Which Freewrite is best? Old or Traveller?

Here it is - my comparison of the two Freewrites, the old model and the newer Traveller. Which is the better?
Now - if you think you would like one, you can get a discount of 5% from the purchase of your Freewrite or Traveller. Just hit the link here: getfreewrite.com/?rstr=MJecks When you go from there to the payment page, you should see the discount applied. Apparently I’ll get a small sum, which will help keep this channel going as well!
To support this channel, you can join my Patreon project at / mj150520 or use www.paypal.me/MichaelJecks
For information on the two Freewrites, you can search on my KZbin channel for my updates and reviews, or check out getfreewrite.com
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To find out more about me and my books, look at: www.michaeljecks.co.uk
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Disclaimer - I have not been paid for making this video. I have no relationship with any of the suppliers mentioned. I am not affiliated with Astrohaus.
Cheers for now!
Mike

[@donovanpoe1063]

I always appreciate your reviews of writing equipment. Merry Christmas!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks, you too!

[@sharon888b]

Thanks for the comparison. Those clicky keys are so satisfying. I have an Alphasmart Neo. Not as luxurious as a Freewrite, but a bit more affordable.

[@writerlywitterings]

Very true. The keys are what makes the Freewrite so satisfying - that and the fact it sits on my lap and doesn't move!

[@jasonbrown5131]

This was a great review, thank you very much for your time and expertise. You have given me a lot to think about.

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TurnFullCircle]

Great review and insight into the writing process with the Freewrite family . Very enjoyable video.... Thank you very much. A happy one to you too.

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad it was helpful!

[@EastLancsJohn]

An excellent evaluation, thank you. Have a peaceful Christmas.

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks for that - and you too!

[@JoelTurrell]

Merry Christmas to you, too, Michael.

[@writerlywitterings]

Cheers, Joel!

[@wayneclarkson7486]

Michael excellent review of and comparison of two very interesting writing devices. But need I say more as all your reviews are well worth watching. Thank you very much hope you and your family stay safe and a Merry Christmas to you all and every one who Commented.

[@writerlywitterings]

I appreciate that, Wayne, and thanks for the really kind comment. Hope you too have a very merry Christmas and happy and healthy New Year!

[@feliciaconner]

Loved the review, thank you! I was leaning toward the Traveller but now I think I want the classic :) I preordered the Alpha and cannot wait to receive it and plan to use that when travelling. I think I'm sold on the classic Freewrite! Thanks again!

[@writerlywitterings]

I've got a review order in for the Alpha myself. I'm really looking forward to seeing that in the flesh - but for me the old model with the real keyboard makes so much sense! Really hope you like the classic as much as I do, if you get one.

[@feliciaconner]

@@writerlywitterings you convinced me! My Smart Typewriter arrives tomorrow! I really enjoy your channel :)

[@sistergoldenhair0727]

Love the lights! So festive!

[@writerlywitterings]

They are!

[@TALKmd]

Ohh this is nice review , thank you micheal!

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad you liked it!

[@draft13]

This is the first review I have seen that mentioned if the Traveller was back (top?) heavy and wanted to rock back. Thanks for mentioning it. I think I will go first with the Freewrite, and then graduate to the Traveller if I ever need to take my writing with me on the go (assuming that there will be much going in this Pandemic...)

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad it was helpful! The original is definitely much better as a working tool to carry around, in my opinion. Better keyboard, better ergonomics and a joy to use! Good luck!

[@giancarloghedini1398]

I know this video is old now, but really appreciate it as I've been mulling over the decision to buy one of these devices for a while now. I've wanted the bigger one over the traveler, but the price tag has been the biggest hindrance. But this review has helped me think I will enjoy the original model more, so I will splurge. Thanks!

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad to hear it - and I agree with your judgement. I'm much happier with the old, large model than the smaller version.

[@mindthebutterfly2445]

I'm getting the Traveler, I love your videos btw.

[@writerlywitterings]

Awesome! Thank you! Best of luck with it - it will certainly be much easier to pack for travelling!

[@caelointheclouds]

Great comparison Michael! I enjoyed your decent information!! Cheers and Merry Christmas to you my friend!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks, you too!

[@writerlywitterings]

@@oldstyle-Danish-exmil.officer Very sensible, too. But for a writer like me, I'd wear out the nib too quickly!

[@silviad9314]

Good video. Very informative, thanks!

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad it was helpful!

[@endeavour1976]

I knew it wouldn't be long before he showed us the "Traveller." Have I ever told you that I love your page? Hahahaha. I prefer my old freewrite for now because those mechanical keys are very important to me and I don't write as much as a professional writer. Too many electronics. Thanks for showing it and Merry Christmas Mister Jecks.

[@writerlywitterings]

Oh thank you! It makes a big difference to hear from people who enjoy the videos! Personally, it's still the Freewrite for me. I love that keyboard, and being able to use it anywhere makes it so worthwhile. Still, the Traveller will suit a lot of people, I guess. Thanks again, Miguel, and Happy New Year!

[@megcoz]

Thanks for this video! I am wanting to get the original freewrite. Clicky keys help keep me in the rhythm of drafting.

[@writerlywitterings]

Glad it was helpful! You will be able to find new Freewrites on the internet, because Astrohaus have just launched their third version, and some people are selling off older ones to justify replacing them!

