10Best.Guide

Black Pens

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Super comfortable grip and ease of writing.
  • Ink tubes last for a long time.
  • Highly legible fine line for small spaces.
  • Writes smoothly without skipping or smudging.
  • Waterproof, dust proof, and mud proof.
Cons
  • Ink globs and smears.
  • Some pens write intermittently.
Bottom Line
The Pentel RSVP pens are comfortable to use, have long-lasting ink tubes, and are highly legible for small spaces. However, some pens may have issues with ink globs, intermittently writing, and faulty ink. Overall, they are a good choice for those who prioritize comfort and legibility.
Pros
  • Bold and long-lasting.
  • Consistent line size.
  • Makes handwriting look professional.
  • Helps with visibility in low light.
  • Good for artwork.
Cons
  • Poor packaging and shipping.
  • Inconsistent quality control.
Bottom Line
The Papermate Flair Pens are a great option for those looking for a bold, consistent, and professional writing experience. However, buyers should be aware of potential issues with packaging, quality control, and ink leakage.
Pros
  • Smooth and comfortable to hold
  • Good weight and comfortable grip
  • Ink is clear and doesn't smear
  • Nice, hard point for when you need it
  • Reasonable price for the amount you receive
Cons
  • Pens don't flow well as soon as you start to use them
  • Ink skips while writing
Bottom Line
The Pentel R.S.V.P pens are a great option for those who prefer a smooth and comfortable writing experience. However, some users have reported issues with ink flow and skipping.
Pros
  • Smooth writing experience
  • Dark and rich ink
  • Ink dries quickly
  • Long-lasting
  • Gel-based ink doesn't bleed through paper
Cons
  • Ink may bleed through paper
  • Ball protector on the end is hard to remove
Bottom Line
The Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens offer a smooth writing experience with dark and rich ink that dries quickly and doesn't smudge. However, the ink may bleed through paper and the 0.7mm point size may be too large for some.
Pros
  • Smooth writing experience
  • Bold point for clear writing
  • True to color
  • Comfortable grip
  • Good for printing and slow cursive
Cons
  • Some colors don't write well on most kinds of paper
  • Skipping issues with some pens
Bottom Line
These PaperMate Profile pens offer a smooth and comfortable writing experience with a bold point, but some colors may not write well on certain types of paper and there may be quality control issues.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Black Pens: Types, Features, Prices and Tips

Overview

Black pens are a staple for any writing or drawing needs. They are versatile, reliable, and come in a variety of types and styles. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right black pen. In this buying guide, we will take a closer look at the different types of black pens, key considerations when choosing a pen, features to look for, prices, tips to consider, and frequently asked questions.

Types

1. Ballpoint Pens - Ballpoint pens are the most common type of pen. They use a small ball bearing to dispense ink onto the paper. They are available in a range of point sizes, from fine to bold, and are often refillable.

2. Gel Pens - Gel pens use a water-based ink that is thicker than ballpoint ink. They are known for their smooth writing and vibrant colors, and are available in a range of point sizes.

3. Rollerball Pens - Rollerball pens use a liquid ink that flows more freely than ballpoint ink. They are known for their smooth writing and are available in a range of point sizes.

4. Fountain Pens - Fountain pens use a nib to dispense ink onto the paper. They are known for their smooth writing and are often used for calligraphy and other artistic purposes.

5. Ink Pens - Ink pens use a dip or cartridge system to dispense ink onto the paper. They are often used for calligraphy and other artistic purposes.

Key Considerations

1. Point Size - Consider the point size of the pen. Fine point pens are best for detailed work, while bold point pens are best for large writing or drawing.

2. Ink Type - Consider the type of ink the pen uses. Ballpoint ink is more versatile, while gel and rollerball inks offer smoother writing.

3. Purpose - Consider the purpose of the pen. Will it be used for writing or drawing? Will it be used for everyday use or artistic purposes?

Features

1. Retractable - Retractable pens have a mechanism that allows the pen tip to retract into the pen body, protecting the tip and preventing ink from drying out.

