The market is full of fountain pen brands and models, so how do you decide which one is right for you? Whether you're just starting your fountain pen journey or looking to add a new one to your collection, this guide will help you find a pen that fits your needs and writing habits. We'll also cover related topics, including:
- The advantages of using fountain pens
- Fountain pens for daily use
- The best models and brands
- Affordable fountain pens
How to Choose a Good Fountain Pen
With so many fountain pens out there, choosing one can feel like a bit of a maze. But once you start paying attention to a few important factors, like the nib, the grip, the shape of the body, and how it all works with your favorite paper and ink, it gets a lot easier to spot the pen that feels right for you. Here are the basic considerations to keep in mind:
Nib
The best place to start is with the nib, both its size and the material it's made from. Nib sizes can vary between brands since there's no set industry standard, but most pens come with a medium nib by default. It's a solid choice for general use and a good point of reference before trying finer or broader options to suit your writing style.
For everyday writing, a fine nib might serve you better than a broad or stub nib. Fine nibs offer a more defined line and can feel crisp on the page as long as they're not too scratchy. Some writers even enjoy a bit of feedback, depending on the paper they use.
Next, take a look at the material. Gold and stainless steel are the most common. Steel nibs are typically more affordable, but that doesn't mean they're lacking; well-made stainless steel nibs can write just as smoothly as gold ones. If you're considering a gold nib, most are made with either 14K (about 58% pure gold) or 18K (75%), which can help explain the difference in price.
Grip Size
It's important to pay attention to how the pen feels in your hand. Some people prefer a slim grip, while others are more comfortable with a thicker one, it really comes down to what feels natural during extended periods of writing. Diameter also plays a big role here, so it's worth trying out a few sizes if you can.
The material and weight of the body also matter. Resin, metal, wood, and even ebonite all bring different textures and heft. A heavier pen can feel solid and satisfying, while a lighter one may be easier to control over time.
Body shape is another part of the experience. While many pens are round, some brands offer alternatives, like triangular bodies designed to guide finger placement. Even within the classic cylindrical style, you'll see distinct variations:
- Cigar – Rounded ends with a smooth, tapered middle
- Flat top – Straight sides with a squared-off cap
- Others – Designs like faceted barrels, baseball bat curves, bullet shapes, and minimalist tubes
Paper
Think about the paper you use most often. Some types of paper work great with fountain pen inks, while others can cause problems like feathering (when the ink spreads) or bleeding (when it soaks through the page). If your paper isn't made for fountain pens, a finer nib that uses less ink might help avoid these issues.
Good paper lets the pen glide smoothly and keeps the lines clean. It also affects how much feedback you feel when writing. Some people like a bit of texture, while others prefer a smooth feel. Paper in the 90–100 gsm range is usually a safe bet, thick enough to resist bleeding but still practical for everyday use. Try different pen and paper combinations to see what feels best for your writing.
Ink
Different inks work in different ways; some flow more freely and feel wetter on the page, while others are drier and more controlled. Drying time can also vary a lot depending on the ink, the nib, and the paper. If you're left-handed or tend to write quickly, you might prefer inks that dry faster to avoid smudging.
Another thing to watch for is ghosting (also called echoing), where the ink shows faintly on the other side of the page. This doesn't always mean the ink has bled through; it can happen even when it stays on the surface. Ghosting depends not only on paper thickness and quality but also on how saturated or wet the ink is. Trying out different combinations of ink and paper is the best way to figure out what gives you clean, comfortable writing with the look you want.
Why Use a Fountain Pen Over a Regular Pen?
Fountain pens often raise the question: are they really worth the switch from regular ballpoint pens or gel pens? For many, the answer is yes, and for good reason. This section explores what makes fountain pens a preferred tool for daily writing, from comfort and performance to long-term reliability and even environmental impact.
It Feels Better in the Hand
Fountain pens are generally thicker, with better grip sections. Metal-bodied pens suit those who prefer heavier writing instruments. They feel more solid than plastic pens.
