The Freewrite Traveller helped me write 40% faster (tech review)

Use my affiliate link to get a 5% discount on the Freewrite Traveller: getfreewrite.com/?rstr=6485
In this video, I share my honest review of the Freewrite Traveller - a distraction-free writing device designed to make you a more productive writer. After using it for a few weeks, it's massively improved my focus and made writing a lot more fun.
Let me know if you have any questions about the device! Feel free to ask me in the comments below. This is the first time I've done a tech review, so it was a fun experience. Thanks to Astrohaus for sending me a free review copy!
0:13 Upfront conclusion
0:39 The problem this solves
4:12 The hardware
6:43 What I didn’t like
11:32 My productivity results
12:10 The price / How much does the Freewrite Traveller Cost?
13:43 Summary

[@Jed_Herne]

You can use my affiliate link to get a 5% discount on the Freewrite Traveller: getfreewrite.com/?rstr=6485 This also helps to support the channel :)

[@mileshurtauthor]

Ah yes, the irony of putting off writing in order to watch a video about how to focus on writing.

[@Jed_Herne]

haha we've all been there, I'm sorry for being an enabler I guess

[@user-vj8yh2bl9r]

I feel caught

[@kendallcherry953]

So helpful Jed! Thanks for the review (and hi from Texas!!) 🌻

[@patrickthomas9567]

Every fiber of my being says, 'buy this.' My wallet says, 'absolutely not.' We will see who wins out. Thanks for the in depth review!

[@Jed_Herne]

Ha! You're welcome :)

[@jessicasblack]

Love my Traveler. It became a game changer for me when I learned to import the draft files into Scrivener.

[@kaboart]

Can you point me to more resources to do this?

[@jomymatthews]

Does it also work with finaldraft?

[@aresaurelian]

This was a lovely review, and I can concur in the wonderful experience and increase in creative productivity that comes when using a Freewrite device. And it is so pleasurable. It is like being on top of my game. Hard to describe the deep immersion you get from being in the flow, not worrying about grammar, spelling, semantics, or even context in some cases. AI-tools can worry about that once your drafts are up in your workspace.

[@Jed_Herne]

Glad to know you like it too!

[@Treggify]

Appreciate this review! Btw, you should always link to your books in the description. Wanted to check them out but now I gotta search around!

[@Jed_Herne]

Good call, I'll revise my descriptions for this - for now, you can check out my books on my site: jedherne.com/stories/

[@anthempt3edits]

I remember you talking about this on the podcast and I was a bit skeptical. It's pretty cool you're actually giving an update about it. One thing that concerns me about a device like this is my hands are on the bigger side and that keyboard looks a little small but I love the idea of not looking at more screens.

[@Jed_Herne]

Cheers! Yeah fair concern about the fingers - I've got reasonably thick fingers from bouldering, but I never had a problem with this. I think the keys look small because the device is small (and they don't have a numpad or function keys), but they match a regular full-sized keyboard so I've never had a concern with it personally. Your millege may vary though

[@haveyoufinishedthatbookyet]

Great review! Are you still using this? I would love another update if you are to see if it was a novelty or it continued to increase your writing output.

[@jezbon]

Ah it's so awesome to watch a fellow Aussie on KZbin... Such a relaxing accent. 🙂👍 Great video btw. You've made me bite the bullet and I'm about to go order the Freewrite. I've watched so many videos on it and weirdly because they were all mostly American the accent made it always sound like an ad (get the Freewrite, your world will change...) where I'd be waiting for the "call now on 1800...etc. and we'll throw in a set of stake knives, but wait, there's more...". Ironic given Demtel was Aussie and guilty of this. Ha. Anyway very good video. I'm going to keep an eye out for Kingdom of Dragons. With a name like that I'm expecting a Netflix series to come of it, don't disappoint, no pressure. 😜😉🙃

[@Jed_Herne]

Haha, cheers! Always glad to propagate our accent further into the world :)

[@emmanoellestrong1612]

I'm sorry to hear you don't like the American accent. I'm American, and the US don't sell steak knife sets as much anymore . . . or sets of encyclopedias. But I thought the review was also great.

[@pjolex5896]

I personally write in ms Word, I Format it like a manuscript and then start, I really like it and for me it works great

[@93snowwolf]

I also consider buying it, because I need 2 new laptops anyways. My old working machine's on the edge of collapse and I would like to have a smaller more portable device, just for writing only. The thing is, I'm not much of a cloud user and despite being already 30, I only recently got myself mobile internet for my phone. So in the end, it comes down to costs and how easy transfering data is for me. I'm not much of a cloud-user (yet), I still prefere Flash-Drives and external Hard-Disks, but eventually I will also wrap my head arround that. The device itself sounds like very comfortable and nice to use, so I really consider it :) Greetings Damian from Switzerland ;3

[@freddiemercerful]

So if I was camping without WiFi would this work? I am looking for something I can take wild camping. I am really Dyslexic and my handwriting is terrible but I like to write poems a want something I can take far. Also how rugged is it? Is it waterproof?

