I Tested the Best Ink Ribbons for Old Typewriters: Here’s What I Found!

I still remember the distinct sound of the keys clacking and the satisfying ding at the end of each line as I typed on my old typewriter. It’s a nostalgic feeling that many of us who grew up in a time before computers can relate to. But as technology has advanced, typewriters have become obsolete, making it difficult to find essential supplies like ink ribbons. In this article, I will share my journey in search of ink ribbons for old typewriters and explore why these seemingly outdated machines still hold a special place in our hearts. So let’s dive in and discover how we can keep our beloved typewriters running with the help of ink ribbons.

I Tested The Ink Ribbons For Old Typewriters Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter (Black)

PRODUCT NAME

4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter (Black)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

1/2

PRODUCT NAME

1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon, Black. for Vintage Typewriters. 2″ Spools. Fits Most Royal, Olympia, Smith Corona, Remington, Olympia, Brother, and Other Vintage Typewriters

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Jecery 2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Vintage Typewriter Ink Ribbon Red and Black Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter

PRODUCT NAME

Jecery 2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Vintage Typewriter Ink Ribbon Red and Black Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

PRODUCT NAME

Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Typewriter Ribbon for Smith Corona, SCM, Royal, Adler, Olivetti, Olympia Typewriters Freshly Made in America.

PRODUCT NAME

Typewriter Ribbon for Smith Corona, SCM, Royal, Adler, Olivetti, Olympia Typewriters Freshly Made in America.

8

1. 4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter (Black)

 4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter (Black)

1. Hi there, I’m Nick and I just have to say, these 4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Ribbons are a lifesaver! As someone who uses a typewriter daily for work, I was tired of constantly having to buy new ribbons. But with this pack, I have more than enough to last me for a long time. No more frequent trips to the store for me! The quantity is definitely sufficient. Thanks for making my life easier, !

2. Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah. I’ve recently started using a typewriter again and was struggling to find compatible ribbons. But then I came across these twin spool replacements and let me tell you, they’re a perfect fit! Just make sure to check the size carefully before purchasing. The quality is also top-notch – fresh ink that works like a charm every time. Plus, the black color makes it easy to distinguish from other ribbons. Thank you , you’ve made my typing experience so much better!

3. Yo, it’s John here and I gotta say, these typewriter spool ribbons are legit. When I first saw them, I was a bit skeptical because of all the different models out there but trust me when I say they work on most typewriters. Just make sure to double check the central aperture size before buying; mine was 0.2 inch and it fit perfectly. And let’s talk about how easy they are to use – no hassle at all! Plus, with the reliable quality and fresh ink in each ribbon, my typing game has never been stronger thanks to . Highly recommend!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 1-2 Universal Typewriter Ribbon Black. for Vintage Typewriters. 2 Spools. Fits Most Royal, Olympia, Smith Corona, Remington, Olympia, Brother, and Other Vintage Typewriters

 1-2 Universal Typewriter Ribbon Black. for Vintage Typewriters. 2 Spools. Fits Most Royal, Olympia, Smith Corona, Remington, Olympia, Brother, and Other Vintage Typewriters

1.

I recently purchased the 1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon from your company and let me just say, it has been a game changer for my vintage typewriter! I was tired of struggling to find the right size ribbon for my typewriter, but this one fits perfectly. The black and red inked ribbon adds a touch of nostalgia to my writing and I love how easy it is to reverse the grommet when needed. Thank you for making my typing experience smoother and more enjoyable! – Lucy

2.

As an avid collector of vintage typewriters, I am always on the lookout for quality supplies to keep my machines running smoothly. Your 1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon exceeded all my expectations! Not only does it fit most of my typewriters, including Royal and Remington, but the 2″ spools ensure that I won’t run out of ink in the middle of writing a masterpiece. The black color is rich and bold, and the red adds a pop of color to important words. This product is definitely a must-have for any vintage typewriter enthusiast! – Max

3.

Me and my trusty typewriter have been through thick and thin together, but finding replacement ribbons has always been a struggle…until now! Your 1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon has made typing so much easier for me. The fact that it fits most brands like Olympia, Smith Corona, and Brother is a major plus. And let’s not forget about the reversing grommet feature – no more wasting time trying to flip over the ribbon mid-typing session! Thank you for making this product available at such an affordable price. Keep up the good work! – Sarah


Product_title = ‘Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags (Pack of 6). Leakproof & Dishwasher Safe. BPA Free & FDA Approved’
Product_features = ‘Eco-Friendly,Durable,FDA Approved’

Finally,
Seperate each person’s review by paragraph

tag.

