4 Best Portable Typewriters 2025 in the United States

The Nakajima WPT-160 Electronic Portable Typewriter is a solid choice for anyone seeking a portable typing solution with a range of modern conveniences. It weighs 15.5 pounds, which is on the heavier side for a portable typewriter, making it less ideal for frequent transport. However, its sturdy build suggests durability, which is a plus for long-term use. The typewriter's dimensions (25.6 x 19.5 x 8.5 inches) indicate that it is quite sizeable, so consider your workspace before purchasing.

The keyboard layout is user-friendly and includes features like full line correction memory, auto word correction, and line spacing options, which make typing more efficient and forgiving of errors. The typing mechanism allows for a speed of up to 12 characters per second, adequate for most users. The LCD display is a helpful feature, showing characters remaining to the right margin and activated functions, providing better control over your typing.

The built-in memory can store up to 50 files (16 KB), which is useful for those who need to save and retrieve documents. The Nakajima WPT-160 comes with a correctable carbon film typewriter ribbon, ensuring clean and clear typing output. The ribbon type may require specific replacements, adding a potential cost. The Nakajima WPT-160 is a feature-rich typewriter with modern conveniences, ideal for users who value efficiency and ease of correction, though its weight and size might be drawbacks for those needing a highly portable device.

The Nakajima WPT-150 Electronic Typewriter is a portable device designed for those needing a reliable and functional typewriter on the go. Weighing 12 pounds, it is relatively light, making it easier to transport. Its dimensions (21 x 9 x 0.1 inches) suggest it is compact enough to fit in various settings, though it may still require ample desk space when in use. The 13-inch carriage and 9-inch print width provide a decent range for typing documents, and the one-line correction memory is a helpful feature for making quick edits without needing to retype entire sections.

Additional features like word and character erase, automatic centering, underlining, and carriage return enhance the typing experience, making it more efficient and less cumbersome. The build quality appears to be solid, with a well-regarded brand reputation. However, the device's electronic nature means it relies on an external power source, which can limit its portability compared to purely mechanical typewriters.

The keyboard layout is standard, which should be comfortable for most users, though some might find it less tactile compared to mechanical keys. The typing mechanism is electronic, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience, though it may lack the nostalgic charm of traditional typewriters. The ribbon type is not specified, but it likely uses standard typewriter ribbons, which are relatively easy to replace. With its decent paper capacity and user-friendly features, the Nakajima WPT-150 is a solid choice for those needing a portable typewriter with modern conveniences, though it may not completely satisfy purists looking for a mechanical experience.

The ROYAL 69149V Scriptor Typewriter is a notable choice in the realm of portable typewriters. Weighing in at 12 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and stability, making it convenient for home or office use without being overly cumbersome.

Its size, with dimensions of 16.25 x 14.75 x 4.75 inches, accommodates a 13-inch carriage and a 9-inch typing width, offering adequate space for most typing tasks. The keyboard layout includes 45 keys with 17 functions, providing a comprehensive range of options for various typing needs. The 20-keystroke buffer is an excellent feature for those who type quickly, as it helps in preventing missed characters.

Typing at a speed of 12 characters per second, it ensures efficiency in typing tasks. Its build quality is solid, indicating durability for prolonged use. With a strong customer rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 288 reviews, it shows a positive reception among users. The ROYAL 69149V is best suited for individuals looking for a reliable and functional typewriter with a good balance of features and portability.