Bullet journaling can be a fantastic way to organize your thoughts, track habits, and unleash your creativity. But let's be real—the wrong pen can turn your beautiful spread into a smudged mess. Finding the perfect pen can be tricky, so I've tested a bunch to find the real MVPs of the bullet journal world. These are my top picks that will make journaling a joy, not a chore.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Sakura Pigma Micron: Archival ink, precise lines, various sizes.
- Tombow Dual Brush Pens: Dual tips, great for lettering and coloring.
- Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen: Smooth writing, refillable, elegant design.
- Staedtler Triplus Fineliner: Fine tip, ergonomic design, wide color range.
- Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens: Quick-drying gel ink, vibrant colors, comfortable grip.
Top 5 Bullet Journal Pens Best
1. Sakura Pigma Micron
The Sakura Pigma Micron is a classic for a reason. It features archival-quality ink, meaning your creations will last for years without fading. The different tip sizes allow for versatility in your journaling.
Pros:
- ✅ Archival ink is fade-resistant and waterproof.
- ✅ Precise lines for detailed work.
- ✅ Available in multiple tip sizes (005 to 08) for different styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited color options compared to other pens.
- ❌ Can bleed through very thin paper.
- ❌ Not ideal for large areas of coloring.
Verdict: Best for those who need precise, archival-quality lines in their bullet journal. Perfect for detailed drawings, handwriting, and creating clean layouts.
2. Tombow Dual Brush Pens
Tombow Dual Brush Pens are a favorite among bullet journal enthusiasts for their versatility. They feature a brush tip on one end and a fine tip on the other. You can create thick, flowing lines for headers and titles and switch to the fine tip for more detailed work.
Pros:
- ✅ Dual tips offer versatility for different tasks.
- ✅ Blendable, water-based ink for creating gradients.
- ✅ Available in a wide range of colors.
Cons:
- ❌ Can bleed through thinner paper.
- ❌ Brush tip can fray with heavy use.
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
Verdict: Ideal for those who love to add color and flair to their bullet journal with lettering, illustrations, and shading. Not the best for everyday writing due to potential bleed-through.
3. Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen
If you want to elevate your bullet journaling experience, consider the Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen. It's an affordable and reliable fountain pen that offers a smooth writing experience. I love the way it feels in my hand, and it adds a touch of elegance to my daily journaling.
Pros:
- ✅ Smooth writing experience.
- ✅ Refillable with ink cartridges or bottled ink.
- ✅ Durable and well-built.
Cons:
- ❌ Ink can smudge if you're not careful.
- ❌ Requires a bit of a learning curve for beginners.
- ❌ Limited line variation compared to brush pens.
Verdict: Great for those who appreciate the smooth feel of a fountain pen and want to add a touch of sophistication to their bullet journal. Best for writing tasks and not for heavy coloring.
4. Staedtler Triplus Fineliner
The Staedtler Triplus Fineliner is a reliable and comfortable pen for everyday bullet journaling. Its fine tip is perfect for writing, drawing, and adding small details. The ergonomic triangular barrel makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
Pros:
- ✅ Super fine tip for detailed work.
- ✅ Ergonomic triangular barrel for comfortable grip.
- ✅ Wide range of vibrant colors.
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for large areas of coloring.
- ❌ Can dry out if the cap is left off.
- ❌ May not be as durable as some other options.
Verdict: Best for those who prioritize comfort and precision in their bullet journal pens. An excellent all-around choice for writing, drawing, and adding color-coded notes.
5. Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens
If you're looking for a pen that delivers smooth, vibrant color without smudging, the Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens are a solid choice. The quick-drying gel ink prevents smears, making them ideal for left-handed individuals or anyone who wants clean, crisp lines. I've used these for years and love the variety of colors they offer.
Pros:
- ✅ Quick-drying gel ink prevents smudging.
- ✅ Vibrant and saturated colors.
- ✅ Comfortable grip for extended use.
Cons:
- ❌ Can bleed through thinner paper.
- ❌ Ink may skip occasionally.
- ❌ Not as precise as fineliner pens.
Verdict: A good option for those who want vibrant color and a smooth writing experience without worrying about smudging. Best for general writing, coloring, and adding a pop of color to your journal.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right bullet journal pens really depends on your personal style and needs. Here are a few things to consider before making a purchase:
- Paper Quality: Thicker paper can handle wetter inks like those in gel pens and brush pens without bleeding through. If your journal has thin pages, stick to fineliners or ballpoint pens.
- Ink Type: Consider the type of ink. Archival inks are great for long-lasting creations, while gel inks offer vibrant colors. Fountain pen inks provide a smooth writing experience, but they can be prone to smudging.
- Tip Size: Think about the type of writing and drawing you'll be doing. Fineliners with fine tips are ideal for detailed work, while brush pens are great for lettering and creating bold lines.
- Comfort: Choose pens that feel comfortable in your hand, especially if you'll be using them for extended periods. Ergonomic designs can help prevent hand fatigue.
- Color Selection: Decide if you prefer a wide range of colors or just a few essential shades. Some pens are available in sets, while others are sold individually.
FAQs
Q: What's the best pen for beginners?
A: The Sakura Pigma Micron is a great starting point due to its reliable performance and archival ink. The Staedtler Triplus Fineliner is another excellent choice because it's comfortable to hold and comes in a wide range of colors.
Q: How do I prevent my pens from bleeding through the paper?
A: Use thicker paper in your bullet journal. Also, avoid using too much pressure when writing or coloring. Quick-drying inks, like those found in gel pens, can also help reduce bleed-through.
Q: Can I use regular ballpoint pens for bullet journaling?
A: Yes, you can! Ballpoint pens are a budget-friendly option that works well on most types of paper. However, they may not offer the same vibrant colors or smooth writing experience as other types of pens.
Q: How do I care for my fountain pen?
A: Clean your fountain pen regularly to prevent ink from drying out and clogging the nib. Flush it with water every few weeks, especially if you're not using it frequently. Store your fountain pen horizontally or with the nib pointing upwards to prevent leaks.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect bullet journal pen is a journey, and what works for one person might not work for another. Ultimately, the best pen is the one that makes you excited to create and organize your thoughts. Whether you prefer the precision of a fineliner, the vibrancy of gel pens, or the elegance of a fountain pen, there's a perfect option out there for you. Experiment with different types of pens and find the ones that best suit your style and needs. Happy journaling!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
