The Perfect Writing Computer

A Wishlist

My Perfect Writing Computer Wishlist (critical items in bold):

  • ultra-portable, under 4 pounds
  • folds up small enough to carry in a cargo pants pocket
  • integrated / wireless full-size QWERTY keyboard that also folds up
  • 8 hour battery life with spare batteries that could fit in the other cargo pants pocket
  • screen large enough to productively use MS Word--i.e. show at least three-fourths of a page at a time in a font that's still viewable (roll-up?)
  • integrated WiFi and cellular broadband as a backup (through either Sprint or Verizon)
  • DVD burner ideal but not required
  • small power adapter (since I'll probably have to lug that around to)
  • firewire, 2 USB 2.0 ports
  • an integrated webcam would be nice, but not required
  • doesn't get hot enough to burn a hole in your pants
  • good warranty
  • instant-on technology
  • built in theft protection & fingerprint scanner
  • viewable in bright sunlight
  • built-in microphone with a dedicated button for voice memos, plus pre-installed voice recognition software
  • tablet PC functionality with handwriting recognition a plus, but not required
  • price: $1,500 or under

What about you? What's your perfect writing computer look like? Share in the comments (even if you're a luddite).


Author: Jeremy James
Shelved In: WRITING: Process
Main Topic: writing tools
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Comments:

  • I think the only way to improve that amazing computer, is to ask that the price be under $900.  Also, I’d want the Microsoft Office Suite (every single one) included, with plenty of RAM and a large hard drive.

    That’s not too much to ask, is it?

    posted by: spyscribbler --

  • That’s a good list, and I can’t argue with any of it.

    In the near future, I suspect there will be dedicated word processors available that meet the size and weight criteria, but without the other “computer” features you want. The stuff AlphaSmart makes is heading that direction, but it’s a long way from getting there; it doesn’t fold up, and the four-line screen makes it a non-starter for me. I really need to see paragraphs laid out on the page…

    (http://www.alphasmart.com/danastore/neo_features.html)

    posted by: --

  • Thanks for the feedback guys…

    Actually, I almost wish my perfect writing computer did ONLY word processing. Less distraction that way. But since the portability and battery life and what not costs so much, it’s hard to justify a purchase that doesn’t include the ability to do research on the web.

    I have to admit, the new Sony G1 (http://www.sonystyle.com) comes pretty close. But it’s not cheap.

    posted by: Jeremy James -- San Diego, CA


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