Top 13 Gel Pens for Drawing and Note-Taking

April 19, 2024
Updated:
April 19, 2024
Top 13 Gel Pens for Drawing and Note-Taking
Drawdart Gel Pens (Illustration by The Epoch times, Amazon)
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Do you know the most premium brand of gel pens? The best gel pens are out there, waiting for you to discover them. Choosing the right gel pen means that you care about how you write. If you are looking for the best gel pens in the market, you must look at a few items. Gel pens help us write smoother, create better handwriting, and generally feel good. 
If you look closely at gel pen reviews, you understand that each has specific advantages. In general, all the gel pens are much smoother than other kinds of pens.
The Breakdown:

Why Do People Use Gel Pens?

The production of gel pens is an important business. The companies who manufacture gel pens can export these pens all around the world. There are three main types of pens: Rollerball, ballpoint, and gel. Amongst all of them, gel pens are the best option to choose from. 
The best gel pens come in various colors. This feature allows artists to create better art. Also, since the gel is water-based, it can easily be wiped up. So, do not worry about your clothes! If you ever get to stain them with a gel pen, just wash them with water. 
These are some of the features of gel pens. A list of popular gel pens is here. Understanding the features and disadvantages of each one helps you to make a better decision.

Pilot G2 Premium Gel Roller Pens

Pilot G2 Premium Gel Roller Pens Pilot G2 Premium Gel Roller Pens
These gel pens are perfect for everyday writing and will not disappoint you in various situations. You can save money by refilling these gel pens. The G2 refills are also available. You can purchase them in case you run out of ink. Simply fill your pen with those refills.
It has a rubber part that increases the grip. This means that you have better control over the movement and can write better. They are sold in a pack of five for a very reasonable price.
Pros
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
  • Wide range of colors: This series of gel pens offers a good range of fresh pastel-like colors.
  • Comfortable grip: It has an amazing grip when the pen is in your hand.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
  • Anti-fading ink: The gel ink of each pen does not fade as time goes by.
Cons
  • Little smudges: These gel pens can leave a smudge if it is not dried after you write.
  • Higher prices: They come with a higher price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might skip during writing at times.
  • Limited visibility: When used on paper, the ink might not be seen easily from different angles.
$5.77 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Uniball Signo 207 Gel Pens

Uniball Signo 207 Gel Pens Uniball Signo 207 Gel Pens
This pen is usually preferred by professionals. It has quite a high-quality look and finish. It feels premium when held in hand. The ink it uses is called “The Uni Super Ink”. This special ink does not fade away easily. You can simply use this pen to write in your archives.
These gel pens come in a pack of 12. The Uniball Signo gel pens contain a metallic barrel. Also, they have very thin tips for more precision during your writing.
Pros
  • Waterproof ink: An ink that does not disappear and does not dissolve in water.
  • High-quality tip: The tips of these gel pens are made out of high-quality metal for better durability.
  • A consistent flow of ink: The gel ink flows without a problem on most surfaces such as paper.
  • Various tip sizes: Choose from a range of sizes.
  • Ergonomic design: It offers an elegant design that is more suitable for writing for hours.
  • Comfortable grip: It has an amazing grip when the pen is in your hand.
Cons
  • Higher prices: They come with a higher price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Limited color options: You can only buy these gel pens from a few available color options.
  • Losing ink: The gel ink in this series of gel pens runs out rather fast.
$10.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pentel Gel Ink Pen

Pentel Gel Ink Pen Pentel Gel Ink Pen
The Pentel gel pens are diverse. No matter what color or tip size you want, you can always get them. They are sold in various forms. Starting from one gel pen and going all the way up to a pack of 12 gel pens. You can also buy them in three different tip sizes. Their needle tip is quite durable and it gives you sharp lines.
It is also good to know that more than 85% of the customers are satisfied with this product. We have a great competitor if you are looking for the best gel pens. It is comfortable, easy to grip, and can be used in everyday life.
Pros
  • Quick drying ink: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal ballpoint pens.
  • Amazing grip: It has an amazing grip when the pen is in your hand.
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Anti-fading ink: The gel ink of each pen does not fade as time goes by.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
Cons
  • Losing ink: The gel ink in this series of gel pens runs out rather fast.
  • Limited color options: You can only buy these gel pens from a few available color options.
  • Weak tips: The metal tip of each pen can deteriorate due to applying pressure while writing.
$18 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens

