Life seems to be putting so many distractions in front of everyone, and writers—even seasoned writers—aren’t an exception.
As technology improves daily, the need to stay more focused with a distraction-free writing device is becoming increasingly high!
Khadija, a team member at The Exquisite Writers, feels the same way. For example, she said, “Sometimes I get distracted by scrolling through my Facebook timeline or watching reels.”
Simisola, a long-term team member, also commented on distraction: “Yes, I get distracted when I get notifications on my device.”
Well, thankfully, Khadija and Simisola have mastered the art of reducing distractions to the barest minimum when writing, and you can, too!
This article has compiled the best distraction-free writing device to help you win that battle in style and make writing more fun!
What Exactly Is A Distraction-Free Writing Device?
This shouldn’t be difficult to know. However, let’s briefly explain the term.
A distraction-free writing device is designed to help writers focus more when writing. Although not fancy, these devices do not have notifications or the Internet.
The basic design idea is to prevent you from being tempted to check your social media or even surf the Internet–-activities that might cause interruptions or distractions.
For many modern writers, spending loads of time on full-power electronic devices is normal.
However, with distraction-free writing devices, they can now manage their energy levels since these devices are entirely mechanical or even utilize less electricity compared to fully functional laptops.
In addition, these devices offer more health benefits—no eye strain that could result from the screens and no fatigue of an EMF computing system.
What a win-win situation!
I’m sure you can’t wait to start exploring these devices. Therefore, let’s get to the real deal: the ultimate list of distraction-free writing devices.
8 Distraction-Free Writing Devices For More Focus
Compiled below are classic distraction-free writing devices you should explore as a writer:
1. AlphaSmart
Many who saw the AlphaSmart for the first time have wondered why anyone would want a device with a single-color screen and no internet.
Well, if winning distractions is a thing for you, this is your best route!
AlphaSmart is close to a typewriter—but of course, still a lot better, or even the best, as a distraction-free writing device.
While you can’t transfer what you’ve typed on a typewriter, you can do that with AlphaSmart. Once you are done typing, transfer what you have written to a computer.
AlphaSmart is a portable word processor with a simple screen that reveals a few lines of text.
This device is also designed to switch between projects because you can store a maximum of eight different text lines.
When is it suitable to use AlphaSmart? The choice is yours. But here are some great ideas:
- When brainstorming a writing idea: When brainstorming a writing idea, you don’t need any distractions. So, why not explore AlphaSmart to get you started and give your brainstorming session free flow?
- When drafting articles that need to be written: Many of us love to keep our thoughts saved. Moments like these are enjoyed more when less distracted. Pick AlphaSmart to get you on that dial!
- When writing: Well, I’d say using AlphaSmart for writing is an excellent option, and you’d enjoy the free flow of your writing. Of course, your first project will always be a draft!
If you choose any of these options, prepare a USB cable for your tablet or computer after brainstorming, drafting, and writing.
This distraction-free writing device can be found on Amazon. It uses AA batteries and can run for months.
2. BYOK
Wondering what exactly BYOK is? That’s a gist for another day! BYOK is a cool, fantastic, distraction-free writing device. It’s that device every serious writer must have in their workstation.
Okay, your gist arrived so soon: BYOK stands for “Bring Your Own Keyboard.” This device is tiny and has a simple screen to which, regarding the name, you can connect your keyboard.
BYOK is a bit better than AlphaSmart because it is designed to have cloud syncing. What an upgrade!
So, as you write, you’ll get to save your project in the cloud.
3. Freewrite
The Freewrite smart typewriter, an excellent distraction-free writing device, is one device every writer must have.
Like BYOK, Freewrite also syncs to the cloud.
As an e-ink screen and distraction-free device, Freewrite can be correctly called a digital typewriter.
This might be a part you wouldn’t like: It’s a little expensive.
But tell you what? The price tag shouldn’t be a problem if you earn a decent income from writing.
So, do not get bulk at the price tag—it will be worth the price.
4. Pomera
Pomera is on our list of distraction-free writing devices for a good reason.
It’s a great option, too, and we love it.
It is a foldable e-ink pocket device designed for Japanese users. This device isn’t written in English, so it could be difficult for you – if you are far from understanding Japan.
However, reading recently on Reddit, it’s clear that the device is getting better by the day, and the base price tag might not be as expensive as you think.
Alright! In addition to these existing devices, most folks have modified some devices to be less distracted when writing and more focused.
It’s more like making existing devices that aren’t fully designed for distraction-free writing to become one!
Let’s now run through some of these awesome modifications.
5. BOOX Poke5 with Keyboard
BOOX is an excellent brand that designs many e-ink devices running the Android operating system, including Poke5!
It’s pretty easy to connect this device with a Bluetooth keyboard.
While you might not be able to get a keyboard that works directly with the device when trying to connect with USB-C, you can still work around this.
You can download apps that help you sync to the cloud, such as Google Docs. Thus, this device can be considered a Freewrite alternative.
A small note, though: Writing can be laggy. However, with some tweaking, you can enhance the performance.
So, it’s all a win-win situation for you!
6. SolarWriter
SolarWriter is a unique digital tool that facilitates distraction-free writing, especially in bright outdoor environments. Unlike traditional standalone devices, SolarWriter is an application available for both Android and iOS platforms.
It enables users to connect a Bluetooth keyboard to their smartphone or tablet, which then acts as a hub between the keyboard and an e-reader, such as a Kindle.
The setup involves running SolarWriter on your mobile device, connecting your Bluetooth keyboard to it, and then accessing a specific web address provided by the app through the e-reader’s web browser.
