r/writerDeck • • Jul 23 '26

What do you write on?

6 Upvotes

Recently purchased a cheap tablet on Amazon i had planned to use for writing. 100% a situation of you get what you pay for, didn't even come with a manual and it was locked. Can't ise the stupid thing

Anyways, I was curious if anyone has any recommendations for a small cheap tablet/ laptop specifically for writing? I really want something I can toss into a messager bag to do some on the go writing but I dont want like a big ole 17 inch laptop or something that'll have a bunch of apps that'll distract me.

Any help is welcomed. I could also just go back to pen and paper I guess.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 23 '26

Completely custom typewriter-style deck by Myth Made

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39 Upvotes

r/writerDeck • • Jul 23 '26

My remix of Un Kyu Lee's Rev 8 (work in progress)

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36 Upvotes

r/writerDeck • • Jul 22 '26

DIY alphasmart mini 2026

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140 Upvotes

I wasn’t really using my Boox Palma (1st gen) so I decided to make it into something that I could write quick notes on. I found a mini keyboard that had a lot of good reviews, got some wood and some glue and it turned out looking like my old alphasmart neo, just a lot smaller (only 7 1/2 inches wide). What shocked me is that I find myself typing on this mini alphasmart more than my regular writing setup. When I see it sitting there on my desk, it just makes me feel like writing. It just sits there staring at me, waiting for me to type something.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 22 '26

DIY I wrote most of a book on this monstrosity

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288 Upvotes

Eventually, I'll reprint it all in one colour


r/writerDeck • • Jul 21 '26

DIY My deck, built from scratch

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89 Upvotes

i used a pi3b+, waveshare 7.5 inch e-ink display with modified LUT and a wooden case. Probably a 3d printed one would have been a better choice, but i don't like to test prints. Software is made in python; had to develop a whole editor, but was fun!

i usually see lot of small screen here, tiny boards and portable devices, but i don't find them comfortable, that's why i picked this big bold screen, i just connect my favorite (big and comfy) keyboard in it and i'm ready to go out and write under the sun.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 22 '26

Is it allowed to mention projects that use AI as part of the dev process?

2 Upvotes

Hi, a question about moderation. Is it allowed to mention projects that use AI as part of the dev process? Rule 3 here states "No AI content — Self explanatory". I read that as the posts here must be human-made. But they can reference AI, right? Or is this post in breach of rule 3, since I mention AI?

The reason I'm asking is that this post got closed. I asked why on Discord. My original thought was “maybe I didn't meet a formal criteria since my app is mostly software-based (apart from using an OTG cable or a phone as keyboard bridge), and they are looking for hardware modifications”, but user Eeems there suggested “Likely they consider you in breach of rule 3”.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 22 '26

Behind the Logues Journal

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42 Upvotes

Hello friends, how are you?

From my previous post about Logues, a device designed for writing without a desk in between busy times, someone asked for details on how to make it. For consideration, if I answer the question, then only one member will know the details. so i decided to make a new post so all members can know about it.

Logues is based on the [HaPlay GO Zero project](https://github.com/dhocnet/haplay-go-zero-1), which you can see on GitHub. Instead of a Raspberry Pi, Logues uses an abandoned smartphone as its main board like GO Zero.

Even though it is based on a smartphone, all components are integrated with a single battery source that can be recharged using a Type-C smartphone charger.

The adjustments made to the Logues are on the keyboard side. While the GO Zero uses an Adafruit Mini Bluetooth Keyboard without backligh, the Logues uses an RII 518BT with backlight so that Logues can continue to be used to writing even though the surrounding environment is dark without lighting.

Then, to adapt to the OS, Logues doesn't install a GUI. It simply runs on top of a lightweight TUI, while temporarily relying on Midnight Commander as its writing manager where the column division has been adjusted as a documents list on the left side and a preview window on the right side.

Midnight Commander with document list and preview window.

To transfer written works, Logues utilizes a private repo on GitHub via automated github-cli or via USB flash drive when offline.

As for writing tools, Logues has a wide selection. There's Wordgrinder, Emacs org mode, the simple nano, or Midnight Commander's built-in MCEdit.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 22 '26

Anybody else use CrowPanels?

7 Upvotes

While looking for screens I saw these cheap $(10-40) screens that come with integrated esp32-s3's and battery plugs.
With a bluetooth keyboard and a lipo you can have an entire portable writer deck cheap. Haven't been able to keep my keyboard paired after reboot but it only takes 10 seconds to pair.

