Pens to Write With

Kathleen Underwood
13 min readSep 13, 2024

If you're looking for the perfect pen to write with, you're in the right place! Our latest article, "Pens To Write With, " features a roundup of top-rated pens designed to meet your writing needs. From sleek ballpoint pens to comfortable gel pens, we've got you covered. Get ready to discover your new go-to writing instrument!

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Reviews

Dependable Write Bros Ballpoint Pens - Medium Black Ink Dozen

Dependable Write Bros Ballpoint Pens — Medium Black Ink Dozen | Image

I gave the Paper Mate Write Bros Ballpoint Stick Pen a spin recently, and let me tell you, this pen has got some serious writing power. One of the highlights for me was its 1 mm nib size, which was just perfect for adding some precision to my doodles. The ink had a velvety smoothness to it, making it a dream to scribble on paper.

Now, I'm a firm believer in comfort for extended writing sessions. The thick barrel and long grips on the Write Bros Ballpoint Stick Pen were like a cushy couch for my hand - oh man, was it comfortable! And, to keep it from rolling away when I laid it down, the cap stayed put, unlike some of the other pens I've used.

But all's not perfect, right? I have to say, I did have a little trouble with how quickly the ink dried. Now, I'm not much of a calligrapher, so my handwriting is usually a mess. But the Write Bros Ballpoint Stick Pen made it even messier with all those ink smears.

In conclusion, the Paper Mate Write Bros Ballpoint Stick Pen is a pretty solid writing companion. The nib size was spot on, the ink was smooth, and the grip was super comfy. However, I noticed the ink dried a tad too quickly for my liking, which caused a few smears in my doodles.

12-Pack Retractable Black Ballpoint Pens - Ultra-smooth Ink, Comforting Grip, and Smudge-proof

12-Pack Retractable Black Ballpoint Pens — Ultra-smooth Ink, Comforting Grip, and Smudge-proof | Image

Introducing the Basics 12-pack Retractable Ballpoint Pen set in black, designed for easy writing and remarkable clarity. Made from top-quality ink pigments, these pens offer smudge-proof and durable performance.

The non-slip, latex-free rubber body ensures a comfortable grip, while the sleek design and ease-to-use retraction push button adds to the convenience. With a bold 1.2mm point, this pen is perfect for everyday use and can effortlessly glide through your notes, documents, and tasks. With a compact size of 5.71 x 0.39 x 0.55 inches, this set allows you to take your writing tools everywhere you go.

Translation: Basics 12-pack Retractable Ballpoint Pen set in black offers you the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and reliability.

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens - 10 Assorted Colors

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens — 10 Assorted Colors | Image

Brighten up your writing with the Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, featuring a sleek 0.7mm style that dries super fast to prevent smearing. These pens are ergonomically designed with a comfortable grip and come in a variety of vibrant colors to keep your ideas flowing across the page. The click pens retract into the barrel, making them easy to store and use.

Each pack includes 10 assorted gel pens, perfect for doodling or color coding your notes for easier reference later.

Customizable Colorful Ballpoint Pens with Free Engraving

Customizable Colorful Ballpoint Pens with Free Engraving | Image

Dress up your stationery game with these vibrant and eye-catching pens from Qingxily. With the option to customize the number and color of these pens, you can create a personalized touch with your name or a special message.

Its sleek design and comfortable grip make it an excellent choice for daily use or as a thoughtful gift for any occasion. Choose from nine colors and fonts to make your mark and showcase your unique style.

Matte Olive Ridge Bolt Action Pen

Matte Olive Ridge Bolt Action Pen | Image

The Ridge Bolt Action Pen in Matte Olive is a sleek and stylish writing instrument that offers a smooth and effortless writing experience. Its even weight distribution along the entire pen ensures a comfortable grip and smooth flow of ink.

This pen not only boasts a high-quality construction but also a pleasing matte finish that adds to its visual appeal. Users have praised its durability, comfort, and stylish design, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and attractive pen. With its user-friendly bolt action mechanism and versatile color options, the Ridge Bolt Action Pen is definitely a must-have accessory for any enthusiast looking to add an elegant touch to their daily routine.

