Top 5 Pens 2017 Edition

The newest list: Top 5 Most Useful Pens

The latest version of my Top 5 Pens list is now live! The annual cycle seems to be working, as some categories changed drastically, while others saw no change at all. It's a good balance I think.

One thing I think I will change going forward is adding new lists throughout the year, as opposed to waiting a full 12 months to add something new. There is no reason this can’t be a living document for new entires, but I’ll leave the big sweeping update on a yearly schedule.

One list I was asked to add by Pen Addict reader Todd is my Top 5 Most Useful Pens, which I though was a great idea. Yes, each category of pens has its top products, but out of all of those pens, what are actually the most useful that you use on a regular basis? Well Todd, here you go:

Top 5 Most Useful Pens

1. Fisher Space Pen - This is more about the pressurized refill than the pen barrel, although the standard barrel is perfect for how this pen needs to be used. I use the refill in my Schon DSGN pen, which is the pen I carry the most on a daily basis. (Buy)
2. Uni-ball Signo DX 0.38 - My love for micro-tipped gel ink pens knows no bounds, and the DX is the runaway winner in this category. (Buy)
3. Sakura Pigma Micron - The Micron is not actually my top pick for best plastic tip pen, but for some reason I find it with me the most because it can take a beating. (Buy)
4. Uni-ball Jetstream 0.7 mm - Regardless of your opinion on ballpoint pens, there are situations in life where they are the best tool for the job. Make it the Jetstream. (Buy)
5. Sharpie Permanent Marker - This pen doesn’t fit on any of the other lists, but it belongs in the conversation. When you need it, it is because its the only pen that can do the job. (Buy)

Thanks for giving me the idea for this addition Todd! If anyone else has Top 5 lists they would like to see please get in touch. Enjoy the list!

Top 5 Pens, Fall 2016

One of each: Pilot Custom 823, Blackwing 602, Apica CD

My Top 5 Pens list has entered the refinement phase. While it would be nice to have monthly or quarterly updates, the fact remains that many of the top pens remain unchallenged. There is a reason they are the best, and they are standing the test of time.

Most lists remained unchanged, or possibly had one new pen enter the list. Some lists had two, and none had three. I did add one new list for fountain pens between $200-$500 which has been requested for a while and I have enough experience in that area now to plant a flag.

I also changed my personal comments on each section to a “Just Missed” section, which I think is more useful.

Regardless of the amount of change each version of this list has it is fun to put it together. If you have any questions, feel like I overlooked your favorite, or have a request for a new list please let me know.

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Top 5 Pens, Winter 2016

Added to the list!

It’s been a while, hasn’t it? Over nine months in fact, more than long enough to have a shakeup in my Top 5 Pens list.

I was planning to update this list more frequently, but the fact is some categories don’t see that much variance. I think quaterly is too frequent, so let’s look at updates twice a year, shall we? Winter and Summer. Sounds like a plan. Hold me to it, ok?

Most basic categories had little to no change, while large categories like fountain pens and inks saw a bit of movement. This is not only due to new products, but the avaialbility and continued use of products already on the market. The more I use something, the better idea I get of where it stands in the grand scheme. This is how change happens.

I also added two new categories that were long overdue: Mechanical Pencils and Wooden Pencils. There are great products in both of these areas that I am asked about, so putting it on paper, if you will, should help with your purchasing decisions.

As always, any feedback and suggestions are greatly appreciated. Leave a comment below, send me an email, or get in touch on Twitter. I read them all!