Fountain pens exude an old-world charm and a certain level of sophistication that is often absent in the modern and digital world. When shopping for the best fountain pens, it’s important to analyze certain factors and compare these traits between all of the fountain pens that you’re thinking about purchasing. From the nib and the material to the filling system and the price, these details are crucial to consider. Keep reading to learn what all of these details entail and how you can find the right fountain pen for you.
In the world of fountain pens, the nib size of the pen will contribute significantly to your overall writing experience. These come in various sizes, including extra fine, fine, medium, and broad. The nib size that you opt for will directly impact the thickness of your handwriting. If your writing is on the smaller side, you might gravitate towards fine or extra-fine nibs. However, for larger and more expressive handwriting, medium or broad nibs could prove to be a better choice. Just remember that nibs are not one-size-fits-all. It’s important to opt for nibs that embrace your personal writing style.
Speaking of the nib, this is the heart of a fountain pen. It is primarily made out of one of two materials, including steel and gold. Steel nibs are popular due to their durability and affordability, which offers a firm writing experience. On the other hand, gold nibs provide writers with a softer and smoother writing experience, though they are also more expensive than steel nibs. Gold nibs are also far more adaptable, and they adjust to your writing style over time, resulting in a far more personalized experience. The nib materials that you choose for your fountain pen should reflect your comfort as well as the value you place on your writing experience.
The filling system of the fountain pen is often an aspect that is overlooked by those who are in the market for fountain pens. However, the filling system plays a surprisingly significant role in the writing process. Fountain pens usually come with cartridges, converters, pistons, or vacuum filling systems. Now, cartridge pens are the most convenient and beginner-friendly. Meanwhile, converters allow you to use any type of ink. Pens with built-in filling systems, like pistons or vacuums, hold more ink at any given time, making them idyllic for prolific writers.
The pen’s materials will impact both the weight and the aesthetics of your fountain pen. Most fountain pens are crafted from plastic, resin, metal, or celluloid. It is important to note that plastic and resin pens are more lightweight and durable, and they are typically available in a wider color range than metal or celluloid pens. However, since metal pens are mostly made out of aluminum or brass, they tend to feel more substantial when they’re in your hand. Plus, they exude a classic appeal. Celluloid pens are highly sought after by collectors, and they tend to showcase exquisite patterns, not to mention depth. Ultimately, your choice of pen should be made with materials that are compatible with your comfort level and match your personal style.
Fountain pens range drastically in terms of price points. From affordable entry-level pens to high-end luxury ones, there are many options out there. The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank if you want to own a quality fountain pen, but you can also find fountain pens to splurge on if that’s your preference. Many affordable fountain pens out there still perform very well. However, if you’re after the luxe factor, more costly pens will offer a combination of superior craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and unique designs. At the end of the day, setting a budget that you are comfortable with will narrow down your options to ensure that you receive the best value for your money.
The Wordsworth & Black Chrome Fountain Pen stands out as the best fountain pen, boasting an effortless blend of smooth and easy writing ideal for both seasoned scribes and fountain pen beginners. This set doesn’t merely provide a pen, it introduces you to an elevated writing experience. The pen glides across the paper, laying down a steady, flawless line of ink, making every word, note, or doodle a delightful task. This pen can accommodate various writing styles, allowing for customization and exploration, making it our top choice.
The Parker IM Gold Trim Fountain Pen doesn’t just write, it glides across paper with a delicate finesse that’s nothing short of impressive. It’s not merely a tool for writing, but a statement of professionalism, with a sleek black lacquer body accentuated by gold finish trim. As the fine nib spills smooth blue ink, your words take on a life of their own, capturing the essence of your thoughts with precision and detail. This fountain pen isn’t just for quick notes, it’s an instrument that elevates your professional image, from the first stroke to the last. What sets this Parker IM fountain pen apart is more than just its good looks. The nib, constructed from durable stainless steel, bends, and flexes to provide the optimal writing angle.
The Scriveiner Silver Chrome Fountain Pen distinguishes itself as the best fountain pen for smooth writing, with a design that exudes elegance for everyday use while providing a luxurious writing experience. Crafted from brass, this pen boasts a silver chrome finish, accentuated by 24 karat gold appointments. Such craftsmanship and material quality often reside in pens costing significantly more. Wherever you are, this pen is bound to attract admiration. The real magic lies in the pen’s German Schmidt nib. It ensures a superb writing experience, gliding effortlessly on any type of paper. This pen not only excels in smooth writing but also enhances your calligraphy.
If you’re looking for a fountain pen that can truly withstand the test of time, the Lamy Safari Fine Fountain Pen is your best bet. Its robust construction resists daily wear and tear, maintaining its premium look and operation even through frequent use. It doesn’t merely claim to be durable but actively embodies endurance, consistently delivering exceptional writing quality that withstands the test of time. Built for comfort, the Lamy Safari Fountain Pen offers a grip that’s both ergonomic and inviting, allowing hours of comfortable writing sessions. It goes beyond providing a mere comfortable grip and instead nurtures an intimate bond between the user’s hand and the pen itself.
The Cross Bailey Light Refillable Fountain Pen revolutionizes the art of writing, standing as the best fountain pen for its smooth consistent ink flow and value for money. Its fine nib, crafted from stainless steel, adapts to your touch, creating a unique writing experience that’s as individual as you are. Every stroke you make with this pen glides effortlessly across the page, delivering a dependable performance that makes it an ideal choice for everyday journaling and note-taking. This glossy Black fountain pen, with its polished resin body and chrome appointments, catches the eye, drawing attention to its understated elegance. Despite its lightweight, this pen offers a comfortable grip, ensuring prolonged writing sessions don’t strain your hand. With its premium gift box, it makes an ideal gift for friends and family.
A: To clean your fountain pen, first disassemble it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, soak the nib and feed in a cup of warm water until the water runs clear. Rinse the reservoir or cartridge with water as well. Allow all parts to dry completely before reassembling.
A: Your fountain pen might not be writing due to a blockage in the feed or nib, dried ink, or a misaligned nib. You can try cleaning the pen, adjusting the nib, or checking the ink cartridge or reservoir to solve the issue.
A: The frequency of cleaning your fountain pen depends on your usage. However, it's recommended to clean it once a month if you use it regularly. If you're switching between different ink colors, it's best to clean your pen in between to prevent color mixing.
A: The process of filling your fountain pen with ink depends on the type of pen. In general, you will either dip the nib into an inkwell and draw up ink through a piston, lever, or squeezing mechanism, or you will insert a pre-filled ink cartridge into the pen.
A: The main difference between a fountain pen and a ballpoint pen is the writing mechanism. A fountain pen uses liquid ink delivered through a nib, while a ballpoint pen uses oil-based ink delivered through a small ball bearing. This results in differences in writing style, feel, and maintenance.
A: If you're not going to use your fountain pen for a while, it's best to clean it out and store it empty. Leaving ink in a fountain pen can cause it to dry out and potentially clog the feed, making it hard to write with later.
A: It's recommended to use only fountain pen-specific ink in your pen. Other inks, like India ink or calligraphy ink, may be too thick or contain particles that can clog the feed. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for the best type of ink to use.