Alpha

So far I’m really liking my Alpha. Super easy to setup and use. The keyboard is the best part!! I really enjoy that it’s a fuller keyboard and the design does make it comfortable to type on. The only drawback is that any docs created on another free write device cannot transfer (yet) to the alpha. Other than that the screen size is fine for me and the Alpha is super responsive which is also really nice.

Hi Adam.
I finally had a few moments to share my thoughts on the Alpha. I've been using it for about two weeks and quite used to it now.
As you probably know, I was hesitant about purchasing it for a variety of reasons but paid closer attention to it when the sale started in June. I watched all the videos and reviews and still wasn't convinced the Alpha was something I would use for writing novels. My Traveler fits the bill in every way and I love it for it's portability, keybed and the folder capabilities. The eInk screen is very easy to see. Also, it can make use of all the Postbox capabilities.
I was intrigued by the Alpha when it was released but I had it in mind to save my money to purchase the Smart Typewriter for my writing desk to use for serious writing. I was then going to dedicate my Traveler for research, organization, and note taking. This is still my plan but money is the issue for now being on a fixed income, and especially since I would really like to get the Hemingwrite.
But back to the Alpha. As the ending of the sale approached, I thought maybe I should get it just for journaling since it only has a single folder. I tried journaling with pen and paper but my handwriting is sometimes difficult to read, even for me! Using the Alpha for this purpose would also improve my typing skills and actually it has because I've been using it regularly. Anyway, I took the plunge and purchased the Alpha and many of my concerns about it disappeared.
It's lightweight but sturdy and startup is quick and easy since there is only the one folder to work with.
At first I wasn't sure i liked the flat keybed because it feels very different than the Traveler and my mechanical computer keyboard. I am still getting used to it but I think there is room for improvement. It's difficult to discern the edges of these flat keys and I often find myself accidentally striking the wrong key, most often the caps lock key. If there was at least a recessed or dimpled key top or beveled key sides like the Traveler's, it would be an improvement most people would like. As is, the keys do have nice travel and are very responsive as a positive note.
My biggest issue is with the LCD screen. I don't mind the size of the screen or the limited nimber of lines you can read, but it is just very difficult to see. My eyesite is quite good when I'm wearing my glasses so that is not an issue; however it takes quite a bit of light to render the screen visible. The other problem is the glare on the screen surface from using direct lighting in my setup. I purchased a lapdesk with a built-in gooseneck LED light and the setup is great when sitting on the couch or a chair, but I have to aim the light more towards the keys instead of the screen to decrease the glare factor. I also cannot take the lapdesk everywhere I go. When I use my Traveler with this setup, the eInk screen has zero glare. So my suggestions are to either add a backlight to the LCD screen or change it to eInk (this would be my preference). SUpposedly the LCD has a faster refresh rate but I don't really see much of a difference. One other potential improvement would be to angle the screen a little more. I find that I always have to use the kickstand in order to get a better view of the screen, but it doesn't seem to help enough. I haven't been able to use my Alpha without the kickstand very successfully. More screen angle would definitely help.
There is a small issue with using the kickstand. When it's in use, the rubber feet on the front make less contact with the surface it's sitting on, therefore it tends to slide easily. If the bottom edge of the kickstand was rubberized, the problem would be solved.
Overall, aside from the above issues, my opinion of the Alpha two weeks in is very good, especially for single purpose writing. I understand that I can write other things besides my journal, and I have created separate file entries for other subjects. I separate my journal entries by starting each with the day and date. Other entries start with a subject.
Hopefully in the future there will be the same Postbox capabilities enjoyed by the Traveler and Smart Typewriters.
Ultimately, I would definitely encourage anyone to buy the Alpha for any type of writing. It's simplified form allows you to push one button and start typing.

It doesn't get any easier than that!!

Thanks,
Jack Williamson

I wanted this device for distraction-free writing and an easy way to access my work. It does all of those things and it’s easy to use. I love writing outside, and I have been writing more often thanks to this device.

Just a genuinely excellent device. Does exactly what you want it to. My daily word count has been consistently much higher since I started using it. Excellent to type on anywhere and easy to travel with. You definitely want to get a sleeve for it if you're chucking it in a bag regularly. I highly recommend it.

The keys are excellent quality and feel. I like that it isn't overstimulating the way a computer would be and I can actually relax into it.