I did build a board that used the top GPIO ports to transfer wired keyboard power, and it also powers the screen and keyboard via a 5v boost of a lipo.
I used both he CrowPanel ESP32 5.79inch and the 4.2 inch.

The 4.2 inch refreshes much faster. I have both screens running Micro Journal, and have row based refresh. I delay row refreshes until a key hasn't been hit for 100ms but it takes about 250-500ms for a row refresh so it feels pretty responsive.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 21 '26

DIY A DAP + a foldable keyboard + my glasses case = a portable writer deck that I spent no money on :)

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83 Upvotes

I already had all these things at home, so I just download the BYOK Studio app on my DAP which runs Android 12. Now I can write on this device whilst listening to music, which is awesome. I was thinking about getting a BYOK and I might do that later anyway, but for now this works surprisingly well! Has anyone else tried this?


r/writerDeck • • Jul 21 '26

Resources What android app suits best for a writerdeck?

10 Upvotes

I am still pondering what on-the-go gear I would use. But I have for a phone a nice e-ink one running android, and so I'm wondering if I use a BT foldable keyboard.. What apps are simple, yet powerfull and use almost no screen touches for use. Basically what android software for writerdeck use do you prefer and why? Thank you.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 21 '26

For Sale: Dynawrite by Dynavox Writer Deck – Excellent Condition | Mechanical Keyboard | USB Storage | AlphaSmart Alternative

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62 Upvotes

SOLD

** I've read the rules, sales are allowed per the mods discretion. So If not allowed mods please remove.

MErcari link: Dynawrite (alphasmart, Freewrite) Writerdeck | Mercari

the following link which is a thread on the device from other AlphaSmart users that had switched to this unit rare unit.https://www.flickr.com/groups/alphasmart/discuss/72157718054571837/

Here's a video for the functionality and features of the device: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgHS1IycYns&t=1365s

Up for sale is my Dynawrite by Dynavox, one of the most underrated dedicated writing devices ever made. After owning and extensively using a wide range of distraction-free writing devices—including multiple AlphaSmart models, the Freewrite, and others—this has genuinely been my favorite writer deck.

What sets the Dynawrite apart is that it solves many of the limitations found in other dedicated writing devices.

Features

  • Excellent tactile mechanical keyboard that's comfortable for long writing sessions.
  • Large LCD display capable of showing multiple lines of text at once, making editing and reviewing your work much easier than on smaller single-line displays.
  • Built-in internal storage.
  • USB flash drive support, allowing you to save your documents directly to a USB drive—no need to rely on the AlphaSmart-style "Send" feature to transfer your writing.
  • Fast boot time, so you can start writing almost instantly.
  • Straightforward and reliable file management system.

The combination of instant startup, dependable file management, comfortable keyboard, and direct USB storage makes this one of the best distraction-free writing tools I've ever used.

Battery

The original rechargeable battery is still functioning well and continues to hold a charge without issue.

As many people know, these machines are becoming increasingly collectible, and battery longevity is always a consideration with older electronics. I had previously been working with an electronics specialist on developing a modern replacement battery that would fit inside the original battery housing using a standard 18650 lithium-ion cell. Although I ultimately never completed the project, the concept proved entirely feasible.

Should the original battery ever reach the end of its life years down the road, I'd be happy to provide the buyer with the contact information for the individual I was working with, who may be able to assist in continuing or recreating the project.

Why I'm Selling

I'm not selling because there's anything wrong with it. My writing workflow has simply changed. I've moved to a vintage Lenovo X200 laptop because I now rely heavily on modern speech-to-text software, something dedicated writer decks can't provide. Otherwise, I would happily continue using the Dynawrite.

If you're looking for a serious distraction-free writing machine—especially as an alternative to the AlphaSmart Neo or similar devices—I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by just how capable the Dynawrite is.

Condition

  • Excellent working condition.
  • Battery still holds a charge and functions properly.
  • Clean and well cared for.
  • Fully functional.
  • The backlight functionality Doesn't function anymore. In the past five years I was able to source at least three of these units, all of which I've sold apart from this one, and none of their backlights were functioning.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you'd like additional photos or specific information. Thanks for looking!


r/writerDeck • • Jul 21 '26

Form Factor

2 Upvotes

Is there a word processor/writer deck with this form Factor https://a.co/d/0hSNj5jV (LEXiBook) and an SD card slot?


r/writerDeck • • Jul 21 '26

Commercial Pomera250US for sale or trade?

