Best Fountain Pen Brands You Must Try In 2025

Fountain pens are a funny thing, aren’t they? While many might consider them an outdated choice, there’s something undeniably satisfying about pulling out your favorite pen, unscrewing the cap, and watching that first bit of ink flow from the nib to the paper. This tactile experience is one of the reasons why many find journaling with a fountain pen to be an excellent tool for mindfulness. In fact, research has shown that 65% of people report that journaling has significantly improved their ability to manage stress, making it not only a creative outlet but also a way to enhance emotional well-being.

But as many of us know, not all fountain pens are created equal. The perfect pen for you can depend on a variety of factors – price, color options, materials, and of course, the brand’s history.

We’ve scoured our inventory to bring you a selection of six standout fountain pen brands to try in 2025. Each one offers something unique, whether it’s a timeless design, innovative features, or exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every writing style – and every budget.

Sailor

If you’re looking for a pen that you’ll treasure for years to come, Sailor may just be the perfect brand for you. Founded in Japan in 1911, Sailor’s long history and commitment to craftsmanship has given it a loyal fanbase for decades. Models like the Pro Gear and 1911 are some of the most popular offerings for the brand, each designed with a classic shape that’s easy to hold for long writing sessions.

Visconti

Looking for something with a little la dolce vita? Visconti may be your answer. This Italian brand has been producing pens since 1988 and has amassed quite the fan following. With their bold designs and clever use of materials and colorways, Visconti is able to perfectly blend artistry and practicality within their collections.

LAMY

Lamy, a German brand founded in 1930, is known for its modern, minimalist designs and durable pens. Like many German-designed products, Lamy’s pens are made for efficiency and functionality, while also sparing no excess when it comes to design. For anyone looking to make the leap into fountain pens, Lamy’s Safari is a great option, both for its iconic design and affordable price.

Pelikan

Founded in 1838 in Germany, Pelikan is one of the oldest and most respected fountain pen manufacturers in the world. And in that 186-year history, they have shown that heritage brands still have a lot to offer today’s contemporary pen market.

Leonardo Officina Italiana

Leonardo, an Italian brand founded in 2011, has quickly gained a reputation for creating pens in a variety of vibrant colors (and with some pretty fun names like Sea Anemone and Aloha Gold!). But it’s not just the colors which are interesting; it’s their use of acrylic and the way in which their colorways are blended.

Esterbrook

For a brand that’s been around since 1858, it almost feels as though Esterbrook is just getting started. Previously known for their wide selection of nibs – in fact, Peanuts creator Charles Schulz was a fan – many older pen fans still remember using an Esterbrook in their gradeschool days. Today, Esterbrook continues to honor this legacy with their wide variety of nibs, their custom nib program, and their MV adaptor, which retrofits current Esterbrook Esties to be able to use some of those beloved vintage nibs!

While the fountain pens mentioned here represent some of the finest choices for 2025, the right pen for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of Pelikan, the innovative designs of Visconti, or the nib options available wih Esterbrook, the best fountain pen is one that connects with you. So, if you’re curious about what pen fits your writing style, budget, and aesthetics, check out all our fountain pens here!