Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Pomera DM30

$449

The Pomera DM30 is a portable digital typewriter with a foldable design and e-ink display, providing a distraction-free writing experience on the go.

Our take

Great for travel and writing.

The Pomera DM30 is like a throwback to simpler times, but with a few modern perks that make it intriguing. I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of a distraction-free writing device? If you’re tired of your computer constantly reminding you of emails and social media, this little gadget might be a breath of fresh air. It's basically a digital typewriter that you can carry around, which is kind of cool if you're into that retro vibe. However, it’s not a full-on replacement for your laptop — it’s really just for writing, and that’s all it does.

The e-ink display is a standout feature, especially if you’ve ever found your eyes burning after hours staring at a backlit screen. The screen's easy on the eyes and works great in bright daylight, which is a big plus if you’re someone who likes to write outside or in a well-lit room. On the flip side, e-ink isn't ideal for working in the dark, and there’s no backlight here. So, if you’re a night owl, you’ll need a lamp nearby.

Portability is a big win here. The Pomera DM30 is lightweight and folds up nicely, so you can pretty much toss it in your bag without much fuss. The battery life is also impressive — it’ll last you about 20 hours on two AA batteries, which means you don’t have to constantly worry about finding an outlet. But let’s be real, the keyboard is on the small side and might feel cramped if you’ve got larger hands. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if comfort is a top priority for you.

Now, about the software — it's super barebones. If you're looking for something with a lot of bells and whistles, this isn't it. The Pomera DM30 is strictly about putting words on a page, and that’s it. There's no spell-check, no formatting options, and definitely no internet. You can save your work to an SD card, which is handy, but transferring files to a more versatile device for editing is a must if you want to do anything beyond basic text.

In terms of value, this device isn’t cheap, and that’s where things get tricky. You’re paying for the unique experience of focused writing, which is great if that’s what you need. But if your writing process involves a lot of research or editing, you'll probably find yourself switching back and forth between this and a more capable device. Overall, the Pomera DM30 is a niche product that does its job well for what it is, but make sure it fits your needs before taking the plunge.

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