[@Gerod253]

Thank you for the comparison. I hope that we will get a software update for the first FW that includes the Keyboard navigation option for basic editing.

[@writerlywitterings]

Hmm. I think so ... although I rather like the fact that I don't have it, oddly. It makes me happier about just sitting down and typing, which frees the mind a bit - but it's personal taste. Happy new year and let's hope we see the back of Covid at last!

[@luccasnovaes5691]

Merry Christmas!!

[@writerlywitterings]

Same to you!

[@ambermichelle8231]

This is a great video! Subscribed. I just heard about this today and it seems to be exactly what I need. The biggest pro for me is the e-ink display. As someone who is going to college entirely online, I don't want to be sitting at a normal screen to write after having class all day. The e-ink display is supposed to be better on your eyes. To sum it up, I like how it's a digital device without feeling like one if that makes sense. The display, the simplicity, the distraction free concept just seems awesome. It's expensive yeah, but what technology isn't? Some people will spend hundreds on video games or ipads... I will spend money on the traveler.

[@writerlywitterings]

A very good choice. Don't forget, if you buy one, you can get a discount by using the code in the description on my video. Every little helps. I've found my Freewrite to be a great boon. Wonderful machines, and I love how comfortable it is to type on. Best of luck!

[@looneyburgmusic]

In truth, it's not the type of display which causes eye-strain, the problem has always been the choice of text color + background color + screen brightness. Black-on-White is the absolute worst choice of colors for writing one could pick. Most professional authors who worked on computers figured that one out rather quickly back in the early 80s, when we had a choice between staying with monochrome displays, or upgrading to color. I was actually surprised it took so long for developers to offer "dark" modes for modern devices, to me that always seemed like a no-brainer. Meanwhile however, the main benefit of e-ink displays is the inherent dimness, combined with better than decent contrast, which is easy on the eyes. Though, there are still complaints regarding noticable screen lag, even with the latest e-ink technology, so e-ink is not without it's downsides either. Bottom line, it's personal preference - one isn't better than the other.

[@helenj8471]

(Michael) "I love the Astrohaus Traveller apart from all these reason that I don't" 😂😂

[@writerlywitterings]

Ah, now there's a reasonable answer!

[@BabyJinx88]

I want to like this but 8 is my lucky number so.... a comment it is lol 👍

[@wafan13]

You can backspace on a typewriter? To X out words perhaps. Here’s what I think is interesting about these products. People are always comparing them to word processing software‘s, and things of the like on laptops and computers. But no one is comparing them to typewriters.

[@writerlywitterings]

Ah, the old manual typewriters didn't backspace, but my daisywheel and golfballs did. They had correction tapes, and backspace would go back and pull off the type from the page. Yes, people constantly compare these Freewrites to word processors - but they aren't remotely like a WP. They are drafting tools. If you work with large documents, these are what you need for input. For me, they're ideal, but they are not for editing. That's what my Apple iMac is for! Sorry to take so long to respond - ill health and deadlines!

[@JBFire97]

I think you are correct there is no backlight on the traveler. I hope you have lovely Christmas!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thank you! You too!

[@Frank_42]

I use a rechargeable clip on LED light that illuminates the screen and keyboard perfectly without being hard on the eyes. The light has three settings to make it less intense.

[@writerlywitterings]

Good idea

[@NancyKuykendall]

I imagine that’s what I would do with the traveler if I decide to purchase. I like E ink screens but I know without a backlight I will need more lighting at times. Thank you!

[@writerlywitterings]

Good luck! @@NancyKuykendall

[@fearlessknits]

Maybe the equipment we learn on has a great influence on what we prefer... I took touch-typing as a full year course back in high school. Our machines were some sort of soft-touch typewriters. There wasn’t a whole lot of movement in the keys. From that, it was really easy to transition to non-clackity laptop keys, like my own MacBook Air that I dragged all over England and Wales back in 2011. Perhaps the slimmer Traveler would work better for me! But I have to get more serious about writing before I justify that purchase.

[@writerlywitterings]

That could very well be true - although I have to admit, when I was working in the computer industry, I had customer support staff to do the actual typing! When I tried using typewriters with daisy wheels or golf balls, I didn't get on with them at all. But they I discovered the IBM Displaywrite keys, and got hooked. I did happily use Apple iMac and laptop keyboards for some years, and originally loved the slimline aluminium keyboards, but got fed up with wearing them out after two years every time. The clattery keys seem a lot more resilient.

[@GurningTurtle]

It would be nice to see your editing process once you have completed a first draft of something on the Freewrite, just to see how it all works.

[@writerlywitterings]

That's a very good idea - I'll see what I can do. I usually put that kind of item on my Patreon site rather than here, but I might make a short extra for KZbin.

[@robertfoerster566]

I'm actually looking forward to getting the traveller. But, until then, I've discovered in MS WORD under the VIEW tab, Immersive Viewer. You can select an option called Line Focus, which can show from one to five lines of text, with everything above and below greyed out. It's not as perfect for distraction-free work, but it's a good fall-back until one can get their hands on one of these beautiful machines. Thank you for the review; it's been very helpful.

[@writerlywitterings]

Cheers, Robert - I'm glad the review helped you. I've used several bits of software rather like the VIEW tab you mention. If you haven't tried it, you can set up your own page on the Astrohaus website as well, and it'll give you similar capabilities to the Freewrite. It's not as perfect a solution, though. For me the main thing is being able to lift my Freewrite to sit anywhere in the house and just type with the thing resting on my lap. It's incredibly easy and comfortable. Hope you really enjoy your Traveller!