Paper Mate InkJoy Pens Gel Pens Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens
The Paper Mate gel pens are here to surprise you. Starting from a single pen, you can go all the way up to a pack of 12 gel pens. Based on your needs, you can choose each pack. They are multicolored; so you can easily use them in your daily life. The fact that it offers various colors has made this product quite popular. 
The tip of this pen is a roller ball. It allows you to write better and create precise lines.
Pros
  • Vibrant colors: This series of gel pens offers a good range of fresh pastel-like colors.
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
  • Comfortable grip: It has an amazing grip when the pen is in your hand.
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • High-quality ink: The ink does not fade, disappear, or lose its color when used on many surfaces.
Cons
  • Limited tip sizes: Fewer tip sizes are available to purchase compared to other similar brands.
  • Ink not drying up: These gel pens can leave a smudge if it is not dried after you write.
  • Skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might sometimes skip during writing.
$31.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Fiover Gel Pens

Fiover Gel Pens Fiover Gel Pens
The Fiover gel pens are different from the rest. They offer a quite stylish and minimalistic look. It is perfect for offices and schools. All of these gel pens offer a versatile clip. You can simply hang them onto your backpack if needed. They are sold in a pack of five gel pens. You can use them for note-taking, writing novels, and more. 
It has managed to get a 4.6 rating out of 5. This means that more than 80% of the customers are completely satisfied with this product. They are made out of premium plastic ABS  that lasts for a long time. You can purchase these pens in black.
Pros
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Consistent flow: The gel ink flows without a problem on most surfaces such as paper.
  • Quick drying: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal ballpoint pens.
  • Various pack sizes: Choose from a range of packs in different sizes based on your needs.
  • Vibrant colors: This series of gel pens offers a good range of fresh pastel-like colors.
Cons
  • Occasional skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might sometimes skip during writing.
  • Uncomfortable grip: The grip on these gel pens might not be suitable for everybody to use.
  • Limited color options: You can only buy these gel pens from a few available color options.
$10.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Shuttle Art Colored Retractable Gel Pens

Shuttle Art Colored Retractable Gel Pens Shuttle Art Colored Retractable Gel Pens
Let’s talk about Shuttle Art Colored Retractable gel pens. They are just beautiful to look at. They come in 8 different pastel colors that are vibrant and ready to be used. The material that is used in these gel pens is acid-free. 
These gel pens can be used in various situations. For instance, they are the best choice for adults and kids. You can use these gel pens to create sketches, make drawings, and write letters. 
The ink of these Shuttle Art Colored Retractable gel pens is high quality. The tip of each pen is strong. Combined with the ink, it glides freely on a sheet of paper
Pros
  • Range of colors: This series of gel pens offers a good range of fresh pastel-like colors.
  • Retractable design: Each pen comes with a retractable design for better comfort, usage, and practicality.
  • Smooth gliding: Each pen can easily glide on paper and create mature and precise lines.
  • Durable clip: Use a clip that is mounted on the side of each gel pen to attach your pen to anything.
  • High-quality tip: The tips of these gel pens are made out of high-quality metal for better durability.
  • White & black papers: Suitable to use on both of these kinds of papers for more versatility.
  • Lightweight: It is made out of high-quality and firm plastic that is both lightweight and durable.
Cons
  • Uncomfortable grip: The grip on these gel pens might not be suitable for everybody to use.
  • Strong ink: The gel ink is strong enough to bleed through specific types of paper and create smudges.
$9.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Vanstek 15 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens

Vanstek 15 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens Vanstek 15 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens
The Vanstek 15 Colors Retractable Erasable gel pens are a great choice. Why? Here is the reason: They offer a range of colors. You can choose from a list of fifteen colors. These gel pens are smooth to work with. 
You can click the side clicker and it will make the clip go down. The bright colors these gel pens offer are vibrant and fresh. They are great for everyday use and note-taking sessions.
The ink that is used in these gel pens is sensitive to heat. They are called thermo-sensitive ink. You can use it for various purposes such as sketching, doodling, and drawing. 
The packaging of this product is interesting. It takes the least amount of space and is made out of healthy material for the environment. It has a bright clean look that makes these gel pens a great competitor for the best gel pens out there.
Pros
  • Erasable ink: It offers an erasable ink that you can use to correct your handwriting.
  • Various colors: This series of gel pens offers a good range of fresh pastel-like colors.
  • Fast ink: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal.
  • Retractable design: Each pen comes with a retractable design for better comfort, usage, and practicality.
  • Smooth experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth and enjoyable experience.
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
Cons
  • Uncomfortable grip: The grip on these gel pens might not be suitable for everybody to use.
  • Skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might skip during writing at times.
  • Weak tips: The metal tip of each pen can deteriorate due to applying pressure while writing.
$18.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Mitsubishi Pencil Uni-Ball Gel Pen

