Brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Electric Typewriter review compact design with professional touch keyboard

Description

A Classic Throwback: Testing the Brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Electric Typewriter

As someone who’s always been fascinated by retro office equipment, I couldn’t resist diving into the Brother GX-6750 Daisy Wheel Electric Typewriter. This machine feels like a time machine wrapped in a sleek, compact design. Testing it out was a nostalgic experience, though not without a few quirks. Whether you’re a writer with a love for vintage aesthetics or someone looking for a straightforward typing solution, this typewriter has its unique charm.

Design and Build Quality

This portable typewriter is surprisingly lightweight at just 10 pounds, making it easy to move around—though I wouldn’t call it featherlight. Its 16.4 x 15.1 x 5.3-inch dimensions mean it doesn’t hog desk space, but it’s not so small that it feels cramped. The grey exterior gives it a modest and professional look. While testing, I appreciated the professional touch keyboard; the keys had a nice tactile feel that’s satisfying to type on. However, the design does scream “practical” rather than “sleek.”

The durability seems solid for an “entry-level” piece, but I did notice slight flexing near the corners when I moved it. That said, this is a machine built to last, with a design that prioritizes function over flair.

Performance and Features

Typing on the GX-6750 is a throwback in the best kind of way. With its daisy wheel print technology, the typing is crisp and highly legible. The variable 10/12 pitch typing selector adds flexibility, allowing me to switch between pica and elite fonts depending on what I needed. Personally, I found this feature handy for creating different document styles.

The automatic correction system was a lifesaver during testing. Mistakes happen, and the 65-character lift-off memory makes correcting errors straightforward. I also loved how the automatic underlining and bold printing worked seamlessly—features that feel like small luxuries in a typewriter. The line indent and automatic paper insertion functioned smoothly, which saved me from fiddling with manual adjustments.

However, I noticed the print speed, capped at 12 characters per second, might feel sluggish for rapid typists. This typewriter is for people who prefer precision over speed.

Key Benefits

• Compact and portable design makes it easy to transport.
• Automatic correction system minimizes the hassle of fixing errors.
• Supports different typing pitches, adding versatility for various documents.
• Professional touch keyboard offers a satisfying typing experience.

Areas of Concern

• Print speed may not satisfy users accustomed to faster devices.
• The grey casing, while professional, feels a bit uninspired compared to more modern aesthetics.
• Slight flexing in the corners might raise questions about long-term durability.

Who Is This For?

This electric typewriter feels like it’s tailored for a niche audience. It’s perfect for students, home users, or small business owners who prize simplicity and reliability. I can imagine a writer using it to draft a novel or a small office relying on it for basic typing needs. However, if you’re someone who depends on high-speed typing or needs a more modern interface, this might not be the ideal match.

Product Comparisons

When I compared the GX-6750 to similar products, like the Smith Corona Classic 12, a few things stood out. The GX-6750 benefits from its automatic correction system, which the Classic 12 lacks, but the Smith Corona offers a more traditional mechanical feel that some typists might prefer. Meanwhile, the Royal Epoch Manual Typewriter, another competitor, provides a purely mechanical experience with no reliance on power, making it a better choice for off-the-grid use.

That said, the GX-6750 strikes an appealing balance between modern convenience and vintage charm. It’s not as “pure” as the manual options, but it offers features like bold printing and line indent that competitors can’t match.

Worth Every Penny

Considering its practical features and build quality, I’d say the GX-6750 offers a fair deal for those who understand what they’re getting. It’s not a high-tech marvel, but it fulfills its purpose as a reliable, no-frills typing machine. Comparing it to modern office equipment, this typewriter is more about nostalgia and simplicity than cutting-edge performance.

While I found myself charmed by the GX-6750, it’s important to approach it with the right expectations. It’s not a miracle worker, but it’s a dependable companion for anyone looking to bring a touch of the past into their daily workflow.

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