[@moony2703]

‘No backlight on the traveller’ Well that’s pretty much an instant deal breaker for me so good to know! Unless they have updated it since that time. Combine the lack of backlight with lack of being lap friendly and very much a deal breaker. Thanks for going over this!!

[@writerlywitterings]

I liked the concept of the Traveller, but there was nothing to persuade me to move away from my Freewrite. It's a much more practical device (apart from the ease and convenience of the smaller form factor).

[@moony2703]

@@writerlywitterings Yes, that’s what I was thinking. :) Not sure if you’ve seen it yet but I noticed Freewrite is bringing the Alpha version out in the future which looks like it might be more lapfriendly as well as more portable but I guess I’ll have to wait and see. It also has arrow keys I believe, so more discipline is required to avoid the urge to edit or maybe it’ll be more useful for second drafts instead of first for those with multiple Freewrites.

[@revianwolfe]

I’m not sure how many times I’ve watched your Freewrite reviews. I’m coveting this and really want to get one, but it’s a lot upfront without giving it a go. The Facebook algorithm ads haven helped either! I’m torn on which one to get. Maybe Santa will bring me one this year and make the decision for me. Haha. Cheers, Michael!

[@writerlywitterings]

The different devices are quite clearly separated, I think. In my case, I needed a machine like a typewriter, which took me away from my desk so that I could type without worrying about emails, twitter and other inane distractions. The larger model Freewrite was, for me, a no brainer. The keyboard is ideal for someone typing a lot; the screen allows me to take it even into bright sunlight; the machine is far, far better than any laptop I've ever used because it actually does sit comfortably on my lap - no other has ever done that for me! However, for people who want something to take with them and jot down ideas and notes, the Traveller is ideal. BUT - it does suffer from the laptop-style of keyboard, and its size. It is convenient if you have a table or bartop to work on, but not if all you have is your lap. It suffers from all clamshell designed laptops when you try that. Hope that helps!

[@revianwolfe]

@@writerlywitterings always helpful, thank you Mike!

[@revianwolfe]

@@writerlywitterings I found a used 3rd gen online and pulled the trigger on. Looking forward to trying it out for myself soon and to get writing! Maybe I’ll actually finish a story now.

[@BossPenguin]

Hello Mike! I love the idea of the freewrite traveller, although the shiny plastics really put me off... shiny plastics always look cheap in my opinion and the fingerprinting really doesn't help its appeal for me. Otherwise I might have considered buying one as an alternative for Ulysses on Mac/iPad as a distraction free WYSIWYG writing option. Although I recently got into using LaTeX text editors for writing, they're more for documentations (which I have to create a lot of) but also work well for stories/novels. Thank you for the great and informative video, as always! Cheers, Chris

[@writerlywitterings]

I have to agree on the fingerprint issue and did in fact think that Astrohaus really should have designed it with a soft, silicone covering to give it a matte finish - and then I thought it would be easy to make a cover out of some kind of sticky-backed plastic! But for my purposes the original is still vastly superior. Cheers, and have a great Christmas!

[@BossPenguin]

Indeed, if maybe companies like slickwraps or dbrand would make skins for the little freewrite, it would make it a very appealing machine for me to get. Either way, thank you and merry christmas to you, too! The correspondence paper I ordered has finally arrived, so expect to hear (well, read) from me soon! Cheers mate

[@writerlywitterings]

@@BossPenguin I quite agree! a skin would be ideal. Cheers, Chris - I hope you have a great day and a very happy and healthy New Year!

[@BossPenguin]

@@writerlywitterings Cheers Mike, and the same to you! May the new year bring you and your loved ones good health and lots of laughter and joy.

[@AintNobodyAtAll]

I've been researching modern word processors and it seems like all three of the Freewrite offerings are needlessly compromised in one way or another. I wish there was more competition in this space.

[@weedanwine]

look up the zerowriter DIY build, same concept but you can tailor it to yourself and save a lot of cash!

[@writerlywitterings]

I have to admit, I would not give up my original Freewrite. It has all the aspects that make it a superb drafting tool. I'm getting very keen on the Alpha, though, purely for portability. It is a great little device to type on.

[@writerlywitterings]

Haha! I wouldn't dare. I know my competence with electronics, and I need a tool that will work. My original Freewrite has still not had any issues and functions perfectly, thank goodness.

[@Yesica1993]

I love that these things exist and that people are using them! It gives me hope that people still do love the written word.

[@writerlywitterings]

You and me both!

[@keithedwinsmith9416]

I bought the big Freewrite. Definitely prefer it over the Traveler. Would I recommend either? If you have a decent PC/Laptop for editing but want (and can afford it) a device just for that first draft then I’d say yes it is worth it. Otherwise, I’d say no - not an essential.

[@writerlywitterings]

Absolutely right, Keith. I totally agree on all points. I find the Freewrite a real benefit because of that keyboard and its ergonomics - but I did write about 40 novels with just a standard computer set up, and other writers have managed without computers. I believe a chap called Dickens wrote a fair bit without even a typewriter. However, for me, as for you, the Freewrite is a tool I wouldn't be without.

[@NancyKuykendall]

I'm soon to purchase the Traveler, I believe. The only thing that might be a drawback for me is that there is no backlight. Still, I think I can manage in my situation. I'm very eager to try it.

