5 Best Pens for Journaling in College
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When it comes to writing we all want it to be beautifully astonishing, perfect in a way when we or someone else looks at it, they will get lost in it, we all want the first word out of their mouth to be beautiful.
Aesthetics is a trending these days which means something pleasing and attractive to the eyes.
When we write journal we want our handwriting to be elegant, so that when we look back to our entries it’s easy and joyful to read.
The type of pen we use plays a huge role in our handwriting, our mood and willingness to write.
You probably have noticed that when you use a good quality pen your handwriting and mood automatically becomes better, you don’t need motivation to write it comes automatically.
That is why in movies they show a really elegant pens, a good pen is really a blessing in disguise.
Personally I have used several types of fountain pens, gel pens, and ball pointed pens for my writing and have seen qualities and defect of them.
To help you figure out which one might be perfect for you, let's break down the real-world advantages and disadvantages of each.
Ballpoint pens
Advantages
Ballpoint pens are the reliable pens because their oil-based ink is slow to dry that makes them last for very longer period of time and also if left uncapped they are less prone to drying out.
They work well on almost any paper surface, including glossy or receipt paper where other inks might fail or struggle.
Ballpoint pens are generally the most budget-friendly option, making them perfect for students who need to buy in bulk.
Disadvantages
Their thick, oil-based ink requires you to press down on the page, which can lead to hand fatigue during long journaling or note-taking sessions.
They can create breaks in your letters if the ball doesn't roll properly.
Compared to gel or fountain pens, the ink is less saturated, which may look lighter and less impressive on the page and can spoil your journaling experience.
Gel Pens
Advantages
The water-based gel ink flows freely, requiring very little pressure which gives you a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The gel suspension allows for a higher concentration of pigment, creating lines that are bold, vibrant, and crisp.
Gel pens come in different colors, tip sizes (from ultra-fine to broad), and styles, allowing for greater creativity and personalization in journaling.
Disadvantages
They don’t last long compared to ballpoint pens because of their ink which is rich and flows freely.
Their water-based and sits on top of the paper for a few seconds before drying which makes it susceptible to smearing, especially for left-handed writers or if you highlight over it too soon.
On very smooth or glossy paper, gel ink can have trouble "gripping" the surface and may take much longer to dry. On the other hand, on very thin paper, bolder gel pens might cause some ghosting or bleed-through.
Fountain Pens
Advantages
Fountain pens use a liquid ink that flows onto the page via capillary action. This drastically reduces hand strain and cramping during long writing sessions. Many people find that their handwriting naturally becomes neater and more deliberate when they use fountain pen.
You can use different colored ink in one pen from standard blacks and blues to shimmering, shading, and sheening inks.
We can simply refill it from ink bottle, which significantly reduces plastic waste and is much cheaper than buying disposable pens or refills.
Disadvantages
A good fountain pen costs significantly more than a ballpoint or gel pen.
Fountain pens need to be regularly cleaned to prevent ink from drying and clogging the feed.
Fountain pens are famously picky about paper. Using a fountain pen on cheap, absorbent notebook paper will often result in "feathering" (where the ink spreads out into the fibers) and "bleed-through," making the other side of the page unusable.
Now that we have explored the unique strengths and weaknesses of ballpoint, gel, and fountain pens, you have a better idea of what might work for you.
So here is list of the 5 best journal pens that you can check out if you are looking for a good journal pen.
1. Zebra Sarasa Clip
Great choice for balance of performance and price.
Its standout feature is the Rapid Dry Ink (RDI), which makes it a favorite for left-handed writers and anyone who highlights notes.
The ink is incredibly smooth and vibrant, and the sturdy "binder clip" is genuinely useful for attaching it to notebooks.
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2. Uni-ball Jetstream RT
It uses a unique hybrid ink that combines the smoothness and vibrancy of a gel pen with the fast-drying, waterproof properties of a traditional ballpoint.
It glides effortlessly across any type of paper, requires minimal pressure, and the line is consistently clean and sharp.
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3. Pentel EnerGel Kuro
For those who prioritize an ultra-smooth, bold writing experience, the Pentel EnerGel is a very good choice.
Its ink formula is one of the smoothest on the market, creating a rich, dark line that makes your writing stand out.
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4. Sakura Pigma Micron
Micron is good choice for writers who demand precision and permanence.
The single pigment ink prevents color variations, delivering consistent, crisp results every time, making it a favorite of artists, designers, and bullet journalers.
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5. Pilot Metropolitan
Pilot Metropolitan offers an experience far beyond its affordable price tag with a durable brass body, a famously smooth Japanese steel nib, and a classic, elegant design, it makes writing feel intentional and special.
Using this pen transforms journaling into a mindful ritual, forcing you to slow down and write with intention. It's the most recommended entry point for anyone curious about fountain pens
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Choosing the right pen isn't just about aesthetics; it's about choosing your tool, a tool that will help you to get your deeper self out.
Whether its the reliability of a Uni-ball Jetstream, the vibrant flow of a Zebra Sarasa, or the timeless ritual of the Pilot Metropolitan, the perfect tool is waiting to unlock your most consistent journaling practice yet.
A great pen makes you want to write.
Take the next step right now. Click the links above to check prices and reviews on your favorite pen from the list.
This isn't just buying stationery; it's a small, powerful investment in your mental clarity and well-being.
To get the most out of your practice, dive deeper with our other guides on Intellectual Ignorance:
The Surprising Benefits of a Handwritten Journal: Understand the science behind why putting pen to paper is so powerful.
The Power of Journaling for Mental Health & Growth: Learn specific techniques to manage stress and foster self-awareness.
A Beginner's Guide to Micro-Journaling: Too busy for long entries? Discover how to build a powerful habit in just minutes a day.
Stop waiting for inspiration. Grab the right tool and create it yourself.