11 Best Fountain Pens To Elevate Your Writing Experience In 2024
wedetso chirhah poulami nag vaswati chatterjee Vaswati holds a master’s degree in English Literature from Rabindra Bharati University. She was an academic researcher before stepping into the web content world, where she has covered subjects including linguistics, administrative and international law, and human resources.
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Add some glamor to your workspace with the most stylish and best fountain pens. They are classy, make a statement, and elevate your writing experience. These sophisticated and elegant pens are durable, long-lasting, eco-friendly, and refillable. They use a capillary system to ensure you experience smooth writing and allow the ink to flow quickly as you press the nib against a paper. Here’s a list of the most stylish fountain pens for you.
Top Picks
11 Best Fountain Pens
1. Best Disposable:Zebra Fuente Fountain Pen Set
The set by Zebra Fuente is a pack of seven pens, each filled with its own unique colored ink. These writing utensils have a sleek and stylish design and feature an innovative ink-delivery system that provides a smooth, non-clogging performance. With a range of vibrant colors to choose from, the set makes it easy to categorize notes and add a pop of color to your writing. These disposable pens are pre-filled and suitable for those who need a reliable pen that’s ready to use at any time.
Pros
- 0.6 mm stainless steel nib
- Vibrant colors
- Minimalistic design
- Ensures smooth and consistent writing
- Delivers up to 1 mm line
Cons
- May not be a calligraphy pen
- Ink may dry out quickly if left uncapped
"These pens have been a dependable find for my everyday writing needs. Their ink is also very vibrant despite boasting unique colors. It's not the best for calligraphy, but it performs well for taking notes and other practical writing tasks."
2. Best Durable: Gullor Four Pcs In Set Gullor 450 Fountain Pen
Also known as the Jinhao X450, these pens are a reliable choice for the potential fountain pen enthusiast and an experienced user. They come with four covers, a black leather pen cover, and four ink converters. Weighing 43.5g, they are one of the heaviest pens available. The nib and feed have been friction-fit into the section, making it simple to remove for cleaning or replacing the nib.
Pros
- Removable ink converter
- Works with international ink cartridges
- Medium nib point
- Durable metal body
- Offers a smooth writing experience
Cons
- Does not include an instruction manual
- Some pens may leak
"These pens write smoothly regardless of the kind of ink I use. They may take some time to begin the ink flow when new, but once set up, they ensure break-free flow. Plus, the included pouch has made portability and storage easy."
Did you know?3. Best With Medium Nib: Dryden Designs Fountain Pen
Made of stainless steel, this trendy and elegant fountain pen is suitable for left- and right-handed users. It features a medium nib, known as a German “genuine iridium” nib, and a snap-on cap. The vintage pen is compatible with standard international ink cartridges and bottled ink with an included converter.
Built to be well-balanced, it doesn’t require the application of hard pressure to begin writing. The ink runs seamlessly and effortlessly. Its zero-ink leakage and the cap cover make it ideal for writers. For a more detailed review of this stainless steel pen, here’s a video, showcasing a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Suitable for everyday use
- Weight-balanced pen
- Complementary guide
- Comes with a velvet pouch
- Vintage-inspired design
- Available in other colors
Cons
- Ink may dry out fast
- Some may find the pen heavy
"Although shorter than expected, it fits well in my hands and offers a smooth flow. Its weight is also just right, and the blue hue looks appealing. Moreover, the included ink cartridges were a pleasant surprise."
Zebra Fuente Fountain Pen Set Best Disposable | Gullor Four Pcs In Set Gullor 450 Fountain Pen Best Durable | Dryden Designs Fountain Pen Best With Medium Nib | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black,Green,Purple | 4 Colors (C) | Blue |
| Dimensions | 5.51 x 4.72 x 0.51 inches | 5.55 x 0.59 x 0.59 inches | 6.4 x 2 x 0.4 inches |
| Weight | 3.17 ounces | 1.66 ounces | 1.12 ounces |
| Ink Color | - | Multicolor | Multicolor |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 537 | 2,459 | 6,735 |
| Price | $12.14 | $19.5 | $25.97 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best With Quick-Drying Ink:Arteza Disposable Fountain Pens
The Arteza disposable fountain pens come in a pack of 12, available in both all black and assorted color variants. These writing instruments are suitable for quick note-taking, journaling, and sketching. The medium-sized 0.9mm nib facilitates smooth and precise writing with a consistent flow of ink. With a disposable design, the fountain pens are quite convenient to use. The quick-drying ink is smudge- and smear-resistant, ensuring neat and tidy notes every time.
Pros
- Ergonomic design for comfortable grip
- Pre-filled with non-toxic ink
- Transparent barrel for visible ink level
- Free ink system for smooth writing
Cons
- Ink may be a bit thick
- Ink make take a little time to start flowing
"Impressed by the performance of these pens, I've placed one in each corner of my house. They require initial skipping time, but the ink flow stays smooth afterward. Additionally, the budget-friendly price was a boon."