[@toddherzman126]

Enjoyed the review. 40% extra productivity definitely sounds like a game changer for you. I actually edit as I go, so a Freewrite would slow me right down. I definitely suffer from distraction a lot of the time though. Which is why sometimes an hour will give me 2k, and other times less than 1k. As I get paid per word for the ghostwriting I do, I try not to slow down too much. :P How does it go with italics, bold and such? When using the AlphaSmart, I used _ for italics and * for bold, and when I send the text to Word it adjusts. Took me far too long to figure that out, though!

[@Jed_Herne]

It doesn't do any formatting as far as I know, so that all has to be done manually after

[@asaffin1]

If you are unable or unwilling to pay the rather hefty price for a device like this, get a typewriter. Maybe not quite as practical for writing on-the-go, though there are some very compact and lightweight machines available. More importantly though, it's an affordable avenue to a distraction-free writing experience, and doesn't come with any of the software issues--text is immediately printed to a physical page. It becomes a permanent relic of your process as a writer. It's quite lovely. And it's very easy to transfer your work to a PC for later editing with OCR apps on your phone.

[@bluefaolan]

I know it's not the same thing, per se, but I would like to see how someone like Jed here would like using something like OmmWriter for the Mac. (They may or may not have a windows app, not sure.)

[@mikevoss4894]

Cost to benefit ratio leaves this out of my writing budget personally, but I like the concept and see how it could be helpful for others. I currently don't have internet on my writing computer so my distractions are pretty limited already. But the e-ink screen surely reduces eyescreen and has the benefit of mimicking to some extent what many readers will actually see when reading your finished work. Given my lack of home internet, my only question would be whether you can port the text file via an on-the-go usb cable? Okay, 2nd question, lol! Is the connection via bluetooth? If so I could theoretically port the file to my phone and then to computer if Freewriter won't accommodate a transfer cable. All moot for me due to price, but may help others without a desktop internet connection to tap into. Admittedly, probably not that many people, lol!

[@mikevoss4894]

"Eyestrain" of course, not "eyescreen". Like Twitter, KZbin needs an edit key. Sigh.

[@Jed_Herne]

Fair enough! Yep, there's a USB cable that lets you transfer files that way. No bluetooth connection unfortunately. You raise a good point with the screen. For me, the paper-style look was 100% of the main selling points. That's great that you don't have internet on your writing computer btw. Helps a lot

[@ambermichelle8231]

Awesome review! This is definitely something I can see myself using on a regular basis. I do have a question though. Can you use usb as a way to get the files from the traveler onto your computer for editing/formatting/etc? I prefer that way instead of the cloud stuff. It's really the only thing that I'm hesitant about.

[@Jed_Herne]

Yep! It comes with a USB cord, and you can get files off easily that way

[@christerdehlin8866]

I would probably end up using my Mac anyway, because I tend to research on the fly when I become uncertain about how something works in the real world. Also I write SF, so I'm currently in a future version of our world. Because of this I frequently find Google Earth to be useful, so I can get a sense of how things look in a certain location, or just figure out where locations are in relation to each other. Going back and forth between devices seems like a hassle to me. Thanks for the review!

[@Jed_Herne]

Yeah, it's not for everyone - sounds like you have a solid process though

[@christerdehlin8866]

@@Jed_Herne I could definitely be more disciplined, but at least the draft is growing every week. 🙂

[@VictorNaine]

I was decided to buy one, but I realised that if you need to edit later, in a computer with distraction, why not write with pencil + paper?

[@VictorNaine]

also, is there any hack/jailbreak to transform a Kindle into a typewriter if you use a Bluetooth keyboard?

[@aresaurelian]

Writing with pen and paper is even better, because you can do line art, sketches, or even paintings while writing your stories with elegant typefaces with various fonts. However, a pen and paper is usually much slower. Even though a good fountain pen and your favorite ink will give a more immersive high-author experience, the Freewrite device and the digital format will make your creative process an order of magnitude faster. The editing and stuff that you must do later is a process you will do anyway, don't worry. AI-tools can do it for you already today in just a minute or two. I recommend using pen and paper for your outlining and sketches, maps, drawings, and paintings, and with all that in place, you are so immersed already when you pick up your Freewrite device to do a continuous flow of creative writing when detailing the scenes - it will be pure bliss. No worries, no distractions, and you can pick any spot on Earth to do it. Good fortune.💲🖋😉❤💭🙏💰

[@kathykiger7548]

After watching and reading every review I can find on this thing, I’m about ready to get it. Now I’m trying to decide if the extended warranty is worth it. Anyone have any thoughts on that?

