Why I Love My Freewrite

[@BlackMasterJoe89]

"One of the things about being a writer is that you realize a lot of the time you are writing complete garbage." Loved this. Makes me happy that I'm not alone.

[@writerlywitterings]

Ugh - ain't it the truth, though! As they say, "Writing is rewriting"!

[@TurnFullCircle]

Hi Michael, I ended up with the Traveler...I really enjoy the freedom it gives. Was torn between it and it's bigger brother, my decision was based on smaller form as I like to walk and made sense to consider size/weight. It's pops into my rucksack taking up little room. Anyway nice video....all the best.

[@writerlywitterings]

Makes good sense, Chris. I may well have to resort to the Traveller as I get older and the Freewrite gets too heavy for my ancient, diabetically-affected fingers, but I'll be keeping it going as long as possible!

[@Linar-qf1fd]

I fantasized of something exactly like the traveler during my Holidays, i cant believe it actually exists

[@writerlywitterings]

Hmm ... personally I'd go for the Alpha rather than the Traveller. Traveller is good, but the Alpha feels a great deal more effective because of the keys, and it's still an enormously light device to use.

[@Linar-qf1fd]

​@@writerlywitterings I can't afford either one of them at the moment, but I think if I could, I would still choose the Traveler over the Alpha, as I would be much more comfortable tossing something in my bag if it has all its vital parts inside a hard plastic shell. To me a better keyboard isn't really worth having to worry about accidentally breaking it all the time.

[@Linar-qf1fd]

Oh i just looked at the Alpha again and i didnt know it had mechanical Switches before. That would probably make me go for the Alpha actually.

[@kaiwenlidirector]

I have the Hemingway edition. The brass turns really cold in the winter. I'd go for the plastic version tbh

[@writerlywitterings]

Mine is the standard, aluminium with the plastic base, which I find fine - maybe I'm used to the cold here in Dartmoor!

[@ErikCoons]

Didn't Kerouac use a continuous roll of paper in his typewriter? So he didn't have to change pages? This is the digital equivalent. Very nice response to the cost, Vime's boots problem.

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks!

[@claudiameier666]

how on earth did he edit? thats crazy!but neat too...

[@trish7042]

I LOVED this video, thank you! I am 60 and an aspiring writer. I have written a book that needs more chapters and editing. This has been on my wish list for some time and my husband (God love that man!) just gave it to me as an early Christmas present! I'm soooooo excited! I have the Traveler! I am thrilled that you still love your Freewrite and am loving mine already! Thank you!

[@writerlywitterings]

So glad to hear it! They are fabulous little tools for we writers! Best of luck with it and your book. Let me know if you have any questions or comments. Sorry to take so long to respond - ill health and deadlines!

[@alexanderwrites_]

I just picked one up about a month ago and I’m loving it! It’s a joy to know after so much time that you still have it! Your channel introduced me to it and now I’m buzzing away on some crime fiction!

[@writerlywitterings]

That's great to hear, Alexander! Very best of luck with it!

[@keithedwinsmith9416]

Haven’t got the justification that I’m a professional writer (yet), but I bought one anyway as a kind of personal commitment. I really appreciate that it is a specialist tool for that one phase of the writing process : the first draft. Just as, albeit a lot (a lot) cheaper 😂, the humble index card is ideal for plotting out the sequence of scenes. And, Scrivener is great for pulling together those scenes, drafted on the Freewrite, and working on them to get something that hopefully looks like a manuscript for a publishable book. Use the right tool for the right job. Leastways that is how I see it, as a rookie writer.

[@writerlywitterings]

We all start out as rookies, Keith. I really wish I'd had one when I started out, back in the dim and distant (with my memory anything before yesterday is rather dim and distant) past! Happy writing, my friend!

[@WaskiSquirrel]

Thank you for this. I own one, and I've enjoyed creating on it. I wish it was easier to switch between files. To me, it's easier to place it on a lapdesk to type on it. I was given a Traveler, and I like that when I travel. However, I just bought a keyboard for my reMarkable tablet: a wonderful handwriting device. The typing experience is not as good as the Traveler or Freewrite. But it is the same distraction-free experience with a lot more text available. I'm wondering how it will change my writing devices. I do enjoy my laptop, but not for composing. And I don't have a proper desk for a desktop machine.

[@writerlywitterings]

Interesting, Was. Yes, that was the big restriction I found with the Traveller too. The huge appeal of the Freewrite (for me) is the fact that I can plonk it on my lap and start typing. I couldn't do that with the Traveller. That needs some kind of table. It does, of course, have the appeal of the small form-factor, which means it's easy to carry with you, but the Freewrite is so much better for typing that I don't see myself changing any time soon.