Mitsubishi Pencil Uni-Ball Gel Pen Mitsubishi Pencil Uni-Ball Gel Pen
The Mitsubishi Pencil uni-ball gel pen is quite a good pen. It is a ballpoint pen that offers a plastic material that is built with high quality. It offers a great texture while writing and many enjoy the way it writes on paper. The Uni-Ball pen from Mitsubishi is an amazing pen to write with.
It has a stabilizing mechanism that offers a stable writing experience. This feature is a brand new feature that puts this pen in a higher ranking than others. The length of the pen is enough. It is made in a way that you can easily use it in your daily life.
It has a retractable mechanism that can open and close the pen. It comes in a pack of one and you can get it in a few colors such as black, blue, and red. It has a perfect shape that sits great in your hand while writing.
Pros
  • Comfortable grip: It has an amazing grip when the pen is in your hand.
  • Retractable design: Each pen comes with a retractable design for better comfort, usage, and practicality.
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
  • High-quality ink: The ink does not fade, disappear, or lose its color when used on many surfaces.
  • Various pack sizes: Choose from a range of packs in different sizes based on your needs.
Cons
  • Uncomfortable grip: The grip on these gel pens might not be suitable for everybody to use.
  • Inconsistent flow: The flow of the gel ink might not be consistent when used on various kinds of paper or surfaces.
  • Skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might skip during writing at times.
  • Low-quality tips: The metal tip of each pen can deteriorate due to applying pressure while writing.
$14 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens

Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens
The Sharpie S-Gel gel pen is a great pen that has a lot to offer. You can choose from various styles that they have: Black Metal, Champagne, Gunmetal, Red Metal, and Blue Metal. They have a slick barrel that creates a premium look.
The ink in this pen is incredible. The texture of the ink is a bit thicker. This means that the gel ink becomes bolder and your writing becomes vivid.
On the sides, it has a rubber part that increases your grip while writing. It allows you to write more comfortably for longer periods.
Another feature of this gel pen’s unique ink is the no-bleeding technology. They are produced in a way that no ink will ever bleed. This allows the customers to be able to use this pen for business operations as well.
Pros
  • Fast ink: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal.
  • Multiple tip sizes: Choose from a range of tip sizes based on your needs.
  • Ergonomic design: It offers an elegant design that is more suitable for writing for hours.
  • Good quality ink: The ink does not fade or disappear as time passes by.
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
Cons
  • Low-quality grip: The grip on these gel pens might wear down rather quickly depending on how you use it.
  • Limited color options: You can only buy these gel pens from a few available color options.
  • Higher prices: They come with a higher price in comparison to other similar brands.
$12.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens 

Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens  Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens
Have you ever heard of the Mr. Pen Retractable gel pen? They are sold in a pack of twelve. They are quick-dry gel pens with twelve different colors. They have smooth writing and leave no smudges during drawing or doodling. 
They have a comfortable grip that increases the control of the pen. It allows the user to do more intense tasks. It can be a great candidate for designing or sketching.
Another thing that you might not know is that we have special gel pens that are designed for left-handed people. This pen is designed in a way that it leaves no smudges.
It has a plastic case that has a matte finish. This makes it look and feel more premium. The closure type of these gel pens is snap. You can deploy the tip with only a push.
Pros
  • Snap design: Simply control the movement of the tip with a push on the top.
  • Amazing grip: These gel pens offer a great grip for a better writing advantage.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
  • Multiple tip sizes: It offers a range of tip sizes that you can choose based on your needs.
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
Cons
  • Losing ink: The gel ink in this series of gel pens runs out rather fast.
  • Low-quality grip: The grip on these gel pens might wear down rather quickly depending on how you use it.
  • Limited color options: You can only buy these gel pens from a few available color options.
$11.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Kaco Pure Colored Gel Pens

