Top Fountain Pens: My Favorites Ranked
#4: Kaweco Sport
The Kaweco Sport is an excellent starter fountain pen that shares many features with the TWSBI Kai. It boasts a notably smooth nib that performs well on all paper types, handling both wet and dry inks effortlessly. Compact and portable, it easily fits in pockets, planners, or small pencil cases. Despite its small size, it’s quite comfortable for extended writing sessions. However, the tiny converter means you might find yourself inking it more frequently.
#3: Lamy XL
The Lamy XL was my first fountain pen purchase, and while my initial experience was a bit scratchy—especially with the extra fine nib, which is a common critique—the consistent ink flow and ergonomic design make it comfortable to write with. I haven’t encountered clogging issues, but I advise caution when using shimmer inks, like Diamine Alpine. Inks with heavy shimmer can cause performance problems, so stick to smoother inks for best results.
The Pilot Vanishing Point, my first retractable fountain pen, is affectionately known as my “baby.” Its sleek style and matte finish were major draws for me. I appreciate its consistent ink flow and the adequate ink capacity for its nib size. It performs beautifully on Hemlock and Oak notebook paper, with no issues of feathering or bleed-through. However, I’ve noticed the nib can feel scratchy on certain papers, particularly the 52gsm Tomoe River Paper, offering more feedback than I prefer for my extra fine nib.
#1: TWSBI Kai
At the top of my list is the TWSBI Kai, a limited-edition fountain pen that has become my daily go-to. This pen is a staple in my messenger bag, with its beautiful marble resin and gold trim. It offers exceptional ink flow and features a piston filling mechanism that holds enough ink for about 30 days of writing. The nib is incredibly smooth with just the right amount of grip, making it comfortable for long writing sessions. My only wish is that TWSBI would expand the color options, as this pen truly deserves a broader palette.
Overall, these fountain pens each bring their unique charm and functionality to the table, making them great choices for different writing preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s something in this lineup to suit your style. Ultimately, investing in a quality fountain pen can enhance your writing experience and inspire creativity in every stroke.
October 9, 2024 @ 3:28 pm
This is a really good list Eliza! I just purchased my second vanishing point and I am putting that as my number two as well. With TWSBI ECO coming in at number 1. I have enjoyed learning which nibs I like for different tasks. Like in my planner I use a Fine and for my penpal letters I use a medium. How fun this journey has been. I cant wait to read more of your blog posts!
October 11, 2024 @ 4:42 pm
Oh yes!!, I love TWSBI. Those are definitely my go-to pens. My newest PVP is amazing. Gold nibs just write so much better and are way more flexible and I love it. Thanks for the support and reading my blog.
October 9, 2024 @ 10:29 pm
That twsbi is gorgeous! My new fave is my kuweco art sport!
October 11, 2024 @ 4:38 pm
I think I want that brass one on Amazon lol.
October 10, 2024 @ 3:19 am
I love this article, Eliza! Your handwriting always looks perfect using fountain pens so i take your recs and faves as bible! Lol. The pilot vanishing point has been on my wish list for so long! I will definitely have to check out the others!
October 11, 2024 @ 4:33 pm
Thank you so much! I really love the PVP. You need to treat yourself! Hopefully, one day in the future, I will be able to do a PVP giveaway.