# Typewriter Computers Jack Zylkin Turns Outdated Typewriters into Kickass Keyboards By Michael Hines | Published 2010-06-15 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jack-zylkin References: [technabob](http://technabob.com/blog/2010/06/13/usb-typewriters-retro-keyboards/) & [etsy](http://www.etsy.com/shop/usbtypewriter) The USB Typewriter is the coolest keyboard that I have ever seen. These 'keyboards' are designed by Jack Zylkin, who turns an [old typewriter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-typewriter) into a fully functional keyboard. Jack Zylkin custom builds USB Typewriters and sells them out of his [Etsy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/keyboard-wrist-rest) shop. Prices range from $400-$500. If you are electronically-inclined, however, you can buy a kit to create your own USB Typewriter for $75-$150. Check out the video above to see the USB Typewriter in all of its [retro glory](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mdr-dasher-keyboard). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.3/10 - Popularity: 38% | Activity: 84% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Retro Keyboards:** Retro keyboards like the USB Typewriter offer a nostalgic experience for users and potential opportunities for customization and personalization. - **Upcycling:** The practice of turning outdated typewriters into functional keyboards demonstrates the potential for upcycling in the tech industry, providing a sustainable solution while preserving the charm of classic design. - **DIY Tech Kits:** The availability of DIY kits for creating USB typewriters opens up possibilities for hobbyists and makers to explore their creativity in blending vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. ### Where This Applies - **Computer Accessories:** The retro keyboard trend presents new opportunities for computer accessory manufacturers to develop and offer innovative products that cater to consumers' desire for nostalgia and unique style. - **Sustainable Technology:** The upcycling of typewriters into functional keyboards highlights the potential for sustainable technology initiatives and encourages the tech industry to find creative ways to repurpose outdated technology. - **Maker Community:** The availability of DIY tech kits for creating USB typewriters fosters an opportunity for the maker community to explore and showcase their skills in repurposing and customizing retro technology. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Victorian-Inspired USB Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-diviner-keyboard.md) - [Advanced Antiquated Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/azio-mkretro-typewriterstyle-mechanical-keyboard.md) - [Ultra-Compact Keyboard-Like Typewriters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/typewriter-concept.md) - [Digital E Ink Typwriters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zerowriter-ink.md) - [Dual Screen-Equipped Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/machenike-kt84.md) - [Typing Speed-Increasing Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/charachorder-x.md) - [80s Computer-Inspired Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-c64-edition-retro-keyboard.md) - [Affordable Digital Typewriters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/freewrite-alpha.md) - [Hub-Integrated Computing Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/computing-keyboard.md)