Quick Summary
The PocketMage is the distraction-free way to type thanks to its retro design and simple functionality.
This pocket-sized E Ink typewriter doubles as a retro PDA, and you can even build it yourself.
The retro gadget revival shows no signs of slowing down, but the latest throwback might be one of my most tempting yet. Called the PocketMage, it's a tiny clamshell computer that blends the best bits of old-school PDAs with a distraction-free writing machine. Plus, there's even a DIY kit if you fancy building your own.
Designed by Talisman Design and currently seeking crowdfunding, the PocketMage looks like a miniature laptop. Open it up and you'll find a 3.1-inch E Ink display paired with a tactile QWERTY keyboard that's clearly aimed at writers, note-takers and anyone nostalgic for the days before smartphones became endless notification machines.
So while it might be a bit small to make it onto our best mechanical keyboards list, this definitely serves its purpose well.
Interestingly, there's also a second display. A slim OLED panel sits above the keyboard to handle menus and other fast-moving interface elements, leaving the E Ink screen free to deliver its eye-friendly reading experience without feeling sluggish.
Under the hood, it's intentionally modest. An ESP32-S3 chip, 2MB of RAM and 16MB of storage (expandable via microSD) are enough to run a Markdown editor, calendar, journal, dictionary and other lightweight productivity apps. There's also WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C and even an expansion port for hardware tinkerers who want to customise the device further.
The best part? If you're the sort of person who enjoys assembling gadgets as much as using them, the PocketMage is available as a DIY kit that only requires a screwdriver – no soldering necessary.
There's also a fully assembled version if you'd rather get typing straight away. Prices start at around $185 (roughly £135) for the kit or $235 (around £170) assembled, with shipping currently expected in March 2027.
