The Pen Addict

Review: Muji Gel Ink Pen 0.38mm Blue

Muji Gel ink pens are a minimalists dream.  The clean, unmarked barrel is fantastic looking, and the performance of the pen is very impressive for what amounts to an inexpensive ($1.25 a pop) pen.  The only trouble is - and I have mentioned it a couple of times before - they are only available at Muji (in person or now online), or via eBay.  Being the good Netizens that we are, ordering online is no big deal, but I imagine many of you would like to get the pen in your hands prior to making a purchase.  At this price, I don't think you would be disappointed in trying a few of these out.

My favorite thing about the Muji Gel ink pen is how sharp the point is.  That makes for a really crisp line, and the ink flow is great enough that it is not scratchy at all.  I really love this pen, and one day I am going to make it a point to order the remaining colors available.

Click here for the XL review.

Review: Paper Mate Gel

Grab it and it is going to work - that is the feeling I get when I pick up the very simply named Paper Mate Gel.  These were purchased from the closeout rack at Staples for just $1.50 for a 4-pack containing one each of blue, green, pink, and orange.  I picked the green at random to review, but all of the colors write equally well.  The 0.7mm gel ink cartridge is very smooth - surprisingly so in fact.  The barrel design and feel reminds me a lot of the Uni-Ball Signo 207.  I wonder how much of the underlying design is shared by the two companies since their parent company is Sanford (who also has Sharpie, Parker, and Waterman, among others).  Regardless, this pen is well worth the price.