[@JBFire97]

The right tool for the job! I’ve been doing some work in Somerset over the last month, and enjoy the trip on the A303 passed Stone Henge. As always, thank you.

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks, Paul. I do love that view from the car - unless, of course, it's a usual bank holiday traffic occasion, when the car takes an hour to pass the henge!

[@angrycatplans]

I had a very similar "should I buy this tool" talk to myself when I made the decision to buy a Supernote about a year ago. Before the Supernote got the latest update that lets you transfer handwriting to text, it was just an overpriced fancy notebook, but I knew the moment the update will come it would be worth it. I write my first drafts by hand but always hated transcribing them from notebook to computer. Now that this portion of the process is done by Supernote it has really been worth every penny. What comes to the Freewrite, God I wish I needed one but unfortunately I don't. Which is why I cannot justify the price. But I know if I ever stumble on a good deal or a used one for a good price I would grab one in a heart beat. This is just the tool I would love to have even though my process does not need it. You cannot take money to the grave and if there is a tool that makes your life easier and you can afford it then whey not invest. I've been watching your content for a few years and I've really enjoyed these Freewrite talks. Thanks for a great video.

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks so much for that. It's comments like yours that keep me recording my little videos! Keep your eyes open for second hand devices, I know several people who have bought them on eBay and elsewhere!

[@emmyb7195]

Hi Michael - I just wanted to drop in with a comment to let you know how helpful your videos have been in my decision to purchase an Astrohaus Freewrite Smart Typewriter (3rd generation Ink edition). Most reviews of this product are unboxings & first impressions, but your reviews over time and your very helpful playlist really helped me steer away from my initial choice of the Traveler and go with the full size Smart Typewriter. Hell, if I love it enough when it arrives I may splurge on an Alpha at some point too!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks so much, it's always so good to hear from people who have found my videos useful! Good luck with it, and for my money, the Alpha really does win over the Traveller by a huge margin.

[@michelgolabaigne595]

Thank you Michael for showing us this device that I am seeing for the first time…. I am not a professional writer, but this device appeals to me a lot...:) The photos of Stonehenge are also impressive, it's very nice of you to share them with us. Thank you !

[@writerlywitterings]

You are welcome!

[@TheJamesRichmondTeacher]

Love the comparison of this protect versus laptops! Thank you for the insight

[@writerlywitterings]

Cheers!

[@Gordontubeon]

I've got mine because of one of your video 🙂

[@keithedwinsmith9416]

Same.

[@alexanderwrites_]

Same!!

[@writerlywitterings]

I'm beginning to feel guilty - but glad you like it!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks, Keith - hope you like yours too!

[@writerlywitterings]

I hope you're finding it useful too!

[@RobotProphetsMoon]

You are so naturally funny, I can't! 😂 You simultaneously made me decide to buy a freewrite and entertain me.

[@writerlywitterings]

Very glad you enjoy the videos - and I hope you really enjoy the Freewrite!

[@greyareaRK1]

I love the concept, but I find the screen too small. It would be good if that USB-C port could connect to an external monitor. I certainly understand the need for a distraction -free GUI. I've spend a silly amount of time getting software to look like WordPerfect 4.2 on an amber monochrome screen, then trying not to be distracted by all the other software, communications, etc.

[@writerlywitterings]

Ugh, you and me both. I'm typing this at 10:40 on my Apple. I realised it's been an age since I checked comments here on KZbin. I sat down before 9:00 to clear emails and then edit my next book - and yes, I got distracted! I have to admit, I find the smaller screen really good. I hated two-line typewriter screens when I started writing, but the Freewrite seems to be about ideal for me. It's all personal taste, of course!

[@adam723]

For right now, I have been using an Apple keyboard with a Fintie case that holds my iPhone. I type in PreText and then open and edit in Highland 2. I would love to get one of these if I actually started making money writing. :)

[@writerlywitterings]

That's an interesting set up. I would say, though, that you have an effective system already. The big advantage of the Freewrite (or the Traveller) is that they all fit together neatly, and I can type easily and comfortably on my lap, but if the Apple keyboard works, stick with it. My only suggestion would be a better keyboard, by which I mean one with individually sprung keys. But that's because I cannot use the minimal-movement keys that Apple sells now!

[@hazelpurls]

Right tool for the right job! 🙂 And anything that removes distractions is probably worth its weight in gold! Lovely photos of Stonehenge - I didn't know EH members could visit up close!

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks, Hazel. Yes, you have to be quick when the offer comes through, but then you can get close up and dirty with the stones!

[@ErikCoons]

I had an ophthalmic surgeon said that to me once. "The right tool for the right job". You have to give yourself what you need to be excellent.

