10 Best Typewriters 2025 in the United States

The Nakajima WPT-150 is a portable electronic typewriter designed for users who want a reliable and easy-to-use typing machine. Its portability is decent—it weighs nearly 13 pounds and measures about 26 by 20 inches, making it somewhat bulky compared to very lightweight portable models, but still manageable for occasional transport. The keyboard layout is standard, comfortable, and familiar, which helps with smooth typing. This model includes a 13-inch carriage and offers multiple pitch options (10, 12, and 15 characters per inch) and line spacings, giving you flexibility for different typing styles and formats.

One of its key strengths is its correction features: it allows automatic centering, underlining, and carriage return, plus word and character erasing, which are great for reducing errors without hassle. It comes bundled with a correct film ribbon, so you won't need to shop for consumables immediately, and it includes a 100-character print wheel, which is essential for clear, consistent text. The typing feel is described as responsive, with a print speed of about 12 characters per second, which suits most personal or light office use but might feel slow if you need to type large volumes quickly.

The machine is on the heavier side compared to some ultra-portable models, and since it is electronic, it requires power, which might limit where you can use it. While it has good correction functions, it doesn’t offer the high-tech features of modern word processors. This typewriter fits well for those who want a classic typing experience with some helpful electronic features, particularly students, writers, or hobbyists who appreciate the feel of a typewriter but want some modern conveniences.

The IBM Wheelwriter 1500 is an electronic typewriter known for its reliability and straightforward functionality. It uses a typeball (or 'wheel'), allowing for easy character selection and cleaner print compared to older manual machines. This desktop model is moderately portable, made mostly from plastic, making it lighter than many traditional typewriters but not as portable as small handheld devices. It features a standard QWERTY keyboard layout, familiar to most users, facilitating easy typing without a learning curve.

Being electronic and powered typically from an outlet, it does not require batteries, offering convenience for steady power use. The typing feel on electronic Wheelwriters is usually smooth and consistent, providing a satisfying tactile response without the heavy key presses needed on manual machines. This typewriter is ideal for those who appreciate the classic typing experience with modern convenience and reliability, without digital distractions.

Its drawbacks include limited portability compared to smaller manual typewriters and potential challenges in sourcing ribbons long-term. For anyone seeking a dependable electronic typewriter that combines vintage style with ease of use, the IBM Wheelwriter 1500 remains a solid choice.

The IBM Wheelwriter 10 is an electric typewriter designed for those who want a reliable and straightforward typing experience. Weighing 27 pounds and measuring 18 by 21 by 7 inches, it is not very portable compared to manual typewriters, but it’s still manageable to move around if needed. Its keyboard layout follows the standard QWERTY format, making it familiar and easy to use for most people. The typing feel is generally smooth and consistent thanks to its electric mechanism, which provides a softer touch compared to traditional manual typewriters.

Since it is an electric typewriter, the ribbon availability is important, and while replacement ribbons are still obtainable, they might not be as common as for newer printing devices. The IBM Wheelwriter 10 is known for its durability and solid build, and as it is not discontinued, support and parts could still be found through various sources. However, the product’s size and weight make it less suitable if you need a lightweight, portable option for frequent travel. Additionally, being an older model, it lacks modern features like digital connectivity or memory storage.

The IBM Wheelwriter 10 serves well for users who want the classic feel of a typewriter with the ease of electric typing. It is better suited for home or office use where it can stay in one place rather than for on-the-go typing.