Thank you for taking the time to go over the details of this nightmare interaction with Elretron. I was looking to purchase the $599 walnut keyboard when I decided to check out reviews. So nope, not going with this company. Thank you for your honest and detailed review.
You may also want to watch this review of the sodden version and hear what happened when he contacted customer service about some issues: ruclips.net/video/mdT-fWx27xw/видео.html I have a review of an AZIO Retro Classi keyboard which comes in several finished. Made with real materials like metal and wood. There are plastic parts as well, but very solid. I’ve recommended them to several people and no one has had any issues.
I decided to contact these guys one more time after taking this unit to a local tech repair guy. There may be a follow up video forthcoming. All I can say for now is to repeat...DO NOT BUY FROM THIS COMPANY!
Thank you so much for such a honest well made review of this keyboard! I was looking to buy this exact keyboard in a wood finish or a qwerkywriter s keyboard but after seeing this review I’m happily purchasing a qwerkywriter s. I loved the brand Penna initially because they had many colors including a keyboard made out of real wood. That was one plus on their end since the qwerkywriter s only has a black color as of now. But then I found a RUclips video before yours where the gentleman (ianpaulknowles) had the Penna wood version and received it in a questionable condition. This gentleman had a similar experience when he contacted customer service for a solution. With his video and yours I’m just going to suck up the fact qwerkywriter s only come in black and purchase it instead. Also a bonus is that the qwerkywriter s can actually hold bigger sized devices horizontally unlike Penna which would only hold bigger devices vertically. Thanks again! You saved me such a headache!
I have heard no complaints about the Qwerkywriter, and at least its made of solid metal for the price. That really should have been what I purchased. I have not seen the other persons experience with the wood version, but will certainly go watch it. I wanted the wooden one initially myself. What I purchased in terms of a wood surface was the Azio Retro Classic keyboard. I have an unboxing of that keyboard as well: ruclips.net/video/pl6Wou3oQ2c/видео.html I have absolutely no complaints about the Azio, my favorite keyboard At this point. They have versions without the numbers pad as well. There are some with leather surfaces, the trim is metal, very heavy and sturdy, great typing experience. So if the QWERTY looks bland to you, that would be my other recommendation :)
StoryDtechtive Robert Jones I totally agree! I love the look of wood and would definitely appreciate a keyboard that would provide that look. I’ve looked into your Azio retro classic keyboard video and now I’m highly considering that one instead! I’m glad to know you have such a great experience with azio! Thank you for responding and your suggestions! You have helped me so much!
@@ninaherrera388 Azio doesn’t disappoint. It feels like a master control board to create worlds when I’m writing :) I purchased mine just before the slightly smaller ones without the numbers pad came out. A friend just purchased one of those and it came with a muslin carry bag, a cleaning brush, and the charging/USB cable is nylon. Can’t recall if it came with a hand rest or if she purchased that separately. But they really provide a nice luxury experience.
There are way better retro keyboards out there with more solid builds. I have since opened up the keyboard since there’s no honoring the warranty from this company anyway. And I also had my local repair shop take a look at it. It’s a very basic piece of crap with a cheap Bluetooth module they’ve put in there, which is why there are so many issues connecting and staying connected. Interestingly enough, it connects to my new ipad. It would not connect to two previous iPads or my phone. Maybe our tinkering with the connections jarred something into place. But to connect means it takes several tries, and I need to have the ipad forget the device each time I reconnect. And if I leave it sit for more than ten minutes it disconnects and the entire process needs to be repeated. It also eats the batteries like crazy. I’ve used it for a period of two weeks and the batteries needed changing. So even getting a connection is just a miserable pain in the butt to use!
If you want something retro, try either AZIO Retro Classic Keyboard, or the Qwerky Writer...which also looks like a typewriter and is solid metal. Probably what I should have bought...LOL!
Did the repair shop manage to repair the Penna? If so, what’s it like to type on? Do you own a Qwerkywriter by today? I own an Azio Retro Classic Mini, and I’m curious to buy a Qwerkywriter. Is it worth it? Which is better? Azio or Qwerkywriter?
"Its red, its sexy, it matches my desk." DEAD. Love how despite the outcome & frustration, you chuckled & joked lightheartedly about it. Nicest negative review ever... Its a shame too, keyboard looked really sleek & cool.