[@Jed_Herne]

If the warranty's a big concern, maybe flick them a message at [e-mail] and ask them about it? And feel free to tell them you watched this vid :D

[@scorpisces182]

Quick question: does this device have password protection for individual drafts or any password protection in general?

[@PlaydatePlayer]

I'd like to know this too - a deal breaker for me in fact.

[@feralgamersincrpg]

So once you have written what you need what format is it saved in? I use word and Indesign, so I would type into word and edit in Word and then copy/paste into Indesign. Can this device be used to send finished chapters etc via email and converted into a word or compatible file?

[@Jed_Herne]

Damn I should've mentioned that in the video! There's a button to send the .txt file to email, or you can set it up to automatically sync the .txt file with Google Drive, Dropbox, or Postbox (which is free software built by freewrite). Every few days, I just copy the plain text from postbox and paste into my .word manuscript and that works fine.

[@feralgamersincrpg]

@@Jed_Herne Ok great thanks

[@AngelaNortonTyler]

It looks like and reminds me of my Brother typewriter I took to college in 1984. LOL

[@stephenlogsdon8266]

9.7” iPad Pro - reconditioned under 220 at Amazon. Still updates to latest versions. Microsoft word - free full version on any portable device under 10”. Apple Smart Keyboard 130 Amazon. Other keyboards less that 100. Apple Pencil 100. Internet access to research, dictionary apps. Write anywhere. On a bad day I do 2000 words. A good day 4000+.

[@stephenlogsdon8266]

This works so good I don’t use a computer except to save from the cloud.

[@Jed_Herne]

Nice! That sounds like a great setup, too - and it's clearly working. Wish 2000+ words was my bad day :D

[@stephenlogsdon8266]

I wish my days writing were more than the weekends. Full time job like I heard you say. Personally I’m amazed to be at 100,000 words in less than 4 months. Passion project.

[@joannemarkov]

Is it possible to set the timer to countdown mode? Or just "counting up?"

[@Jed_Herne]

No! That's a good suggestion though. Maybe flick them an email, because I'd like that feature a LOT.

[@husseinhassan6750]

What happens if you have a pdf on your laptop that is a reference sheet. Like a characters, world building and magic system.

[@Jed_Herne]

There's no way to get that (or any other documents) sent over to the Freewrite. I wish they added that feature - it could be good to upload certain things like that. In practice, I just printed out my outline and had it next to me while I wrote. Felt nicely analogue :D

[@Darien_England]

I am quite curious. Do you have any tips for writing when you have ADHD? Also you seem really logical and analytical. I see percentages and numbers used in your speech and that's honestly pretty refreshing. I am constantly dealing with my own personal hell of hearing the creative side and the logical side of my brain constantly arguing in my head, when it comes to writing it feels like I end up only really hearing the grand ideas and not the nitty gritty which you seem to relish diving into. Definitely gonna be watching more and more of this as I work on my first story which is gonna be a trilogy.

[@Jed_Herne]

It's not something that I've personally experienced, so I'm not sure if I can give you advice on dealing with ADHD and writing specifically. Saying that, I'm sure that all the stuff I discuss on this channel can be equally applied to writing with ADHD or anything similar. It's always going to be hard to start, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes.

[@Darien_England]

@@Jed_Herne I very much hope so. Mostly practiced the writing with dnd world's and wrote throughout highschool (pieces that I hope are expunged entirely from the internet but know will forever be on Wattpad) and now wanna use all the experience I've obtained in life to make something of my own

[@nunyabiznuss7464]

Would an airgapped laptop do the same thing, or serve the same purpose?

[@CZpersi]

Very likely yes. The only significant difference is the e-ink screen, which on the one hand does not shine into your eyes, causing eye strain, but on the other hand, the e-ink screen on the device is very small and slow. I would love it, if it had a front-lit e-ink screen (like Kindle Paperwhite) accross full width of the device and with faster refresh rate. There are faster e-ink screens out there.

[@anlsahal4147]

Just like using a camera instead of a smartphone. Because it does just one thing. It takes photos.

[@JezLerman]

When you compare your Neil Gaman experience (writing with pen and paper) to writing with the Freewrite Traveller, which makes you feel more productive and creative as a writer, Jed?

[@kortneyhinton2962]

Have you ever lost words in the typing delay? I’m a pretty fast typist and am concerned that the Traveler won’t keep up if I type too quickly!

