POV: You love to roam the store aisles during back-to-school shopping, whether you’re a student preparing for a new semester or not.

You arrive at the pen section. It’s overwhelming (in a good way, of course). How to choose? Surely it’s not practical to buy one of each.

… Or is it? We tested 16 popular pens and ranked our favorites. We navigated strong opinions and stalemate disagreements—all to help you find your perfect pen.

Overall recommendation

Top picks

Uniball 207+ pen

Glides with grace

Uniball 207+ for an exceptionally smooth writing experience. The 207+ was the most frequently top-rated pick and averaged the second-best overall.

Con: Some raters noted the potential for smudging.

Photo courtesy of uni Brands Corporation

Pilot G2 Gel pens

Nice grip, no slip

Pilot G2 Gel for a comfortable grip and satisfying click. The G2 holds the distinction of most frequently rated runner-up.

Con: Raters mentioned a “rumble,” that it can be “very noisy” and “a little scratchy” in action.

Honorable mention: Uniball Vision Elite—there is less agreement among our raters on the overall experience of this pen, but if grip is more important to you than anything else, it is consistently noted for comfort.

Photo courtesy of Pilot

Staedtler Triplus Fineliner

Makes a mark

Staedtler Triplus Fineliner
If you enjoy a felt-tip, marker-like pen, this one was rated best among the felt-tip options we tested.

Con: Must be capped; not as readily available as other options.

Honorable mention: Sharpie Felt Tip Fine Tip
Raters who did not openly identify as felt-tip haters noted a smooth glide and bold, no-smudge, no-bleed ink.

Photo courtesy of Staedtler

Hot takes

There was no uniform agreement or consistent praise for these pens. However, those who love them are steadfastly committed and strong in their convictions, and they deserve to make their pitch. Proceed at your own risk!

Marvy Le Pen

Fine-point enthusiasts, only! Lauded for bold, rich ink, and smooth glide.

  • “I never share them because people write too hard and split the tip.”
  • “Every color is necessary for art, stationery, important notes in calendars and journals—only to be purchased at an art store for the complete joy of the experience.”
  • “I feel like my handwriting is better.”

Muji 0.38mm Gel Ink Ball Point

The IYKYK pen. Muji is a common Japanese retailer, but there are only a dozen US-based locations. However, real fans habitually order them online. While the most fine-point offering was too sharp for most of our raters—one even used the word “carving” to describe the experience—the 0.5mm seems promising.

  • “I swear they make my handwriting look better.”

Parker Jotter

Accused by some raters of being old-school, Jotter fans would say it’s timeless. It is remarkably clickable, and its elegance will shine at a meeting where you want to look professional.

  • “Makes me feel fancy and important!”
  • “Glides so smoothly across the page and does not clump or goop.”
  • “Most satisfying click ever!”

Bic Cristal

The lowest rated pen by far. Nobody’s favorite. One lone Cristal advocate reminded us of this pen’s unique role in the eco-system of pens.

  • “The pen cap is a joy to chew on… don’t even care that it’s gross.”