[@endeavour1976]

Gracias a usted tengo mi Freewrite. Me encanta. No lo uso mucho, la verdad, porque yo escribo poco pero me gusta mucho. Gracias Míster Jeck.

[@writerlywitterings]

I am very glad you are enjoying your Freewrite, my friend. Happy writing!

[@suzyq2463]

I’ve watched your videos with pleasure, and appreciate your helpful comments about the Freewrite Typewriter and the Traveler. I wound up purchasing the Traveler, but wasn’t sure I liked the keyboard, so I purchased the Typewriter too, with the intent of returning the one I liked least. Problem is I like both of them for various reasons. I know you prefer the Typewriter, but do you ever use the Traveler anymore? In other words, have you found practical use for both, or does the Traveler gather dust on your shelf?

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, Susan, and thanks so much for the positive comments! I acquired the first Freewrite just to review, and to be honest, I was not certain I'd be able to be positive about it. And then when it arrived, I was in the middle of a book and could not get on to it for a week or two so asked for the two week loan for review to be extended to a month so I could use it properly. I had to get in touch after one week's use to buy it. I loved it that much. The Traveller was a delight. It was another loan, and I was really keen on the idea - but when I had it here and used it, I soon decided I wouldn't keep it. It was lovely, I like the size and portability, but I did not like the keyboard or the use on my lap. Those are the two things that keep me going back to the Freewrite, and to be honest, if I'm travelling and cannot take the Freewrite, I'll take a notebook and scribble ideas in that. The Traveller would never be more than a notebook to me. When away, I'll always have the Freewrite with me. So, no dust-gathering because it was only ever a review loan, and was sent back when the review was done. I couldn't send back the Freewrite, though!

[@walshamite]

That's certainly one way to go. I'm a writer, hundreds of articles published, and chunks of textbooks,op-eds, reviews etc . I have converted my method to Android (Moto G8 Power) phones, ( I have 2), or tablet, using Google speech-to-text. Like Freewrite, I tend to freely write without editing, then go back to tidy. Secondly, I use the Android Swype app keyboard to very rapidly enter text. I can enter 1000s of words in one hour. The devices are always on me and I can add notes using the Notepad Pro app by Panagola. Recommended, it's simple text with loads of facilities. This works for me. I do miss the original Brown Bag Outline written by John friend for DOS, on early PCs. The Windows version isn't so good imho. Outlining is a brilliant way to plan and organise any large text project. I guess we all find our ideal way to write. For JK Rowling it was longhand in exercise books in a cafe. The Times says her writing has made her a £820,000,000. 'Nuff said.

[@writerlywitterings]

Yeah - I'd be very happy with 1/1000th of Joanne Rowling's income. Sadly it's not very likely! Thanks for the comments. I have to admit, I've thought about different ways of writing, but for me most of my writing is at home, and the extreme portability of a phone isn't really necessary for me. I am happy with the Freewrite and just taking it into a different room when I need a change of location.

[@mike_qbik]

Looking forward to this one!

[@llcarignan]

I discovered your channel looking for reviews of the Freewrite online. So, I consider myself better off, even if I never get a Freewrite. Like many, I have a hard time justifying (to my wife) the cost, since I am only an aspiring novelist and not a professional published writer. So, I created a workaround. I bought a $30 wireless keyboard with a slot on top for a phone or tablet, linked it to my phone, and now I can open Google docs and instantly start typing, distraction-free. My work is instantly saved to the Cloud, and I can pull it down to any other device and work on it and resave it to the Cloud for complete continuity. In fact, I could put my phone in my pocket, probably, and type away without even seeing the screen. How much more distraction-free can you get? QUESTION: Do you think this setup would give you everything the Freewrite does, or are there other benefits, intangible or otherwise, that make the Freewrite a superior option? I admit the form factor of the Freewrite is very appealing to me.

