Best 10 Fountain Pens

Are you a writer? Do you enjoy jotting notes on your downtime? If you want to elevate your writing, investing in a high-quality fountain pen will give you a luxurious new feeling. There are many different pen options available in the market, from basic plastic ones to premium models. But, everyone can agree that when you get your first fountain pen, you will feel like royalty. Travel back in time and let your creative juices flow. Replace your digital typing with the good old-fashioned handwriting ways. Sit down on your office chair and put your thoughts to paper.

Want to know a bit more about the terminology? With our buying guide, you'll be able to make the best purchase possible. Gift one of the best limited edition pieces to your loved ones on special occasions, including anniversaries, graduations and more.

What is a fountain pen? 

Fountain pens are a type of tool for writing used in earlier centuries instead of our modern ball pens. They came right after dip pens and later in the 20th century were replaced by ballpoint ones. Many people still enjoy using them due to their fine nib and because they also give lettering a very smooth and polished finish. The most common use for them these days is for journaling, handwriting or document signing. They are more expensive than ball ones as they are collection pieces. 

Why should you buy a fountain pen? 

So, is buying a fancy pen worth it? Can't we just get away with the regular writing utensils that we find in bookstores? Well, there are many advantages to owning a fountain pen besides the aesthetics. Let's look at some of the reasons we recommend going for a fountain pen as it is definitely worth your money. 

1. You can improve your environmental footprint and reduce plastic waste.

Many of the regular pens we use nowadays are disposable plastic. Their ink is not refillable, so you have to throw them away when it runs out and purchase new ones. On the other hand, fountain pens can refill the ink container when it runs out. So, instead of relying on plastic, you can practise your green thumb and live in a minimalist way by using a single pen time and time again. 

2. They are more durable than regular pens.

The build quality on fountain pens is unlike any other writing tool. Their longevity is superior, and they have excellent sturdiness and robustness. The nib pieces are almost unbreakable, and they have a special protective coating, including palladium, making them long-lasting. Many of these pens have been passed on from one generation to another as gifts.

3. They write smoother and are more practical.

People enjoy using fountain pens because they flow smoothly under their own weight, giving you a beautiful result on paper. Most love jotting down notes with them, making to-do lists, practising their handwriting or showing off their long signatures elegantly. Also, the body grip is very comfortable and practical for hours of non-stop use regardless of whether you’re right or left-handed. 

4. They are a unique way of expressing yourself. 

Fountain pens are not just a writing utensil. They are a hobby for pen enthusiasts who purchase them to elevate their writing atmosphere. Many like buying them simply for the hobby side of it. There are limited edition collections that pen lovers want to get their hands on as they grow more popular and valuable over time. As your collection grows, the pen itself becomes part of your identity as it can show parts of your personality. 

What to look for in a fountain pen? 

Is it your first time buying a fountain pen? Do you want to learn a bit more about the top features to consider before deciding on the right one? We’ve added up a list of the most important things to look for so you pick the right one like a pro. 

1. Style

The first thing to consider is the fountain pen colour and style. There are endless options available in the market to match your personality and taste. After all, you will enjoy using it more often if it's a beautiful looking pen. The classic style is black like the Parker pens, but there are stunning metallics, matte finishes and polished chrome trims.

2. Weight

Take some time to look through the product description to find the weight and dimensions of the pen. Price-wise, it won't make too much of a difference, but it will make the biggest difference for ergonomics. A lighter pen will allow you to write stories non-stop without feeling any hand or wrist strain. The right material will make your writing that much more comfortable. 

3. Nib Size

If you're a newbie and don't know what a nib is, it’s the tip of the fountain pen. It’s a very important part because it controls the flow of your writing. Many different nib sizes vary in width, giving you a unique line thickness on the paper. The smallest thickness size is extra fine (EF), immediately followed by fine (F). There are even wider sizes, including the B broad nib or the BB nib. The most popular and best for beginners is a medium (M) nib because it is very simple to practice and learn with it. 

4. Nib Material 

Different nib material types give a unique finishing trim to your pen. They don't impact the performance while you're writing, but they may increase the price and give style to your pen. The most common materials are gold nibs, platinum and steel. The most durable material is steel, while gold nips are more flexible and adjust to your handwriting. Whatever material you pick, it's guaranteed that it will be a long-lasting pen because its build quality is superior to other regular ones. 

