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Fountain pens are a timeless tool for writing enthusiasts, artists, and students alike. While premium pens can often be pricey, there are a plethora of budget-friendly options that deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank. In this blog, we’ll explore the best fountain pens under $20, all of which are available on Amazon. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fountain pen enthusiast, this guide will help you find a pen that suits your style and needs without overspending.
Before diving into the best budget options, it’s important to understand why fountain pens remain a favorite for many. Unlike their ballpoint counterparts, fountain pens offer a smoother, more elegant writing experience. Here are some reasons people prefer fountain pens:
Smooth Writing Experience: The nib of a fountain pen glides over the paper with minimal pressure, providing a tactile connection between writer and page.
Eco-Friendly: Many fountain pens are refillable, reducing plastic waste compared to disposable pens.
Customizable Ink: You can switch between different ink colors and types, offering a personal touch to your writing.
Elegant Aesthetic: Fountain pens have a classic, professional appearance, making them a great accessory for any desk or pocket.
2. Key Considerations When Buying Budget Fountain Pens
When shopping for a fountain pen under $20, it’s important to strike a balance between affordability and quality. Here are some things to consider:
Nib Quality: The nib is the most important part of a fountain pen. A good budget pen will have a smooth nib with minimal feedback. Avoid nibs that skip or scratch the paper.
Material: The pen’s body can be made of plastic, metal, or resin. For a durable option, look for pens made of high-quality plastics or metals that feel comfortable in the hand.
Refill Options: Many budget fountain pens come with a cartridge or converter system. Cartridges are convenient, but converters offer more versatility as they allow you to use bottled ink.
Grip Comfort: For long writing sessions, ensure the pen has an ergonomic grip that feels comfortable. Heavier pens might cause fatigue, while lighter pens may not provide enough control.
Aesthetics: Even at a low price point, many budget pens come in various colors and designs, allowing you to choose a style that fits your personality.
3. Top 10 Fountain Pens Under $40
1. Pilot Metropolitan
Nib Size: Medium
Refill Type: Converter or Cartridge
Material: Brass body
The Pilot Metropolitan is often hailed as the best beginner fountain pen, and it’s easy to see why. With its sleek, metal body, this pen offers a weighty and balanced writing experience that feels much more expensive than it is. It comes with a Pilot CON-B converter, allowing you to use bottled ink, though you can also use Pilot’s proprietary cartridges.
Refill Type: Cartridge or Converter (sold separately)
Material: ABS plastic
If you’re a fan of the Lamy Safari but don’t want to spend over $20, there are several clones on the market that mimic its iconic design. These pens feature the same triangular grip section and durable ABS plastic body but come at a fraction of the price. While not as refined as the original, they perform well enough for daily use.
Pros:
Comfortable grip
Durable and lightweight
Similar to Lamy Safari in design
Cons:
Nib can feel slightly stiff compared to the original
The Jinhao X450 is a solid, metal-bodied pen that offers an incredible writing experience for its price. Its design is reminiscent of much more expensive pens, and it comes with a large, gold-colored nib. The pen is heavier than plastic options, making it feel premium in the hand. It also comes with a converter, allowing for the use of bottled ink.
Refill Type: Cartridge or Converter (sold separately)
Material: Plastic body
The Platinum Preppy is a highly affordable and reliable pen, making it perfect for those new to fountain pens. Despite its low price, the pen performs impressively well, offering a smooth writing experience. It’s also available in a variety of colors, allowing for some customization. While the pen is made of plastic, it’s durable enough for daily use.
For those looking for something a bit more unique, the Moonman M2 is a fantastic choice. It’s a demonstrator pen, meaning the body is transparent, allowing you to see the ink level inside. This pen is eyedropper-fill compatible, which means you can fill the entire barrel with ink, increasing the ink capacity significantly. It also supports cartridges, offering flexibility.
Maintaining your fountain pen is essential to ensure it writes smoothly and lasts longer. Here are a few tips to keep your budget fountain pen in top shape:
Clean Regularly: Every few weeks, flush the pen with water to remove any dried ink.
Use the Right Ink: Stick to fountain pen ink to avoid clogging or damaging the nib.
Store Properly: Keep your pen capped when not in use to prevent the ink from drying out.
Replace Cartridges Timely: If you’re using cartridges, make sure to replace them before they completely dry out.
5. FAQs: Fountain Pens Under $20
Q: Can I use bottled ink with these budget pens? A: Most of the pens listed above either come with a converter or are compatible with converters, allowing you to use bottled ink.
Q: Are budget fountain pens reliable for daily use? A: Yes! While some may not have the same durability as higher-end pens, many budget options, like the Pilot Metropolitan and Jinhao X450, are built to last with proper care.
Q: How do I fix a scratchy nib? A: A scratchy nib can sometimes be smoothed out by lightly running it over a piece of fine-grit micro-mesh or with a nib-smoothing kit.
6. Conclusion
Fountain pens don’t have to be expensive to provide a quality writing experience. The options listed here are all excellent choices for anyone on a budget, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned user looking for an affordable daily driver. From the sleek and reliable Pilot Metropolitan to the unique Moonman M2, these pens deliver impressive performance for under $20.
By considering factors like nib quality, material, and refill options, you can find the perfect fountain pen that fits both your writing style and your budget. Now, it’s time to browse Amazon and add one of these fantastic pens to your collection!