikes each key with a motor, so the letters come out evenly with less finger effort. It suits someone who plans to type a lot, like letters, stories or labels, and wants the machine to keep up. Some models add correction tape or a short line memory, which helps people who worry about typos. Before buying, check that it takes common ribbons and correction supplies, that it plugs into a standard outlet, and whether it has room to sit on a desk for good, since these machines are heavier and bulkier than portables.
Robust office workhorse typewriter
A durable and reliable machine designed for consistent, heavy-duty use in a professional or home office environment.
Kind 2 of 6
Vintage machines with history and character
A vintage typewriter is an older machine, often mid-century, valued for its look, sound and the feel of real mechanical keys. It suits someone who loves old objects, collects retro pieces or wants a typewriter that looks the part on a shelf or desk. Ask whether it has been cleaned and serviced, because an untouched machine may have sticky keys, a dried-out ribbon or a worn platen. Check that every key strikes, that the carriage moves smoothly and that ribbons in the right size are still easy to find.
Vintage typewriter
A beautiful statement piece that adds a touch of old-world charm and sophisticated decor to any home or office setting.
Refurbished vintage typewriter
Offers the charm of a classic machine with the reliability of a professionally restored and fully functional writing instrument.
Kind 3 of 6
Manual typewriters for distraction-free writing
A manual typewriter needs no power at all: each key press moves the typebar by hand. Writers like it because there are no notifications and no delete key, just the page. It suits a novelist, poet or journaller who wants a slower, more deliberate way to draft. Look at the key action, since some machines need a firmer touch than others. Check that the margins and line spacing adjust easily, that the bell works at the end of a line and that the ribbon spools turn properly.
Typewriter for writers
Inspire focused creativity and reduce digital distractions for authors, poets, and journal keepers with this dedicated writing tool.
Kind 4 of 6
Portable typewriters that fit smaller spaces
A portable typewriter is a lighter, lower-profile machine, usually manual, often with a lid or carrying case. It works well for a student in a dorm, someone in an apartment or anyone who wants to put the typewriter away between sessions. Portables trade a bit of sturdiness for size, so check that the frame feels solid and the keys don't wobble. See whether the case latches securely and has a handle, and confirm it takes full-size paper, since some compact designs are narrower.
Portable manual typewriter
This timeless writing machine offers a focused, screen-free experience for creative individuals and nostalgic enthusiasts.
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Classic designs for collectors and display
A classic typewriter follows a traditional look: rounded keys, a glossy body, and the familiar carriage return lever. Some are new builds in an older style. Others are sought-after models collectors keep in their original condition. This kind suits someone who already owns a few machines, or who wants one standout piece for a study or office shelf. Check the finish for rust or chips, find out whether original parts have been replaced and decide whether it is meant for display or for regular typing.
Collector's edition typewriter
A unique and historical artifact perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and legacy of classic office machinery.
Kind 6 of 6
Compact travel typewriters for writing on the go
A travel typewriter is the smallest and lightest kind, built to go to a cottage, a café or on a writing retreat. It suits someone who likes writing away from home and wants something easy to carry. Small machines often have a shorter carriage and fewer features, so check the paper width and the line length before buying. A sturdy zippered or hard case helps, and it's worth making sure the keys have enough spacing for comfortable typing with adult hands.
Travel typewriter
Ideal for on-the-go writers or those with limited space, offering a full typing experience in a smaller, more portable form factor.
How to choose typewriters as a gift
- Figure out if the person will type often or mostly display it, then choose electric or manual to match.
- Make sure ribbons and correction supplies in the right size are easy to find for that machine.
- For older machines, choose one that has been cleaned and serviced so it works straight out of the box.
- Think about where it will live; desktop electric models need permanent space, while portables can be put away.
- Add a pack of good typing paper and a spare ribbon so they can start writing right away.
Usually safe to skip
- Unserviced vintage machines from a basement or attic often have seized keys and brittle parts that need repair first.
- Toy or decorative typewriters look charming but rarely type cleanly, which disappoints anyone who plans to write.
- Very rare collector models are a risky surprise unless you know exactly what the person collects.
Questions people ask about typewriters
- Is an electric or manual typewriter better for a beginner?
- An electric typewriter is usually easier for a beginner because the keys need less force and the letters come out evenly. A manual one gives a more hands-on feel and needs no power, which some new writers enjoy once they get used to the firmer touch.
- Can you still buy ribbons for old typewriters?
- Yes, most common typewriters take standard ribbon widths that are still made today. Before buying, check the ribbon width and spool type on the specific machine, since a few older or unusual models use sizes that are harder to find.
- What should I check on a vintage typewriter before giving it?
- Type every key and make sure each letter prints clearly. Also check that the carriage moves and returns smoothly, the space bar and shift keys work, the bell rings near the margin and the ribbon advances. A machine described as serviced or refurbished saves the recipient a repair trip.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
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All typewriters picks
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