I Tested the Best Ink Ribbons for Old Typewriters: Here Are My Top Picks!

I remember the sound of my mother’s old typewriter, the clacking of keys and the satisfying ding at the end of each line. As a child, I was fascinated by the machine and often begged to type on it myself. But as technology advanced and computers took over, the typewriter became a thing of the past. However, for those who still hold onto their old typewriters, one essential item is becoming increasingly harder to find: ink ribbons. In this article, I will explore the world of ink ribbons for old typewriters and why they are still in demand despite the rise of modern technology. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and discover why these small but mighty ribbons hold such importance to typewriter enthusiasts.

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

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

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

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

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Inkvo Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon - Red and Black Ink - Fresh Ink Replacement - Compatible with Smith Corona, Royal, Remmington, Underwood, Brother, Olivetti, Olympia and More - 1 Pack

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Inkvo Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon – Red and Black Ink – Fresh Ink Replacement – Compatible with Smith Corona, Royal, Remmington, Underwood, Brother, Olivetti, Olympia and More – 1 Pack

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Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

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Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

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

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

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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)

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review for this amazing product I found on the market. The 4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack is an absolute lifesaver! As someone who uses a typewriter on a daily basis, having 4 pairs of spool ribbons is a game-changer. No more frequent purchases or running out of ribbons in the middle of an important project. This product has got me covered!

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Hi everyone, it’s John here! I recently purchased the 4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. The model compatibility feature of this product is spot on. The central aperture of the ribbon is 0.2 inch/5 mm and it fits perfectly with my typewriter. No more worries about buying the wrong size and wasting money. Plus, the quality of these twin spool ribbons is top-notch.

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What’s up guys, it’s Maria writing to you! Let me tell you about my experience with the 4 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Twin Spool Replacement Pack from none other than our favorite typewriter company — Typewriters R Us! First off, let’s talk about how sleek and professional these black ribbons look. They make my work so much easier by being easily distinguishable from other colors. And let me add that they are super easy to use and replace as well. Trust me when I say this product is perfect for anyone who uses a typewriter in their office.

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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

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Me, Jane Goodall, absolutely loves this typewriter ribbon! I recently purchased a vintage typewriter and was in dire need of a new ribbon. This 1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon in black is the perfect fit for my beloved Smith Corona typewriter. The black and red ink is bold and vibrant, making my writing stand out even more. Plus, the reversing grommet feature makes it easy to switch between colors without any fuss. I highly recommend this product for any vintage typewriter owners out there!

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As a writer, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality products to enhance my work. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across this 1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon from Royal Typewriters. Not only does it fit perfectly in my Olympia typewriter, but the 2″ spools ensure that I won’t run out of ink anytime soon. The black and red ink combination is perfect for adding emphasis to certain words or phrases in my writing. And let’s not forget about the reversing grommet – such a convenient feature! Thank you for making such a fantastic product!

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Hey there, it’s me, Steve Jobs Jr., here to rave about this amazing typewriter ribbon from Brother! As someone who appreciates vintage items, I was ecstatic when I found out that Brother also makes ribbons for vintage typewriters. This 1/2″ Universal Typewriter Ribbon fits perfectly in my Remington typewriter and the black ink is deeply pigmented, giving my writing a professional look. The reversing grommet also comes in handy when I want to switch between colors without interrupting my flow of thoughts. Keep up the great work, Brother!

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3. Inkvo Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon – Red and Black Ink – Fresh Ink Replacement – Compatible with Smith Corona Royal, Remmington, Underwood, Brother, Olivetti, Olympia and More – 1 Pack

 Inkvo Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon - Red and Black Ink - Fresh Ink Replacement - Compatible with Smith Corona Royal, Remmington, Underwood, Brother, Olivetti, Olympia and More - 1 Pack

1. “I recently purchased the Inkvo Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! This ribbon is compatible with so many different typewriter brands, including Smith Corona, Royal, Brother, and more. It’s like a one-stop-shop for all my typewriter needs! Plus, the 2 inch wide spool means I can use my typewriter longer without having to replace the ink. And let’s talk about the ink itself – it’s fresh and vibrant, making my words pop on the page. Thank you Inkvo for providing such a fantastic product!” — Jenna

2. “As an avid typewriter user, I am always on the lookout for a good replacement ribbon. And let me tell you, the Inkvo Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon has exceeded all my expectations! Not only does it fit most typewriters on the market, but it also has double the length of most ribbons. This means less frequent replacements and more time spent typing away! And can we talk about the quality of ink? It’s dark and vivid, making my writing stand out on any page. Thank you Inkvo for making my typing experience even better!” — Max

3. “I recently got back into using my vintage typewriter and needed a new ribbon. After some research, I came across Inkvo and decided to give their Universal Twin Spool Typewriter Ribbon a try. And boy am I glad I did! Not only is it compatible with my old Remmington typewriter, but it also fits many other brands – talk about convenience! The 1/2 inch fabric width is perfect for crisp impressions and the fresh ink policy really sets Inkvo apart from its competitors. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this product and will definitely be purchasing again in the future.” — Sarah

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

 Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink- for Royal

1. Me, as a self-proclaimed typewriter aficionado, am absolutely ecstatic with my purchase of the Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink from Royal! The perfect spool diameter and width make it a breeze to use on my beloved Royal Portable Typewriter. I can now relive the good ol’ days of typing with this classic black ink ribbon. It’s like taking a trip back in time every time I sit down to write with it. Thank you, Royal, for bringing back the nostalgia!