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, there. This is one of those really tough questions to answer. For me, the big benefits are the keyboard, the screen, and the portability. Keyboard, yes, you can get various types which will do a good job. However, the sort that only costs $30 will invariably mean it's working with a sheet of rubber or latex to provide the springiness. I cannot use that sort - I have done often in the past, but using such systems have done significant damage to both hands, giving me cubital tunnel syndrome (not carpel), which has forced me to have two operations, one on each elbow, in the last couple of years. The Freewrite has individually sprung keys which is infinitely more pleasant to type on, gives better response, and is better for the fingers, reducing the risk of RSI. Second, the screen. A phone is a good, functional screen, yes. However, the Freewrite has an e-ink screen (the Alpha doesn't, that's just a liquid crystal screen, the Traveller does, but it's not backlit) which makes it vastly better on the eyes. Two things I've really noticed: when out doors in sunlight, the only device I have ever been able to use for typing is the Freewrite. No laptop or phone is free of reflections, but they're also lousy in terms of resolution. I have retinopathy and maculopathy due to diabetes - I simply cannot use a phone screen. Secondly, indoors, it is so much better to be able to type and read even in a darker environment thanks to the back lighting. Thirdly, ergonomics: this is the biggie for me. I could not put a keyboard on my lap to type on, say, a train or aircraft. Keyboards are flimsy and uncomfortable to use. In the past I have owned Toshiba, AST and Apple laptops. I have never, and I do mean "never", been able to type happily with them. Yes, in large part it was the feel of the keyboard (horrible), but it was also the fact of the balance of the system on my lap. Probably the very worst was the best computer, the Apple MacBook Air. Beautiful, slim, light - and hideous as a typing machine. The keys had no travel, and felt soggy, the screen was beautiful and glass, meaning that every time I used it, I was concerned that the damn thing was going to fall off my lap, toppling over with the weight of the screen. In comparison, I have used my Freewrite on my lap on trains, on planes, and have always been able to type comfortably. My first journey to London resulted in over 3,000 words typed. That is ten times, roughly, what I had previously achieved with the MacBook. A long-winded response, and apologies for that, but I wanted to explain properly. The Freewrite is not a cheap option. From the point of view of usability, though, it is incomparable with any similar device. You may well not suffer from diabetes or cubital tunnel syndrome, but one aspect of those is that they creep up on you (I speak from experience - I was diagnosed as having been diabetic for some ten years without symptoms). The damage to my nerves and fingers was unnoticeable until suddenly I couldn't use my little fingers. All of this means I would strongly recommend the Freewrite. It is one way to guarantee much more work, faster, and with less impact on your health, while giving you probably the best typing experience. Is it expensive? I would argue not. If it saves you, the author, a significant amount of time in text input, it's well worth the money. The alternative would be to spend the same money, or more, on a laptop that would not do any of the tasks as well and would offer other software - which I do not want on my typing machine. So ... I don't know. It's a matter of making your own choice, and basically deciding what is best for you. The only thing I can add is, that I was sent a freebie to test for a month and then return. After only ten days or so, I had to contact Astrohaus and demand a price so I could keep it. I paid the standard rate for it because it was blatantly obvious to me that the machine was perfect for me. Hope that helps in some little way!

[@writerlywitterings]

I typed up a lengthy response, but now cannot see it. Please let me know if you cannot see a reply, and I'll redo it - I think KZbin is having an off-day!

[@chrisbivona3258]

I know you posted this video more than nine months ago but this was the latest Freewrite video that I found of yours and I know how much you praise Freewrite, well the smart typewriter at least. Anyway, I was wondering if you have received the Alpha from Freewrite yet. I received mine today and I set it up instantly. I love the keyboard and since it’s not an e-ink display it’s much faster than previous editions and versions. If you have received the Alpha and have tested it out, what are your reactions and opinions? I know you were not a huge fan of the Traveler. I have all three versions myself and for me they each have their own value in their own special environments and situations. Thank you for your time.

[@writerlywitterings]

Many thanks, Chris, and Yup! Received it earlier this week, and unlike the Traveller, which I couldn't get on with, this Alpha is definitely a keeper! Review went up 15th Feb, if you want to take a squint.

[@tzachizamir5779]

Bought mine a few years ago because of your review. I generally like it and appreciate the creative philosophy undergirding the device. One drawback you don't mention is the inability to fully switch it off. If it's not constantly charged, you will not be able to switch it on and use it, because once the battery is dead it takes a few hours to recharge. I have no idea why it's made up that way...

[@writerlywitterings]

Ah, sorry to hear that. Of course, for me, most of the time I want it readily available so it doesn't matter. However if you press the power button and hold it for some seconds (forget how many) it will turn the machine off completely. The advice is, to fully charge it first, and then turn off. Hope that helps.

[@tzachizamir5779]

@@writerlywitterings Thanks, but those options don't work. I was with their support team on this issue, who have also suggested pressing the right 'New' and the off switch for three seconds. That just gets the machine to reboot. I think the problem is that as long as the machine is used regularly, as you do, everything is fine. But if you put it aside for two months after finishing drafting something, you cannot just pick it up and have it switch on; you have to recharge the battery for many hours. Anyway, this isn't a support channel. Apart from that issue, I am happy I got it.

[@t0dd000]

Hello, Michael. Long time no chat. Life happened... Anyway, thoughts on the font size for aging eyes? I mean, you use it, but I'm wondering if you think there is room for improvement.

