Etsy user transforms antique typewriters into functional keyboards.
Are you a fan of the tactile feel of those lovely mechanical keyboards? Because Etsy shop owner Jack Zylkin has a very nice treat for you. If you thought the satisfying click response of your keyboard was nice, prepare to be blown away by these antique typewriter keyboards! USB Typewriter offers users a chance to get their hands on 'luxury' keyboards for the PC, Mac and iPad platforms. 
Made from various antique typewriters, these keyboards are fully equipped for all of your modern computing needs, meaning each keyboard has its own built-in set of modern keys such as alt, control, escape and even the function keys. In addition, users will also be able to insert paper into the keyboard for a physical copy of whatever it is they are typing up.
As awesome as these keyboards may be, they are called 'luxury' keyboards for a reason. With price tags ranging from $699 to $849, these usb typewriters aren't the most affordable peripherals out there, but adventurous hackers will be able to purchase a DIY kit for $74. This DIY kit comes with all of the necessary parts to make your own typewriter keyboard, all you need is an old typewriter and some tools to get started. If you're interested in getting your hands on one of these, head on over to Zylkin's shop here.
I mean, I used to like typewriters like these, and used them a fair bit. But ... wow. And actually using the carriage return (NOW you know why it's called that!) for enter?
Even considering someone who's a "retro lover," I can't help but think these would be hugely impractical. Maybe a few "steampunk computer desks" will have them (and probably with a nice, real keyboard tucked away somewhere.)
It's different. I'll give it that, and good work to the people who got this to work. I'd say it's pretty much the definition of "niche market," though.
Does the paperfeeder at the back moves with each keystroke, do you have to manually move the feeder back to the start and makes it a 'ping' sound at the end of a sentence?
But more important: can you play [insert any game] and how does it play?
It IS a typewriter!
they dont show a video or instructions... i am not willing to drop 85$ + whatever the type writer cost (probably allot due to vintage and collectibility they have) on something that is possibly out of my skill range completely.
The OLD-STYLE typewrite is quite cool... it would go great with any iPAD...
Just convert an old RCA cabinet TV into a monitor. Problem solved!
My 1930's Royal Arrow has a back space and a "enter" button too...well it's more of an enter leaver.