Manual vs. Electric Typewriters

Manual machines

Your finger supplies the force that drives the typebar. Touch varies with design, adjustment, cleanliness, and wear. Manual machines remain usable without electricity and are often easier to understand visually.

Electric typebar machines

A motor assists the typing action, producing a lighter key touch and more consistent impact. Mechanical complexity and electrical condition make service history important.

Selectric systems

IBM Selectrics use a moving type element rather than a basket of individual typebars. They require specialized service knowledge and should not be casually powered after long storage.

Electronic machines

Later daisy-wheel and electronic machines can provide correction, memory, and print-like output. They may depend on model-specific consumables and electronics that are less forgiving of age.