@@Avionne_Parris I’m going to drop it off tomorrow for that estimate. Would be great for Nano...editing and vlogs. And maybe I’ll get a follow up video out of whatever they discover :D
This entire situation makes me scream. They should have live chatted with you and walked you through it rather than using email to tell you the same stuff in the damn instruction manual. Delete your comments is also a massive no-no and huge red flag to me. What a mess.
There’s no fix here, that’s the point he eventually made when he said if it’s not connecting to you devices a replacement won’t either. Cheap substitute for Bluetooth software is my best guess. They just aren’t going to connect universally like a normal Bluetooth. But since you can buy a $10 Bluetooth keyboard that functions better, whatever they’re using is complete crap to cut production costs. I have a collection of keyboards...and this just doesn’t happen unless it’s broken. Deleting comment is definitely a red flag, but I pasted that entire barrage of emails on the Kickstarter page...LOL! I kinda want to sent Jack the link to this video.
@@Fafadinguagua I’m glad you got one that works. I contacted them a couple of months ago after my tech repair guy gave up on it. I told them what he said and it’s like they jumped back on the same loop of wanting me to send a video and the same information...again.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464OMG!! the pain again....if film a detailed close up video can end this crap and make them finally see the keyboard is not working, I will do it.... good luck Robert!
Oh dear. Hope all is well Robert. I have similar luck when it comes to a majority of the products I buy. Dealing with these companies is a true test of one’s patience.
Hi Morgan! This one was a test and three quarters...LOL! I’ll have to see if it can be fixed. Sitting around for over two months waiting for this to be resolved...UGH!
And here I was contemplating to throw down for their $500+ wood keyboard. Thanks, this really helped me to keep looking. Beautiful paper weight though.
Might want to check out Azio Retro Classic models. They have mechanical keyboards and have wood or leather surfaces, real metal trim, and no complaints from anyone I know that has one.
I really wish I had checked youtube reviews for this keyboard before buying it. It worked ok for a few months, but now it doesn't work at all. I just tried to contact tech support and I'm apparently now in contact with "Jack". I don't think this will end well.
Please let me know what happens. There’s probably going to be a follow up to this video. My keyboard spent quite a while at my local tech repair shop. I got it to him just prior to our COVID lockdown so he had it over a month. I talked to him on the phone a couple of times while he had it just to get updates. He tried several things but the bluetooth module they use is their own invention, some type of cheap knockoff the tech guy said was “a cheap piece of crap!” I told this to Jack and he went on the same speech about never saying he wouldn’t replace my keyboard, they just have to check it out thoroughly and I should send them a video. To be continued...
Glad you were at least able to get your money back, even if it wasn't from them directly. Hope things go better for you going forward! And thanks for looking out for the rest of us! 😊
Hey, Mary...how have you been? Yeah, I really had high hopes for this one. It looks so nice, but made very cheaply, it seems. There are much better keyboards out there. And at the price, this one should work as well as it looks.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 Absolutely, especially at the price you paid! It's a shame they jerked you around like that. I've been doing okay. Better now that I quit that second job that was draining my energy. I'm still kind of in recovery from that. Slowly getting back in the writing saddle. At this point, I've only been writing on Friday nights. I've been tuning into Sarah Scharnweber's livestreams, and that has helped me be somewhat productive. However, I need to get back into writing more than once a week! Jaime's been hard at work editing SOTP, but up until recently I had kinda dropped the ball on drafting book #2. That's changing, though! I hope to make another video soon, too. I'm planning to do a tour of my Writer Cave once I get it looking decent enough to show on camera! Right now the only decent-looking part is my new desktop. The rest of the room is a disaster! lol Anyway, have a great week! 😊
@@mrandisg I’ve only recently started uploading again after the holidays and my surgery. So I’ve been in recovery as well and still not doing 100% But moving forward. On Wednesday mornings from 11 to 1 EST, I’ve been doing a live stream with Lisa Daily, Carrow Brown, and Savy Writes Books. If you’re not busy, we have a pretty good group of people that join us and the discussions are always interesting.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 Yeah, Jaime told me about that. I think she has attended a few of them. Unfortunately, both of us have to work during that time, so neither of us have been able to catch it lately unless she happens to do it while she's there. I may try to hop in while I'm there if I can, or maybe I can tune in on my phone while I'm driving! (My shift is 12-6 and I usually leave my house around 11:30.) Here's hoping!