Quick tip5. Best Easy-To-Use: Pilot Store Varsity Disposable Fountain Six Pack Combo
Convenient and user-friendly disposable fountain pens, this combo features an integrated liquid ink system and a unique real fountain pen nib for smooth writing. These quality fountain pens have a standard nib, which is essentially a ball that allows you to write from any angle.
The cap and barrel ends are color-coded to complement the ink color. They are made of a more durable material than clear plastic to help prevent breakage or damage. The ink is contained directly within the barrel rather than in a cartridge. These are refillable pens–grip the nib and draw it out of the barrel to fill the pens with ink. To know more, click on this video, where the reviewer talks about testing this pen.
Pros
- Ideal for beginners
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Mess-free writing
- Visible ink supply
Cons
- Some may find the ink fast-drying
- Some may find the ink flow inconsistent
"Occasional ink inconsistencies aside, these pens have been straightforward to use. Besides, the pre-filled design is much appreciated, and the transparent build makes it easy to keep track of the ink left. Overall, it has been a frustration-free writing option."
6. Best British Design: Scriveiner Black Lacquer Fountain Pen
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 3,297 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Produced in London, England, this one is the best quality fountain pen for drawing that showcases a traditional British design. It is a beautiful luxury pen made of high-quality brass with 24-karat gold polish on the black lacquer. It comes with an 18K gold-gilded Schmidt medium nib.
The set includes two spare cartridges (black and blue) and a Schmidt converter. The eyedropper pen is well-balanced but not too bulky or unwieldy, and it glides over the page seamlessly. It gives a thicker line since it uses a seven mm or medium’ point. There is no spotting or spillage, and the ink dries easily.
Pros
- Long-lasting cartridge
- Ensures smooth writing
- Supports fast writing speed
- Includes a gift box
- Gold alloy nib
- Classic design
- Available in different colors and nib styles
Cons
- Lacquer might chip off in the grip area
- Cap may fall off while writing
"Whether journaling or sketching, this is my preferred pen. Its broad nib writes smoothly, and the lightweight construction does not cause discomfort even when writing for a long time. Therefore, it's been an excellent choice for a beginner like me."
Quick fact7. Best Sleek: Waterman Carene Black Fine Point Fountain Pen
Available in a sturdy metal structure, the sleek body of this pen fits perfectly in your hand. The 18k solid gold, rhodium-plated nib of this cartridge/converter pen gives you a supple thrill as it glides effortlessly over the page, offering bold lines and fluid curves.
Cartridges and bottles come in various ink colors. The metal pen by the luxury fountain pen brand Waterman is available in different nib sizes, including extra-fine, broad, and a stock stub, in addition to fine and medium.
Pros
- Hand-crafted and hand-assembled
- Ensures smooth writing experience
- Ideal for extended writing sessions
- Minimalist design
- Comes in a gift box
Cons
- May be inconvenient for someone who holds the pen close to base
- Some may experience leaking
"Although I was skeptical about its build, it has proven durable. The broad nib causes the occasional smudge but works fine when paired with a quick-drying ink. On the whole, it looks aesthetically pleasing and works well."
8. Best Long-Lasting Nib: Parker IM Fountain Pen
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 6,263 reviews claiming its efficacy.
Sophisticated, polished design is combined with a streamlined tapered outline to offer a stylishly reliable writing companion. This metal pen has a timeless charm and is available in various revolutionary finishes with traditional and modern elegance. The body is made of deep black lacquer with gold finish trim, adding a stylish touch. Anodized aluminum, metal, and lacquer make up the barrels.
Fine and medium nib sizes are available to suit different writing preferences. This fountain pen’s refills are richly pigmented and seamlessly smooth for an exquisite writing experience. The comfortable design and a long-lasting stainless-steel nib give an ideal writing angle.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable body
- Ergonomic grip
- Includes a Quink ink cartridge
- Provides uninterrupted flow
- Comfortable for long writing
- Does not leak
Cons
- May not include a refill converter
- Some may find the nib fast-drying
"In addition to writing smoothly, the craftsmanship of this pen is also commendable. Its grip, though plastic, does not detract from its functionality, and the nib glides smoothly on all kinds of paper."
9. Best Smooth-Flowing: Beiluner Store Luxury Fountain Pen Set
Crafted with a cutting-edge stainless steel design, this collectible pen boasts polished silver highlights and a high-quality iridium medium nib plated with 24K gold. It provides a great writing experience and allows a smooth flow of ink. The Schmidt ink feeding system makes the ink absorption smoother. The ink capacity of this luxury fountain pen is good enough.
The standard ink converter contains approximately 0.5ml of ink, while the Schmidt converter holds approximately 0.85ml. The pen includes six fountain pen ink refills that are quick-drying and don’t bleed, making it ideal for ambidextrous use. The black ink runs freely and doesn’t clog the pen’s tip.
Pros
- Easy-to-use refill converter
- Suitable for long writing periods
- Deform-resistant nib
- Classic design
- Ideal for left- and right-hand writers
- Durable
Cons
- Some may experience leaking
- Some may find it slippery
"The pen caught my attention with its simple yet elegant design. Its build is also well-balanced, and the nib offers a smooth flow. Hence, it has become my preferred option for daily writing needs."
