Buying a typewriter can be a rewarding experience, and it’s not as hard as you might think. Like me, you probably want a typewriter that works “out of the box.” Maybe a little oiling, maybe some light cleaning, but one that is in pretty good shape.
All of the Card and Fast machines listed on the site are available for purchase, but you may want to find one on your own. Here are some tips and the outlets we have explored.
If possible, test the machine first. Type with all the keys to check for stickiness. Use the carriage return. If there’s a ribbon, make sure the mechanism is turning properly.
Electric machines are pretty noisy. The trade-off is they are easier to type on.
The machines are old, and a lot of electric ones have had their cords taped up as a stop-gap repair. I tend to shy away from these.
You can test a machine that still has an old ribbon or no ribbon in it, but make sure to put a piece of paper in it. Otherwise, you can mess up the platen (the turny thing that the paper goes around).
Speaking of the platen, it can get brittle over time. The main issue if it’s dry is holding the paper in place.
Don’t buy a $200+ machine out of the gate! This seems self-serving from someone who runs a typewriter rental service, but it’s true. Make that investment once you know you’re going to use it regularly. There’s nothing worse than have a beautiful machine that sits on a shelf or in a closet.
It’s okay to get a typewriter that’s a little rough around the edges, assuming it works well. These things were designed to last a long time. Having some personality already sunk in makes them way cooler.
Selection will be hit or miss, no matter where you go looking. Wait for the right machine to become available.
It’s not that easy to research the value of typewriters. Sometimes it’s more expensive because it’s in pristine shape. Sometimes the seller is less than realistic. Other factors include the font and the color. A few typewriters were manufactured with unique fonts including cursive. Older, all-metal typewriters are usually black or gray. Those that are especially cheerful colors are harder to find.
craigslist
The first typewriter I purchased was from Craigslist, an old and relatively expensive Royal. It was the most typewriter-ish typewriter in my mind, and definitely more than I should have spent.
Like any item on Craigslist, be cautious, look for pictures, and ask a lot of questions before agreeing to meet with someone. I have bought one or two from there since the first one, and everyone was willing to let me test the machines out. I did haggle the price on a couple before I saw them in person, and I walked away from another once I got to test it out.
Facebook Marketplace
A very similar shopping and purchasing experience as craigslist, so not a lot to add here.
Antique and thrift stores
Antique stores usually have nicer machines than you might find from a personal seller or a thrift store since they can be a little pickier in their purchases. However, that quality usually comes with a premium cost.
I’ve found some good deals in antique malls with individual kiosks.
ShopGoodwill.com
Currently my favorite and recommended place to get a LOT of things but especially typewriters. A ton of machines and with the auction-based system, you’re getting some real bargains. Keep a few things in mind though:
Not every branch checks the machines! Read the notes at the bottom. If there are no details, you’re leaving it to chance.
Make sure to look at the shipping and handling costs. And be conscious of how far it’s being shipped from. You can search for local branches specifically so the freight impact is less and you’re donating more money locally.
There are definitely some collectors on this site, so it’s interesting to see which machines are getting the most bids.