The Qwerkywriter has been on my list to review for a while now. And since I have received several requests Since the Penna Red failure, I am looking into getting a Qwerty for review. Meantime, I have to say sight unseen that i have heard good things about it. Ive even noticed it on the desk of several best selling authors like Jerry B. Jenkins. You may also want to check out my review of the Azio Retro Classic keyboard. These are gorgeous mechanical keyboard and perform very well. Mine is my current favorite keyboard :)
Mechanical keyboards are not cheap. Mostly that has to do with the switches used for the keys. But usually they are made of better material for the price these are going for, not completely molded from plastic. There are much cheaper keyboard with a retro feel. Going to look into some of those to review in the future as well.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 yeah I found one on Amazon UK for a good price also purple and it's awesome! I do have a good bluetooth one for my tablet which is a logitech one!
@@JoeyPaulOnline Logitech has made some of my favorite keyboards for the ipad. I just came across a review of a keyboard that’s on Amazon for $16 that has a retro look. The review also showed the keycaps come off easily like a mechanical keyboard. So I ordered one, along with a set of retro keycaps for $10 that look just like the higher end keyboards. So my future review is going to be how to achieve a really cool classic aesthetic for $30.
@@JoeyPaulOnline For me, it’s the tactile feeling of certain keys. Logitech has a great feeling on the one’s I’ve purchased. One of my absolute favorites was an old Brother Word Processor from the 90’s. Those things gave a typing experience I’ve looked for and can’t seem to find.
What a nightmare. I wanted a keyboard like that, but I held off. I got onto the Alphasmart train for $20. True retro right there. lol. So . . . My desire for a fancy new keyboard has been satisfied.
The Alphasmart does have a nice retro keyboard. I should really do an update on that one since my initial review was one of my first videos and kinda lost on most people unless they know what it is and are specifically looking for one. Thanks for the reminder :)
It really shouldn’t have to be trouble shooter. It either connects, or there’s a problem. I think the technicians responses back up what the local tech person said...that they probably have some cheap, low-key substitute for bluetooth that just doesn't connect well with everything. Or the piece rattling inside just means something is broken. But this “Jack” was awfully concerned about connection. To the point he actually admitted if the connection problem was as he suspected, a replacement device would have the same issues. That was probably the most telling thing that came out of having him go on at length. There’s an issue with their software...period. Have you looked at the Qwerky Writer? Or Azio Retro Classic keyboards? I have an Azio and it works great, very solid. And the Qwerky Writer is solid metal. I should’ve gotten that one instead!
That is a hot mess! I can't believe you went so far. I have no patience. What retro keyboards do you have that you do recommend? I want one until I can a cool working REAL retro typewriter :)
I was going to just stop and turn the situation over to the credit card company, but like I said...at first, I really wanted to exchange the keyboard. And by the time I realized this was not going to happen, he was saying a lot that didn’t bode well for their company. The ironic thing is, when I first purchased the keyboard, there was a contact with a woman named Lillian. I wrote her and not seeing very many review videos, I told her I intended to make one and asked if the had a PR list. She wrote back and said I had some great ideas and they would discuss the PR list and get back to me. They never did. But if they actually bothered to look through the comments they deleted, it was on public record that i intended to video my experience with them. So I decided to just let him go on at length...and put it all in writing. As far as mechanical keyboards that work, try AZIO.com...they have quite a few. Some are fairly expensive, but some aren’t terribly priced for mechanical keyboards. It depends on whether you want it all made of plastic, or real materials like metal, wood, or leather. If you want one that looks like a typewriter, try the Qwerky Writer. Not cheap either, but it’s solid metal. Also look on eBay for mechanical keyboards. Those are probably the best prices. And if you want the best tactile experience, look at the key switches, which will list blue switched, brown, or cherry. It’s the switches that make the real difference, and unfortunately the thing that can drive up the price. But I’ve found some of my best bargains for keyboards on eBay. Sometimes Amazon, but lately eBay has been better.
You’re very welcome. There may be a follow up on this video in the coming year, but the main point to take from it is this keyboard spent a fair amount of time with my local tech guy who said is was basically a cheap piece of crap.