[@writerlywitterings]

It was one of my concerns, but I'm getting used to it. If it's dark, I'll still likely revert to my old Freewrite, but that's because I do have the luxury of choice! And I did spend a lot to buy it!

[@NancyKuykendall]

Thank you. I wonder how I’d like the Freewrite. I never learned to type properly and it’s been decades since I’ve used an actual typewriter. I do write and publish quite a lot but always using my MAC laptop. The typewriter keys probably wouldn’t matter to me, plus it’s pricier. I’m still deciding. Thank you so much.

[@writerlywitterings]

My pleasure. I would recommend having a look at the Alpha, personally. I know it's a bit larger, but I think the keyboard is a better compromise for fast typing than the Traveller ... but it's all down to personal taste, of course! Best of luck!@@NancyKuykendall

[@NancyKuykendall]

Thanks!

[@HarmonicaMarco]

Thanks for the video. Great device but for me, far too expensive for what it is. No backlight as you mentioned, and the bright LED would annoy me no end.

[@writerlywitterings]

Fair enough! I would say that the backlight is nothing like as bright as it seems in this video. The contrast between the light and the dull background makes the camera react badly. In reality, it's a dim light, which I find absolutely wonderful in the dark or twilight. It's not bright enough to create any strain - in fact I find it very relaxing because of the e-ink screen, and better than my Apple iMac for extended periods of work.

[@CZpersi]

I love the idea of a dedicated word-processing device with an e-ink screen. However, there is _zero_ excuse for the display to be so small and slow. It feels like one of those "My First Laptop" toys for kids. There is also no excuse for no backlit keyboard or no screen light on the traveller version.

[@writerlywitterings]

Ah, well, I don't know that they make any difference. I can understand you may want backlit keyboard and a faster screen. Personally I am not worried about either when I'm typing. I don't look at the keys while typing, and the screen size and speed don't bother me in the slightest. The fact that I type at between 50% and 100% faster on the Freewrite is the only aspect I'm interested in. It's a tool that works.

[@johngrubb007]

How did I miss this one! I'm really late to the party and I was really looking forward to it. No excuse on my part. Well, a little excuse. Since getting back from Mexico, I've been working pretty solidly and now for some reason, I don't get email updates from youtube. No matter. I've seen it now and have to say I can understand you preferring the big Freewrite. That keyboard and lap-sitting-ability are totally understandable. The Traveller would be ideal for, well, traveling. My big question has to be, can you share documents between them? I would assume you could share the same space in the cloud and that should allow access for both in the case of you using the Traveller on a trip, then when you get home, back to writing on the original. Thanks for the review. Very interesting as always.

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, John - and thanks for a very interesting idea. My feeling is, you couldn't. I think you'd have to work with the Traveller, and when you returned home, open a new document on the Freewrite to continue with it. The reason I say that is, you cannot work on a document on the Freewrite, edit it on Astrohaus's website (they have their own text editor called Sprinter) and then view it again on the Freewrite. It will be uploaded to your cloud service of choice, and will be available on your home computer, but not on the Freewrite. I feel pretty sure that the same will be true of the Traveller - both will allow upwards loading of your work to the Astrohaus cloud service, but not backwards, sadly. However, I don't see it as a problem (for me) since I only ever work in smaller files, one scene at a time, each comprising about 1,000 words. That's for me, so that in the event of a disaster, I don't have to worry about losing much. At the same time, I tend to work by writing up for a day, next morning loading them to my Apple in Scrivener and editing them before starting on the next scenes. Pulling Traveller documents to my Freewrite would be a nice to have occasionally, I guess, but I'm happy without. Hope that makes sense!

[@johngrubb007]

@@writerlywitterings That makes sense. If you are working on small sized documents, each it's own scene then there would be no reason for sharing them between the Freewrites since they are completed and just need to go to the editing program. I was thinking of a case where the whole book or whatever is one document and for continuing on with that one document. I see now that doing that would not be a good way to work.

[@writerlywitterings]

@@johngrubb007 I think quite a lot of people do write entire novels on their Freewrites, but having had disasters a couple of times where I have lost large chunks of work (viruses on Windows before I moved to Apple), I am a religious regular back-up fiend now! I'd recommend my approach! And I would recommend the Freewrite. I love mine and wouldn't be without it.

[@phoenixdaradia5897]

I was an earlybird subscriber to the Traveler funding campaign. Had to wait aaaages for it, but I feel the design improved while other issues were resolved. I agree, the keyboard is very different to the original Freewrite, but it's one of the best I've found on a compact device, definitely feels like a good compromise. I'm typing this comment on a recent MacBook Pro, and I've been tempted to leave every double/triple/non strike key in to show how absolutely unforgivably awful the keyboard is. On average a keyboard glitch every second word. It's a powerful device, and I arrange and edit on it, but it's utterly useless for drafting on. Thank goodness for the Traveler! Just chuck it in the backpack and off I go.

[@writerlywitterings]

Really glad you're having fun with your Traveller. All I can say is, I have a MacBook Air, and I cannot type on it. Hopeless keyboard!

[@stanleytam5429]

Hit it on the nail with the Traveler keys. Imagine that sucker with brown Kaihl switches.

