Dolphin Pen

Ballpoint pens are not rocket science, and pens should be easy to use. For many years, I bought what I call "non-statement" pens and put them everywhere; in the spiral binding of my journal, golf bag, and, of course, my office; in my cars; at my bedside; in all of my coat and jacket pockets; and I developed opinions about which pens are best for me after buying a lot of them. I also like fountain pens, but they're a different topic and really can't be used in every situation.Dolphin Pen

For high-level meetings and document signing (primarily with fountain pens), I use "statement pens" like Lamy, Monte Blanc, and Pelican. However, I'd like to talk about some top-of-mind considerations to keep in mind when selecting an affordable, reliable office pen that you don't mind being a little rough with.

Most people may find this absurd, but pens are very personal writing instruments that can be used for business or pleasure. We all sign credit card receipts, write letters, keep logs and journals, etc. Pens are sometimes used for tools and other tasks that were not intended for them; My point is that they may be abused.

I want to give the straightforward task of choosing a pen a little more thought. When selecting a new style of pen, I take the following factors into account: Keep in mind that putting ink on paper is really all a pen does, but the process needs to be enjoyable and comfortable; It's nice to see something written with clean lines, and it could also hint at your style in a subtle way; nice color, no blobs or smudges, and the appropriate ink thickness.

There are basically four main considerations: the pen's mechanicals (retractable or twist), the ink's formulation and how it performs in relation to your needs, the paper you write on, your preferences, and the pen's refill/cartridge design are all important considerations. You probably only care about getting an impression or a line of connection on paper in the end.

When looking for a ballpoint, gel, or rollerball pen for everyday use, here are some features to keep in mind.

Look and Feel: How does it feel in your hand and, more specifically, when you are writing? The first thing you'll notice is that some pens are thicker and others are thinner.

Texture: Since some people's hands and fingers get oily or feel like they're sweating, it's nice to have some texture where you hold the pen. When used, smooth barrels frequently slide between fingers.

Is the area where you hold the pen perfectly round or does it have a contour that fits the fingers naturally? Consider this because a pocket clip that rubs against the hand while writing can be irritating.

Compared to plastic, metal pens tend to be heavier; that might be beneficial.

Appointments: The majority of pens are made entirely of plastic, and some have silver tips, retractable plunger mechanisms made of silver, and chrome-finished clips. Regarding the barrel's color, I choose carefully.

Compared to retractable pens, stick pens are typically preferred, particularly those with a cap closure.

Size of the ink cartridges and refills: I have one pen that is 0.30 mm, but I never use it because of the width of the line and because I don't want a wimpy line of ink. On the other hand, I prefer a stick pen with a 0.50 mm ink line, red or burgundy ink, when proofreading documents.

• Your writing environment—consider whether you should write in bed, in the cold, or in damp conditions. If you write in these kinds of environments, you'll only be able to choose from three or four manufacturers that make pens that can write in these kinds of angles and conditions.