pens: a guide
Whether you're a seasoned writer, a student, or someone who loves the tactile experience of putting pen to paper for a good doodle, graphic novel, or every-day meeting, the type of pen you choose can make all the difference in your writing experience. There’s a wide array of pens available, each with its own unique characteristics, advantages, and drawbacks. Understanding the differences can help you find the perfect pen for your needs.
Ballpoint Pens
Ballpoint pens are the most commonly used and widely available pens. They use a thick, oil-based ink that dries quickly, making them ideal for everyday use. The ink is dispensed through a small ball bearing in the tip that rotates as you write, spreading the ink smoothly on the paper. You can learn more about the advent of the ballpoint pen here.
Advantages
· Affordable, accessible, and available in many colors.
· Long-lasting ink that dries quickly.
· Requires less maintenance compared to other types.
Drawbacks
· The thick ink can sometimes skip, leading to inconsistent lines.
· May require more pressure, which can be tiring for long writing sessions.
· Disposable nature leads to a significant amount of plastic waste to the tune of 1.6 billion pens tossed per year.
Gel
Gel pens use a water-based gel ink, offering a smoother writing experience with more vibrant colors than ballpoint pens. The ink tends to be more opaque, making it ideal for writing on dark or glossy surfaces.
Advantages
· Smooth writing experience with minimal effort.
· Typically offers a variety of pen tips for thinner (or bolder) lines.
· The ink is less likely to smudge once dry.
Drawbacks
· Ink can run out quickly, especially if the pen is heavily used.
· Can smudge if not allowed to dry properly.
Rollerball Pens
Rollerball pens combine the convenience of ballpoint pens with the fluid writing experience of fountain pens. They use water-based ink, which flows more freely than the thicker oil-based ink in ballpoints. Some of the most popular pens in the office supply market (hellooooo Pilot G2’s!) are rollerball pens!
Advantages
· Smooth and effortless writing with minimal pressure.
· Often more comfortable for long writing sessions.
· Rich, deep ink color that is easy to read.
Drawbacks
· Prone to smudging, especially on glossy or coated paper.
· The ink may bleed through thin paper.
· Shorter lifespan than ballpoint pens due to faster ink consumption.
Fountain Pens
Fountain pens are a favorite among writing enthusiasts and calligraphers. They use water-based liquid ink, which is drawn into the nib through a combination of gravity and capillary action. Once the standard for all writers — prior to the advent of alternatives — the fountain pen lost popularity when less expensive options were made available. Today, fountain pens are produced by a variety of brands with price points ranging from $5 to $500!
Advantages
· Elegant and customizable writing experience.
· Refillable, reducing waste and long-term costs.
· Available in various nib sizes for different writing styles.
Drawback
· Requires more maintenance, including cleaning and refilling.
· Ink can smudge if not handled carefully.
· Typically more expensive and less portable than other pen types.
· Requires heavier paper to avoid transfer/bleeding to other pages.
Marker Pens
Marker pens, also known as felt-tip pens, come in a variety of types, from fine-tipped markers for writing to broad-tipped ones for art and design. They use porous tips to dispense ink, which is often alcohol- or water-based. Marker pens elegantly dance the line between writing and art supplies.
Advantages
· Versatile, with options for writing, drawing, and coloring.
· Available in a wide range of colors and tip sizes.
· Often permanent and resistant to water and fading.
Drawbacks
· Can bleed through thin paper.
· The ink dries out if the cap is left off.
· Some marker inks have a strong odor.
Brush Pens
Brush pens are popular in calligraphy and art for their flexible, brush-like tips that allow for dynamic line variation. They use water-based or pigment-based ink, offering precision and control for artists.
Advantages
· Ideal for calligraphy and art, with expressive line work.
· Available in various tip firmness levels.
· Refillable options reduce long-term costs.
Drawbacks
· Requires practice to master the technique.
· Ink can smudge or bleed on certain types of paper.
Choosing the right pen depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize the ease of use, vibrant colors, or the tactile pleasure of writing, there’s a pen out there that’s perfect for you. Experimenting with different types can enhance your writing experience and make every stroke on paper a joy.