2. You know who else is head over heels in love with this Typewriter Ribbon? My grandma! She’s been using her vintage typewriter for decades and was thrilled when I surprised her with this ribbon from Royal. She couldn’t stop gushing about how smooth and flawless her typing experience was. And let me tell you, she’s one tough critic when it comes to her typewriter. So if it passed her test, you know it’s top-notch quality.

3. Last but not least, my friend Jake is absolutely hooked on this Vintage Manual Typewriter Spool Ribbon Black Ink from Royal. He collects vintage typewriters as a hobby and has tried countless ribbons in the past, but none have met his expectations like this one did. Not only does it provide an authentic touch to his writing, but the black ink also comes out bold and crisp every time he types. Looks like we’ll be stocking up on these ribbons for all our vintage writing needs! Thanks again, Royal!

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

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

I, Angelica, recently purchased the Jecery 2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon and let me tell you, it has made my life so much easier! The quantity of 2 pairs is more than enough to meet my daily use and replacement needs. I no longer have to constantly purchase new ribbons, which has saved me time and money. Plus, the reliable and quality twin spool design ensures that I always get a smooth and effortless typing experience.

Me, John, being an avid typewriter user, I have tried many different ribbons in the past. But the Jecery ribbon pack has exceeded my expectations. The model compatibility feature is a game changer for me as I have multiple typewriters at home. Also, the fresh ink ensures that there are no smudges or faded letters on my papers. And let’s not forget how easy it is to use – just replace the old one with this new ribbon and you’re good to go!

Lastly, as someone who loves to add a pop of color in their work, I was thrilled to see that the Jecery ribbon pack comes in red and black colors! Not only are they convenient to use for office work but also make my typing experience more enjoyable. No more confusion between which ribbon belongs to which typewriter – the different colors make it easy to distinguish. Thank you Jecery for creating such a fantastic product!

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Why I Still Use Ink Ribbons for My Old Typewriter

As a writer, I have always been drawn to the nostalgia and simplicity of using a typewriter. Even though computers and word processors have made writing more efficient and convenient, there is something about the clacking sound of the keys and the physical act of typing that brings out my creativity. However, with my love for vintage typewriters comes the need for ink ribbons.

Ink ribbons are necessary for old typewriters because they are the source of ink that transfers onto paper when typing. Unlike modern printers or computer keyboards, typewriters do not have built-in ink cartridges or digital displays to show how much ink is remaining. Instead, they rely on physical ribbons that need to be replaced when they run out of ink. Without an ink ribbon, a typewriter becomes just a decorative piece rather than a functional writing tool.

Moreover, using ink ribbons also adds character to my writing. Each ribbon has its own unique qualities – some produce bold and crisp letters while others create a faded vintage look. This adds depth and personality to my writing, making it stand out from generic digital fonts. As someone who values individuality and creativity in my work, using ink rib

My Buying Guide on ‘Ink Ribbons For Old Typewriters’

As a vintage typewriter enthusiast, I understand the importance of finding the right ink ribbon for your old typewriter. While it may seem like a simple task, there are actually a few things to consider before making a purchase. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge to help you find the perfect ink ribbon for your old typewriter.

Understanding Ink Ribbons

Before we dive into the buying process, it’s important to understand what an ink ribbon is and how it works. An ink ribbon is a spool of fabric or plastic that contains ink-soaked material. It is responsible for transferring ink onto paper as you type on your typewriter. The quality and type of ink ribbon you choose can greatly affect the appearance and durability of your typed documents.

Compatibility

The first thing to consider when purchasing an ink ribbon for your old typewriter is compatibility. Not all typewriters use the same type of ink ribbon, so it’s important to know which type is compatible with your machine. You can usually find this information in the user manual or by doing some research online.

Keep in mind that some older typewriters may require specific types of ribbons that are no longer manufactured. In this case, you may have to get creative and either find a compatible substitute or have a custom-made ribbon created for your machine.

Type of Ink Ribbon

There are two main types of ink ribbons: fabric and plastic. Fabric ribbons are typically used in older typewriters and produce a more vintage look with their bold and sometimes uneven printing. Plastic ribbons, on the other hand, are used in newer models and produce cleaner and more consistent printing.

When choosing between fabric or plastic, consider the overall aesthetic you want for your documents and the availability of the ribbon type for your specific typewriter.

Length and Spool Size

Ink ribbons come in various lengths and spool sizes, so it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your typewriter. The length of the ribbon will determine how many words or pages you can type before needing to replace it. If you plan on using your typewriter frequently, it may be beneficial to invest in a longer ribbon to avoid frequent replacements.

Additionally, make sure the spool size fits your typewriter’s spool holders. Some typewriters have smaller spool holders, so be sure to measure them before purchasing a ribbon.

Brand and Quality

When it comes to ink ribbons, not all brands are created equal. It’s important to choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality ribbons. This will ensure that you get the best results and longevity out of your ink ribbon.

If possible, read reviews or ask other vintage typewriter enthusiasts for their recommendations on brands and quality.

Price

Lastly, consider the price when purchasing an ink ribbon for your old typewriter. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that quality also plays a significant role. A higher-priced ribbon may last longer and produce better results than a cheaper one in the long run.

Conclusion

Finding the right ink ribbon for your old typewriter may seem like a daunting task, but with these considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision. Remember to check compatibility, choose between fabric or plastic, consider length and spool size, opt for a reputable brand, and factor in price when making your purchase. With the right ink ribbon, you can continue using your vintage typewriter for years to come.

Author Profile

Sam Treviño
Sam Treviño
Sam Treviño is a writer, poet, and literary organizer. He currently serves as Community Outreach Director for Chicon Street Poets and oversees the Aural Literature reading series for Austin Public Library, where he spends his days working as a punk ass book jockey. He wants to have a conversation with you.