10Best.Guide

Ink Pens

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
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
  • Great value for the price
  • Smooth writing experience
  • Comes in a large quantity
  • Good for donating to schools or group homes
  • Easy to hold and don't smear
Cons
  • Poor packaging from Amazon
  • Ink may dry out over time
Bottom Line
The BIC Round Stic Ballpoint Pens are a great value for those who need a large quantity of pens for work or school. They write smoothly and are easy to hold, but may have issues with packaging and ink drying out over time.
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
  • 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
  • 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.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Ink Pens: Types, Key Considerations, Features, Prices, Tips & FAQs

Overview

Ink pens are a popular choice for those who love writing, drawing, or calligraphy. They come in a variety of styles, ink types, and price ranges, making it easy to find one that suits your needs. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this buying guide, we'll explore the different types of ink pens available, key considerations to keep in mind when choosing one, features to look for, prices to expect, tips for using and maintaining your ink pen, and frequently asked questions.

Types

1. Fountain Pens: Fountain pens use a nib and ink reservoir to create a smooth, flowing writing experience. They come in a range of nib sizes, from fine to broad, and are often used for calligraphy, art, or personal writing.

2. Ballpoint Pens: Ballpoint pens use a small ball bearing to dispense ink onto the paper. They are a popular choice for everyday writing and are often refillable.

3. Rollerball Pens: Rollerball pens use a ball bearing and water-based ink to create a smooth and consistent writing experience. They are often used for note-taking, journaling, or personal writing.

4. Gel Pens: Gel pens use a water-based gel ink that creates a bold and vibrant line. They are often used for coloring, drawing, or personal writing.

5. Fine Point Pens: Fine point pens have a narrow tip that creates a precise and thin line. They are often used for technical drawing, note-taking, or personal writing.

6. Bold Point Pens: Bold point pens have a wider tip that creates a thicker and bolder line. They are often used for highlighting, calligraphy, or personal writing.

Key Considerations

1. Use: Consider what you will be using the ink pen for, such as writing, drawing, or calligraphy.

2. Ink Type: Consider the type of ink you prefer, such as water-based, oil-based, or gel.

3. Nib Size: Consider the size of the nib you prefer, such as fine or broad.

4. Grip Style: Consider the grip style you prefer, such as rubber or metal.

Features

1. Refillable: Some ink pens are refillable, which can save you money in the long run.

2. Disposable: Some ink pens are disposable, which can be more convenient for those who don't want to worry about refilling ink.

3. Ink Colors: Some ink pens come in a variety of colors, allowing for more creative expression.

4. Ink Types: Some ink pens use specific types of ink, such as archival or waterproof ink.

Prices

Ink pens can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the brand, style, and features. Generally, ballpoint pens and rollerball pens are more affordable, while fountain pens and high-end gel pens can be more expensive.

Tips

1. Store your ink pen in a cool and dry place to prevent ink from drying out.

2. Clean your ink pen regularly to prevent clogging.

3. Experiment with different nib sizes and ink types to find your preferred writing style.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a ballpoint pen and a rollerball pen?

A: A ballpoint pen uses a small ball bearing to dispense ink, while a rollerball pen uses a ball bearing and water-based ink to create a smoother writing experience.

Q: Are fountain pens difficult to use?

A: Fountain pens can take some practice to use, but once you get the hang of it, they can provide a unique and enjoyable writing experience.

Q: Can I use different types of ink in the same pen?

A: It is not recommended to mix different types of ink in the same pen, as it can cause clogging or damage to the pen.

Q: How do I clean my ink pen?

A: To clean your ink pen, run warm water through the nib and refill the ink cartridge if necessary. You can also use a specialized pen cleaner if needed.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right ink pen can be a fun and rewarding experience. By considering your needs, preferences, and budget, you can find the perfect writing instrument for your needs. Whether you prefer a classic fountain pen or a modern gel pen, there is an ink pen out there for everyone.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Smooth writing
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Ink is dark but does not bleed through the page
  • Lasts longer and does not smear
  • Ink life is lengthy
Cons
  • Scratchy
  • Slow to dry
Bottom Line
The Sharpie Gel Pens are a great addition to any pen collection, with smooth writing and comfortable grip. However, they may not be suitable for lefties and have occasional issues with scratchiness and slow drying.
Pros
  • Good quality for the price
  • Comfortable grip
  • Smooth ink flow
  • Value for money
  • Good for everyday use
Cons
  • Some pens stop working after a few uses
  • Cap may not come off correctly
Bottom Line
These BIC pens are a great value for everyday use with a comfortable grip and smooth ink flow. However, some pens may stop working after a few uses and there have been issues with the cap and ink part.
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.
Pros
  • Erasable ink works well
  • Good for changing passwords or updating notes
  • Great for drawing or writing with students
  • Ink disappears when exposed to heat
  • Convenient clip design
Cons
  • Some pens break easily
  • Ink may look like it's running out
Bottom Line
The Pilot FriXion erasable pens are a great option for those who need to make frequent changes to their notes or drawings. While some pens may break or stop working prematurely, the erasable ink works well and leaves no shadow when erased. However, the pens may not be the best option for use with a Rocketbook and may have a short lifespan.
Pros
  • Writes smoothly and cleanly
  • Inexpensive
  • Retractable with clip
  • Good for art
  • Gel ink doesn't streak
Cons
  • Ink skips and fades
  • Build quality is average
Bottom Line
These pens are a good value for those who need a lot of pens and don't mind some inconsistency in the ink flow. They are not the best quality, but they are inexpensive and work well enough for everyday use.
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