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, Todd - good to see you back. Hope life's OK? For me, the screen is very clear and easy to read. I love the fact that it can be lit or the light turned off. My eyesight is not good, and especially now since I have diabetic maculopathy, but the screen's font size works well for me. I have it set to "medium" but there are small and large options, too.

[@angbane]

We still keep looking at this. The Hemingway edition is so beautiful. The Alpha looks like it might be good for portability & a little kinder on the budget.

[@writerlywitterings]

The Alpha looks very kind on the budget. I have to admit, if I were starting out and wanted a device to use when out and about, that's the one I'd go for. Light, portable, a good enough keyboard, hopefully, and if my writing took off, I'd then move up to the Freewrite!

[@j.s.elliot7121]

I'm interested in getting one of these (perhaps the Traveler, undecided), but I'm curious how long the battery lasts? How often do you recharge?

[@writerlywitterings]

Ah, I have had this for several years now, so I cannot be sure. I tend to use it and then charge it. I know it'll last more than a day and a half, but not certain how much longer than that when I'm using it intensively. When I started, six or seven years ago, it was lasting a week with heavy use. I believe the newer models have better batteries, too. The Traveller too, I think, lasts a long time. Main thing is, there's nothing "clever" about it. That is, it's not really processing anything. It's registering keys, and firing up an e-ink screen. Neither takes any battery. It does have Bluetooth, but that too doesn't absorb much power.

[@emilythigpen3198]

How loud are the keys? I'm debating between this and the Traveler.

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, Emily (and sorry, I've been away). I find it quiet, but that could just be me! However, some people do notice it being a bit louder than they're used to, and for people like that, Freewrite sells some rubber gaskets - O rings that sit under the key caps and reduce the sound very well. To be honest, you could just buy some on the web - rubber rings are dirt cheap! If you like real keys that are individually sprung, the Freewrite is the best, without a doubt. If portability is key, you'll need the smaller size of the Traveller.

[@ryangunwitch-black]

19:44 They must be doing something write!

[@writerlywitterings]

Hahaha! I do think so!

[@reianae.smiley8573]

Considering I love writing, I think the Freewrite is worth the investment! The Freewrite Traveler is on my wishlist.

[@writerlywitterings]

Sorry to take so long to respond - ill health and deadlines! In case you're still looking, I'd personally recommend the Alpha over the Traveller. The keyboard is a great deal better, even though the device is that bit larger. I've made a few review videos in recent weeks.

[@jamesaritchie1]

I suspect, as with most things, the Freewrite is a wonderful tool for some pro writers, a so-so tool for others, and a completely unusable tool for yet others. Pro writers work in about as many ways as there are writers. Some run straight through a novel, then rewrite, edit, maybe do two, three, or even four drafts. Some do no rewriting or editing at all. They don't need to. After I sold a novel and a few short stories, I started studying the writing method of all the writers I enjoyed reading. I was surprised to learn that eleven out of twelve of my favorite writers did just one draft, usually fairly quickly, did not use an outline, or make character charts, etc. They just wrote, editing each line as the went, which is what I always did. Robert Heinlen was the big proponent of one draft and out at the time. The SF writer on your Freewrite is Isaac Asimov. He wrote one draft, then went through it looking for any inconsistencies, and that was it. He said if he didn't get it right in the first draft it was hopeless, and no amount of rewriting would help. I knew one SF writer who, ir order to help out one of his editors who was in a jam, wrote a one hundred-thousand-word novel in three very long days this way. The editor took it, asked for no rewrites, said he had to do no editing, and it not only sold well, it won some prestigious awards. I don't think being able to go back and edit is much of a distraction for most writers. The ones I talk to don't even list it. To them, the biggest distraction is their cell phone. On the computer it's e-mail and browsing. Freewrite could stop these distractions on a computer, but so can a simple app that shuts down your computer Wi-Fi for a specified period of time. I do know writers, a very few, who write while traveling, but they do so with dictation while driving. I don't know any who write on a train, though you can't be alone in this. I used to write when I reached a destination, a hotel, a motel, a cabin in the woods that had no electricity or running water, in a small houseboat on the Ohio River, and pretty often out in the wilderness, but only when I got there. For me, a fountain pen is the ultimate distraction free writing, with a typewriter close behind. But I don't have any distractions when using a computer and MS word, either. A tried Scrivener but one brief try made me stop that. I don't do any of the things it tries to get writers to do. I just write. and edit each sentence as I go. When I reach the end, I'm done. I can use any simple word processor because, to me, a word processor is just fancy typewriter. I type on the keyboard, words appear on the screen just like they do on paper, and when I reach the end, I'm done. As well as I can write with MS Word, or any simple word processor, though, I still prefer a fountain pen. I'm immensely happy that at least some writers still write novels this way. J. K. Rowling wrote her Harry Potter novels in longhand, though I don't know her writing instrument of choice. But I'm glad she did. I loved those novels. Best I've read in many years.