I do have an AZIO Retro Classic Elwood and absolutely love it. Probably my favorite keyboard. As far as the Elretron Penna Red keyboard, it’s actually in the shop now. I took it in to be repaired just prior to the lockdown, so it has been there for several weeks. I talked to the electronics guy just Easter day because I drove past his shop and saw it was open. He’s been having some crazy times-like we all are. He said he has taken a look at it and it connects to his PC, but either won’t connect, or stay connected, to an ipad or iphone. He also said something is draining the battery even when the keyboard is not in use. That’s usually the diodes, an inexpensive fix, or something else I can’t recall. If it’s the latter, it can’t be fixed and they sold me a hunk of junk. He’s supposed to let me know for sure by tomorrow.
StoryDtechtive Any clue what was floating around In there? Also, Azio is having 25% off SITEWIDE on all of their products and I was able to score the Elwood (good choice by the way) compact keyboard and the matching mouse for only $230!! If you need any other accessories, I would highly suggest snagging them now haha. Did you happen to do a review on the Azio? I’d love to see your thoughts
@@Pandunkey I did do an AZIO review just before Christmas. I’ll grab the link and past it in for you. I really love Azio’s new Fokal keyboard. That might be my next purchase. Awaiting income tax returns. What was floating inside were the two screws that were supposed to hold the silver tablet tray in place. They couldn’t have been tightened very well to just fall out like that. Here’s the link to the AZIO Elwood: ruclips.net/video/pl6Wou3oQ2c/видео.html
@@Pandunkey It really is a great typing experience. When I do get the Fokal, I’ll just be getting the more compact section and not bother with the numbers pad. I never us it. You should do an unboxing as well :)
The look is very nice. The price and quality are deceptive. Hopefully I can get it fixed. I’ve never had an experience like this with any company before.
Believe me, I didn’t know I was going to make a video until they put me through the ringer. I sent them all kind of photos they asked for multiple times, ran through every test they said to perform. By the time they asked for a video, all of these emails went back and fourth and a lot of information exchanged they totally ignored and blamed all of my devices, not theirs. I decided to end it at that point and just turn them into my credit card company. BTW, if you look around YT-if you haven’t already done so-you’ll see other people who had the same problem with this company. And quite a few folks who contacted me directly as well.
Good grief, what a hassle! If I'd had $, I would've wanted one for sure. I guess it's a good thing I'm poor. It might be a good idea to hold on to the keyboard for a while, in case later on they do decide they want it back and start harassing you about it. Sheesh!
I think the one thing that came out of allowing him to go on at length, is that his responses about connection issues and the fact he believes a new keyboard will be a waste of time because the same issue will persist, very much supports what the electronics tech said about them having a cheaply made substitute for whatever their bluetooth device is...and it’s just not able to connect with everything. Otherwise, why keep stating they have a suspicion about the connection being an issue that won’t be resolved? This is cheap garbage masquerading as a higher end keyboard. That would be my conclusion at this point.
I recently contacted them again just to see what they would say...so there may be a follow up video. But pretty much they gave me the same lingo. Give the Azio retro classic series a look. I have one and recommended to several people who loved them. The Qwerky Writer is another typewriter style keyboard which is actually made of metal. I’ve heard nothing bad about them, but do not own one myself. Thanks for watching and hope this helps :)
Thank you for taking the time to go over the details of this nightmare interaction with Elretron. I was looking to purchase the $599 walnut keyboard when I decided to check out reviews. So nope, not going with this company. Thank you for your honest and detailed review.
You may also want to watch this review of the sodden version and hear what happened when he contacted customer service about some issues: ruclips.net/video/mdT-fWx27xw/видео.html
I have a review of an AZIO Retro Classi keyboard which comes in several finished. Made with real materials like metal and wood. There are plastic parts as well, but very solid. I’ve recommended them to several people and no one has had any issues.
Classic crappy tech support. Giving you a run around. Thanks for saving a lot of people from dealing with this crap. You're a hero.
I decided to contact these guys one more time after taking this unit to a local tech repair guy. There may be a follow up video forthcoming. All I can say for now is to repeat...DO NOT BUY FROM THIS COMPANY!
Thank you so much for such a honest well made review of this keyboard! I was looking to buy this exact keyboard in a wood finish or a qwerkywriter s keyboard but after seeing this review I’m happily purchasing a qwerkywriter s. I loved the brand Penna initially because they had many colors including a keyboard made out of real wood. That was one plus on their end since the qwerkywriter s only has a black color as of now. But then I found a RUclips video before yours where the gentleman (ianpaulknowles) had the Penna wood version and received it in a questionable condition. This gentleman had a similar experience when he contacted customer service for a solution. With his video and yours I’m just going to suck up the fact qwerkywriter s only come in black and purchase it instead. Also a bonus is that the qwerkywriter s can actually hold bigger sized devices horizontally unlike Penna which would only hold bigger devices vertically. Thanks again! You saved me such a headache!
