It may seem old school to write with an actual pen on paper, but if inspiration strikes on the subway or you just need a hiatus from your computer screen, it’s the way to go. You should be prepared in these moments with one of the best pens for writers.
Everyone has their preferences when it comes to pens — felt tip, ballpoint, gel, rollerball, retractable or capped. Particularly if you’re an avid writer, you’ve surely come to develop a favorite based on comfort in holding, how quick the ink dries, whether it bleeds through the page or purely based on aesthetics. You may want people to know you’re a writer when they see you using this pen, or just not want the ink to smudge off on the side of your hand. No matter what you look for in your writing utensil, there are tons of great pens for writers that are worth investing in for a smooth and satisfying experience.
Don’t be caught without a pen when genius strikes. These are some of the best pens for writers, according to actual writers and rave reviews.
1. BIC Atlantis Original Retractable Ball Pen
BEST RETRACTABLE
You know you can trust BIC for your writing needs. These writer-approved retractable pens have a smooth-click, even smoother ink system and a rubber grip for a comfortable hold. It’s also super affordable for a pack of four, so you really can’t go wrong with this option. Spy’s Site Director Timothy Beck Werth swears by this pen, which is the only one he actually likes writing with.
2. Poppin Modern Assorted Signature Ballpoint Pens
BEST CAPPED
Some writers may prefer a pen that can be secured with a cap to avoid any accidental ink stains. These Poppin pens happen to be my favorite thanks to their super smooth 1mm tip and aesthetically pleasing design. This set comes with six pens in a variety of lovely colors so you can look and feel good while writing.
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3. uni-ball 207 Retractable Gel Pens
BEST GEL PENS
If you like a gel pen, these ones from uni-ball are definitely up there as some of the best pens for writers. The uni Super Ink in all of the pens in this 12 pack offers protection against water, fading and fraud. The sleek, metallic barrel accents create an elegant look while the comfort grip allows for comfortable writing all day long.
4. Sharpie Felt Tip Pens
BEST FELT TIP
Sharpie is better known for their thicker markers, mostly used for drawing or labeling, but that also means they’re experts in a felt tip. These felt tip pens have a super fine point and slim design for effortless detail and control. The ink won’t bleed, which is the biggest risk with a felt tip, and it’s quick-drying to avoid smuding on the hands. It’s also water and fade resistant, so really everything you could ask for from a pen for writers.
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5. Paper Mate InkJoy Ballpoint Pens
BEST COLORED INK
Depending on what kind of writing you do, it may be helpful to have a variety of ink colors to edit, correct or just create any sort of color-coded system. This 18 pack of Paper Mate Inkjoy Ballpoint Pens come in eight bright shades that make writing way more fun, with five in black since that’s probably the color you’ll use most. They’re also reliable and fluid with ultra-smooth ink.
6. Fisher Space Bullet Pen
MOST DURABLE
This pen can pretty much withstand anything, so it’s guaranteed to last you a lifetime. It can perform in extreme temperatures, underwater, in zero gravity and at any angle. The chic matte black brass and steel construction will look great in your hand, and the tungsten carbide ballpoint tip writes beautifully.
7. PILOT G2 Premium Refillable & Retractable Rolling Ball Gel Pens
BEST REFILLABLE
These retractable ballpoint pens are super smooth and you can refill the gel ink to get even more use out of them, making them some of the best pens for avid writers. This pack of four comes in black, blue, red and green ink, all with comfortable rubber grips. They’re a great, reliable and long-lasting option.
8. Squire Rollerball Pen
BEST SPLURGE
For writers who are looking to splurge on a sleek, high-quality pen, the Squire Rollerball Pen from Baronfig is worth the investment. They’re a beautiful, ergonomic shape with a stainless steel tip and cartridge-based ink refills. The simple, twist to open design makes it even more chic. You’ll want to use this pen forever.
9. Pilot EasyTouch Ballpoint Pens
BEST VALUE
If you’re the type of writer who likes to click and unclick his or her pens, then these Pilot ballpoint pens are perfect for you. The ink is quick-drying and refillable, and the pen itself has a comfortable grip that sits well in the hand. Plus, right now you can get 12 of these pens for under $10, which is a great deal if you’re stocking up on new writing tools.