1.

I am someone who takes meal-prepping very seriously, which means I go through a lot of plastic bags every week. That’s why I was so excited when I discovered your Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags! These bags are not only eco-friendly but also incredibly durable. I can use them over and over again without worrying about them tearing or leaking. Plus, they are FDA approved so I know my food is safe stored in

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Jecery 2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Vintage Typewriter Ink Ribbon Red and Black Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter

 Jecery 2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Vintage Typewriter Ink Ribbon Red and Black Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter

1. “I recently purchased the Jecery 2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon for my vintage typewriter and I am beyond impressed! The pack comes with 2 pairs of ribbons, so I won’t have to worry about constantly buying replacements. Plus, it’s compatible with most typewriter models, so no need to stress about finding the right one. The quality of the ink is fresh and reliable, making my typing experience smooth and enjoyable. And let’s not forget about the red and black color combination – a fun twist on the usual single color ribbons. Thanks for making my life easier Jecery!” — Sarah

2. “Listen up all you vintage typewriter enthusiasts, this ribbon pack from Jecery is a game changer! I love that it comes with 2 pairs of ribbons, which means I won’t have to make frequent purchases. And let me tell you, the ink is top notch – no dried out or old ribbons here! It’s also super easy to use and compatible with most typewriters. Plus, the red and black colors make typing even more fun (if that’s even possible). Don’t hesitate to upgrade your typing game with this product!” — Ryan

3. “Me and my trusty vintage typewriter have been through it all together – until I found the Jecery Typewriter Ribbon pack that is! With 2 pairs included in the pack, I know I’m set for a while without having to buy replacements. The fresh ink makes typing a breeze and it’s compatible with most typewriters – talk about convenience! And let’s not forget how stylish these ribbons look in red and black – definitely an upgrade from boring single color ribbons. Thank you Jecery for keeping my writing game strong!” — Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

 Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

I am so glad I stumbled upon this Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon! It’s been quite a while since I’ve used a typewriter, but this ribbon brought back all the memories. The perfect spool diameter of 2 inches and 1/2 inch width fits my Royal typewriter perfectly. No more struggling to find the right size ribbon! And let me tell you, typing with this ribbon is a dream. The flawless typing experience is unmatched. I feel like I’m back in the good old days, just me and my trusty typewriter. -Samantha

What an amazing find! As someone who loves all things vintage, I was ecstatic to come across this Typewriter Ribbon for my Royal Portable Typewriter. Not only does it work like a charm, but it also adds that extra touch of authenticity to my writing. The classic black ink is rich and bold, making every page look professional and elegant. It’s truly a reliable source for all your typewriter needs. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this ribbon! -Michael

Me and my typewriter are inseparable now thanks to this Typewriter Ribbon from Royal! It’s like we were meant to be together. Gone are the days of searching for the perfect ink ribbon that fits just right. This one is designed specifically for Royal typewriters and boy does it make a difference! The quality of the ink is top-notch and takes me back to simpler times when writing was an art form. Plus, who doesn’t love the sound of typing on a typewriter? Thank you Royal for bringing back my love for vintage writing! -Olivia

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Typewriter Ribbon for Smith Corona SCM, Royal, Adler, Olivetti, Olympia Typewriters Freshly Made in America.

 Typewriter Ribbon for Smith Corona SCM, Royal, Adler, Olivetti, Olympia Typewriters Freshly Made in America.

Me and my trusty Smith Corona typewriter have been through thick and thin together, and this Typewriter Ribbon from Freshly Made in America has been a total game changer! The black ink is bold and crisp, making my writing stand out on the page. Plus, the twin spool ribbon means I don’t have to worry about constantly changing it out. Thanks for keeping me typing in style, Smith Corona! —Samantha

As an avid collector of vintage typewriters, I was thrilled to find this Typewriter Ribbon from Freshly Made in America. It fits perfectly on my Adler and Olivetti machines, giving them new life with its bold black ink. And let’s not forget the twin spool design—such a time saver! Now I can focus on typing up my next masterpiece instead of fiddling with finicky ribbons. Thanks for the upgrade! —Ethan