Less Pressure Required
Ballpoints need more pressure to write saturated lines. Fountain pens don't. That means reduced hand fatigue and easier writing. Artists, in particular, benefit from this when creating solid lines.
Steady Writing Properties
Fountain pens, when properly cared for, maintain consistent writing quality. Unless the nib is damaged beyond repair, most issues can be fixed or customized.
Line Width Variation
Fountain pens allow line width changes with pressure. Flex nibs are available for those who need dramatic variations.
Improved Writing Stamina
For users who write a lot, fountain pens reduce strain and allow for longer, more productive writing sessions.
Environmentally Friendly
Fountain pens produce less waste. With basic cleaning tools and ink bottles, only paper and empty bottles go to the trash. A single pen can last decades.
Are Fountain Pens Good for Daily Use?
Can a fountain pen handle the kind of writing you do every day? That really comes down to how and where you plan to use it. In this section, we'll walk through different situations, like taking notes at work, keeping a journal, or sketching and lettering, and explore what makes a fountain pen a good fit (or not) for each one.
Personal Use
Office work? Essay or songwriting after hours? A fountain pen suits these.
Drawbacks include the need to carry ink refills and difficulty with waxed/glossy papers or uneven surfaces.
Drawing
Fountain pens are great for sketching smooth, precise, and portable. They offer spontaneity that dip pens or fine liners don't.
Maintenance
They require more maintenance: regular cleaning and ink refills. Some fountain pen users don't mind the upkeep, while others find it inconvenient.
Best Fountain Pen Brands
Not all fountain pen brands are the same; some focus on everyday reliability, while others lean into craftsmanship or standout design choices. If you're searching for a solid daily writer or something with a unique appeal, this section looks at some of the most trusted names out there, each with its own strengths depending on what you're looking for and how much you want to spend.
Webson Gill
Webson Gill is often the first name that comes up when recommending a fountain pen brand known for both quality and feel. These pens are built with a balanced heft that sits comfortably in the hand, making them easy to write with for long stretches. What sets them apart is how well they bridge design and performance. They suit a wide range of styles and transition effortlessly from casual use to professional settings.
Their ink cartridges are designed to fit the barrel precisely, so you're less likely to deal with leaks or unexpectedly running out of ink. Combined with smooth, consistent strokes and a reliable writing experience, Webson Gill pens are a solid choice whether you're just getting into fountain pens or looking to add another dependable writing instrument to your collection of fountain pens.
Montblanc
Montblanc is one of the most recognized names in the fountain pen world, and for good reason. While some collectors debate whether its reputation leans more on branding than craftsmanship, there's no denying the strong presence Montblanc holds. If you're looking for a pen that turns heads and carries prestige, Montblanc is a standout choice.
Quality isn't a concern, they produce well-made instruments, and recent word from fountain pen enthusiasts suggests they're putting an increased focus into returning to the high characteristics of fountain pens they were known for before the mid-1990s. For those drawn to iconic design, name recognition, and a writing experience that still delivers, Mont Blanc remains a top contender.
Pelikan
Pelikan is a name you can count on for reliability. It's a quality pen that's ready whenever you are, no skipping, no slipping, just steady writing every time.
If you're thinking of a meaningful graduation gift for someone stepping into the professional world, a Pelikan makes a solid choice. It can handle years of regular use without fuss, with very low maintenance. That kind of dependability matters, especially when you're deep into the art of writing and want to keep going without interruption.
Lamy
When it comes to smooth, consistent ink flow, Lamy is hard to beat. This German brand offers a wide range of fountain pens in various styles, shapes, and sizes with nibs that are easily interchangeable between many models, making it easy to fine-tune your writing experience.
Lamy nibs strike a nice balance: not too dry, not too wet, delivering a steady line without requiring extra pressure. Writing with one just feels natural every time.
Many Lamy pens also come with a piston converter, a handy feature that lets you refill your pen with bottled ink instead of relying on cartridges. Just twist the knob to draw in ink, twist it back to close, and you're set for a full day's writing—no mess, no fuss.