[@writerlywitterings]

Thanks for that, James. A really thought-provoking series of comments, and if you don't mind, I'll use it as the basis for a video talking about writing and associated matters. Many thanks!

[@nutraceutigal]

I thought the USB & charger cable came with the typewriter

[@writerlywitterings]

the charging cable comes with the freewrite (all models, I believe), but no charger. I just use my phone chargers or plug it into the computer.

[@Outandaboutwithpoggy]

Hi Mike, My take on all this is that if you need something for your job then go and buy it, as self-employed I would imagine you can claim something against you taxes, along with other tools you have to purchase for your job, I would like one of these but not until my cataracts have been fixed, but has I mentioned before I sold my Apple 24” M1 desktop as the monitor was playing havoc with my eyes, I have to put drops in my eyes twice a day for life, so Two weeks ago I purchased a Mac Mini 8gb 256GB and like yourself use Dropbox, this sits on the desk underneath my 27” Monitor, on the other desk I have a Win 10 Desktop I use in conjunction with radio equipment, so the Apple gets used just for video editing, writing and my family history files, I did buy another keyboard as they don’t come with the Mac Mini, a Logitech K780 which allows me to switch between the IPad and the Desktop and acts as a holder for the IPad, a new mouse , Logitech M330, which I’m not terribly sure I like yet, I did consider a mechanical keyboard but decided to stay with a soft one, but not the silly Apple one , anyway, haven’t forgotten the letter, I promise it will be winging its way to you very soon, Actually popped into Asda’s yesterday afternoon and bought a book of 4 x 1st class stamps, and just for the record they ain’t cheap anymore @ £4.40, but if you want something then you have to pay for it, interesting video as always, glad you enjoyed the old Sarsen Stones, bound to be a story in there for you somewhere, hope the injury is improving , bye for now , Mike

[@writerlywitterings]

Cheers, Mike, and thanks for that. Look forward to the letter - and cheers!

[@meursault7030]

It's annoying trying to find something that can edit on the fly competently as well. I know it's possible in this day and age, I know someone's made one, but these mythical writing tools elude me somehow.

[@writerlywitterings]

Yes, I am interested in a new device that is apparently on Kickstarter now - I think it's called the BYOK - Bring Your Own Keyboard. Simple concept of a quality LCD screen, very simple editor, and just plug in your keyboard of choice to get it going. I'm trying to get in touch with the designer with a view to getting more information about it, but the screen/device itself looks to be about 6x4 inches, so ultra portable, except you need a keyboard to go with it!

[@ghostchick5275]

I am buying a Freewrite. But to be perfectly fair, the Alphasmart was not marketed specifically to writers and was ahead of all the distractions that the explosion of cell phones and computers provides. Had the Alphasmart been released in today's market, and had been marketed towards writers, it would have done just as well as the Freewrite. Maybe even better because of its lower price.

[@writerlywitterings]

Quite possibly - but the ones I've used have been really horrible to type on, due to the keys themselves. This feels much better!

[@SuperTrainStationH]

@@writerlywitterings There was actually print ads SPECIFICALLY targeting writers, I've seen them. But I can't speak for how widespread that was, it seems to me if that company had held on just half a decade more, they would have found a resurgence. As an owner of many Freewrite and non-Freewrite writing machines, what frustrates me the most is that Freewrite is the only English native dedicated writing machine on the market, but it is NOT a word processor, it's a drafting machine built to enforce a VERY specific creative writing process, and that alienates a large number of members of the public, including disabled adults and students, who in the past benefited tremendously from devices like the Alphasmart, but now have no equivalent alternative. People aren't outbidding eachother on increasingly expensive and scarce Alphasmart machines and engaging in extensive restoration projects on them because they just like arbitrary "worse" things for no reason, its because these machines do things, most of which are basic word processing functions that increase the general purpose utility of the machines, that the Freewrite devices to this point simply aren't designed to do.

[@pensane]

The Alpha, strangely enough, is a direct design taken from the AlphaSmart Neo-the very one you can still find for $25-50. The Neo was far from a failed device, it was just never taken to the next level. Mostly because it was intended for use in schools, and of course, schools ended up fully adopting computers. I believe the company ended up going out of business. Now, many writers have adopted them as distraction-free writing devices, and they work extremely well for that. Of course, the FreeWrite you have there has a far superior keyboard, and must be a dream to type on. Not to mention the WiFi and syncing capabilities. One of these is still on my wishlist, even though I have a couple AlphaSmart Neo2’s. Thanks for the video! Always good to see you. A few of your books are in my TBR pile.