I have heard no complaints about the Qwerkywriter, and at least its made of solid metal for the price. That really should have been what I purchased. I have not seen the other persons experience with the wood version, but will certainly go watch it. I wanted the wooden one initially myself. What I purchased in terms of a wood surface was the Azio Retro Classic keyboard. I have an unboxing of that keyboard as well: ruclips.net/video/pl6Wou3oQ2c/видео.html
I have absolutely no complaints about the Azio, my favorite keyboard At this point. They have versions without the numbers pad as well. There are some with leather surfaces, the trim is metal, very heavy and sturdy, great typing experience. So if the QWERTY looks bland to you, that would be my other recommendation :)
StoryDtechtive Robert Jones I totally agree! I love the look of wood and would definitely appreciate a keyboard that would provide that look. I’ve looked into your Azio retro classic keyboard video and now I’m highly considering that one instead! I’m glad to know you have such a great experience with azio! Thank you for responding and your suggestions! You have helped me so much!
@@ninaherrera388 Azio doesn’t disappoint. It feels like a master control board to create worlds when I’m writing :) I purchased mine just before the slightly smaller ones without the numbers pad came out. A friend just purchased one of those and it came with a muslin carry bag, a cleaning brush, and the charging/USB cable is nylon. Can’t recall if it came with a hand rest or if she purchased that separately. But they really provide a nice luxury experience.
StoryDtechtive Robert Jones that’s amazing! I think I’m sold for sure! Thanks again!
@@ninaherrera388 You’re welcome. Let me know how it works out for you :)
Thank you for this video. I was about to buy this and your detailed review on their customer service changed my mind.
There are way better retro keyboards out there with more solid builds. I have since opened up the keyboard since there’s no honoring the warranty from this company anyway. And I also had my local repair shop take a look at it. It’s a very basic piece of crap with a cheap Bluetooth module they’ve put in there, which is why there are so many issues connecting and staying connected. Interestingly enough, it connects to my new ipad. It would not connect to two previous iPads or my phone. Maybe our tinkering with the connections jarred something into place. But to connect means it takes several tries, and I need to have the ipad forget the device each time I reconnect. And if I leave it sit for more than ten minutes it disconnects and the entire process needs to be repeated. It also eats the batteries like crazy. I’ve used it for a period of two weeks and the batteries needed changing. So even getting a connection is just a miserable pain in the butt to use!
hahaha... omgosh, you have had a go around with the company... I wanted one...I'm good now LOL> Thanks for saving me a headache.
If you want something retro, try either AZIO Retro Classic Keyboard, or the Qwerky Writer...which also looks like a typewriter and is solid metal. Probably what I should have bought...LOL!
Did the repair shop manage to repair the Penna? If so, what’s it like to type on?
Do you own a Qwerkywriter by today? I own an Azio Retro Classic Mini, and I’m curious to buy a Qwerkywriter. Is it worth it? Which is better? Azio or Qwerkywriter?
"Its red, its sexy, it matches my desk." DEAD. Love how despite the outcome & frustration, you chuckled & joked lightheartedly about it. Nicest negative review ever... Its a shame too, keyboard looked really sleek & cool.
It is a shame. Hopefully I can get it fixed. Put some better functioning bluetooth gizmo in there so I can put that sexy thing on my desk...LOL!
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 😂😂😂
@@Avionne_Parris I’m going to drop it off tomorrow for that estimate. Would be great for Nano...editing and vlogs. And maybe I’ll get a follow up video out of whatever they discover :D
This entire situation makes me scream. They should have live chatted with you and walked you through it rather than using email to tell you the same stuff in the damn instruction manual. Delete your comments is also a massive no-no and huge red flag to me. What a mess.
There’s no fix here, that’s the point he eventually made when he said if it’s not connecting to you devices a replacement won’t either. Cheap substitute for Bluetooth software is my best guess. They just aren’t going to connect universally like a normal Bluetooth. But since you can buy a $10 Bluetooth keyboard that functions better, whatever they’re using is complete crap to cut production costs. I have a collection of keyboards...and this just doesn’t happen unless it’s broken. Deleting comment is definitely a red flag, but I pasted that entire barrage of emails on the Kickstarter page...LOL! I kinda want to sent Jack the link to this video.
