These are the criteria we use when recommending a starter fountain pen:
It must be easy to use for a beginner.
It must be inexpensive.
It must be durable, not disposable.
It must have a consistent quality with reliable performance.
To start off, the most economical decision would be the Platinum Preppy fountain pen. It won't have any bells and whistles, but it will get the job done. A step up would be the Faber-Castell Grip. The Grip has an ergonomic design that utilizes international-size ink cartridges or converter. For the everyday carry utility of a pocket pen, look no further than the convenience of the Kaweco Sport fountain pen. For an elegant design with an affordable, luxury feel, the Pilot Metropolitan fountain pen is satisfying and durable. One of the heartiest and beginner-friendly pens is the German-made Lamy Safari. If you crave ink capacity, the TWSBI Eco is a fully-detachable, piston-fill fountain pen under $35.