Top 5 Starter Pens
The quest for the perfect starter fountain pen takes you on a journey filled with many possibilities — you can discover a new, undying passion, or you can have an experience that leaves you feeling underwhelmed and disappointed.
To ensure your new fountain pen journey is successful, I’ve carefully selected some stellar starter fountain pen choices that promise to kickstart your new hobby on the right note!
Pilot Varsity
Let's start with a true classic: the Pilot Varsity. This disposable fountain pen offers a fantastic entry point into the world of fountain pens. Although intended for one-time use, the Varsity excels in introducing you to essential fountain pen techniques—like capping after use, maintaining a steady hand position, and writing without pressure. It's pre-filled and ready to write straight out of the box, making it a hassle-free option for beginners. With proper care, it can last for years, proving that simplicity and quality can go hand in hand.
Pilot Explorer
Next up, the Pilot Explorer is stepping into the spotlight. Now, Pilot has some other great opinions for starter pens, including the Kaküno or the Metropolitan, but I prefer the Explorer for a few reasons. For one, the Explorer stands out with its array of vibrant colors and lightweight design. Whether you prefer glossy white, matte black, or something bright and cheerful, this pen has options to suit your style. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver in-hand and it comes equipped with both a cartridge for immediate use and a converter for bottled ink enthusiasts. Pilot's reliable steel nibs ensure smooth writing, making it an ideal choice for those new to fountain pens or looking to expand their collection without breaking the bank.
LAMY vista
In the realm of LAMY, the vista emerges as a clear winner for beginners. The vista offers a transparent twist on the iconic LAMY safari. Its clear design provides a unique perspective, allowing new users to observe the inner workings of the pen—from the ink feed to the converter. This transparency of this pen not only adds a touch of modernity but also simplifies the process of understanding how fountain pens operate. Plus, you can swap LAMY nibs effortlessly. All in all, the vista caters to personal preferences and promises years of reliable writing performance!
Sailor TUZU Adjust
In 2024, Sailor introduced the Sailor TUZU Adjust fountain pens, their new contender in the world of starter fountain pens suitable for every level of experience. This series stands out with its innovative angled grip section that rotates to accommodate various writing styles, making it particularly appealing to left-handed writers and those with unconventional grips. Alongside its ergonomic design, the TUZU Adjust includes two cartridges and a converter, ensuring versatility in ink options. Sailor's renowned craftsmanship ensures a smooth writing experience, making it a worthy investment for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
TWSBI Swipe
Last but certainly not least, the TWSBI SWIPE takes center stage as a versatile option for new users. TWSBI is a brand that has carved out its niche in the "Starter Pen" zone, offering a variety of pens at affordable prices. The SWIPE is a personal favorite of mine for both personal use and as a gift. What I love most about this pen is its versatility—it comes with a substantial ink cartridge for immediate use, appealing to those who prefer simplicity. What sets the SWIPE apart from other fountain pen models are its two different converters—a traditional twist piston and a unique spring piston—providing flexibility for users curious about different filling mechanisms. TWSBI's commitment to quality and user-friendly design makes the SWIPE a reliable choice for anyone eager to explore the world of fountain pens.
Whether you're treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift, these starter fountain pens pave the way for a rewarding journey that is sure to spark a fast obsession.
Ready to dive into the world of fountain pens but have more questions? Feel free to contact our Customer Care team—they're always ready to assist you in narrowing down your options. Enjoy and happy writing!