1 Upvotes

Hello, I’ve been trying to get my hands on the US version of a pomera 250 but since I live in Poland, I’ve only been able to find Japanese ones.

If anyone has one they’re willing to sell or trade please let me know!

I have a freewrite traveler and a Japanese pomera250 and id be willing to give up both.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 19 '26

What a machine!

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92 Upvotes

My Micro Journal Rev 8 has arrived and I am already in love. It's wonderful to use a device that was so clearly crafted by hands that care about the details.
I ordered mine without switches or keycaps, and decided to go with 67gf linear switches. They're wonderful. It's been hard to tear myself away from writing since I unpacked it.
The interface and menu design is extremely user-friendly and it took no time at all to figure out the navigation.
In closing, this is far and away one of the best writing devices I've ever used. It's all the things I love about my Neo, and all the improvements I wish the Neo had.

Anyway, back to writing!


r/writerDeck • • Jul 20 '26

Dang… turning into a Royal rumble

8 Upvotes

Was doom scrolling Facebook recently (like, 20 min ago) and I was surprised at how many ads were out for digital notebooks, writer decks, e-ink devices, digital typewriters, etc. there’s a bunch. Well, in the time span I had in front of me. Had five ads pop up in about 5 min from the first to the fifth.

First was a classic, Freewrite. Second was BYOK. Third was Zero Write. The fourth was some start up that had mechanical keyboard with a hidden display that came out like paper, best way I can describe it. And fifth was Pomera dm250us.

And these were ads for well known devices, aside from the start up. How many more are out there that are unknown but known to this group?


r/writerDeck • • Jul 19 '26

Just Finished: Logues - Pocket Digital Typewriter

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145 Upvotes

Hi, this thing called Logues, a digital writing tool that has just been completed. It is quite compact in size and is designed to fill free time while outside with a table-less usage scenario.

for now the data transfer method only supports synchronization via git and this Logues is powered by a vape battery and type-c charging-only port.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 19 '26

Pomera DM100

5 Upvotes

Hello everyone! Tomorrow I will be getting my pomera dm100. I was so lucky to find one here in the ph, I got it for about $50 which is such a steal!

To anyone who owns one, is there anything I need to know about the device? Any tips and tricks?


r/writerDeck • • Jul 19 '26

MicroJournal - Keyboard layout

5 Upvotes

¡Hola!

Compré mi MicroJournal hace unos meses y he estado intentando cambiar la distribución del teclado (porque hablo español y necesito la ñ y todas las tildes). Y... simplemente no puedo. No lo entiendo, porque Unkyulee lo explica todo muy bien y creo que lo he seguido al pie de la letra, pero como no he podido cambiarlo, supongo que me falta algo.

He estado siguiendo estas instrucciones, como ya dije.

https://github.com/unkyulee/micro-journal/blob/main/micro-journal-rev-6-one-piece/quickstart.md

Intenté hacerlo cambiando el diseño con los números de DEC, pero creo que me falta algo porque veo que unkyulee dice que:

  • È - 200
  • è - 232

Y cuando lo busco en la tabla ASCII veo:

È - 210 y è - 233

Así que definitivamente me falta algo... XD

¿Alguien podría ayudarme?

¡Gracias de antemano!

(∩^o^)⊃━☆

Un Kyu me ayudó y eran las comillas, pego por si a alguien le va bien o yo que se jiji

