By now you may know that we’re pretty obsessed with fountain pens. How can you not be? The beauty, craftsmanship, and writing experience is unparalleled. But, even we know that there are challenges when choosing a fountain pen over a regular ol’ ballpoint. As with most things in life, there are advantages and disadvantages, and we wanted to provide you with a realistic and honest opinion on what makes a fountain pen so great – and why it may not be for everyone!
Advantages & Disadvantages of Fountain Pens
Advantage: Unparalleled Writing Experience - For Most Writers
One of the main advantages of using a fountain pen is the superior writing experience it offers. Unlike ballpoint pens, which rely on pressure to dispense ink, fountain pens use what is called “capillary action” through a cartridge, converter, or piston mechanism. This allows for a smooth and consistent ink flow, making writing with a fountain pen feel effortless. The nib glides across the page with far less resistance, reducing hand fatigue and providing a tactile connection to the writing process that many enthusiasts find satisfying.
In addition to the feel of using a fountain pen on paper, many users report that their handwriting improves over time when using a fountain pen. The need to write more thoughtfully and precisely encourages better penmanship, while nib options—ranging from fine to broad, and even specialty nibs like italic or flex—allow for personal expression in every stroke. The weight and balance of a quality fountain pen also offer better control, enhancing accuracy and producing beautifully consistent lines.
However, this smooth experience isn't always guaranteed. The delicate nature of some fountain pens means that if the nib is too fine (or, if your handwriting pressure is too robust!), it may require more careful handling. For beginners, the writing process may feel slower and more intentional, and some may struggle with the precision required, especially when using a pen that requires a light touch to achieve the best results. This could make fountain pens less ideal for quick notes or heavy-handed writers.
Advantage: Variety At Every Level
While many people may think that fountain pens are old-school, they’re one of the most interesting ways to appreciate fine writing and stationery. Fountain pens are remarkably customizable, catering to each writer’s unique preferences. Unlike disposable pens, the range of available nib sizes means that writers can select fine, medium, broad, or even specialty nibs that enhance their writing without “boxing them in” to a point size that simply doesn’t work for them.
The customization extends beyond the nib itself. Fountain pen users can select from a wide variety of inks. Vibrant colors, shimmering options, and even scented inks give writers the chance to personalize their work..
On the flip side, the large selection of inks and nibs can be overwhelming for those just getting into the hobby. Some pens may require specific inks to function correctly, and not all inks are compatible with all fountain pens. Newbies may find getting into the hobby a bit stressful (but don’t worry – we are always here to help!). Further to this, the amount of customization can be a cost not necessarily accounted for when it comes to rollerballs, ballpoints, and pencils.
Advantage: Environmental & Economic Considerations
From an environmental standpoint, fountain pens offer significant advantages over disposable pens. With a reusable design, many models are built to last a lifetime, reducing the number of plastic pens that end up in landfills. Refilling a fountain pen with bottled ink further minimizes waste, as a single ink bottle can last for years. Over time, this eco-friendly approach can prove cost-effective, saving money compared to constantly buying disposable pens. In this regard, fountain pens definitely have the advantage here!
Disadvantage: Maintenance & Upkeep
Fountain pens demand regular maintenance, which can be both a benefit and a drawback. For those who love their writing instruments, caring for a fountain pen becomes part of the charm. Cleaning the pen to prevent clogs, replacing ink, and periodically disassembling components are routine tasks that many find meditative. Just a brief read-through forums like Reddit show that this upkeep can actually make you appreciate the pen more – think of it like those people you see who handwash their classic cars outside in the Summer.
Yet, not all users appreciate the effort involved. Maintenance can be time-consuming, and skipping care can lead to practical issues. Dried ink, clogged nibs, and leaking are common problems for neglected pens. Unlike the grab-and-go convenience of ballpoints, a fountain pen must be treated with some degree of attention and respect. Those seeking simplicity may find this maintenance burdensome and choose to avoid fountain pens altogether.
Advantage & Disadvantage : Ink Is A Double-Edged Sword
A hallmark of fountain pens is the ability to swap inks to your heart’s desire. You can go from an inky black one day to a rich purple the next, giving you endless possibilities to write, draw, and create to whatever mood you’re in.
However, this versatility brings with it the potential for mess. Ink spills, smudges, and leaks are not uncommon and can be inconvenient or even embarrassing in a professional setting. Writing on porous or poor-quality paper can lead to feathering and bleeding, a frustrating reality all of us have faced! While buying quality paper and learning how to write with a fountain pen can reduce the likelihood of ink mishaps, they remain a potential drawback for less-experienced users. Not only that, the price of quality paper may be cost-prohibitive for some.
Disadvantage: Travelling Isn't Always A Breeze
Fountain pens may not always be the ideal choice for on-the-go writing. Many models are delicate, featuring intricate mechanisms that are susceptible to damage if dropped or exposed to extreme conditions. The need to carry ink refills or cartridges may also make travel cumbersome compared to the simplicity of disposable pens. In some cases, altitude changes during flights can lead to ink leaks due to pressure differences. I’m sure many of us have experienced this on our way to a pen show! This is why many regular travelers may opt for a ballpoint, avoiding the risk of unnecessary mess.
About the Author
Brett F. Braley-Palko works in the pen industry by day and is a novelist, consultant, and freelance writer by night. You can find his work in a variety of publications, like British GQ and Robb Report. Follow him on Instagram at @brettfbraley or visit his website at brettfbraley.com