U Brands Laguna Bountiful Bouquet Ballpoint Pens for Unique Writing Experience

U Brands Laguna Bountiful Bouquet Ballpoint Pens for Unique Writing Experience | Image

I recently tried the U Brands 6pk Ballpoint Pens in Black Ink Laguna Bountiful Bouquet, and let me tell you, they're more than just a writing tool. These delightful pens came in a pack of six, each one featuring a unique print that instantly put me in a good mood. The U-clip was a nice touch, making it easy to attach them to anything from a bag to a notebook.

The lightweight design of these pens was a pleasant surprise, making them perfect for long writing sessions or when you're on the go. The bold ballpoint tip delivered smooth and dark lines that made my writing stand out. I loved that the ink was non-toxic, ensuring a safe and environmentally-friendly choice.

While I didn't find any major drawbacks with these pens, I did notice that the ink could smudge a bit if you were not careful. But overall, the U Brands 6pk Ballpoint Pens in Black Ink Laguna Bountiful Bouquet was a delightful addition to my daily life, helping me elevate my writing experience with their charming prints and smooth performance.

Effortless InkJoy Ball Point Pens for Smooth Writing - 8 Assorted Colors

Effortless InkJoy Ball Point Pens for Smooth Writing — 8 Assorted Colors | Image

Experience the joy of writing with Paper Mate's InkJoy pens, designed to provide you with the best in effortless writing. These retractable medium point pens feature a smooth ink flow and require minimal pressure from your hand, ensuring crisp, clean lines every time.

The extended rubberized grip offers optimal comfort during use, while the sturdy metal clip ensures long-lasting durability. The transparent color-tinted body not only adds elegance but also enhances your writing experience. Embrace the advanced ink system for vivid colors and a quality writing experience.

Comfortable and Efficient Blue Ink Pilot EasyTouch Pen

Comfortable and Efficient Blue Ink Pilot EasyTouch Pen | Image

As a writer, I understand the value of a good pen. The Pilot EasyTouch Ballpoint Stick Pen, with its blue ink and 1mm tip, has been a reliable companion in my daily life. Its quick-drying ink provides an exceptional writing experience, and the translucent barrel offers a convenient way to monitor the ink level, so I'm never caught off guard. The lightweight, comfortable rubber grip is a game-changer when it comes to reducing hand fatigue during long writing sessions.

However, one downside is that the ink can sometimes bleed through the paper, especially when writing on delicate surfaces. Additionally, the pen caps have a tendency to fall off while writing, which can be quite frustrating. These cons are balanced by the pros, and overall, the Pilot EasyTouch Ballpoint Stick Pen is a great choice for everyday use. Its ease of refilling and the availability of different colors make it a versatile and practical option.

Rifle Paper Co. Strawberry Fields Writing Pen - Spring Inspiration for Home Offices

Rifle Paper Co. Strawberry Fields Writing Pen — Spring Inspiration for Home Offices | Image

Spend a morning brightened by this charming writing pen from Rifle Paper Co. The Strawberry Fields offering is a delight to the eye, with a brass tip and a metal body that exudes sophistication and ease of use.

Measuring in at 13.6 cm long, it comfortably slots into your bag, and its coordinating letter file folders are the perfect pairing for your desk setup. With a refillable Kaco G2 0.5mm gel ink cartridge, this pen is always ready for your next project, whether it's a quick grocery list or a heartfelt thank-you letter.

Crafted in the USA, it showcases your devotion to both style and quality.

Smooth Gel Ink Knock Type Ballpoint Pen for Office Use

Smooth Gel Ink Knock Type Ballpoint Pen for Office Use | Image

The Smooth Gel Ink Knock Type Ballpoint Pen is a sleek and comfortable choice for your daily writing needs. With a 0.5mm lead inside, it promises to be versatile and ideal for use at home, in the office, or at school. The universal design allows you to choose between regular gel ink or smooth writing gel ink refills, making it super convenient for various purposes.