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks - and yes. The biggest advantage of the bigger box is that keyboard in my opinion. Losing that makes the Traveller far less effective for me. Different stroke for different folks, I guess. I do know they're selling huge numbers of the Traveller

[@typepals]

As a PC user, it’s pretty easy to find a laptop for that price. (I know Macs are much more expensive.) And you can get a Chromebook for half that price. In either case, one could use websites like zenpen.io for distraction-free writing. I will say, I’ve come close to getting the original Freewrite for $120 at auction. It certainly looks like a quality product. I have no interest in the Traveler, for the very same reasons you’ve mentioned. Thanks for the review!

[@writerlywitterings]

Yes, you can buy cheaper, and a laptop will do more. The point is, for me (this is entirely subjective), any of the laptops would be useless. Yes, they would do more - I don't want them to. I want a dedicated text input machine. The original Freewrite is ergonomic, has a screen I can use in any light, has no inherent weaknesses (hinges for the screen), and has a superb keyboard that increases my typing speed by 50%. My example of writing 3,000 words on a train compared with 300 words on my laptop is a prime example. If you need to write to deadlines for a living, the Astrohaus makes sense compared with a laptop. And pays for itself quickly.

[@mackfarlainethebarenakedau5113]

I want the Freewrite.

[@writerlywitterings]

I'm keeping mine - the Traveller was good, but not good enough to replace my original.

[@BarryKoostachin]

Is it the second edition. Or the third edition of freewrite smart typewriter I have the second edition. I tend to type more words with less distraction.

[@writerlywitterings]

Mine is the second model. Better battery life, I think, than the first. A very good machine, and really helps me to keep to deadlines!

[@raymarkable96]

Just bought a Hemingway edition after considering on one for about 2 years now.

[@writerlywitterings]

I hope you really enjoy yours as much as I love mine! Happy writing!

[@raymarkable96]

@@writerlywitterings Just received it today, wrote over 2000 words during times where I would traditionally be accomplishing very little (we are having a heatwave in the part of US where I reside so this arriving today was a pleasant surprise). This device will be heavily utilized, thanks!

[@writerlywitterings]

@@raymarkable96 My pleasure! Happy writing!

[@argentinadriving]

Great video. Small question: do you know if the traveler comes with ISO physical keyboard? I have to write in Spanish and in the webpage they told me is a “hybrid ANSI/ISO keyboard” but it looks a lot like just ANSI to me.

[@writerlywitterings]

I'm afraid I don't know. The standard keyboard is, I think, US-format, but it might be worth writing to them to ask. I do know their site says you can't replace the keycaps retrospectively, but that doesn't mean you can't order one with European caps. Best of luck!

[@argentinadriving]

@@writerlywitterings Thanks a lot!

[@argentinadriving]

@@writerlywitterings they answered: it's called "hybrid" because it has an Alt-Gr key to use for special characters, the rest of the keyboard is just ANSI. I guess it could work.

[@writerlywitterings]

@@argentinadriving I can happily state that the machine I have and use all the time, is a huge boon to writing. Best of luck with the Traveller - it's so small you can easily carry it all day every day!

[@veroniquebellamy4741]

What makes noise? The keys or the people in the bar?

[@writerlywitterings]

Only the keys!

[@angbane]

We thought about a Freewrite, but too expensive at the moment. Just had to pay for a new laptop & adopting our new rescue dog. The Traveler seems perfect for writing out & about-as long as you have a table. I understand there is a lag on both when you're typing due to the paper-white type screen. How do you find this? Your Christmas lights are very stunning!!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks, Angela - on the Freewrite, you'd certainly find the Traveller a light and easy device to carry with you (although the dog may get bored when you stop to write while on a walk). As to the time lag, I notice it every now and again. The simple fact is, while typing on it, my mind is fixed on the story - I'm replaying scenes in my mind, and typing automatically - the screen doesn't really interrupt me. I look at it when inspiration fades, or a distraction occurs, and I have to glance at it to remind myself where I was. Yes, there is a slight time lag, but I'm not bothered by that.

[@angbane]

@@writerlywitterings Haha- walking is brilliant for thinking out story ideas, but not sure breaking out the astrohouse midway is best. I wondered how you managed your sketches while out & about with dogs on your old videos.

[@writerlywitterings]

@@angbane To be honest, generally I don't. I take pictures and try to find time to sketch when I get home. Next year I'm going to try to sketch at least once a day. It shouldn't be hard - fifteen to twenty minutes - but I still get feelings of guilt if I'm not spending all day typing. Bloody work ethic.

[@tomaszsuchecki1779]

I am seriously considering wiping my old iPad mini with a adapter to see if I can use my Annie Pro 2 keyboard You may find that concept useful if you ever need to replace the FreeWrite and they take away the mechanical style typewriter keyboard

[@writerlywitterings]

Shouldn't be a problem. I used to use a Bluetooth connected keyboard with my iPad. But it wouldn't work as an alternative (for me) because the advantage of the Freewrite is that it's one device. I usually have it propped on my lap while I type. It would be difficult, in most of the situations where I use the Freewrite, to be able to have the iPad screen nearby where I could see it while typing on my lap. Also, very often the iPad screen would be unusable - in sunlight, for example, with too many reflections. But with luck my Freewrite will see me out, and if it dies and cannot be replaced, I'm sure there will be similar e-ink screens I could use as tablets instead. I'd just have to carry some kind of stand for the screen, I suppose!

