Although online organization and study apps are gaining increasing popularity, the old Paper and pen still have their value and effectiveness. So much so that we already have a huge variety of types of paint, tips, finishes, and designs so that you have the ideal tool for whatever you need. 

So, to avoid any doubts about providing your material, I have brought you a guide with the main types of pens on the market and in which situations you can use them. 

The main types of pen

Ballpoint pen

The ballpoint pen is certainly the best-known of the various types of pen. It is most commonly found and used in the colors blue, black, and red, but its color family and spike family are extensive. Whether for writing texts, titles, or summaries, the millimeters of the tip can interfere with the aesthetics of the final result and even the fluidity of the writing. 

This type of pen can be found with tips:

• 0.7 mm for ultra-fine strokes
• 0.8 mm for fine lines
• 1.0 and 1.2 mm for medium strokes
• 1.6 mm for thick strokes

In addition to the variety of colors and tip sizes, the ballpoint pen is one of the most affordable models on the market and can be found in either single format with cap or retractable. 

There are also options on the market with thermosensitive manufacturing technology that allows you to “erase” the ink with a special eraser if you make a mistake while writing.  

Speaking of ink, the composition of ballpoint pens can vary, but these models usually have an oil or alcohol base for quick absorption into the paper.

Gel ballpoint pen

This type of pen has water-based gel inks, which is why it is known as a gel pen. This composition base allows the pigment to be more prominent on the sheet, in addition to greater coverage since the sheet is also thicker.

Due to its effectiveness in standing out, it is a great option for writing titles, outlines or important observations and comments. Just like the first option, it comes in a wide variety of colors, including white and bright colors. 

Hydrographic pen

The felt-tip pen, also known as a marker or sharpie, is perfect for those who want to draw, outline or highlight things on the sheet. Unlike the previous model, the base of the felt-tip pen is water, which is why its charge is normally made of spongy material, in addition the tip of this type is made of felt. 

With a huge variety of colors, the sky is the limit. But in addition to unleashing your imagination with tone combinations, you can use it for different types of designs with the various sizes available on the market, ranging from 0.3 mm to 6.0 mm.

Brush Pen felt-tip pen

In addition to the types of traditional felt-tip pens, you can also count on Brush Pens, perfect for those who like to practice the lettering technique. This model combines the pen with similar brush tips, allowing you to create thin, medium or thick strokes in a fluid way.

Ink pen

This type of pen gets its name because the pigmentation of its ink resembles Nanking (a Chinese ink creation that uses coal particles as pigments). In addition to having a strong color, the ink pen is excellent in precision, as it has a fine tip, with options available from 0.05 mm to 0.8 mm in thickness. 

This model is widely used by artists, architects and designers who need a pen with precision and fluidity for details. Despite only being found in shades of gray and black, the model can be more expensive than previous options. 

Rollerball Pen

It can be found in models with an acrylic or metal body. The roller ball pen is the chic relative of the ballpoint, having the same composition of materials, however, the design and especially the tip feature an ink distribution technology that allows writing to be more fluid, fine and pigmented with greater flow of ink. 

Part of these characteristics in the writing finish are due to the stainless steel ball at the tip that regulates the flow and distribution of the aqueous material on the paper. In other words, it is a great option for signing contracts, as it is less likely to fail, and writing on heavier weight paper. 

Fountain pen

The fountain pen is the most sophisticated type of pen you will find on the market. Its structure is delicate with a very thin metal tip, also known as a “feather”, and an ink reservoir. This model is great for those who want precision in their writing. Furthermore, they can be made from noble materials, have engravings, be used on special occasions, become gifts and even family heirlooms, as their price is quite high.

On the day of this publication, the most expensive fountain pen in the world belongs to the Montblanc brand, costing around US$50,500. The good news is that your cartridge is refillable, meaning that with care it will last for many, many years. 

Text markers

I couldn’t leave out this text on the best types of pens, the famous highlighters. In order to highlight writing in texts, notes and even help decorate titles and summaries, highlighter pens are similar to felt-tip pens with water-based ink. 

But unlike other models, these have more striking colors and even neons, and can have rounded or chamfered tips that provide different types of strokes. The price of this model may vary depending on the brand, size and color chosen, but they tend to be very durable.