10. Best Premium: Amazon Basics Refillable Fountain Pen
For a luxury writing experience, this refillable fountain pen blends a premium feel with smooth performance. The pen comes in a sleek black plastic case and has a metal body with a polished, glossy finish inside.
The metal pen offers three short international-size black Amazon Basics ink cartridges (one ink cartridge and two refills) and a medium or fine steel nib. These fine-sized nibs help draw clean, smooth lines. The fountain pen ink cartridges produce thick, opaque lines that are comparable to any ‘standard’ black ink. It uses refillable water or dye-based black ink. The average weight makes it an excellent fountain pen for an everyday writer.
Pros
- Black brass metal barrel
- Easy to hold
- Minimalistic design
- Pocket-friendly metal clip
- One-year limited warranty
Cons
- Some may find the nib leaking
- Nib may feel scratchy sometimes
11. Best For Beginners: Wordsworth & Black Fountain Pen Set
With a user-friendly design, this fountain pen for beginners includes six ink cartridges (three blue and three black) and an ink refill converter. It comes packaged in a premium leather pen case and a deluxe gift box, making it an excellent choice of fountain pen gift set for any occasion.
Tested for efficiency, consistency, and balance, the durable pen has a medium nib that allows smooth ink flow to run your hand up and down the paper. This ergonomic fountain pen is designed to be lightweight and suitable for left- and right-handed writers.
Pros
- Well-balanced pen
- Elegant vintage-inspired design
- Includes an instruction manual
- Quick-drying and acid-free ink
- Does not smudge
- Provides consistent flow
Cons
- Might need frequent tightening
- Some may experience occasional leaking
"This pen was a gift from a friend, and I am enjoying using it. Its ink flow is smooth, and it works with converters and cartridges. There has been an occasional clog, but that was quickly resolved by giving the nib a soak in warm water."
How To Choose The Right Fountain Pen?
Here are some features you should keep in mind to choose the best fountain pen.
1. Material: Some prefer streamlined and polished material, while others go for anything with more control. In any case, the pen should be made of quality material and easy to hold.
2. Refilling mechanism: Fountain pens have piston filler (refillable ink jars) or cartridge (replaceable ink cartridges) mechanisms. Consider what suits you the best before buying one.
3. Nib: The nib usually comes in 1.1mm, extra-fine, fine, medium, and wide sizes. Considering your writing style and the scale that would be well-suited, you can choose the nib. A wet nib glides effortlessly over your paper, allowing you to write easily. On the other hand, a dry nib pen doesn’t write as easily as a wet nib pen, but it dries faster and has a longer ink life.
4. Weight and dimensions: Lighter pens are comfortable to hold for longer periods. If you don’t write often, you may buy a stylish, bulky one.
5. Cap design: If the nib and ink feed is exposed for extended times, they can dry out, leaving the pen useless. Many pens have a cap that can be screwed on or snapped on to prevent ink drying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which side of the fountain pen is best for writing?
To write properly, the tip of the fountain pen should face downward, and the slit should face upward. Hold the pen at an angle of 45 to 55 degrees for precise writing.
2. How thick is a fountain pen?
The thickness of a fountain pen varies with each product. Choose a thinner pen if you intend to use it daily, as it helps you write without strain, and a thicker pen if you want to use it occasionally.
3. Which nib is best for signatures?
Typically, medium-sized nibs are best suited for signatures. The width of a medium-sized nib is 0.8mm.
4. Can I use a fountain pen daily?
Yes, you can use a fountain pen daily. Choose a lightweight pen with a slightly thinner build for your convenience.
5. Are fountain pens hard to use?
Fountain pens are quite easy to use. You need to write it at a suitable angle that makes it easy. Most prefer writing at an angle of 45 to 55 degrees for precision and smoothness.
6. Do fountain pens leak?
No, fountain pens do not leak unless the nib is damaged or the ink cartridge is not placed properly.
The Bottom Line
There’s something opulent and glamorous about writing with a fountain pen, especially if you are an ardent penman or calligrapher. The options handpicked for you here can not only help you write beautifully but also last long. They are easy to refill and made of eco-friendly materials, and we have factored in their refill mechanism, nib size, weight, dimensions, and cap design to help you make an informed decision. Our top picks from the list are the refillable Pilot Varsity Disposable Fountain Six Pack Combo for its ease of use, the Gullor Four Pcs In Set Gullor 450 Fountain Pen for its durability, and the Scriveiner Black Lacquer Fountain Pen for its luxurious gold polish. When using these fountain pens, ensure the nib and ink feed are not exposed for an extended period.
Infographic: What You Need To Know About Fountain Pens
A fountain pen is your best bet if you want to look and feel sophisticated as you write. Whether you’re looking for a traditional pen or something a little bit unusual, a fountain pen offers everything. Read the following infographic about fountain pens and their proper use.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
Why Trust MomJunction?
If you love writing, a fountain pen will be a good addition to your stationery set. In this article, we suggest the best fountain pens that are durable, high-quality, and stylish. They are known for their smooth writing and elegant feel. We have also encompassed detailed description of each product along with a useful buying guide that helps you determine the factors to consider while buying a fountain pen.
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Read full bio of Vaswati Chatterjee