Thank god I got mine and working and don’t have to go through what you have. I feel so lucky! Thanks for sharing!
What type of device are you using it with, if I may ask?
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 exactly the model you have. Red penna
@@Fafadinguagua I’m glad you got one that works. I contacted them a couple of months ago after my tech repair guy gave up on it. I told them what he said and it’s like they jumped back on the same loop of wanting me to send a video and the same information...again.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464OMG!! the pain again....if film a detailed close up video can end this crap and make them finally see the keyboard is not working, I will do it.... good luck Robert!
@@Fafadinguagua I’m going to. Now that the holiday busy days are over. I’m planning a follow up video on the results.
Thank you so much for doing this! You really saved me! Will not be purchasing from Elretron and will look somewhere else!
You’re welcome. Many better choices out there :)
Oh dear. Hope all is well Robert. I have similar luck when it comes to a majority of the products I buy. Dealing with these companies is a true test of one’s patience.
Hi Morgan! This one was a test and three quarters...LOL! I’ll have to see if it can be fixed. Sitting around for over two months waiting for this to be resolved...UGH!
And here I was contemplating to throw down for their $500+ wood keyboard. Thanks, this really helped me to keep looking. Beautiful paper weight though.
Might want to check out Azio Retro Classic models. They have mechanical keyboards and have wood or leather surfaces, real metal trim, and no complaints from anyone I know that has one.
I really wish I had checked youtube reviews for this keyboard before buying it. It worked ok for a few months, but now it doesn't work at all. I just tried to contact tech support and I'm apparently now in contact with "Jack". I don't think this will end well.
Please let me know what happens. There’s probably going to be a follow up to this video. My keyboard spent quite a while at my local tech repair shop. I got it to him just prior to our COVID lockdown so he had it over a month. I talked to him on the phone a couple of times while he had it just to get updates. He tried several things but the bluetooth module they use is their own invention, some type of cheap knockoff the tech guy said was “a cheap piece of crap!” I told this to Jack and he went on the same speech about never saying he wouldn’t replace my keyboard, they just have to check it out thoroughly and I should send them a video. To be continued...
Glad you were at least able to get your money back, even if it wasn't from them directly. Hope things go better for you going forward! And thanks for looking out for the rest of us! 😊
Hey, Mary...how have you been? Yeah, I really had high hopes for this one. It looks so nice, but made very cheaply, it seems. There are much better keyboards out there. And at the price, this one should work as well as it looks.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 Absolutely, especially at the price you paid! It's a shame they jerked you around like that.
I've been doing okay. Better now that I quit that second job that was draining my energy. I'm still kind of in recovery from that. Slowly getting back in the writing saddle. At this point, I've only been writing on Friday nights. I've been tuning into Sarah Scharnweber's livestreams, and that has helped me be somewhat productive. However, I need to get back into writing more than once a week! Jaime's been hard at work editing SOTP, but up until recently I had kinda dropped the ball on drafting book #2. That's changing, though!
I hope to make another video soon, too. I'm planning to do a tour of my Writer Cave once I get it looking decent enough to show on camera! Right now the only decent-looking part is my new desktop. The rest of the room is a disaster! lol
Anyway, have a great week! 😊
@@mrandisg I’ve only recently started uploading again after the holidays and my surgery. So I’ve been in recovery as well and still not doing 100% But moving forward. On Wednesday mornings from 11 to 1 EST, I’ve been doing a live stream with Lisa Daily, Carrow Brown, and Savy Writes Books. If you’re not busy, we have a pretty good group of people that join us and the discussions are always interesting.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 Yeah, Jaime told me about that. I think she has attended a few of them. Unfortunately, both of us have to work during that time, so neither of us have been able to catch it lately unless she happens to do it while she's there. I may try to hop in while I'm there if I can, or maybe I can tune in on my phone while I'm driving! (My shift is 12-6 and I usually leave my house around 11:30.) Here's hoping!
@@mrandisg I suppose you could watch the replay...just won’t be live. We will be making an announcement this week about an authortube event :)
You need to review ALL the retro/fancy keyboards....