2. Disposable - Disposable pens are designed to be used and thrown away once the ink runs out.

3. Refillable - Refillable pens allow you to replace the ink cartridge or refill the ink, making them more environmentally friendly.

4. Ergonomic - Ergonomic pens are designed to be comfortable to hold and reduce hand fatigue.

5. Grip - Pens with a grip provide a comfortable and secure hold, reducing hand fatigue and improving control.

Prices

Black pens are available at a range of price points, from budget-friendly to high-end. Ballpoint pens and disposable pens are typically the most affordable, while fountain pens and high-quality gel pens can be more expensive.

Tips

1. Test the pen before buying - Try out the pen before buying to ensure it feels comfortable and writes well.

2. Consider the ink color - Some black pens have a warmer or cooler tone to the ink, so consider the color if you need a specific tone.

3. Consider the longevity of the pen - If you plan to use the pen frequently, consider a refillable or high-quality pen that will last longer.

4. Store the pen properly - Store the pen in a cool, dry place with the tip facing up to prevent the ink from drying out.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between ballpoint and gel pens?

A: Gel pens use a water-based ink that is thicker and smoother than ballpoint ink.

Q: What is the best point size for everyday use?

A: A medium point size is best for everyday use.

Q: Can fountain pens be used for everyday writing?

A: Yes, fountain pens can be used for everyday writing, but they require more maintenance than other types of pens.

Q: Are black pens waterproof?

A: Some black pens are waterproof, but not all. Check the pen specifications to see if it is waterproof.

Q: Are black pens non-toxic?

A: Most black pens are non-toxic, but check the pen specifications to be sure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right black pen depends on your needs and preferences. Consider the type of pen, key considerations, features, prices, and tips to find the best black pen for your writing or drawing needs.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Comfortable grip for prolonged use
  • Smooth writing
  • Good value for the money
  • Ink flows nicely
  • Dependable with a continuous flow of ink
Cons
  • Package arrived damaged with missing pens
  • Some pens arrived dried out
Bottom Line
These pens are a good value for the money and have a comfortable grip for prolonged use. However, there have been issues with inconsistent quality and damaged packaging upon delivery.
Pros
  • Bold and smooth writing
  • Long-lasting ink
  • Gel ink provides protection against check fraud
  • Available in different sizes
  • Great for people with low vision
Cons
  • Ink smudges on certain types of paper
  • Expensive compared to other pens
Bottom Line
Pilot G2 pens are a great choice for those who want bold, smooth writing and long-lasting ink. However, they may not work well on all types of paper and can be more expensive than other pens. It's important to choose the right type of G2 pen and be aware of potential inconsistencies in flow and appearance.
Pros
  • Comfortable grip
  • Ink flow is just right
  • Retractable
  • Convenient
  • Can write anywhere
Cons
  • Scratchy
  • Ink dies out in the middle of writing
Bottom Line
The Pilot G2 retractable pens are comfortable, convenient, and come in a variety of colors. However, they can be scratchy and the ink may die out in the middle of writing.
Pros
  • Smooth writing
  • Comfortable grip
  • Good value for the price
  • Dark ink
  • No smudging
Cons
  • Inconsistent ink
  • Fades quickly
Bottom Line
The Papermate InkJoy gel pens are a good value for everyday use with smooth writing and a comfortable grip. However, the ink can be inconsistent and some pens may not work properly. They are comparable to G2 pens in terms of reliability and writability.
Pros
  • Great for note-taking and journaling
  • Smooth writing and no smudging
  • Perfect for fine detailed writing
  • Well-known brand manufacturer of quality permanent marking tools
  • Literally the best pens ever bought
Cons
  • May bleed on some paper types
  • Quality control and reliability issues
Bottom Line
These pens are perfect for those who prefer fine-tipped pens for note-taking and journaling. However, be mindful of the paper type and quality control issues. Overall, they are a great addition to any writing collection.
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