How to Choose the Perfect Writing Utensil (15 Expert Reviews)

Selecting the right writing utensil might not be an easy task. Everyone has different needs, after all, and it takes time to find the perfect solution.

This guide will present you with 15 writing utensils to help boost your creativity.

Disclosure: These reviews are reader-supported. We might earn a small commission if you purchase something through our site. Learn more

Make Writing Fun Again!

Set and forget your writing conventions by running Grammarly in the background. Save 20% with our exclusive link.

Grammarly Premium Walkthrough Video

Grammarly Best All-Around

$11.66 /mo – before discount
PROS
  • 86% out of 86% accuracy
  • 16+ billion database
  • 150k+ word limit
  • 5 devlice limit
  • Includes plagiarism
  • 1-hour response
CONS
  • Only supports English
  • Expensive without our link

What is a Writing Utensil?

Writing utensils are implements used for writing, but also for drawing, calligraphy, or painting. There are many different types of writing utensils, including pencils, rollerball pens, multicolor pencils, permanent markers, and even quill pens. Most of them are meant for universal use, but there are also professional models, too.

#1: Ohto Slim Line

If you prefer minimalism, then the Ohto Slim Line should serve you well. Ohto is a well-respected Japanese company known for high-quality writing utensils. Thanks to its small size, it’s easy to carry around and is one of the cheapest high-quality pens available.

  • User rating: 3.7/5
  • Slim body
  • Durable
  • Low price

#2: Delfonics Wooden Ballpoint Pen

From another renowned Japanese company, the Delfonics Wooden Ballpoint Pen inspires with both its design and durability. It has a satisfying clicking mechanism and is so light, it easily fits in your chest pocket. The competitive price point also helps.

  • User rating: 4.1/5
  • Beautiful design
  • Clicking mechanism
  • Light

#3: Uni-Ball Jetstream Ballpoint

Like most ballpoint pens, the Uni-Ball hs quick-drying ink. The Uni-Ball Jetstream is made of stainless steel and is available in many colors. The standard package includes four pens but there’s also a 12-count version.

  • User rating: 4.7/5
  • Price: $10.50 (4-count version)
  • Ideal for lefties
  • Stainless steel
  • Available in many colors

#4: Kaweco Classic Sport

Kaweco fountain pens are easy to recognize thanks to a traditional design that goes way back to 1935. This is a compact writing utensil that can be easily taken apart, and which uses a standard mini ink cartridge.

Example screenshot of writing utensil (Kaweco Classic Sport).
Kaweco classic sport.

(Image Source)

  • User rating: 4.1/5
  • Unique octagonal design
  • Uses standard mini cartridge
  • Gold-plated steel nib

#5: Pilot Precise Retractable Rolling Pen

This rolling pen is all about precision thanks not only to its thin tip but excellent ink. Made of quality plastic, this writing utensil has a metal clip, which will serve you for a long time. It’s available in 12 colors.

  • User rating: 4.8/5
  • 12 ink colors available
  • Retractable
  • Fine point

#6: Fisher Space AG7 Original Astronaut Space Pen

This writing utensil is easily recognizable, as it’s not only used by astronauts but was also featured in the “Seinfeld“ show. Of metal design, this ballpoint pen has a nice feel to it and the ink dries quickly. Plus, it works in extreme heat and cold.

  • User rating: 4.6/5
  • Usable in extreme conditions
  • Simple design
  • Quick-drying ink

#7: Pilot Dr. Grip Center of Gravity Retractable Pen

Due to its rubber grip, this pen is all about feeling comfortable in your hand. This makes it perfect for anyone who writes extensively. It helps that it’s also refillable and retractable, and it provides a smooth writing experience.

Example screenshot of writing utensil (Pilot Dr. Grip).
Pilot’s Dr. Grip full black retractable ballpoint pen.

(Image Source)

  • User rating: 4.7/5
  • Ergonomic
  • Low price
  • Compact

#8: Lamy 2000

If you like a classic design with a luxurious touch, the Lamy 2000 will certainly grab your attention. This is a highly durable fountain pen with an extra-fine tip. It also helps that it’s easy to refill while the capacity is voluminous.

  • User rating: 4.5/5
  • Classic design
  • Extra fine tip
  • Easy to refill

#9: Montblanc Meisterstück 149

If you’re looking for something extravagant, the Meisterstück 149 will suit you down to the ground. This is a top-of-the-line writing utensil that uses special Montblanc ink. The classic design features gold-plated rings that will definitely stand the test of time.

  • User rating: 3.4/5
  • Ink quality
  • Smooth writing
  • Extremely durable

#10: Caran d’Ache 859 Popline

Modern and easy on the eyes, this writing utensil isn’t all about beauty. Large ink cartridge guarantees hundreds of written pages before you need refill the ink. The Popline is available in many colors, ranging from black to neon green.

  • User rating: 4.4/5
  • Eye-catching design
  • Available in many colors
  • Aluminum body

#11: Pilot Metropolitan

The Pilot Metropolitan is an excellent choice for your first fountain pen. The build quality makes it look like a top-of-the-range product and a perfect nib for calligraphy. The design combines a classic look with a few modern details. Not to be missed are the stainless accents on the brass barrel.

writing utensils: Pilot Metropolitan
Pilot Metropolitan.

(Image Source)

  • User rating: 4.4/5
  • Build quality
  • Excellent value
  • The design

#12: Craft Design Technologies Tradio Plastic Fountain Pen

Plastic fountain pens are cheap and excellent backup solutions. The Tradio Fountain Pen looks elegant, and the writing performance is surprisingly decent. It’s not as durable as more expensive solutions, but it can certainly hold its own.

  • User rating: 4.1/5
  • Low price
  • Writing performance
  • Clean look

#13: PrintSupremacy Custom Bamboo Fountain Pen

Bamboo fountain pens are excellent for the environment, and also look beautiful. This one comes in a wooden case that’s both durable and light. The pen itself has universal appeal and can be used both for writing and calligraphy.

  • User rating: 4.7/5
  • Environment-friendly
  • Durable
  • Wooden case included

#14: Cross Edge Jet Black Selectip Rollerball pen

This gel ink pen comes in different colors and is made out of metal, ensuring that it won’t be easily broken. The spring-loaded pocket clip is both innovative and fun to use, while the writing is smooth.

  • User ratings: 4.6/5
  • Available in different colors
  • Durable
  • Spring-loaded pocket clip

#15: Waterman Carene

Luxurious fountain pens often offer conservative design, but the Waterman Carene does things differently. It looks rather minimalistic, has 18-carat gold nib and is available in more than 10 colors. What’s more it’s also extremely pleasant to hold.

  • User rating: 4.4/5
  • High quality
  • Available in range of colors
  • Minimalistic design

Conclusion

We hope that this article provided you with more information about writing utensils.

What you should remember is that there’s no perfect, universal solution. Therefore, choose your writing utensil according to what feels best for you. What we can recommend is to always have a backup solution in your pocket.

Get long-term ROI.

We help you grow through expertise, strategy, and the best content on the web.