This configuration allows the text you type to appear simultaneously on your mobile device and the e-reader’s e-ink screen, making it ideal for writing in sunlight without the glare issues associated with standard screens.
While this setup leverages your smartphone or tablet, the primary writing interface is the e-ink display of the e-reader, which minimizes potential distractions from notifications or other apps on your mobile device.
Detailed setup instructions are provided within the app to guide users through the process.
7. Remarkable with Keyboard
This tool is also great for functioning as a distraction-free writing device.
As an e-ink tablet, you only need a keyboard connected to this device to get your writing done without distraction.
It’s a great way to write more and focus better as you write.
8. Kobowriter
As an open-source project, Kobowriter, a distraction-free writing device, is an excellent tool for writers who want to focus more.
Kobowriter doesn’t provide power.
Therefore, users are required to supply the keyboard with power. This will make it usable and last longer.
A power bank of 100,000 mah should be able to power the device. In fact, something lesser can work very well with it.
Choosing the Right Distraction-free Writing Device
Here are some tips to consider if you want to make sure you are picking the right distraction-free writing device:
For Optimum Distraction-free Writing Experience
AlphaSmart and Remarkable offer the most focused and streamlined environment, perfect for anyone willing to avoid the temptation of multitasking.
So, if you seek something highly focused, either will give you what you need.
In addition, you might specifically narrow down your search to a device that offers the best distraction-free experience.
For Blending Note-taking and Reading
Additionally, if you want to blend note-taking and reading, you can pair Amazon Scribe and Kindle, integrating them.
Book lovers will enjoy the dedicated space to take notes while you read.
For Flexibility
The Boox offers more customization while ensuring a distraction-free writing environment.
It can be tailored to all your needs, utilizing it for light multitasking and focused writing when needed. It’s a combination of ease and access!
What if you don’t have the funds to purchase any of these devices? Don’t sweat; you can tap a few insights from some of our team members.
Alternatives to Distraction-Free Writing Devices
Here are some alternatives to some of the devices we highlighted in this article
1. Turn off Notifications
The fact is, the main culprit for distractions when writing is notifications!
Whether on socials or other apps, the most essential step to silencing those distractions is to silence them.
If you have to use your phone for brainstorming, drafting, or writing, here are a few tips to silence your notifications:
- Put your phone on DND
- Turn off notifications for apps likely to distract you when you write on your mobile phone or tablet.
- If DND is too extreme, silent mode will be great.
2. Focus Mode
Did you know that virtually all smartphones have focus mode?
Simisola, quoted earlier, explained: “Sometimes, I block out these notifications using some settings like focus mode.”
That’s an impressive step. Using focus mode on your mobile phone is an incredible alternative to distraction-free devices.
The primary function of this feature on a smartphone is to reduce distractions through notifications and app access.
This feature is available both on Android and Apple.
It’s a saving feature for most of our team members and can be for you, too!
3. Freezing Apps
Khadijat, mentioned at the outset, also found a way around her distractions. In her words, she said: “I do freeze my apps.”
Yeah, that can be an easy way out of the challenges of being distracted when writing with your mobile devices.
You can download several distraction-free writing apps from the Play Store to help you achieve this, such as maintaining focus and enhancing productivity.
4. Google Docs Offline
When connected to the internet, the opportunities for distractions abound.
Hence, most writers have decided to turn off internet connections and write their thoughts without distractions.
While several word processors can work offline, you can be addicted to the Google Doc interface.
It’s okay; most of us do it at The Exquisite Writers. Hence, we recommend turning on Google Docs offline so you can enjoy all the features and maintain focus.
This feature is an excellent way to write without an internet connection.
You can reduce your distraction to the barest minimum.
With Google Docs offline, writing, editing, and even saving files offline is possible.
After you are done writing, you can connect to the internet and edit your content. That is a breeze.
5. Use Wordcounter.net
Trust, one of our team members, is a big fan of this website and isn’t slowing down. Trust found this classic app when searching for an online word counter.
While Wordcounter is designed for counting words, it does more—an app where you can write, edit, and save content.
It has space for saving 20 different projects!
Wordcounter allows you to work offline, just as Google Docs does.
When you turn off your internet connection, you can work without interruption!
Of course, these alternatives to distraction-free writing devices can only try, but they are not strictly designed to block out distractions.
In the following subheading, let’s discuss why you should invest in a distraction-free writing device.
Why Invest in a Distraction-free Writing Device?
Frankly speaking, Turning on DND is a big step into freeing yourself from distractions.
Its primary goal is to minimize interruptions from the notifications you receive, but it wouldn’t eliminate the potential for self-distraction.
While DND is on, you can still access WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, games, and other internet and social apps.
It can be daunting to cope with these apps as they can disrupt your writing activities.
Moreover, phones are designed for multitasking and media consumption. What does that mean?
This means that it is not intended to provide a focused writing experience.
As a result, writing for an extended period on the phone, iPad, or other smart devices can negatively impact your focus ability, hindering your natural writing!
The best writing experience is one that isn’t interrupted and allows the flow of one’s thoughts in a remarkable way.
Hence, we recommend that you invest in any of the distraction-free writing devices highlighted in this article.
Final Thoughts
With so many distractions on your way, you can fight it with the right distraction-free writing devices.
If you have the resources, explore the list of these devices and get one for yourself to enjoy writing without interruption.
If you just want to get started without using any of the devices, learn the tips discussed above.
But do know that it has its limitations. However, you will do more with devices customized to minimize distractions!
Yes, happy writing without distraction, and enjoy the bliss that comes with the natural flow of your thoughts.