- [Narrator] Here at JetPens,
we agree on most things when it comes to stationery,
but there are some topics that are still up
for debate, including the age old question,
ballpoint pens or gel pens.
In this video, we'll go over the differences
between these two popular writing instruments as well
as offer some recommendations for both.
Let's get right into it.
What's the difference between ballpoint pens and gel pens?
If you haven't already seen it,
we have a comprehensive video going over the differences
between ballpoint and gel pens.
We'll quickly summarize here.
Ballpoint pens.
Ballpoint pens use oil-based inks
that are viscous and quick drying.
They write on just about everything from copy paper
to receipts and will resist smearing under highlighters.
They typically come in larger tip sizes
and have limited colors.
Because ballpoint ink is thick,
these pens can require more pressure to write with,
which may cause hand strain.
Low viscosity ink formulations can be found in some
ballpoint pens, yielding a smoother writing experience.
Gel pens. Gel pens utilize pigments suspended in
water-based gel inks.
These pigments allow gel pens to come in a wide array
of ink colors, including metallics and pastels.
If you're ever in search of a white ink,
a gel pen is what you're looking for.
These pens may have vibrant inks
and require less pressure to write with,
but they take longer to dry and can be finicky
on some papers.
They come in smaller tip sizes as tiny as 0.25 millimeters,
but you might experience more feedback while writing.
So which pen should you get? It depends.
What are you going to use your pen for?
What kind of paper are you going to be writing on?
Artists and students will benefit from the color selections
and pigmented inks of gel pens.
On the other hand, ballpoints can be used in
just about any occasion.
We even polled our own JetPen staff
to see which would come out on top.
Gel pens won five to four against ballpoint pens,
so it was pretty close.
If you've already made up your mind on which kind
of pen is better, just wait.
We have some recommendations
that may have you thinking twice.
Ballpoint and gel pen recommendations.
Best overall, Uni Jetstream Ballpoint Pen.
If JetPen's videos had a bingo card,
mentioning the Uni Jetstream would be our free square.
It's true. That's how much we love it.
Everyone sings its praises, staff and customers alike,
and it has everything you would want in a ballpoint pen
with low viscosity ink that's quick drying and waterproof.
We especially love the Alpha Gel series.
Its ultra plush silicone grip cushions
and supports your fingers whether you're using it
for quick notes or long writing sessions.
Uni-ball Signo Gel Pen.
Like the Jetstream, the Uni-ball Signo
is considered our number one gel pen.
It offers an extensive pen lineup that is perfect
for everything from everyday writing to craft projects.
Its ink is archival quality
as well as fade and water resistant.
The UM-151 series is by far our most popular Signo line,
but if you want a retractable pen,
check out the Signo 307.
It uses an innovative cellulose nanofiber ink
to deliver a smooth, skip free writing experience.
For students, Zebra bLen Ballpoint Pen.
Zebra collaborated with Japanese Canadian designer
Sato Oki to create the blend,
a ballpoint pen that looks and feels great.
Its direct touch tip offers a cushioned sensation when writing
and its noise free body prevents its moving
parts from rattling.
With a low center of gravity
and wide rubber grip, the bLen is easy
to control and ergonomic.
These features make it perfect
for long note-taking sessions.
Zebra Sarasa Mark On Gel Pen.
Highlighting over notes written
with a gel pen is ordinarily a no-no
unless your intention is to smear everything you've written.
The Zebra Sarasa Mark On is formulated
to have greater water resistance
and can even hold its ground against Mildliners,
as long as you give the Mark On the five seconds
it takes to dry completely.
For planner users, Pilot Acroball T Ballpoint Pen.
Similar to the Uni Jetstream,
the Pilot Acroball line is also highly praised
for its low viscosity ink.
The Acroball T is even available in an extra fine 0.3
millimeter tip size that can fit into tiny planner grids.
It is slightly grippier on smooth papers,
offering more control when writing,
plus, its rubber grip section will prevent your fingers from
slipping and causing an accidental stray mark in a
monthly or weekly spread.
Pilot FriXion Ball Knock Zone Gel Pen.
If your plans are constantly changing
and you don't have time for correction tape,
check out the Pilot FriXion Ball Knock Zone.
Not only does it use thermosensitive ink
that can be erased using friction,
it also is specially formulated
to be 30% more vibrant than original black FriXion ink.
Your plans will stand out
but will still disappear when you use its eraser.
A word of warning though, FriXion ink vanishes if exposed
to any kind of heat,
so please do not leave your plans in a hot car.
Otherwise, you may be trying to revive your writing
by placing it in a freezer.
For professionals, Parker Jotter Ballpoint Pen.
The Parker Jotter is proof that you don't need
to break the bank if you're looking for a professional pen.
Since its debut in the 1950s,
it has become an iconic ballpoint pen
with its streamlined body and arrow clip.
Its Quinkflow refill is formulated
for a crisp writing experience.
Those with larger hands will appreciate
the extra large version.
It's 7% larger than the standard Jotter
with both a longer body and wider grip section.
Pentel EnerGel Philography Gel Pen.
The Pentel Philography is just as sleek
and stylish as the Jotter.
Instead of low viscosity ink, it boasts EnerGel ink
that is touted for being fast drying,
and a great option for left-handed writers.
Its brass body provides a comfortable weight
and has a satin finish
that is chic while still being work appropriate.
Instead of a top button,
it utilizes a twist action mechanism
to extend and retract the tip.
Are you team ballpoint or a team gel pen?
Let us know in the comments below.
If you're not sure where to start, try one
of our curated JetPens gel pen or ballpoint samplers.
These convenient bundles include our most popular pens,
making it easy for you to find your next favorite.
Otherwise, you can shop all the products mentioned
in the description and at JetPens.com,
the place for pen and stationery lovers.
Thanks for watching.
(upbeat music)