I would review them all if I could. But rest assured, there will be more. I have a few :)
Could you review the qwerkywriter keyboard as an alternative to Penna? Thanks!
The Qwerkywriter has been on my list to review for a while now. And since I have received several requests Since the Penna Red failure, I am looking into getting a Qwerty for review. Meantime, I have to say sight unseen that i have heard good things about it. Ive even noticed it on the desk of several best selling authors like Jerry B. Jenkins. You may also want to check out my review of the Azio Retro Classic keyboard. These are gorgeous mechanical keyboard and perform very well. Mine is my current favorite keyboard :)
I have wanted a keyboard like that, but always outta my price range!
Mechanical keyboards are not cheap. Mostly that has to do with the switches used for the keys. But usually they are made of better material for the price these are going for, not completely molded from plastic. There are much cheaper keyboard with a retro feel. Going to look into some of those to review in the future as well.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 yeah I found one on Amazon UK for a good price also purple and it's awesome! I do have a good bluetooth one for my tablet which is a logitech one!
@@JoeyPaulOnline Logitech has made some of my favorite keyboards for the ipad. I just came across a review of a keyboard that’s on Amazon for $16 that has a retro look. The review also showed the keycaps come off easily like a mechanical keyboard. So I ordered one, along with a set of retro keycaps for $10 that look just like the higher end keyboards. So my future review is going to be how to achieve a really cool classic aesthetic for $30.
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 yeah mine was £10.99 from Amazon and I adore!
@@JoeyPaulOnline For me, it’s the tactile feeling of certain keys. Logitech has a great feeling on the one’s I’ve purchased. One of my absolute favorites was an old Brother Word Processor from the 90’s. Those things gave a typing experience I’ve looked for and can’t seem to find.
What a nightmare. I wanted a keyboard like that, but I held off. I got onto the Alphasmart train for $20. True retro right there. lol. So . . . My desire for a fancy new keyboard has been satisfied.
The Alphasmart does have a nice retro keyboard. I should really do an update on that one since my initial review was one of my first videos and kinda lost on most people unless they know what it is and are specifically looking for one. Thanks for the reminder :)
@@storydtechtiverobertjones464 I get sidetracked and not having internet helps.
@@MalachiFrazee222 Not having internet helps a LOT!
How frustrating! I thought about buying one of these but I definitely won’t now. It shouldn’t be so hard to troubleshoot a bluetooth keyboard!
It really shouldn’t have to be trouble shooter. It either connects, or there’s a problem. I think the technicians responses back up what the local tech person said...that they probably have some cheap, low-key substitute for bluetooth that just doesn't connect well with everything. Or the piece rattling inside just means something is broken. But this “Jack” was awfully concerned about connection. To the point he actually admitted if the connection problem was as he suspected, a replacement device would have the same issues. That was probably the most telling thing that came out of having him go on at length. There’s an issue with their software...period. Have you looked at the Qwerky Writer? Or Azio Retro Classic keyboards? I have an Azio and it works great, very solid. And the Qwerky Writer is solid metal. I should’ve gotten that one instead!
Sorry to hear you went through CS Hell
Me too. The case is closed now, so maybe i can actually have it repaired. We shall see.
That is a hot mess! I can't believe you went so far. I have no patience.
What retro keyboards do you have that you do recommend? I want one until I can a cool working REAL retro typewriter :)
I was going to just stop and turn the situation over to the credit card company, but like I said...at first, I really wanted to exchange the keyboard. And by the time I realized this was not going to happen, he was saying a lot that didn’t bode well for their company. The ironic thing is, when I first purchased the keyboard, there was a contact with a woman named Lillian. I wrote her and not seeing very many review videos, I told her I intended to make one and asked if the had a PR list. She wrote back and said I had some great ideas and they would discuss the PR list and get back to me. They never did. But if they actually bothered to look through the comments they deleted, it was on public record that i intended to video my experience with them. So I decided to just let him go on at length...and put it all in writing.
As far as mechanical keyboards that work, try AZIO.com...they have quite a few. Some are fairly expensive, but some aren’t terribly priced for mechanical keyboards. It depends on whether you want it all made of plastic, or real materials like metal, wood, or leather. If you want one that looks like a typewriter, try the Qwerky Writer. Not cheap either, but it’s solid metal. Also look on eBay for mechanical keyboards. Those are probably the best prices. And if you want the best tactile experience, look at the key switches, which will list blue switched, brown, or cherry. It’s the switches that make the real difference, and unfortunately the thing that can drive up the price. But I’ve found some of my best bargains for keyboards on eBay. Sometimes Amazon, but lately eBay has been better.