Kaco Pure Colored Gel Pens Kaco Pure Colored Gel Pens
The Kaco Pure colored gel pen is a rollerball pen that has a lot to offer. It has an original design from the Kaco company. The finish on each pen is matte and the colors are vibrant. The structure of the Kaco Pure colored gel pen is easy to hold onto. 
Have you ever heard of a smudge-free gel pen? This pen claims to be smudge-free. This means that no bleeding happens in various scenarios of writing. If you are someone who takes a lot of notes, this pen is the best item out there.
The Kaco gel pens are refillable. After the ink runs out, you can refill it with the same color. It is also retractable. This allows you to use this pen in various situations. You can buy them in a pack of 20. There are 20 different colors in the pack.
Pros
  • Vibrant colors: This series of gel pens offers a good range of fresh pastel-like colors.
  • Fast ink: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal.
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Smooth grip: Even though it does not have rubber on the side, it has a good grip.
  • Anti-fading ink: The gel ink of each pen does not fade as time goes by.
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
Cons
  • Skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might skip during writing at times.
  • Inconsistent flow: The flow of the gel ink might not be consistent when used on various kinds of paper or surfaces.
  • Weak tips: The metal tip of each pen can deteriorate due to applying pressure while writing.
$15.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

FourCandies 12-Pack Pastel Gel Ink Pen

FourCandies 12Pack Pastel Gel Ink Pen FourCandies 12Pack Pastel Gel Ink Pen
Wondering about pastel colors in a gel pen? Here we have the FourCandies gel pens. They come in a pack of twelve. They offer a great design that is both unique and useful.
Here things get interesting. 11 pieces of the pack are gel pens and the last piece is a highlighter. Each one of the pens has a different unique structure. No two gel pens are similar in this pack!
The gel pens have macaron colors that can be used for decoration and other purposes. The nibs that come with the pens are all different as well.
Each gel pen has a beautiful clip. It helps when you want to attach it to a notebook or your pocket. Each pen is refillable. This means that refilling each pen is as easy as other gel pens on the market.
Pros
  • Macaron colors: The colors have a good range of pastels and macarons to fit every need.
  • Fast ink: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal.
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Multiple tip sizes: It offers a range of tip sizes that you can choose based on your needs.
  • Ergonomic design: It offers an elegant design that is more suitable for writing for hours.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
Cons
  • Low-quality grip: The grip on these gel pens might wear down rather quickly depending on how you use it.
  • Weak tips: The metal tip of each pen can deteriorate due to applying pressure while writing.
  • Skipping ink: The gel ink that flows in these pens might skip during writing at times.
$12.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Drawdart Gel Pens

Drawdart Gel Pens Drawdart Gel Pens
It is claimed to have a super smooth writing experience. The Drawdart gel pens offer great durability. It has a double ball tip that makes it smudge-free. You can write for hours without any smudge. Creating fine clean lines is also possible. 
You can purchase the pack that contains 12 gel pens. There are four available colors and each three pieces has the same color. The packing is also great for gifts. You can simply gift this to someone for their birthday.
Each gel pen has a high-quality metal clip that you can use to attach it to your notebook. The color of the body of each pen has a gradient look to it. It gives off a relaxed and chill vibe while writing. 
Pros
  • Affordable pricing: This brand offers a more competitive price in comparison to other similar brands.
  • Fast ink: The gel ink that flows in each pen dries up faster than normal.
  • Smooth writing experience: Writing, sketching, and doodling with this pen comes with a smooth experience.
  • Retractable design: Each pen comes with a retractable design for better comfort, usage, and practicality.
  • Refillabality: You can simply refill them by buying the needed cartridges to fill them up.
  • Lightweight: It is made out of high-quality ABS plastic that is both lightweight and durable.
Cons
  • Inconsistent flow: The flow of the gel ink might not be consistent when used on various kinds of paper or surfaces.
  • Weak tips: The metal tip of each pen can deteriorate due to applying pressure while writing.
  • Uncomfortable grip: The grip on these gel pens might wear down rather quickly depending on how you use it.
$6.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Gel Pens Reviews

The reviews in this section were compiled from verified customer reviews on Amazon.