My personal experience with this pen was quite enjoyable. The ink flows smoothly and the pen glides effortlessly over the paper, which is perfect for writing or drawing. I found the grip to be just right, not too tight or loose, providing great control when using the pen.

However, there were a couple of minor negatives I noticed. Firstly, the pen's tip seemed a bit rough initially, and there was a slight wobble when writing, but this issue faded over time as I became more familiar with the pen. Also, the ink didn't appear to dry quickly on certain types of paper, which might be a problem if you're someone who likes to smudge their work or has a quick handwriting style.

Overall, the Smooth Gel Ink Knock Type Ballpoint Pen is a great addition to any writing kit. It has a unique appeal thanks to its smooth gel ink and knock type pen mechanism, and I'd highly recommend giving it a try.

Black Ink Bic Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pens - 10 Pack (1.0 mm Medium Point, Frosted Cap Protection)

Black Ink Bic Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pens — 10 Pack (1.0 mm Medium Point, Frosted Cap Protection) | Image

is a great writing tool to have around, especially for backups or if I misplace a pen. The pen writes smoothly, making it great for everyday use. The quality is quite reasonable for a product at this price, and there are no glaring faults that are bothersome.

The ink flow is consistent and dries quickly, and it doesn't bleed or smear. Despite being a disposable pen, it has a reasonable price point for a pack this bulky. I appreciate that they come in separate packs of black, blue, and red, which adds a pop of color to our ordinary pens.

Overall, I found this pen quite satisfying to use, and I'd recommend it as a simple, dependable writing tool for any setting.

U-Eco Core Speckle Ballpoint Pen with Sustainable Wheat Straw Construction

U-Eco Core Speckle Ballpoint Pen with Sustainable Wheat Straw Construction | Image

I stumbled upon these U Brands 6ct U-Eco Ballpoint Pens while browsing for eco-friendly writing instruments. The idea of using renewable wheat straw intrigued me, so I decided to give them a try in my daily life. The first thing I noticed was the attractive design and the speckles that give a unique touch to each pen.

One of the highlights of these pens is the grip quality, which makes them comfortable to hold and write with. The core material is made from renewable wheat straw, which adds a unique touch to the pens. Unfortunately, I found a couple of downsides. Firstly, the ink quality wasn't the best; it's faint and skips a bit at times. Secondly, some users reported issues with ink leakage.

Overall, the U Brands U-Eco Core Speckle Ballpoint Pens are a nice attempt to promote sustainability in daily life but could benefit from some improvements in the ink formulation. While the design and sustainability aspects are commendable, the writing performance needs work.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our guide on choosing pens for your writing needs. Finding the perfect pen for you can be a daunting task, given the countless options available in the market today. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of essential features, considerations, and general advice for pens. Remember to always prioritize your personal preferences and specific requirements when making your choice.

Material Differences

Material plays a crucial role in determining a pen's quality, durability, and writing comfort. There are three main types of materials: plastic, metal, and wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For those seeking a lightweight, affordable option, plastic pens might be the best choice. On the other hand, metal pens offer better durability and a more professional appearance, while wooden pens offer a natural, eco-friendly alternative. Consider the weight, material durability, and your style preferences when deciding on a pen material.

Writing Tip Options

The writing tip, also known as the tine, affects the ink flow, line thickness, and overall writing experience. There are several tip options available, such as ballpoint, rollerball, and fountain pen. Ballpoint pens are the oldest and most common type of pen, using a small ball to dispense ink. Rollerball pens are similar but feature a smooth, cylindrical tip that glides easily across the paper, leaving a smoother line. Fountain pens use a flexible nib to control ink flow, offering ultimate writing versatility and control. Determine your preferred writing style and ink flow when selecting a pen tip.