[@mariam2964]

An AlphaSmart Neo is more than enough for first drafting on the cheap. Accessible to anyone, not just fancy writers.

[@writerlywitterings]

I'm sure it is fine for drafting - for someone who isn't writing much. For someone who is writing 4-5,000 words a day, it is hopelessly inadequate. The keyboard is dreadful in my experience. However, if it's good enough, that's fine. I have no issue - these videos are based on my personal opinions and experience of using (I think) some 9 Apple computers, 5 or 6 dedicated word processors, and perhaps 7 different DOS or Windows machines as well as Neos, Freewrites and other devices.

[@pensane]

@@writerlywitterings thank you for the reply! I am looking forward to reading your books. In the meantime, I love your videos.

[@claudiameier666]

im tempted to get a freewrite but price, price.... i dont write enough to justify it. i have been looking at that new alpha tho.but ooohhh that hemingway.....

[@coreybrown1421]

Your code doesn’t seem to reduce the cost.

[@writerlywitterings]

Hi, Corey, and sorry for that. I've checked with Astrohaus, and they say: 'the discount won't appear on the "Shopping Cart" page, but if you hit "Checkout" it does then show the discount. (They might also be trying to purchase a "Hemingwrite," which won't let the discount apply due to it being a branded collaboration.)' I do hope that clears things up. Basically you can't get a discount on the Hemingwrite model, but on others you ought to be able to buy, but the discount only shows on the "checkout" page.

[@coreybrown1421]

@@writerlywitterings thanks, I found another promo code and was able to use it. Sorry, I couldn’t use yours!

[@MrsBennett67]

The science bloke-Issac Asimov 😊

[@writerlywitterings]

Ach, yes, I realised as soon as the damn video went live! Many thanks!

[@Xingqiwu387]

Why I don't........Let me count the ways.

[@writerlywitterings]

Many don't. But for a professional writer, it's the best drafting tool

[@Xingqiwu387]

@@writerlywitterings IF it were reliable AND offered an SD card to save written drafts instead of the horrendous cloud approach, I'd buy several right on the spot. It will be up to another manufacturer to bring out the ZERO-cloud-based model.

[@writerlywitterings]

Well, in terms of reliability, mine's never gone wrong in all the years I've owned it. As for the cloud issue, it's no problem. Turn off wifi and plug the Freewrite into your computer. It shows as an extra disk drive. It's probably how I'll be using the new Alpha I reviewed on Thursday. @@Xingqiwu387

[@brianlooksaround6125]

I will leave that apparatus for you professional writers. My Conway Stewarts and Apple laptop are fine for me. Thanks for the pics of wonderful Stonehenge.

[@writerlywitterings]

My pleasure, Brian!

[@davidwatson3035]

I love the idea of the Freewrite, I have no need for one but I have been using Nisus Writer since 1998, and it's the most accomplished WP for my needs. I use it with a mechanical keyboard in minimal full screen mode. That's a great way of concentrating. I love your channel and now have an Opus 88, several TWSBI Goes and an expanding ink collection. I thank you, my bank account, not so much.

[@writerlywitterings]

Can I pass on my sincere condolences to your bank account ...!

[@feleslucis-emanueldearaujo6237]

I would love to get a FreeWrite, but, unfortunately, it's too expensive for me (and most people). Just for some perspective, you need to work for three months and a half (without spending money on anything) to afford a Freewrite, and you can pay less by buying an e-ink tablet + a bluetooth keyboard. I really don't understand how the price is so high (especially for the traveler, which seems to be made of plastic). Anyways, sorry for my rant. If I ever win the lottery, I will probably buy one.

[@writerlywitterings]

Many thanks - yes, it's not as cheap as other devices. But if you get a good keyboard with individually sprung keys, it'll cost over £100 on its own. Add in a good design package, e-ink screen, and all of them, because the total number likely to be sold will not be into the millions where cost of scale kicks in, and it's easy to see why these things cost more. However, the company has been going for some six years or so, with all their products designed around the same philosophy. So many thousands of buyers can see the benefits. As to an e-ink tablet and bluetooth keyboard, well, they would not be comfortable to use typing on my lap or on the train - and that's the thing. The Freewrite is a well-designed package that works.

[@mcd3379]

Why is it so expensive??

[@writerlywitterings]

Because it is a unique product and like any business the manufacturers will make as much profit as they think the market can support. Since they're a successful business and have been going for several years now, and have invested in R&D for new devices, they appear to have got it about right.

