10Best.Guide

Gel Pen

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Smooth writing
  • Good color variety
  • No smearing
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Quick drying
Cons
  • Not true red ink
  • Gold/yellow color hard to see on some paper
Bottom Line
The Pentel EnerGel pens are a great choice for those looking for smooth writing, good color variety, and quick drying. They are comfortable to hold and great for color coding, journaling, and teachers. However, the red ink is not true red and the gold/yellow color can be hard to see on some paper.
Pros
  • Smooth ink flow
  • Multiple colors
  • Retractable
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Dries quickly
Cons
  • Some colors don't work consistently
  • Ink can be tricky
Bottom Line
The Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens are a great choice for those who want smooth ink flow, multiple colors, and a comfortable grip. However, some colors may not work consistently and the ink can be tricky.
Pros
  • Feels good in the hand
  • Nice gel ink
  • Comes in different point sizes and colors
  • Smooth continuous flow
  • Great for writing a lot
Cons
  • Gel ink can easily smear
  • Packaging can be damaged during shipping
Bottom Line
The Pilot G-2 pens are a great choice for those who prefer gel ink pens with different point sizes and colors. However, buyers should be aware of the potential for smearing and packaging issues during shipping.
Pros
  • Vibrant colors
  • Comfortable to write with
  • Smear-resistant
  • Quick-drying ink
  • Smooth writing
Cons
  • Inconsistent packaging
  • May not work well on thin paper
Bottom Line
These BIC Gel-ocity pens are a great choice for those who want vibrant, comfortable, and durable pens for note-taking and journaling. However, they may not be the best choice for those who need pens for art/crafts/coloring or for use on thin paper.
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.

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

Overview

Gel pens are a popular writing instrument that provides a smooth and comfortable writing experience. They come in a variety of colors, tip sizes, and ink types, making them a versatile tool for writing, drawing, and coloring. In this buying guide, we will explore the different types of gel pens, key considerations when choosing a gel pen, features to look for, prices, tips for using gel pens, and frequently asked questions.

Types

1. Ballpoint Gel Pens: Ballpoint gel pens have a ball at the tip that rolls across the paper, releasing ink as it goes. They are known for their smooth writing and quick-drying ink.

2. Rollerball Gel Pens: Rollerball gel pens have a rollerball at the tip that allows for a more fluid and consistent ink flow. They are ideal for writing and drawing with precision.

3. Retractable Gel Pens: Retractable gel pens have a mechanism that allows the tip to retract into the barrel when not in use. They are convenient and easy to use, making them a popular choice for everyday writing.

4. Refillable Gel Pens: Refillable gel pens allow you to replace the ink cartridge when it runs out, reducing waste and saving money in the long run.

Key Considerations

1. Ink Type: Gel pens come in different ink types, including water-based, oil-based, and hybrid. Water-based ink is ideal for everyday use and dries quickly, while oil-based ink is more resistant to water and smudging. Hybrid ink combines the best of both worlds, offering quick-drying and water-resistant properties.

2. Tip Size: Gel pens come in different tip sizes, ranging from ultra-fine to bold. The tip size you choose will depend on your writing style and the type of work you will be using the gel pen for.

3. Barrel Material: Gel pens come in different barrel materials, including plastic, metal, and rubber. The material you choose will affect the pen's weight, grip, and overall durability.

Features

1. Ergonomic Design: Gel pens with an ergonomic design provide a comfortable grip and reduce hand fatigue, making them ideal for long writing sessions.

2. Ink Colors: Gel pens come in a wide range of colors, allowing you to choose the perfect shade for your project.

3. Durability: Look for gel pens that are durable and long-lasting, with a sturdy tip and a strong barrel.

Prices

Gel pens are available at a range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end pens. Prices will vary depending on the brand, type, and features of the gel pen.

Tips

1. Store gel pens horizontally to prevent the ink from settling at the bottom of the pen.

2. Avoid applying too much pressure when writing, as this can cause the ink to smudge.

3. Experiment with different tip sizes and ink colors to find the perfect gel pen for your needs.

FAQs

Q: Are gel pens waterproof?

A: Gel pens with oil-based ink are more resistant to water and smudging than those with water-based ink.

Q: Can gel pens be used on glossy paper?

A: Yes, gel pens can be used on glossy paper, but it may take longer for the ink to dry.

Q: Do gel pens last long?

A: Gel pens can last for months or even years, depending on the frequency of use and the quality of the pen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gel pens are a versatile and popular writing instrument that provides a smooth and comfortable writing experience. When choosing a gel pen, consider the type, ink type, tip size, barrel material, and features to find the perfect pen for your needs. With the tips and information provided in this buying guide, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the benefits of a high-quality gel pen.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Versatile and convenient to use.
  • Smooth ink flow.
  • Dependable and consistent.
  • Refillable.
  • Bold and visible ink.
Cons
  • Ink can skip or smudge.
  • Ink may run out quickly.
Bottom Line
The PILOT G2 Premium Refillable & Retractable Rolling Ball Gel Pens are a versatile and convenient option for those who value smooth ink flow and dependability. While some users may experience issues with skipping or smudging ink, the pens are refillable and offer bold and visible ink. However, users should be aware that the ink may run out quickly and may smear if not given time to dry.
Pros
  • Writes smoothly
  • Does not bleed through paper
  • Great for labeling
  • Bright and vibrant colors
  • No grip by the base keeps it sturdy in the hand
Cons
  • Some pens fall apart easily
  • Inconsistent ink flow
Bottom Line
These pens are a good choice for those who prioritize smooth writing and vibrant colors, but they may not be the most durable or consistent option.
Pros
  • Great color options
  • Glittery and sparkly
  • Good for coloring, journaling, doodling, note-taking, and art work
  • Pens blend well and coordinate with each other
  • Pens have a tactile feel
Cons
  • Some pens are less than half full
  • Some pens bleed terribly
Bottom Line
This set of 100 glitter gel pens offers a wide variety of colors that are great for coloring, journaling, doodling, note-taking, and art work. The pens have a tactile feel and don't dry out easily. However, some pens are less than half full, bleed terribly, skip or don't flow evenly with the ink, don't work or have bad ink, have broken caps, and some colors are missing.
Pros
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Smooth writing
  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Great ink quality
  • Metal barrel adds weight and durability
Cons
  • Ink skips
  • Some pens fall apart easily
Bottom Line
The Sharpie S-Gel pens with metal barrels are a great choice for those looking for a comfortable, smooth writing experience with durable pens. However, some pens may have issues with skipping or falling apart easily, and the search algorithm can be misleading. Additionally, some may prefer pens made in the USA.
Pros
  • Smooth writing experience
  • Ink dries immediately
  • Good for signing credit cards
  • Provides a deep color of ink
  • Writes smoothly and thickly
Cons
  • Scratchy nib
  • Inconsistent ink flow
Bottom Line
Sharpie pens are a good option for those who prioritize smooth writing and quick-drying ink. However, they may not be suitable for those who need consistent lines or a precise writing experience.
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