[@Jed_Herne]

That's a fair concern! I don't usually lose words - they just take a while to appear. Sometimes the delay does increase the amount of typos I get though, but that's just because I don't see me typing the wrong letters until it's too late, if that makes sense. I'd say 99% of the time it works fine, and it's easy enough to fix up when editing

[@kortneyhinton2962]

I’m fine with typos during/after the drafting stage! One more concern - did they update the software allowing you to go back and change or add to previously typed sentences? I know for awhile you couldn’t go backwards without deleting the words, but I thought they’d changed that?

[@Jed_Herne]

@@kortneyhinton2962 Yeah, on the traveller you can move the cursor around by pressing New + one of the WASD keys, which allows you to go back and delete words easily. It's not quite as easy as doing it on a computer but it's good for quick fixes

[@kortneyhinton2962]

Thank you! Of all the obvious things about this device that could be a deal breaker for me, these two things would be it lol. Thanks for your response 😊

[@Jed_Herne]

@@kortneyhinton2962 no worries, happy to help

[@PianoMan-hx3ev]

My wallet got angry and quit talking to me.

[@missdragon5892]

this is so expensive (X - X) I do not have $700 AUD to drop on something when I have a computer that already types ESPECIALLY if it has bugs or is slow in terms of typing ESPECIALLY when pen and paper costs way less and doesnt hurt my eyes, and you can get old type writers on facebook market place for like $80

[@Jed_Herne]

Yep, there's no getting around the price. Like I mentioned in the review, I would say it's only worthwhile if you can clearly see how increasing your writing speed by 20-40% gives you a decent ROI. For me, it does, but that's not the case for everyone :)

[@missdragon5892]

@@Jed_Herne Thats totally fair, but honestly given the state of book publishing, I don't think I'd break even on that, even if it increased my typing speeds.

[@andromeda6985]

It should be priced not more than US$ 200. Also e ink screen is very small.

[@tonythrowaway3327]

Not wanting to bash your dream of writing fantasy but isn't kingdom of dragons THE most generic title anyone could come up with in that genre?

[@mcd3379]

The screen is too small............

[@WhiteBread221]

I was onboard until price tag… sheeeeesh

[@Jed_Herne]

There's no denying that it is pricey, so it's not something I'd recommend to everyone because of that

[@WhiteBread221]

@@Jed_Herne yeah that’s fair, ‘twas just a bit disappointing to see something that seems so simple priced so high

[@RichardRobertson]

I think that device is at least 40% overpriced. Its reviews are not great for the money. Sadly, there are few similar alternatives.

[@nalaredneb78]

Easy red button distraction.

[@piggystims702]

No. This bullshit is $700. Buy yourself a typewriter instead.

[@rankurogane]

Why use Kindle if you can buy a physical book..? Why use this thing if you have a typewriter..? ah, yes.. gen z and their digitalized basic devices.. 😅

[@loveisall5520]

Seems you're focusing more on your quantity than actual quality. Of course, I've been writing long enough to easily be your grandfather. God help you if you came from my generation, pre-PC, when all of us writing had the choice of electric or manual! I certainly understand that in your young generation, distraction is a constant, egged on with silly social media and 'smart' phones--what an oxymoron. You have challenges we didn't and don't have. I tried the Traveller but I outtyped it consistently. I want a machine that can keep up with me and this can't. The lousy keyboard is a joke for the price for any of us who actually can type fast.

[@NoeHernandezPe767]

I agree, being a millennial I adore my manual typewriter for writing distraction-free, the Freewrite is a joke and a waste of money

[@muskndusk]

Maybe something like the Alphasmart Neo 2 would suit you?

[@g-r-a-e-m-e-]

Not exactly scientific, since you didn't spend time with alternatives. To be honest, it's not great to say we are incapable of working well because we will be distracted. What is wrong with us? We need to focus on what we are doing, deal with that monkey brain problem, rather than investing in expensive kit.

[@BanduTheGreat]

Hmm. You have all these books in the background. I'm trying to decide of you're pretentious, or just old school. Should that bother me? Probably not. But I'm a petty bastard.

[@toddherzman126]

Books are pretentious? Every author I know has a bunch of books.

[@BanduTheGreat]

@@toddherzman126 let me explain this so you understand. The books are not pretentious as they are not alive. What is pretentious is showing off your library of books. Chances are, you have not read them all.

[@vindolanda6974]

@@BanduTheGreat Guys an author and runs a writing podcast and a KZbin channel about books and writing, he's pretty justified in having and displaying a shelf full of books. Plus, there are not many books on the shelves, and they all look like mainstream fantasy, not a genre which is usually regarded as 'pretentious'. Anyway, get over yourself.

[@BanduTheGreat]

@@vindolanda6974 are you his boyfriend or something? Do you fight his battles for him?

[@vindolanda6974]

@@BanduTheGreat Your comment was just so eminently stupid it raised my ire. You continue to make great comments. Maybe you should go and read a book mate.