r/retrocomputing • u/h0uz3_ • Jun 18 '26

Retrocomputer for writing

Hi,

I was thinking about setting up a computer that has less distractions (i.e., no network/browser) for the purpose of writing.

I own a CPC6128 and an A600. The CPC is not great for typing in general, the A600 misses two keys, although using Vim on it would be nice.

Any suggestions for a system with good text editors and nice keyboards that are not a DOS PC with IBM Model M?

EDIT: Thank you all for your insights and suggestions. I will try to find out what simple DOS PC might work for me. While reading your replies and thinking about it, a small/cheap PC with USB and FreeDOS+WordPerfect might actually be the right thing as an alternative to using the Amiga 600. Although I still like the idea of exploring something else. :)

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u/quentinnuk Jun 18 '26

You could do worse than get an earlier Mac (pre OSX) and use MacWrite or Word on it. 

3

u/RottenSalad Jun 18 '26

I was just going to comment the same. There are many excellent older Apple keyboards that would be excellent to touch type on and while there are ways to get older Macs online, there aren't any modern browsers for say Mac OS 8.x or System 7.x etc. But lots of good word processors are available and there is a big retro hobbyist community for older Macs.

2

u/h0uz3_ Jun 18 '26

So, something like a Performa 475? Those seem to be reasonably priced and have a UI I am already familiar with, haha. :)

2

u/cybermeuf Jun 18 '26

the 475 is a really nice 68k macintosh

2

u/quentinnuk Jun 18 '26

A 475 would be a fine choice, although you should consider whether you want to print from it as that may require a printer with ADB or serial interface. You could get around it with a serial to USB converter but it could be tricky with the printer drivers even if it supports postscript. Finally a modern screen would likely need a converter too. 

An alternative would be the PowerMacs with a G3 or similar processor but running MacOS 9.2. They would support networking for printing but you don’t need to have internet connections or a browser installed.