Pilot G2 Premium Gel Roller Pens

The customers who bought the Pilot G2 Premium gel pen mentioned that it is very smooth to write with. One customer mentioned that it has a superb grip and a good color. Another one wrote: it is my favorite pen ever. It is smooth and it lasts for a long time.
Other customers also like these gel pens. They can hold them for long hours and write comfortably. The fact that it has smooth ink makes it a great choice for people who write a lot. Your hand does not get tired after long sessions of writing.

Uniball Signo 207 Gel Pens

The users who bought the Uniball Signo 207 gel pens talk about how useful they are. One customer mentioned that they keep one in every room. It enables them to write down anything they want with the best quality. Another customer mentioned that it is a great value for money. You can get a pack that contains a few gel pens for the price of one. 
Another talked about how she uses these gel pens at work. She likes their color and the fact that they can last for a while. It has a decent price in comparison to other packs of gel pens from other brands.

Pentel Gel Ink Pen

The Pentel gel pen is truly a one-of-a-kind gel pen. It has managed to gather a 4.7 rating with more than 85% of customers liking this product. Most customers think that these are classy gel pens. Probably some of the best gel pens ever. They never smear easily. They are great to use and do not cause fatigue after long periods of writing.
Customers highly recommend these gel pens. They are great for business owners who want comfort while writing.

Paper Mate InkJoy Pens, Gel Pens

Most of the customers of the Paper Mate InkJoy gel pen describe it as the best gel pen ever. A number of customers mentioned how much they appreciated these pens. They have been a game changer for his kids. They use it in school every day.
Other customers talked about the smoothness of these gel pens. A notable aspect is the variety of colors. They are perfect for notes and planning. They might act up in the beginning, but it will become smoother the more you write. Also, they are quite inexpensive to buy. You can use them for a long period.

Fiover Gel Pens

Most of the customers appreciated the sleek design. A sleek design with smooth writing is all they need. Customers mentioned that the Fiover gel pen has become their favorite gel pen. 
Others have talked about how smooth they are. These have become their favorite gel pens to use in class! They also mentioned that despite complaints about dripping ink, they did not have any issues with that.

Shuttle Art Colored Retractable Gel Pens

The customers of the Shuttle Art gel pen gave it a 4.3 out of 5 on its Amazon page. This means that more than 66% of all the customers gave it a five-star rating. Even though this might not sound impressive, the fact that it offers a great look and feel is important.
Certain customers talked about how they liked all the colors. They mentioned that they are comfortable to use and you can write easily. Customers recommend these gel pens to others too. If you are looking for something cool and practical to write, choose these gel pens.

Vanstek 15 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens

The Vanstek gel pens have gathered a 4.4 out of 5 rating. This means that more than 70% of the customers who bought this product were satisfied. Customers mostly appreciate the fact that you can clean them if needed. Also, the fact that it is affordable makes it a better choice for customers.
Also, they have mentioned that it writes smoothly and the ink flows great on paper. This creates a great experience while writing. 

Mitsubishi Pencil Uni-Ball Gel Pen

The Mitsubishi Pencil uni-ball gel pen is a great choice for those who like a bigger form factor. It has a better grip for some people and offers a smooth writing experience. Some customers mentioned that they like how compact it is and it has a nice thickness to it. This makes it easier to work with.
Other customers mentioned that it has a unique shape. It is rather chunky yet easy to hold. They talked about the ink as well. The ink dries up at times and creates a slight gap when you are writing. However, they are totally satisfied with this product and seem to have a great experience using the gel pen.

Sharpie S-Gel, Gel Pens

The Sharpie S-Gel gel pen has managed to gather an astounding rate of 4.8 out of 5. It means that more than 89% of the customers who purchased this product were satisfied with it. Customers usually appreciate how easy it is to write with this person. It offers a smooth and comfortable writing experience.

Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens 

The incredible Mr. Pen Retractable gel pen has a great rating on the website. It boasts a 4.7 rating out of 5. More than 80% of the users who bought this gel pen were satisfied with its performance.
A customer mentioned that it is the best gel pen he has ever used. It is because it writes smoothly and offers vibrant colors to work with. He wishes there were more colors so he could order them.

Kaco Pure Colored Gel Pens

The users of the Kaco Pure gel pen have given it a 4.7 rating out of 5. More than 81% of the customers are satisfied with the quality of this pen. It has a lot to offer.
Customers think these pens are great. The colors are vibrant and bright and the writing is so joyful. People who write a lot will appreciate how their hands will not become tired.