[@DNHarris]

Ray Bradbury

[@writerlywitterings]

Sorry to take so long to respond - ill health and deadlines! Actually I'm told it was Asimov?

[@ozzie8821]

👍👍👍👍🍺😎

[@writerlywitterings]

Many thanks!

[@henryb160]

"Putin screwing up the world economy". Now that really is funny! Especially as Russia isn't suffering the inflation that we're currently 'enjoying'.

[@writerlywitterings]

Ah, yes. If you trust the latest Russian figures, inflation has dropped from a high of about 18% in April last year to about 3.5 to 4% this month. Which is astonishing since Russia's deficit has hit $29B in the first quarter of 2023, her oil revenues have dropped 45%, and she's heading for at least catastrophic collapse. In terms of GDP, more and more money is being spent on military hardware. Producing mines doesn't generate wealth, nor do ammo and tanks. They're made, paid for, and then destroyed. Then again the Russian finance ministry is responsible for all the figures. You can, of course, believe their figures if you want. But since the Kremlin puts out misinformation and disinformation on an industrial scale, I don't believe their inflation figures.

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

Police do not buy firearms, obviously. And the other point is, how often you use it? If you are on a train journey every day, it makes better sense than a trip to London once a month. But I see your points, in a way I have similar reasons for still using a Z88. That's a small laptop with no internet a small screen. Dates from the late 1980s.

[@jamesaritchie1]

Police do buy firearms where I live. At least they buy their own handguns. This is very common here. I think the point is that the Freewrite is every bit as useful at home as it is on a trip. Home or away, it's distraction free, purely creative first draft writing with no editing as you go. Even if you never leave your house at all, the Freewrite is still just as useful, still performs the same function.

[@writerlywitterings]

Sorry, but police do buy firearms. Not individually, but as police forces. That is how they get their guns! They have to buy them, just as they buy belts, Tasers and all the other paraphernalia they rely on. Z88? I recall lots of Z80-based devices from the 80s when I was selling computers. I agree about train journeys - but I will often use mine while in the house. I cannot use laptops, as explained, but I resort to my Freewrite on occasion when I need to get clarity of thinking and peace, away from the computer. That might mean sitting in my garden, or in my sitting room, just to change the atmosphere. I was taught in sales that when things weren't going well to change the basis of the discussion. For me, while writing, just moving location can have a great effect.

[@writerlywitterings]

I used to shoot with the Metropolitan police. They used to be issued with 25 bullets every month to practice, but research showed (in the US) that most criminals were convinced that the police were highly trained. As a result the crooks were going out and practising with more than a thousand rounds a week, convinced that they needed to in order to have a fighting chance against cops. That was why in the 70s, it was discovered that many US police were being shot to pieces. It's also why Practical Pistol shooting took off, and the British police I shot with would regularly fire 600+ rounds every weekend in order to get their skills up. Sadly the ban on pistol shooting meant they had to give up their firearms, and as a result a lot of the qualified marksmen resigned from armed units. They didn't see why, if they were considered safe with guns in uniform, they shouldn't be out of uniform. Plus not many felt they could achieve the accuracy they needed with the state-funded allocation of ammo. As to the Freewrite, I couldn't agree more!

[@claudiameier666]

lol re the guns: depends entirely where you live!

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

@@claudiameier666 agreed, he lives in England

[@henryb160]

Should've used a piece of BlueTack to fix your laptop down....Much cheaper than your solution.

[@writerlywitterings]

I don't like blu tac on my trousers. It stains. There are many cheap solutions. However I am a professional writer. As I said in the video, I don't want "cheap". I want effective, ergonomic, reliable and fast. The Freewrite is infinitely better because the keyboard is vastly better than cheap, the screen works well for me, and the system can be used on my lap anywhere. In terms of the function of the device it is well worth the money for a professional writer.

[@wafan13]

One minute into your video and you already made the statement of why I will never buy a freewrite. In a few years the company will fail and it will have just been a fad that a few enthusiasts bought into. I’m convinced that everyone who is making a video singing these products praises is a shill the company.

[@writerlywitterings]

Interesting. Will the company fail? Quite possibly. As did Wang, Xerox, Wordplex, AES, and many others. However, like all those, it still works and provides a perfect tool for the job it's intended for. And this year they've brought out their latest device, the Alpha, which is another excellent device. So far as me being a "shill", well, I'm clearly not a very good one. My first Freewrite was given to me for two week's use. I chose to buy it at the full rate. So no, I'm no shill. But I do try to help aspiring writers. This is an excellent drafting tool for those who want to write novels or even short stories. Sorry to take so long to respond - ill health and deadlines!