[@RheaBorja]

Thank you for the great review. I have the Traveler … and I must say that the keyboard is less than ideal. From a tactile perspective, it’s not satisfying and it even feels a bit cramped. I am thisclose to getting a Freewrite Typewriter Gen 3 after watching your review. One question: How do you transport it so the keys aren’t accidentally pressed in your luggage or backpack? Did you get a hard case for it? Thanks again.

[@writerlywitterings]

Sorry to hear you're less than satisfied with the Traveller - but as you can tell from the video, I had very much the same conclusion - as well as the fact that the Freewrite is a better size and weight for laptop typing. Anyway ... The power button is deeply recessed in the machine's body, so there's no need to worry about it turning on during transit. The keys themselves are moderately recessed in the frame of the machine as well, so I tend not to worry about it. I did get hold of a felt wallet for it after a while, but that was to protect the keys from fluff and crud getting inside the body. I'm not worried about the keys being depressed generally. If the machine is turned off, they won't mess up my work. If it's protection of the keys themselves, bear in mind that these are Cherry key switches, so they're incredibly robust. It's not like a standard laptop keyboard, which is a lot more prone to damage due to the fragility of the little micro switches. A Cherry key is a very different option. My machine is now - what? Four? Five years old? - and shows no sign of suffering from transport and hard work. It's just a joy to work with, in all honesty. Especially those keys while typing ... Best of luck and hope that helps. Let me know if you have more questions - I'll be happy to help.

[@RheaBorja]

@@writerlywitterings thank you so much for the quick and comprehensive reply! Much like you, I love manual typewriters, so it makes sense that the original Freewrite may be a better fit. It's also good to know that I don't need to worry about the keys being accidentally pressed during transport. I do have one more question. It seems that you have to bend your head to view the e-ink screen ( vs looking just slightly down on a laptop computer). Have you ever felt that doing so strains your neck? Thank you and I will subscribe!

[@writerlywitterings]

@@RheaBorja No, the joy of the e-ink screen is that you can view it from almost any angle. No need to bend your neck or sit uncomfortably in any way at all. Your posture shouldn't be affected at all, and I can sit very happily on a bench, armchair, deckchair or train seat and type happily. All different angles and back postures. The main thing is, the Freewrite sits comfortably on your lap and you can just type. And before long you learn that you don't need to watch the screen much at all. I find myself typing and looking through the window quite often!

[@saulchapnick1566]

I own a Traveler. It is functional, I get things done, but I find it limiting. I have been typing on an Alpha Neo for years, until they all broke down. What was the difference? The keyboard. Like you, I enjoy a typewriter type keyboard. The Traveler has a better keyboard than laptops, but not the clackety clack kind.

[@writerlywitterings]

I totally agree, and I have to admit, that is why I still much prefer using my original Freewrite. The keyboard makes the machine work so much better for me. I tried the Traveller, but those keys just made it feel like a laptop keyboard and gave no benefit. The Alpha, I would say, is about half way between the two, and it's certainly much more portable than the original design.

[@pauldijstelberge6777]

What do you think of the screen?

[@writerlywitterings]

I really like the Freewrite screens - they are identical, by the way - but they allow for the machine to be used in broad daylight or well-lit rooms. My old version, with the light, is even more useful because it's got great clarity no matter what the lighting. Which means I can use it on a darkened airplane in flight without disturbing other passengers, or use it when my wife is asleep without waking her.

[@SuziASMR]

Thanks for the review. If you have both, can you work on the same document on each?

[@writerlywitterings]

Don't quote me on this ( it would be best to check with Astrohaus themselves ), but I don't think so. The way the machines work is, as you type, they upload one way only to the cloud. You cannot pull the work back to the machine from the cloud. You can only call it back by going to a computer, which is where you edit. That being so, I do not think there's any way to sync between two devices even if they were identical machines. You can only type on with a document created on that specific device. However - this is entirely personal of course - if you can see the need for both, I would say get the Freewrite. It is much more of a writer's beast. And if you can see a use for both, perhaps you could take both and merge the two files later on your home computer when you edit. But if you really see the need for that much typing, personally I'd just get the Freewrite. Yes, it's bigger, yes, it's heavier - but if you are that serious about your writing, you'll flourish with that keyboard.And it's only the same as carrying a laptop with you, which is pretty much acceptable anywhere now. Hope that helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

[@SuziASMR]

@@writerlywitterings thank you for such a detailed reply. Much appreciated 👍 Freewrite it is. (You should get commission! 😆)

[@writerlywitterings]

@@SuziASMR I'm not sure, but I believe this still works, if you want a small discount - and I get a small commission too: Now - if you think you would like one, you can get a discount of 5% from the purchase of your Freewrite or Traveller. Just hit the link here: @t - when it comes to buying and you’re presented with a block for special discounts, just enter JECKS-DISCOUNT. Apparently I’ll get a small sum, which will help keep this channel going!

[@writerlywitterings]

@@SuziASMR Thanks for reminding me - I forgot to put the discount comment in when I made this video!

[@BibBubDude]

do you still use your freewrite? and have you written in novels with it?

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, Hunter. Yes, I use it regularly - mostly to write the first half of my books - that is because of the way I work, which is to get the first half written, and then print, edit and review. From there, I tend to write new scenes by flitting back and forth, adding to previous scenes as well as writing 'forward' with the story. But then I use it all the time for correspondence, drafting emails - pretty much all my writing will start on the Freewrite. It's just so practical and versatile.