FourCandies Pastel Gel Ink Pen

The FourCandies gel pens have received a 4.5 rate out of 5. This can be viewed as both good and bad. More than 75% of the users who purchased this product experienced a high quality. 
Customers mentioned that the pens have a good feel. The black ink that is in the gel pens flows smoothly and spreads on the paper. Also, each pen is different. It gives you a different vibe to write with each one.

Drawdart Gel Pens

The Drawdart gel pens have managed to gather a 4.5 out of 5 rating. The customer satisfaction rate is more than 74%. This shows that it has a lower rating compared to other competitors in this list. 
Customers usually talk about how smooth and comfortable it is. The color of each pen is vibrant and offers a nice grip. However, some users mentioned that the grip can be uncomfortable for some people.

Facts About Industry

Only a few people might know about gel pens. How were they created and where did they come from? First of all, let’s talk about the ink. The ink is made out of a gel that is specially made for writing. 
The ink is made from a powder that is floating in a gel. This is the technology behind the gel ink of the best gel pens in the world. The gel ink is way smoother than ballpoint ink. It is more vivid and more age-resistant as well. It can be used for documents that should last long. The gel ink does not disappear or fade over a long period
Gel inks are great for writing important pieces of text. When you start using a gel pen, the gel sinks into the paper and gets stuck. This means that it is safer for important documents.
It is better to use gel pens for academic purposes. They offer a more slick and precise handwriting experience. The gel dries up quickly and leaves no trace of any smudges. You can write more clearly and your teacher can understand every word.
Some of the gel pens are erasable. Make sure to get the one you need. The erasable gel pens are great for practicing. If you apply heat to them, they will disappear from the paper. You can even use a rubber to wipe off your writing.
If you want to draw something or practice sketching, the best option is the erasable gel pens. You can make any corrections at any time. If you want to write something that lasts for a long period, then go with the normal gel pens. Gel pen reviews suggest that many brands manufacture gel pens. Each of them has its specific features.

How to Choose a Pen?

If you are wondering about the various kinds of pens, here is a guideline on how to choose the best pen for you:
Ballpoint
The ballpoint pens are the most common out there. It is versatile and you can use it to write on any surface you desire. Why is it called “ballpoint”? Because it has a small ball at the tip of the pen that allows the ink to roll out of the pen.
The price of these pens is average. You can find ballpoint pens nearly everywhere. It is also important to note that the ink of a simple ballpoint pen is usually oil-based.
Gel pen
The gel ink is the essence of the gel pens. Some of the best gel pens in the world have the best gel ink in the world. Gel pens offer an amazing writing experience. It is mostly because of their gel ink. This special ink is water-based. 
When the gel is water-based, paper can absorb it more easily. Therefore, most of the gel pens are great pens to use when writing a document.
Stylus
Even though this is not your average pen, it still counts as a pen. Styluses are used for writing on screens. You can use the stylus to write on your tablet’s screen or make a sketch of a deer on your iPad
You can use the stylus as an addition to your other pens. If you want to take notes on your tablet, this is the best option for you. Make sure to check if your tablet does not come with a stylus
Rollerball
The rollerball pens are easy to use. They have a small ball at the tip of the pen. It works a little bit differently than the normal ballpoint pen. The ink is also liquid-based and rolls smoothly on the paper. 
The paper absorbs the ink and makes the ink last longer. You can still get the smooth writing experience that you had with ballpoint pens or gel pens.

Which Is Better: Ink or Gel Pen?

There might be a debate among stationary geeks between ballpoint pens and gel pens. Have you ever thought about which one is better? Let’s compare the two and find out which one is better:
Refilling
You can choose from a range of sizes for both pens. An important note is that gel pens run out of ink much faster than regular ballpoint pens.
Writing
Ballpoint pens have an advantage here. You can write on nearly any surface with ballpoint pens. The ink that flows in ballpoint pens is oil-based. This causes it to stick to most surfaces.
Tip Sizes
In general, the tip of the gel pens is smaller than the ballpoint pens. When you apply them on the paper, they diffuse more ink than a regular ballpoint pen. On the other hand, the ink in the ballpoint pen does spread the same, no matter the size of the tip.
Body
Gel pens need to have a bigger tank for the ink. Since the ink runs out faster in a gel pen, you need to refill it more often. But for the ballpoint pens, they can have a slimmer form factor. The oil-based ink does not run out as fast as water-based ink.
In the end, both have their advantages and disadvantages. It depends on your needs and how you are planning on using it. For instance, if you are a daily writer, the ballpoint pen is your best choice. However, if you want a smooth writing experience, the gel pen is the best choice out there. It is all up to your liking.