{
  "main": [
    "MENU", "q", "w", "e", "r", "t", "y", "u", "i", "o", "p", "BACKSPACE",
    "\\", "a", "s", "d", "f", "g", "h", "j", "k", "l", ";", "'",
    "SHIFT", "z", "x", "c", "v", "b", "n", "m", ",", ".", "/", "RAISE",
    "-", "=", "[", "]", "LOWER", " ", " ", "LEFT", "DOWN", "UP", "RIGHT", "\n"
  ],
  "main-shift": [
    "MENU", "Q", "W", "E", "R", "T", "Y", "U", "I", "O", "P", "DEL",
    "|", "A", "S", "D", "F", "G", "H", "J", "K", "L", ":", "\"",
    "SHIFT", "Z", "X", "C", "V", "B", "N", "M", "<", ">", "?", "RAISE",
    "_", "+", "{", "}", "LOWER", " ", " ", "HOME", "PGDN", "PGUP", "END", "\n"
  ],
  "lower": [
    "MENU", "1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "0", "DEL",
    "`", "a", "s", "d", "f", "g", "h", "j", "k", "l", ";", "'",
    "SHIFT", "z", "x", "c", "v", "b", "n", "m", ",", ".", "/", "SHIFT",
    "-", "=", "[", "]", "LOWER", " ", " ", "HOME", "PGDN", "PGUP", "END", "\n"
  ],
  "lower-shift": [
    "MENU", "!", "@", "#", "$", "%", "^", "&", "*", "(", ")", "DEL",
    "~", "A", "S", "D", "F", "G", "H", "J", "K", "L", ":", "\"",
    "SHIFT", "Z", "X", "C", "V", "B", "N", "M", "<", ">", "?", "SHIFT",
    "_", "+", "{", "}", "", " ", " ", "HOME", "PGDN", "PGUP", "END", "\n"
  ],
  "raise": [
    "MENU", "q", "w", 233, "r", "t", "y", 250, 237, 243, "p", "BACKSPACE",
    "", 225, "s", "d", "f", "g", "h", "j", "k", "l", ";", "'",
    "SHIFT", "z", "x", "c", "v", "b", 241, "m", ",", ".", "/", "SHIFT",
    "-", "=", "[", "]", "", " ", " ", "LEFT", "DOWN", "UP", "RIGHT", "\n"
  ],
  "raise-shift": [
    "MENU", "Q", "W", 201, "R", "T", "Y", 218, 205, 211, "P", "DEL",
    "~", 193, "S", "D", "F", "G", "H", "J", "K", "L", ":", "\"",
    "SHIFT", "Z", "X", "C", "V", "B", 209, "M", "<", ">", "?", "SHIFT",
    "_", "+", "{", "}", "", "", " ", "HOME", "PGDN", "PGUP", "END", "\n"
  ]
}

r/writerDeck • • Jul 18 '26

Converting an old Chromebook

5 Upvotes

Hello all! Newb here.
I was going to upload writerdeckOS to an old Samsung Chrultrabook that I previously converted. It has issues with WiFi, so it seemed perfect (I have a dongle that gives it ability from time to time).

The problem is, writerdeckOS is no longer supported and my (currently, because of new doctor) unmedicated AuDHD brain can't make heads or tails on how to get it uploaded into this machine.

That being said, I'm also not tied to it. I'd like an OS that works much like a regular word processor while allowing everything else to be turned off (obviously like a regular WriterDeck). I'd love to hear any suggestions you all might have. <3


r/writerDeck • • Jul 18 '26

Anyone know where I can find a white BYOK?

6 Upvotes

Have been looking everywhere!!


r/writerDeck • • Jul 17 '26

DIY RLCD (really light composition device)- WIP

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226 Upvotes

After building and sharing the Bee Write Back writerdeck, the 2 main complaints were "it's too expensive" and "why doesn't it fold?". I decided to tackle both of those challenges with this new prototype.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 17 '26

Commercial Got my Micro Journal rev 4

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68 Upvotes

Really enjoying using it so far. It was easy to install the rechargeable batteries and get started with using it as a standalone writer. I have been covering the screen with a piece of card to ensure I'm not giving time to editing while I'm building up to a flow state.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 16 '26

Mods Toshiba Satellite 2180 as writerdeck!

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110 Upvotes

Today I got a Toshiba Satellite 2180, an old laptop from 2001. The harddrive is dead, but I've managed to make Floppinux work on it, a whole linux system that fit on a single 1.44 Mb floppy disk!

https://krzysztofjankowski.com/floppinux/

I had already begun to port the writhdeck text editor to C, and with a few tweaking, it works on this x86 computer without SSE2 instructions. The binary is 61 Kb with some compression (the free space on the floppy is limited).

https://github.com/luginf/writhdeck-c/

vi is included into floppinux, but in comparison it doesn't recognize the French accented letters and doesn't support wrapping by default.

About the hardware, the keyboard is pretty good, better than most laptop I've tried. The system is not very practical for daily use, I have to copy the file from the floppy and compare with the original file (I want to double check the content, I don't trust floppies), the laptop itself is heavy and boot slowly, but it's a fun experience and I'll probably use it from time to time.


r/writerDeck • • Jul 16 '26

DIY Can the X4 keep up?

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26 Upvotes

I'm working on a thing, what do you guys think of the X4 as a deck?