Understanding Different Types of Pens: Ballpoint, Gel, Rollerball, and Fountain Pens
Original video: Ballpoint VS Gel VS Rollerball VS Fountain
Ballpoint, gel, and rollerball pens
When it comes to writing, most of us just grab whatever pen is nearby without thinking much about it. But once you dive into the world of pens, you start to realize not all pens are created equal.
Whether you’re signing receipts, taking notes, or writing for long periods, different pens perform better for different tasks. So today, we’re breaking down the four main types of pens:
1. Ballpoint Pens: Reliable but Basic
Ballpoint pens, like the Parker Jotter, use an oil-based ink mixed with alcohol. This ink is thicker and dries instantly, making it ideal for everyday use.
✔ Pros:
No smudging
Writes on any paper
Very low maintenance
❌ Cons:
Requires pressure to write, which can cause hand fatigue
Limited ink colors
Doesn’t always feel smooth
If you want to upgrade from a cheap office pen, premium ballpoints (like Montblanc or designer brands) feel better in hand, but they still function the same way.
2. Gel Pens: Smoother, But Slower to Dry
Gel pens, like those with a Pilot G2 refill, use pigment suspended in a gel. This makes them smoother and more vibrant than ballpoints.
✔ Pros:
Smoother writing experience
More ink color choices
Works well on slick paper
❌ Cons:
Takes longer to dry
Can smudge, especially for lefties
A tactile turn bolt-action pen with a gel refill is a great option if you want a smoother writing experience without switching to a fountain pen.
3. Rollerball Pens: A Fountain Pen Feel Without the Hassle
Rollerball pens, like the Retro 51 Tornado, use water-based ink, which makes writing feel effortless. They’re the closest you’ll get to a fountain pen without actually using one.
✔ Pros:
Low pressure required for smooth writing
Tighter, cleaner lines than ballpoints
Some brands offer refillable ink options
❌ Cons:
Ink can bleed through thin paper
Not as many color choices as gel or fountain pens
Rollerball pens are great for long writing sessions since they require less pressure than ballpoints or gel pens.
4. Fountain Pens: The Ultimate Writing Experience
Fountain pens use water-based ink and a nib that adapts to your handwriting. Whether you choose a budget-friendly TWSBI Eco or a high-end Visconti Homo Sapiens, fountain pens provide the most comfortable and customizable writing experience.
✔ Pros:
Huge variety of ink colors
Smoother and more enjoyable writing
Requires almost no pressure, reducing hand fatigue
❌ Cons:
Requires maintenance (cleaning, refilling)
Can smudge on low-quality paper
Higher learning curve for beginners
If you want the best writing experience, a fountain pen is the way to go. It may take a little effort to get used to, but once you do, there’s no going back.
Final Thoughts: Which Pen is Right for You?
For quick, everyday writing? Ballpoint.
For smooth writing with fun colors? Gel pen.
For a near-fountain pen experience? Rollerball.
For the best writing experience? Fountain pen.
Personally, I default to a fountain pen whenever possible, but I keep a gel pen or rollerball on hand for situations where a fountain pen won’t work.
What’s your go-to pen? Let me know in the comments! And if you want to check out any of these pens, I’ll leave links in the description. Thanks for hanging out—see you in the next video! 🎥✍️