What Is the Difference Between Gel Pens and Regular Pens?

First, let’s compare the regular pen ink with the gel ink. The ballpoint ink usually has oil in it. The gel pen ink or the “Gel Ink”, has water in it. The trail that a ballpoint pen leaves on the paper is thick. Gel ink leaves an even thicker trail on the paper.
Ballpoint ink is pressurized. How does it help? When the ink is pressurized, you can use it in any condition. No matter whether you are in space or underwater, you can always use a regular ballpoint pen.
If you choose a gel pen, you cannot write in most scenarios and surfaces. The water usually dissolves faster than oil. So it can disappear faster than the oil-based inks.

Is a Gel Pen Bad for Handwriting?

Gel pens are not always bad for handwriting. It depends on each user’s handwriting. Some people have mentioned that they cannot use gel pens to create great handwriting. They complain that it comes out with smudges and leaking.
Others have talked about how gel pens have improved their handwriting. The body of most gel pens is thick. This allows for a better grip and a better handwriting experience. 
In the end, it all depends on each user’s way of writing and the surface they are writing on.

What Are Gel Pens Good for?

Gel pens are good for everyday writing. If you are someone who writes regularly, then gel ink is way better for you. It provides a smoother writing journey and it does not hurt your hand over time.
If you want to create sketches or drawings, the gel pen is the best choice. The ink sinks into the paper and leaves a fresh and thick trail. The paper also absorbs gel ink better than oil-based ink. 

Do Gel Pens Last Long?

Gel pens usually last for quite a while. They do not run out fast if you do not use them too much. However, they run out faster than ballpoint ink. That is because the paper absorbs gel inks more than oil-based inks. 
It takes less time for gel ink to sink. On the other hand, oil-based inks take some time before they are absorbed.

Conclusion

Choosing the best gel pens from the list above can be challenging. All of the gel pens above are in the category of the best gel pens in the world. There are many factors that you should consider while choosing your next gel pen.
If we consider all the factors above, only two gel pens stand out. The Pilot G2 gel roller pen, and the Sharpie S-Gel gel pen. These two gel pens are the best in the market. These gel pens will help you to get a job done. You can write for hours and your hand will not get tired. 

FAQ

What is the smoothest type of pen?
The smoothest kind of pen is rollerball. Rollerball pens flow easily on the paper. It requires way less pressure applied so that it can work. If you are after creating fine lines, rollerball is the best choice.
Why are gel pens the best?
Since its trend in the 80s, gel ink and gel pen have come a long way. Many people believe that gel ink is better than other inks. Gel ink is usually much smoother than other kinds of ink.
What is the most popular gel pen in the world?
The answer is the Uni-Ball Signo gel pen. This gel pen is one of the most popular gel pens in the world. The ink that flows in the Uni-ball is silky smooth and spreads with ease on the surface.
Is 0.5 or 0.7 pen better?
If you are someone who pushes the pen harder than others, the best choice is the 0.5 pen. If you like to write with ease and low pressure, the 0.7 pen is the best option.
What are the downsides of gel pens?
If not used carefully, they might leave a little smudge. At times, they take longer to dry up. They release a huge amount of ink with a slight pressure.
Should you store gel pens up or down?
The real answer is horizontal. When you store your gel pen horizontally, the ink spreads evenly in the tube. This causes the pen to distribute an even ink trail when used.
Why do gel pens stop writing?
If your gel pen has stopped working, check the level of the ink. Most of the time you are simply out of ink and should refill it. If not, shake it a bit and store it horizontally.
How do you extend the life of a gel pen?
Do not press too hard, clean the tip of the gel pen, use high-quality paper, and do not use it in extreme temperatures.
Do gel pens need to be capped?
An important note is to put the cap on your gel pen. Do not forget to put the cap tightly on the pen. If it is not put on correctly, the ink might dry up over time.
How far can a gel pen write?
Regular gel pens can write for more than 2300 feet on average. This number is less than a ballpoint pen but still great. 
Are gel pens more expensive?
In general, gel pens are more expensive than regular ballpoint pens. That is because of their gel ink which costs more than regular oil-based ink.
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