[@BibBubDude]

@@writerlywitterings Thank you, I want to get one of these things, but the price point is just a little too high for me at the moment.

[@extrajava9175]

Honestly find this a considerably more appealing than the original. I don't like how big and boxy the first one was, and I don't like being stuck with MX Brown keyboard switches, which are far from my favorite. I'd much prefer a quality laptop keyboard to browns. I'm probably not the target audience for the original one, and I guess I'm biased keyboard wise because I own an Alphasmart and it puts all of my mechanical keyboards (except my Topre) to shame

[@writerlywitterings]

I guess if you're already used to an Alphasmart, the use of that keyboard will have defined how you use keys, and of course the form factor will also influence your taste. I can easily understand why people would love the Traveller, but it's not for me. The old version feels infinitely better to my older fingers, and I love the way it sits on my lap perfectly when I'm typing, whereas the smaller device is uncomfortable and wobbles, making many more typos. But it's all a matter of taste and personal choice, obviously.

[@muskndusk]

Why on earth did they put a shiny screen on it? Eink is great to use in sunlight, but not if the screen shines like a mirror! The outside of the Traveler could easy be covered, but the screen . . . ! Nope. I'll stick to my Alphasmart Neos.

[@writerlywitterings]

I'm not sure what you mean by that. The screens are both e-ink and utterly non-shiny. Very good indeed for using in broad daylight (unlike my Apple). They are crisp and clear, and perfect for typing. But I know a lot of people swear by the Alphasmarts.

[@muskndusk]

@@writerlywitterings I read on Kindles, which both have eink matt screens. These are great for reading in the garden, in sunlight. But if the screens were shiny their reflectiveness would reflect the sun and become like a mirror (this is one reason I buy Thinkpads, for the anti glare screen). So I think a matt screen might have been a better choice for the eink display.

[@writerlywitterings]

@@muskndusk You missed my reply. Again, the screens are not shiny, not reflective, but exactly the same as Kindle screens. In fact I believe they are Kindle screens. The cover of the Traveller is shiny. The screen is not, which is why both devices are perfect for typing on in the sun.

[@muskndusk]

@@writerlywitterings I saw your reply. The screens of the displays look shiny on every video I've seen of the Traveler.

[@blackstter6317]

Alphasmart NEO2 does the same job for about $50. (Secondhand)

[@writerlywitterings]

As you can see from previous comments, no, the Alphasmart does not do the same job. For a professional writer the Alphasmart has a dreadful keyboard. The display is too small and bad on the eyes. The device itself is too light and small to sit on the lap for typing for extended periods. In short, it will allow you to type - but will have a bad impact on fingers, wrists, and neck. The Freewrite is solid, gives excellent vision of its e-ink display, has a superb keyboard which is better ergonomically, and sits comfortably on the lap, allowing for extended periods of typing. The Freewrite will increase typing speeds - the Alphasmart will degrade typing speeds. Which is probably why the Freewrite is still being manufactured and sold and successfully used by many professional writers even seven or so years after design and initial project sales.

[@blackstter6317]

@@writerlywitterings I am a professional writer. Each to their own I guess, but with a 12 month battery life, a set of direction arrows that permit editing, plus and a nice interface to the desktop, I'll stick with my $50 pile of junk.

[@Redundant_underscore]

@@writerlywitterings - don't know which Neo you've used, but most of these criticisms are exaggerated, or untrue.

[@writerlywitterings]

@@Redundant_underscore They are my impression based on a few I've used. I find that they don't sit comfortably on my lap and the device wobbles and slows down my typing. The keyboards I have used were hopeless for me. However, I also find Apple iMac keyboards hopeless. I cannot get on with modern laptop style keys. I need keys that have a decent travel. I find that the Freewrite sits on my lap in a very stable manner. It tends to allow me to type between 50% and 100% faster than sitting here at my desk. In comparison I've found that the Neo slowed me down. I didn't like the experience of using it. No exaggeration and not untrue - they are just my personal views based on using them.

[@sistergoldenhair0727]

It is extremely basic but the price isn’t! For the cost of this thing you can buy a laptop. The cost is way too high for what you receive which is basically a word processor.

[@riseandinspire]

And when I think of my Macbook Air, it is so compact and utterly light.. I wonder about what would really be the motivation to buy this..

[@Toofer69]

Worse yet, its an overpriced word processor that can't process words.

[@BossPenguin]

As Michael correctly said in the video, it's a tool for professionals/aspiring professionals who want a distraction free writing experience. What a laptop cannot provide you is the insane battery life, for example. Is it expensive? Definitely. But for the right kind of person, the price isn't the important thing. It's the work they can get done with it. Not that I want to critique you in any way - I can totally see your point of view. It's just that sometimes, more options aren't the thing you need for the job, it's a certain set of specific jobs the tool has to perform. It's all about preference, in the end. Some of my mechanical keyboards (or fountain pens, for that matter), for example, have cost a few times as much as a freewrite, and in the end, what can they really do what a 10 Euro basic AliExpress keyboard/mouse combo can not, if you count out all the nostalgia and emotions. But I still pay the price, because for me, the experience of using them gives me more motivation to write, to do what I have to do, and the productivity boost alone pays off in the end. All in my personal experience, of course. Value is always in the eye of the beholder! :) I hope you have a wonderful christmas time!