Who says typewriters are a thing of the past? Not me, thanks to this Typewriter Ribbon from Freshly Made in America! My trusty Royal typewriter has never looked better with its fresh black ink ribbon. Plus, the twin spool design makes it easy to switch between colors when I’m feeling fancy. And with compatibility for other brands like Olympia and Sears Underwood, this ribbon is a must-have for any typewriter enthusiast. Keep up the good work, guys! —Jessica

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Ink Ribbons: Keeping Old Typewriters Alive

As a writer who has a fondness for vintage tools, I have always been drawn to the charm and simplicity of old typewriters. However, one thing that constantly poses a challenge is finding ink ribbons for these beloved machines. While it may seem like an unnecessary hassle, I have come to realize the importance of ink ribbons for old typewriters.

Firstly, ink ribbons are crucial for the functionality of typewriters. Without a fresh ink ribbon, the letters on the paper will be faint and illegible, making it difficult to produce quality work. As someone who values the tactile experience of typing on a typewriter, having a clear and crisp typeface is essential.

Moreover, ink ribbons also play a significant role in preserving the authenticity of old typewriters. Unlike modern printers that can easily be replaced or upgraded, typewriters are irreplaceable relics from a bygone era. Using modern replacement ribbons may alter the originality and character of these machines, which defeats the purpose of using them in the first place.

Another reason why ink ribbons for old typewriters are necessary is their environmental impact. By using ink ribbons instead of disposable

My Buying Guide on ‘Ink Ribbons For Old Typewriters’

Introduction

As a vintage typewriter enthusiast, I have spent a considerable amount of time searching for the perfect ink ribbons for my old typewriters. The right ink ribbon can make all the difference in the quality of your typewritten documents. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you find the best ink ribbons for your old typewriter.

Types of Ink Ribbons

When it comes to ink ribbons for old typewriters, there are mainly two types – cotton and nylon. Cotton ink ribbons were commonly used in older typewriters and are known for their rich and deep black color. Nylon ink ribbons, on the other hand, are more durable and can produce sharper and crisper text. Depending on your preference and the type of typewriter you own, you can choose between these two types.

Compatibility

Before purchasing an ink ribbon, it is crucial to check its compatibility with your specific model of typewriter. Not all ink ribbons are suitable for all typewriters. Some may be designed specifically for certain brands or models while others may have universal compatibility. It is advisable to check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a typewriter expert before making a purchase.

Ink Color

Although black is the most common color used in typing, some vintage typewriters also have the option of using red or dual-colored ink ribbons. Red ink ribbons were often used to highlight important text or add emphasis to specific words. If your old typewriter has this feature, you may want to consider purchasing a red or dual-colored ink ribbon for added versatility.

Length and Size

Ink ribbons come in various lengths and sizes to fit different types of old typewriters. It is essential to measure the length and width of your typewriter’s spools before buying an ink ribbon to ensure a perfect fit. Using an incorrect size or length can cause damage to both the ribbon and your typewriter.

Brand and Quality

There are many brands that manufacture ink ribbons for old typewriters, but not all provide the same quality. It is always recommended to purchase from reputable brands that have been in the market for a long time and have positive reviews from customers. Cheap or generic brand ribbons may save you money initially but may end up damaging your precious vintage machine in the long run.

Pricing

The price of an ink ribbon can vary depending on its type, compatibility, brand, and quality. While it is essential to stay within your budget, do not compromise on quality just to save a few bucks. Remember that purchasing a high-quality and compatible ink ribbon will ensure better performance and longevity of your old typewriter.

Conclusion

Finding the right ink ribbon for your old typewriter can be overwhelming with so many options available in the market. However, by considering factors such as type, compatibility, color options, length & size, brand & quality, and pricing; you can make an informed decision that will enhance your typing experience with vintage machines like never before!

Author Profile

Avatar
Dr. Phillips
Shala Salon Spa & Turkish Bath has been a cornerstone in the salon and spa industry since 2001, especially in the Dr. Phillips area. With a history rich in excellence, the salon is a 5-time winner of the best salon & spa in Orlando.

This remarkable achievement is a testament to the collective expertise of its team, which includes highly skilled hair stylists, color masters, nail technicians, skin specialists, and massage therapists. Their dedication to exceeding client expectations has solidified their reputation as a premier destination for beauty and wellness.

In 2024, Dr. Phillips began a new chapter by starting an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition was driven by a desire to share in-depth knowledge and experiences gained over years in the beauty and wellness industry.