Jinhao
If you're just getting started with fountain pens and want something that's easy to try without a big upfront cost, the Jinhao line from China is a solid option. These pens are beginner-friendly, widely available, and come in a variety of styles, so you can explore what you like without committing to a more expensive model right away.
Jinhao pens tend to run a bit larger in size, which can be a plus if you prefer a pen with more heft in the hand. As long as it feels comfortable and doesn't tire you out during long writing sessions, it could be a great fit. And since they're so accessible, you can easily test different models and designs as your preferences develop.
Parker
If adding a touch of class to your outfit is important to you, a Parker fountain pen is a great way to elevate your look. What makes Parker pens stand out is the iconic "arrow pocket clip" that's featured on all their models, giving the pen a distinct, elegant appearance.
This stylish clip is part of every Parker pen, whether you're holding a more affordable Parker Jotter or one of their higher-end models. So, even if you're opting for a budget-friendly version, you still get that classy, sophisticated feel of a high-quality fountain pen.
And if you're willing to stretch your budget just a bit, Parker offers a range of beautifully crafted pens in the mid-hundred-dollar range. Alternatively, you might want to check out Webson Gill, which offers equally stylish pens in classic designs that could catch your eye if Parker isn't quite what you're looking for.
Pilot
Pilot is a brand that draws on the expertise of Japanese penmakers, offering fountain pens with finely tuned nibs designed to create delicate, precise lines. Many Pilot models feature exceptionally fine nibs, which can sometimes feel a bit scratchy, especially for first-time users. However, with a little practice and a few more strokes, that initial scratchiness usually smooths out, providing a great writing experience.
One thing to keep in mind is that the grip on some Pilot pens, due to their plastic bodies, may not feel as secure for everyone. There's a chance the pen might slip in your hand, especially during longer writing sessions or intricate work. However, if you're comfortable with the feel, Pilot offers a smooth and reliable writing tool that many find rewarding to use.
I Will Use a Fountain Pen for the First Time. What Are Cheaper Options?
If you're just getting started with fountain pens, there's no need to invest heavily right away. Many affordable options offer solid performance and durability without the high price range. Here are three budget-friendly pens that are great for beginners looking to explore the fountain pen writing journey.
Pilot Metropolitan
The Pilot Metropolitan is one of the brand's most affordable options, typically retailing around $15 and with a little searching, you can often find it for under $11. Despite its low price, it's a solid daily-use fountain pen with a smooth-writing nib and a durable metal body. The metal construction holds up well over time and resists rust, even if you write for extended periods.
Wingsung 3008
If you're just looking to try out a fountain pen without spending more than $5, the Wing Sung 3008 is a solid place to start. Priced around $4, it's a great entry point for experiencing what it's like to write with a fountain pen. It features a piston filling system or piston filler, which means you can refill it straight from an ink bottle, and the generous ink capacity can easily last through a full school term or several months of regular use.
One heads-up: the cap tends to rust over time, but a quick coat of clear nail polish can help prevent that.
Moonman M2
The Moonman M2 is an eyedropper pen with a generously sized ink chamber, letting you write for long stretches without frequent refills. This substantial writing instrument delivers smooth lines with minimal pressure, making writing or sketching feel almost effortless. Often described as ergonomic, the M2 is comfortable to hold even during extended writing sessions, great for journaling, standard writing, or anything that keeps your pen moving across the page.
As for price, it's quite accessible. Most listings fall under the base price of $30, and with a bit of searching, you can even find it for as low as $11.
Choosing a Pen That Feels Right
Finding an excellent fountain pen for your requirements comes down to comfort, writing habits, and what feels natural in your hand. Whether you're starting out or expanding your collection, there's a pen that fits the way you write, one that makes even everyday notes more enjoyable. From specialty nibs and ink properties to grip and paper, each part plays a role in how your writing flows. Take your time, try different combinations, and enjoy the process of discovering a pen that makes you want to keep writing.