From roller ball pens to ballpoint pens, and click pens to twist pens, there are many types of writing implement in today’s market. Our latest guide aims to explain the main types available.
Pens are one of the most versatile and essential tools in our daily lives, serving purposes ranging from art and journaling to professional writing and note-taking. Prior to the first patent for a ballpoint pen in 1888, the primary writing implement was the fountain pen. Today, however, the variety of pens available can make selecting the right one a challenge. Here, we explore the different types of pens and their unique features.
The fountain pen
Fountain pens use liquid ink delivered through a nib. They are often considered a symbol of sophistication and are favoured by enthusiasts and professionals alike.
While a fountain pen undoubtedly represents a luxury experience, they require a certain amount of care and maintenance such as cleaning and refilling, and can be expensive.
The ballpoint pen
Although patented in 1888, the modern ballpoint pen as we know it did not make its first appearance until 1938 and today it is one of the most popular and readily available type of pen. Ballpoint pens use a thick, oil-based ink that dries quickly, making them an excellent choice for everyday writing. The ink flows from a small ball at the tip of the pen, which rolls as you write, delivering ink smoothly onto the page. Ideal for general writing tasks, such as taking notes, signing documents, or journalling, ballpoint pens and affordable and widely available. In addition to being long-lasting due to their slow ink consumption, ballpoint pens are smudge-resistant, making them ideal for left-handed writers (read Personalised pens for left handers for more on this).
The roller ball pen
Roller ball pens are similar to ballpoint pens but use water-based or gel ink instead of oil-based ink. This results in a smoother writing experience and much more vibrant ink colours. The ink flows more freely, making roller ball pens feel more fluid and less effort-intensive to use, but they are prone to smudging, as the ink takes longer to dry.
To learn about the differenced between ballpoint and roller ball pens, see Roller ball pens Vs. ballpoint pens.
The gel pen
Gel pens are a hybrid option that combines the smooth writing experience of a rollerball pen with the practicality of a ballpoint pen. They use a gel-based ink, which is available in a wide array of colours, including metallic and glitter finishes. Popular with students and crafters, gel pens offer vibrant colour options but often run out of ink quickly.
The stylus pen
Very much the product of our digital age, stylus pens are a modern hybrid combining traditional writing capabilities with a stylus tip for touchscreen devices. They often have ballpoint or gel pen functionality on one end and a rubber or capacitive stylus on the other. Their dual functionality makes them ideal for both paper and digital use and are the perfect solution for tech-savvy users who work across both paper and digital platforms.
Promotional pens from Fast Pens
As part of The J&A Group, Fast Pens operates throughout the UK, Europe and the rest of the world, supplying quality printed personalised pens. Unlike most online pen suppliers who often have an overwhelming number of products which can be daunting and confusing for customers, we offer a simple, clean and select range of pens. These include plastic pens and metal pens, and we also offer a personalised stylus pen.
With the exception of the stylus pen which is twist action, our entire range of personalised pens comprises push button click ball pens which can be branded with company names and logos, to make the perfect promotional marketing pens.
To find out more, new customers can call 01790 729833 while our existing client sales and enquiries line is 01790 755833. Alternatively, please contact us by email with any questions.