Pen Grip Considerations

Choosing the right grip can greatly improve your writing comfort and reduce fatigue. Many pens come with clip-on grips, which allow you to change the grip size according to your comfort. Alternatively, some companies offer interchangeable grip inserts for a more personalized grip experience. You may also want to consider the pen's overall shape, weight, and balance when making your selection.

Ink Types

Ink is another crucial aspect of your writing experience. Different inks have different properties, such as drying speed, dry erase, and smudge resistance. Consider your desired ink properties – waterproof, bright colors, or special effects – when selecting a pen. Always ensure that the ink is appropriate for your intended writing surface, such as paper or board.

FAQ

What makes these pens suitable for writing?

The pens in this roundup are designed to provide smooth writing experience with minimal smudging. They feature high-quality ink that lasts for extended periods, without feathering or bleeding through paper. Their ergonomic design ensures comfortable gripping, reducing the chances of cramping while writing for long periods.

Additionally, the pens come in various colors and styles to cater to different preferences and use cases. This variety allows users to find the perfect pen for personal or professional use, ensuring smooth and efficient writing experiences every time they pick one up to pen down their thoughts or ideas.

Why should someone choose one of these pens over others available on the market?

These pens stand out for their durability and build quality. They are made from premium materials like metal or high-quality plastic, ensuring that they can withstand daily use without showing signs of wear and tear. Moreover, their refillable nature makes them a cost-effective option in the long run, as users can simply replace the ink instead of buying a new pen entirely.

Furthermore, the pens in this roundup have received positive reviews from satisfied customers, who praise their performance and value for money. As a result, they can be considered an excellent choice for anyone looking for reliable and high-quality pens for their writing needs. Selecting one of these pens guarantees a hassle-free and enjoyable writing experience.

Are these pens suitable for left-handed users?

Yes, most of the pens in this roundup are designed with left-handed users in mind. They feature a comfortable grip and smoothly flowing ink, ensuring that they don't smudge or feather when used by left-handed individuals. Additionally, the ink dries quickly on the paper, reducing the chances of smudging or blurring when using these pens.

For those who require left-handed pens specifically, there are also options available within this roundup that cater to their needs. These pens often feature ink wells that provide better control and reduce the chances of smudging, ensuring a comfortable writing experience for left-handed users without compromising on the pen's performance.

Can these pens be used for calligraphy or art?

While these pens are designed primarily for everyday writing, many of them are capable of producing beautiful lines and strokes when used for calligraphy and art. They have flexible nibs that allow for varying line widths and pressure, making them ideal for creative projects and artistic expressions.

For those interested in using these pens for calligraphy or art, it's essential to choose one with suitable ink and a nib that can handle the desired line widths and pressure. It's also important to practice and experiment with different techniques to achieve optimal results. With the right tools and practice, these pens can become valuable assets for creating stunning calligraphy or capturing the essence of a piece of artwork.

Which brand in this roundup is best for ink quality?

Each brand in this roundup offers high-quality ink tailored to provide smooth, even, and long-lasting writing performance. However, certain brands have earned a reputation for consistently providing high-quality ink. Some of these brands include Lamy, Pilot, and Parker, which are known for their ink's durability and consistency.

Ultimately, the best brand for ink quality depends on personal preferences and criteria for choosing a pen. It's recommended to try out multiple brands and ink options to find the one that suits your writing style and preferences the best. This hands-on approach can help you determine which pen and ink combination work best for your specific needs and preferences.

How often should these pens be refilled?

The frequency at which these pens need to be refilled depends on several factors, such as the amount of writing done, the type of ink used, and the user's writing style. Generally, refilling pens on a monthly basis can help ensure optimal performance and extend their lifespan. However, users may need to refill the pens more frequently if they use them heavily or for extended writing sessions.

If you are unsure about when your pen needs a refill, observe the ink flow and quality. A pen that needs refilling usually has a weak flow or produces lines that are uneven or patchy. At this point, it's time to refill the pen with fresh ink to maintain its performance and writing quality. By keeping an eye on your pen's condition and addressing ink depletion promptly, you can prolong the life of these pens and enjoy their smooth writing experience for an extended period.

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