[@sistergoldenhair0727]

@@BossPenguin very true! I’ve spent 20 times the cost of this thing on fountain pens and don’t regret it and I’m a writer who has written over 600 poems and three novels on a laptop with no trouble. I don’t struggle with distractions. I really liked the prospect of this thing for the keyboard, but for me personally I cannot justify this expense for a word processor.

[@writerlywitterings]

No, Tracie. Don't think of this as a word processor. It's cheaper than any decent laptop (an Apple would be four times the price) and it is infinitely better if you want to write seriously. This is a professional tool for word input. Yes, it's more expensive than a device with a set of keys resting on a rubber sheet. Yes, it's more expensive than many other devices. But I have tried them and this is infinitely better. And I do mean infinitely. I'm an author, which means I'm broke all the time. Yet after only about ten days using this I had to buy it. It's a professional machine for writers and has to be treated as such.

[@barsabe]

I recommend Pomera DM250. Much better

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks for that. It's a new one to me, but I have to admit, it wouldn't work for me and my work. The keyboard looks like a conventional laptop keyboard. The benefit of the Alpha or the Freewrite is the quality of the keyboard itself. Having good, individually sprung keys makes a vast difference to a fast typist - author, journalist or other.

[@barsabe]

@@writerlywitterings I see. Yes, that's probably the only worse side it has compared to freewrite. Though I've never been selective about my keyboard

[@SonicVibe]

Think the price a lil high

[@writerlywitterings]

Several people have said that. I don't understand the thinking. A laptop to do the same job would cost a great deal more and take a lot of time to learn how to use it. This works better than a laptop - the keyboard makes a huge difference. It rests on my lap and I can use it anywhere. It makes my typing fifty percent faster than my desktop because there are no interruptions and I can use it anywhere. It is worth the money for me - easily.

[@SonicVibe]

@@writerlywitterings Yeah but mostly plastic right

[@writerlywitterings]

@@SonicVibe Certainly the Traveller is, yes. I wouldn't personally go for one of them, although I can see the appeal in a clamshell, easily packed device. My old typewriter format machine is mostly metal. It makes it a heavier device, but infinitely more practical in terms of actual use.

[@SonicVibe]

@@writerlywitterings kinda leaning for the og but didn’t think it would cost more then new one metal makes sense though

[@jezbon]

I keep seeing comments about this being basic and expensive. People keep forgetting that the right tool for the job IS EXTREMELY beneficial. Write one book in a month on freewrite. Edit on Mac. Sell book for $100K. A cheap $400 device makes sense when it's productivity outweighs a laptop Mac at four times the price. When you earn a living through words, this tool suits. Even if it were the same price as a Mac (or twice as much as a Mac!) it would still sell well due to the productivity gain. Why does a mechanic buy expensive Snap On tools (one spanner for each size nut or bolt) rather than a cheaper multitool from China? Because they earn a living using said tools that really do make a difference. Exceptional value is what the Freewrite offers. Value doesn't mean cheap. Like a Mac offers value compared to Windows laptops (with their ever so wonderful updates, downtime, drivers, etc.). A person either has a price mindset or a value mindset. Neither is right or wrong. But freewrite is a value product - so don't view it with a price mindset or you just won't "get it". Another example that might make sense is I have Starlink - it's expensive to buy the satellite receiver then the internet is twice as much as regular home internet. However I travel Australia, live in a caravan and work in IT... while in the Simspon desert, outback, hell anywhere on the planet. With speeds near twice what a home gets in Australia. Starlink is a value buy/spend for me. I'd be stuck to rubbish towns on 4G/5G without it. Most people would freak at spending near $3K a year on internet. However that silly thing helps me make over 100 times that a year. Why must I be so remote? - I'm autistic and struggle hugely with living in cities and near people. So in essence Starlink helps me thrive despite a hugely problematic disability. View the Freewrite with the right lens, right mindset - it makes sense. View it with a dollar store mindset and... well... 🤷‍♂️

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks for that, my friend. I couldn't agree more. As a professional writer, the Freewrite fills a gap perfectly. It does something even the much more expensive Apple's won't do, and that is, allow me to type comfortably for hours on end - entirely sure to the fabulous keyboard and easy to use e-ink screen. I've given up explaining to people why a less comprehensive and complex device can be better, because some people just think it's bad if there isn't more capability on their device. That's fine if they want a multi-function machine. The Freewrite isn't for them, then. That doesn't make the Freewrite expensive or a poor product. It makes the Freewrite a perfect machine at a reasonable price for a specific task. Have fun in the Simpson desert - and I hope you have a Merry Christmas and very Happy New Year, while at the same time sympathising with poor, shivering fools like me who live in a country that is at -6 degrees Celsius at present!

[@jezbon]

@@writerlywitterings minus 6? Humans just aren't designed for that type of insanity. I can see into your future.... Cairns in tropical north Queensland. 😂 We'll totally accept a published author, you'll skip all the nonsense immigration queues. 😉 I haven't felt single digit temps in about a decade now. The coolest was 12c in Brisbane this winter. But it was a colder than usual winter. And 12c had everyone wearing beanies, jumpers, jackets and refusing to go to work. Minus 6 is sheer madness.

[@writerlywitterings]

@@jezbon Ah, well, I have friends who live in Canada, so minus six is apparently balmy! One day I hope to visit Australia. I have friends out there - and one day New Zealand too. Sadly not on the current income, though!