Here are the best ballpoint pens for your needs. Left-handed people tend to smear ink on the page, so they need to be incredibly vigilant when taking notes or writing a check—otherwise, the page starts to look messy. But the brand’s high-quality Super Ink dries quickly, allowing for smudge-free writing. Even more, the ink is water-, fraud-, and fade-resistant, which is essential for documents or paperwork. Available in black, blue, or red ink, the ballpoint pen’s fine 0.7-millimeter tip also makes it a great, everyday pen. Nib size: 0.7 millimeters | Quantity: Pack of three These well-priced, fine-point pens are sold as a single pack, a box of two, or in quantities of a dozen. Choose from blue, black, or red ink. The non-slip, ribbed finger grip also helps you hold the pen steady in your hand for effortless writing. And while it’s hard to keep track of ink levels with refillable pens, the barrel of the Pilot ballpoint pen is clear, so it’s easy to monitor the ink supply. Nib size: 0.7 or 1 millimeters | Quantity: Sold individually or in packs of two or 12 Keep in mind that while the cap of the pen has a clip, it isn’t ideal for attaching to a notebook. Still, the pens are slim enough for storing a handful in your workbag or pencil case. Nib size: 1.6 millimeters | Quantity: Packs of 12 or 14 Available with black ink only, these ballpoint pens are sold individually. They’re formulated using the brand’s Viscoglide technology for a smooth, high-quality writing experience. Plus, this ink is waterproof. Nib size: Not listed | Quantity: Sold individually Whether you’re an artist by profession or just doodle as a hobby, gel pens are ideal for sketching and drawing because the ink flows easily. Gel inks also tend to be fade-proof and smudge far less often than regular ink. While the 0.38-millimeter tip is fine, it’s still sizable enough to make bold lines and shade them in, no matter what you’re drawing. Nib size: 0.38 millimeters | Quantity: Packs of 10 The pens also come with a metal clip-on cap so you can easily fasten them to a notebook, binder, or pocket. In case you’re concerned about ink getting on your stuff, the pens come in a resealable pouch. Each pack has 10 different ink colors including magenta, orange, lime, and turquoise. With a slim build, the pens feature a 1-millimeter medium ballpoint tip that’ll easily fit into your palm, so there’s no catch or drag while you’re writing. Nib size: 1 millimeter | Quantity: Packs of three, four, 10, or 16 Despite its size, it’s light and the ballpoint tip ends in a heart-shaped curve. With a 1-millimeter point, this retractable pen is perfect for everyday writing tasks. The oil-based ink won’t disappoint, either—it has a low viscosity for smooth lines and an even flow. Nib size: 1 millimeter | Quantity: Sold individually
What to Look for When Buying Ballpoint Pens
Body Design
With a variety of sizes and shapes to choose from, it’s important to find a pen that comfortably fits your hand. A pen that is too small or too large can throw your grip off and make it uncomfortable to write for long periods of time. The same goes for lefties: the right pen should fit in the palm of your hand.
Nib Size
The tip of a pen determines the viscosity of the ink on paper. Smaller pen tips, or fine tips, are used for more detailed, intricate writing while medium-sized pens are better for everyday use. A good size for a ballpoint pen is between 0.7 millimeters (fine) and 1 millimeter (medium).
What type of ink can be used with ballpoint pens?
Most ballpoint pens use oil-based inks, although there are other types of ink such as gel-based ones. Though they don’t come in as many colors, oil-based pens dry faster than other inks—ideal if you’re constantly using a pen. Oil-based pens also generally have a thicker consistency and lower viscosity than other inks, which means less ink is used and the pen lasts longer.
How do I know which style of pen is best for me?
A good rule of thumb is to think about what you’ll be using it for: for college students or office workers, go for a durable pen that is good for everyday use and lengthy writing. If the bulk of your writing consists of signing documents, then you should splurge on a luxury pen that’ll last for years. For artists, consider fine-tip pens.