Thank you!
You’re very welcome. There may be a follow up on this video in the coming year, but the main point to take from it is this keyboard spent a fair amount of time with my local tech guy who said is was basically a cheap piece of crap.
Did you get it fixed?? Does it work
Also, have you tried Azio? I love their keyboard (no stand though, is the only downside)
I do have an AZIO Retro Classic Elwood and absolutely love it. Probably my favorite keyboard. As far as the Elretron Penna Red keyboard, it’s actually in the shop now. I took it in to be repaired just prior to the lockdown, so it has been there for several weeks. I talked to the electronics guy just Easter day because I drove past his shop and saw it was open. He’s been having some crazy times-like we all are. He said he has taken a look at it and it connects to his PC, but either won’t connect, or stay connected, to an ipad or iphone. He also said something is draining the battery even when the keyboard is not in use. That’s usually the diodes, an inexpensive fix, or something else I can’t recall. If it’s the latter, it can’t be fixed and they sold me a hunk of junk. He’s supposed to let me know for sure by tomorrow.
StoryDtechtive Any clue what was floating around In there? Also, Azio is having 25% off SITEWIDE on all of their products and I was able to score the Elwood (good choice by the way) compact keyboard and the matching mouse for only $230!! If you need any other accessories, I would highly suggest snagging them now haha. Did you happen to do a review on the Azio? I’d love to see your thoughts
@@Pandunkey I did do an AZIO review just before Christmas. I’ll grab the link and past it in for you. I really love Azio’s new Fokal keyboard. That might be my next purchase. Awaiting income tax returns. What was floating inside were the two screws that were supposed to hold the silver tablet tray in place. They couldn’t have been tightened very well to just fall out like that. Here’s the link to the AZIO Elwood: ruclips.net/video/pl6Wou3oQ2c/видео.html
StoryDtechtive just watched it!! I cannot wait for my compact set up to arrive! The colors and wood look so nice. Can’t wait to clickity clack haha
@@Pandunkey It really is a great typing experience. When I do get the Fokal, I’ll just be getting the more compact section and not bother with the numbers pad. I never us it. You should do an unboxing as well :)
I’m frustrated for you!!! It’s so pretty it really sucks that it’s a dud.
Hi Karri...yes, to have it sitting around since Christmas waiting for this to be resolved and not be able to use it was no fun at all!
What an absolute shame it looks like such a nice keyboard also.
The look is very nice. The price and quality are deceptive. Hopefully I can get it fixed. I’ve never had an experience like this with any company before.
jesus why didn't you just send a video to them? you purposefully dragged this out to have a dramatic video.
Believe me, I didn’t know I was going to make a video until they put me through the ringer. I sent them all kind of photos they asked for multiple times, ran through every test they said to perform. By the time they asked for a video, all of these emails went back and fourth and a lot of information exchanged they totally ignored and blamed all of my devices, not theirs. I decided to end it at that point and just turn them into my credit card company. BTW, if you look around YT-if you haven’t already done so-you’ll see other people who had the same problem with this company. And quite a few folks who contacted me directly as well.
Good grief, what a hassle! If I'd had $, I would've wanted one for sure. I guess it's a good thing I'm poor.
It might be a good idea to hold on to the keyboard for a while, in case later on they do decide they want it back and start harassing you about it. Sheesh!
I think the one thing that came out of allowing him to go on at length, is that his responses about connection issues and the fact he believes a new keyboard will be a waste of time because the same issue will persist, very much supports what the electronics tech said about them having a cheaply made substitute for whatever their bluetooth device is...and it’s just not able to connect with everything. Otherwise, why keep stating they have a suspicion about the connection being an issue that won’t be resolved? This is cheap garbage masquerading as a higher end keyboard. That would be my conclusion at this point.
Thanks I will not buy it
I recently contacted them again just to see what they would say...so there may be a follow up video. But pretty much they gave me the same lingo. Give the Azio retro classic series a look. I have one and recommended to several people who loved them. The Qwerky Writer is another typewriter style keyboard which is actually made of metal. I’ve heard nothing bad about them, but do not own one myself. Thanks for watching and hope this helps :)