Last update: 2024-08-31
Ballpoint pens are versatile, easy to use and less likely to dry out. Rollerballs form a smooth, fluid line and can be used comfortably for long periods. Each writing instrument work wells with different writing styles and tasks.
Rollerballs use a fluid water-based ink similar to the kind used in fountain pens. Though more prone to drying out, this ink creates a smooth, flowing writing experience, making rollerballs a natural choice for personal hand-written letters.
On the other hand, the thick ink used in ballpoints lasts for a long time. As it also dries quickly, these pens are useful for fast, smudge-free note-taking.
Made for busy lifestyles, ballpoints are easy to write with. Their innovative design allows the pen to be used one handed. They use quick-drying ink, which allows notes to be taken quickly without smudging. Located at the entry price point of collections, ballpoints are a versatile ‘starter’ pen for writers new to Montblanc.
Because of their thick ink, which is less prone to drying out, ballpoints do not require a cap. Instead, the refill tip is concealed inside the barrel. A simple twist or click mechanism is used to expose the tip, ready for writing.
Offering smooth action and precise control, ballpoints are a useful tool for notetaking and filling out important documents. Their ink dries almost instantly, making these pens a good choice for left-handed writers. Smudging and bleeds are also less likely to happen. This thick ink lasts for a long time, making these pens less prone to drying out. However, the ink can sometimes be slightly sticky, which can cause blotches on the paper after periods of non-usage.
Convenient and versatile, rollerballs are a good option for those not wanting to spend a premium on a fountain pen. They use a liquid ink that produces a strong line on the page. Designed as an on-the-go alternative to a fountain pen, rollerballs are easy to use. Like a fountain pen, they use a liquid ink that creates a similar fluid writing experience. This type of ink also comes in a wide range of colours.
Rollerball pens use water-based ink, which can dry out when exposed to air. As a result, their tip needs to be enclosed with a cap. When not in use, remember re-attach the cap to your rollerball to extend the life of the refill.
The fluid ink used in rollerballs creates a smooth, flowing writing experience. This pen works well for writing signatures, letters, and hand-written notes. Less pressure needs to be applied when writing, making the pen more comfortable to use over long periods. However, the ink may take a little longer to dry, making it more prone to smudging. Depending on the pressure applied and the quality of paper used, this pen may also produce a slight bleed through the page.
| Ink Formula | Uses | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Ballpoint Pens | ||
| Dyes dissolved in mixture of alcohols and fatty acids | Writing anywhere, everyday carry | Uni Jetstream Fisher Space Pen |
| Rollerball Pens | ||
| Dyes dissolved in water | Prevent heavy writing, alleviate hand cramps | Uni-ball Vision Elite Morning Glory Pro Mach |
| Gel Pens | ||
| Pigments suspended in water-based gel | General note-taking, color-coded writing | Uni-ball Signo UM-151 Pilot FriXion |