5. Converter

Fountain pens may have their own ink container type, or you can use any other ink kind you want. The only way you can fill your fountain pen with other ink types is if you have a converter. This attachment is a money-saving way of not spending a fortune on cartridges. Ensure that your product has this so that you can have more versatility. 

6. Piston Filler

Alternatively, if your fountain pen doesn't come with a converter, it will come with a piston filler. This is a detachable part at the end of the pen through which you can refill the ink. Keep in mind that this is a feature mostly found on the premium fountain pen types. Whichever of the two refilling types you prefer, both are more environmentally friendly and less wasteful than purchasing cartridges. 

How is a fountain pen different from a rollerball pen? 

From your school years, the most common pen type you wrote with was a ball pen. The biggest difference between the fountain and these pens is their writing mechanism. Each has its advantages that make them a reliable solution for all your note-taking. 

• Fountain Pens

Fountain pens offer you a smoother finishing on your letters as the ink is liquid-based and provides better flow. When writing with this pen type, you won’t have to worry about hand strain as you press them lightly to write. Also, the line depth and colour are far superior to rollerballs, and your overall quality penmanship will improve over time. For these reasons, pen enthusiasts enjoy collecting vintage pieces to craft their work in utter style and comfort.

• Ballpoint Pens

This pen has a ball at the tip of the head and is usually of plastic material. It can have a transparent ink viewing window that shows you how much ink is left, and you may find some that can remove the end cap to refill the ink. They require a thicker ink container than fountain pens. They are also faster to dry but give off a less smooth writing. Their biggest benefits are their affordability, convenience and ink lifespan. 

Should you clean your fountain pen? 

Yes, cleaning your fountain pen is essential because it leads to fewer headaches in the long run. An unkempt pen will have patchy ink flow, less smooth handwriting and resistance in your hand. We suggest taking the time to show your writing utensils some tender love and care so that you can enjoy them for years to come. A good cleaning schedule could be once every 1-2 months, but it also depends on how often you write with the fountain pen.

How can you maintain your fountain pen for longevity? 

Want to learn more about how you should clean your fountain pen? Check out our tips and recommendations to look after your premium writing tool efficiently. That way, you can pass it on to your kids or a loved one, and it will be as brand as new. 

1. Remove the ink cartridge first.
2. Apply cold water through the nib to clean any built-up ink residue.
3. Ensure all liquids are removed from the nib, and then pat it down with a dry cloth.
4. If there’s clogged up ink within the nib, soak it in water and let it air dry before using it again.
5. Wipe down the pen’s body to clean any ink stains.
6. Refill the fountain pen with a new ink cartridge, and you’re good to go!

What’s the best way to store your fountain pen?

It’s critical to store your fountain pen properly so that it doesn’t collect dust or run the risk of damage. By following these best practices, you’re going to enjoy your pens for many years without compromising their quality.

• Place the pen so that the nib’s tip is pointed upwards. That way, the ink won’t clog up the nib, and it will remain close to the cartridge.
• If the pen comes with a box, store it within the box to keep it scratch-free.

How much do fountain pens cost? 

There are many fountain pen options out there, from affordable to high-end ones. While a low-cost option may be a great starter piece, we encourage you to upgrade to higher-end models as you learn and improve your handwriting skills. 

Affordable 

The most affordable fountain pens can cost as little as £2 to £30, but these will be basic models with low-cost materials. Their durability may be lower than the pricier alternatives, and the ink lifespan will be shorter. Most within this price range have the standard nib, which is suitable for beginners. 

High End

If you’re serious about fountain pens and you want to find luxurious choices, then the high-end ones can cost above £50 to more than £200. These are excellent for gifting when you want to celebrate those special moments with a memorable present that can last a lifetime. They can come in a gift set with a premium box and include stunning nib trims. Also, you may find variations in the line thickness if you’re more of an experienced fountain pen writer.

Closure

Practise complex Chinese, Korean and Japanese characters and show off your most eye-catching calligraphy designs with the top fountain pens! Upgrade your handwriting and take down notes, scribble and put pen to paper on your short stories. Are you looking for a fantastic and classic graduation gift? A fountain pen can be a symbolic present that your loved ones will appreciate. 

We are optimistic that our buying guide has helped you gain a better understanding of a fountain pen’s must-haves. Take some time to review our top picks and buy the one that matches your personal preference. Enjoy a luxurious experience while writing and share your creativity with the world!