Typewriters still serve many useful functions in today’s offices. Electric typewriters can improve efficiency and enhance precision and control when it comes to labels, envelopes, printed forms, carbon copies and other items that a computer struggles to print on.
Electric typewriters, portable typewriters and even manual typewriters are still available, as are typewriter parts and ribbons. Brother, Royal, Smith-Corona, Nakajima, Olivetti, and IBM can be bought, although only the first four of these typewriter manufacturers remain in the business. You can buy new and refurbished typewriters online at www.refurbexpress.com.
Choose a typewriter with features best suited to your needs and budget. For low usage, select one with fewer features. For regular, even heavy usage, consider an electronic typewriter with spell check, correction memory, battery back-up and a dictionary. Questions to ask when evaluating electronic typewriters include:
1. Volume: How many projects are you using your typewriter for?
2. Project type: What types of projects are you doing?
3. Correction: Will you need to make corrections on the document?
4. Font flexibility: Will you need to have more than 1 font available?
5. Paper width: Are you working with 8.5” x 11” or wider?
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Compare features for different typewriters online at www.refurbexpress.com
Save time by comparing different typewriter brands and models before you buy. Review features, pricing and availability for an electric typewriter or manual typewriter online.
I recommend: Side by side comparisons which enable you to evaluate different options, correction features, page width and font choices. View an overall broader assortment as each manufacturer usually profiles a different inventory of machines.
Choose your typewriter's basic features
Whether purchasing an electric typewriter or a manual typewriter, it's important to consider basic features such as pitch selection (point size-usually 10 point and 12 point), platen or carriage width (around which the paper wraps), line spacing (1, 1.5 and 2 lines) and paper length it accepts.
Save and store information with memory typewriters
Memory typewriters are hybrids. Their operation combines mechanical with microprocessor technology to provide many word-processing functions, and sometimes includes a partial-line visual display. For jobs that require repeated use of information, such as labels and envelopes, or high volume projects, a memory electronic typewriter combines the best of both pieces of equipment.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
Evaluate getting an extended warranty on your equipment. Like all equipment, typewriters can require repairs. Weigh replacement cost vs. warranty cost before you decide.
Keep a back-up stock of typewriter supplies on hand, and not just a single replacement. When it comes to typewriter ribbons and correction tape, keep two in case one is faulty.
Try before you buy if you are unfamiliar with a particular typewriter model.
Please e-mail, or call if you have any questions regarding the purchase of a new or refurbished typewriter from www.refurbexpress.com. We will be than happy to guide you through our wide selection of electronic typewriters, and help you make the right choice for your specific need.
