TOP 10 Best Beginner Fountain Pens On A BUDGET - All Under $35

[@danstein2467]

Way to go on getting others into our hobby. The first taste is almost free!

[@Doodlebud]

Wow thanks buddy!

[@Doodlebud]

@@danstein2467 can I send you a pen?

[@Mr.Blue987]

@@Doodlebud question... Are you related to AVE, you guys have a VERY similar tone and speaking cadence, he just has a little more volume

[@danstein2467]

@@Doodlebud Thanks for the offer. I have plenty. Give it to someone who is starting in the hobby. I’m going to be in Victoria this fall. Perhaps we can catch a cup of coffee.

[@ExtraThiccc]

​@@danstein2467good on ya, glad you're not bein greedy

[@LordoftheThings327]

Are you kidding me, I literally just was thinking about looking into some beginner fountain pens, went 'hey I should check out that guy with the entertaining blue ink vid', and lo and behold what do I see on your channel when I come to check? Its like you read my mind!!

[@Doodlebud]

Its not "like" I can read your mind.....I CAN read your mind. Muahahaha!!! 😈

[@escargotomy]

I got the fountain pen bug from my 82 year old mom whose been using them her whole life. But as far as sifting through the topic online and understanding the basics while being genuinely entertained, this channel has been unbelievably helpful for the last several months. Thanks DB!

[@braydensteenwyk599]

The best part about the fountain pen hobby is there are flavors for everybody. I personally love the inexpensive options that look so cool and unique so people ask abt what it is. Thanks DB!!!

[@kccortez6952]

My boyfriend's been meaning to get into fountain pens but I don't wanna intimidate him with the costs. This is such a great resource to find something affordable enough for him to try out without feeling guilty about pricing. Thank you so much!

[@stationerystream]

If you're a dab hand at minor nib re-alignment, then the economical choices are great. I usually don't recommend the Jinhao/Wingsung pens to people who don't have someone nearby to tune the nib if it arrives a little off.

[@totallylegit2068]

@@stationerystream yeah, hongdian and pilot would be my top choices

[@jedrzejkrysztofiak6041]

Go with Penbbs - I got 456 and I can compare with Wingsung 630 (to big), Lamy Safari (to scratchy even with M nib). Penbbs is great quality and nib is butter smooth. If you want surprise him - buy him Iroshizuku ink (other recommendation Herbin Emerald of Chivor). Majohn A1 is very interesting too.

[@luisdominguez6549]

Hongdian M2 is one of the best pocket pens I’ve used. Under $20, can’t beat it.

[@viv_2489]

​@@luisdominguez6549Nib dries out quickly

[@tgfflynn]

I have been on the bench on the Jinhao 9019 and after watching this episode, WA LA entered the 9019 game. I have stayed away from Chinese knock off fountain pens but recently purchased a Majohn A1, again after watching one of your episodes, and like it. I am retired now and cannot justify original brands anymore. I do realize most if not all fountain pens are knock offs to each other, no matter the brand. Any ways, I am now venturing into low cost, good build knock offs. I have even left the Japanese Vintage fountain pen searches over costs. I do credit your channel's episodes with my move to Chinese fountain pens. Joyous grand writing g to you.

[@Chrisamic]

Well to be fair, the 9019 is 0.1% the *starting* cost of the original it copies (Namiki Emperor). I don't know anyone who would think spending that kind of money is a good idea. The nibs on the cheaper stuff can sometimes need some work (too dry, hard starts etc) but if you are happy to learn how to fix them that can be a rewarding part of the hobby as well. These nibs are only a few dollars so no big loss if you mess one up. I messed one up and thought "well I won't do that gain" but in buying a replacement I realised how cheap they are and now I've got spare nibs in all sizes and weights, including Lamy compatible italic nibs in all sizes and broad Jinhao #8s etc. I actually think it's more fun than owning an Emperor, which I'd hardly be game to put ink in.

[@jacquesvellaborg8639]

Jinhao 82 s nibs are a hit or miss in my experience. Their QC leaves a lot to be desired. Some tuning can make them fantastic writers, but can be a turn off for beginners who want something working out of the box/have limited knowledge on nib tuning.

[@Chrisamic]

I've given a few people a Platinum Preppy, which was about the only one not on your extensive list. Less than ten bucks makes it a no brainer. Once they use the cartridge that comes with it, I show them how to order more or how to eye dropper it, depending on their skill levels. If they're totally not hands on, I eye dropper it for them and just keep the ink up to them. I bought Indian and Chinese inks in every imaginable colour for the purpose. The inks from India (Daytone) are perfectly serviceable at 2 cents ml and I even use the yellow in a brush pen for myself and use it as a highlighter. So many cheap options to share the hobby.

[@evanbasnaw]

I used the Preppy at first and gifted a few as well. Now I've upgraded to the Plasir using all my Preppy nibs & sections from before. I especially like the felt tip I got for it. I had a red that was too bright to write with. One felt tip and a refilled cartridge later, I have a Plasir highlighter :)

[@JohnTravena]

You can eye dropper the Varsity too.

[@liselottefrejdig1112]

I've been into this hobby since 1986.. Never get tired of discuss pens, nibs, inks..

[@kristiw.1823]

Doodlebud, your video on cleaning out Baystate Blue, plus your review of the Jinhao 82, were the gateway for me to enter the fountain pen world. Thank you for continuing to make space in your video lineups for encouraging newbies!

[@ExtraThiccc]

Been hearing the Jinhao's may not be the best since they apparently don't have great quality control. Platinum Preppy is the only one not on this list, but I've heard it recommended by many people in the past, and it's like $10

[@eliotnewton3037]

Oh my god, a canadian creator! New to the hobby and just so grateful to hear someone making beginner reccs in my currency 😂 and Canadian vendors! 🙌 Very grateful for you sir. Cheers!

[@jr3887]

Your channel was the one that really got me interested in the hobby. I've seen other channels talk about it and while I am usually impressed at their dedication, yours was the first that really got me to check the hobby out. Started with a Lamy a few months ago (a matte black gift set), already up to 6 pens and a 7th on the way right now, and multiple inks, too! Thank you!

[@mattsadventureswithart5764]

Don't make the mistake I've made of deciding to buy every colour of diamine inks... Over 100, so far, and still a bunch more to go 😂 EDIT to add: If you want a pen which holds a *lot* of ink, perhaps to take on holiday, the TWSBI GO is great and is very cheap.

[@thatguynameddan2136]

​@@mattsadventureswithart5764 running into the same problem myself! the inks are *so pretty*

[@jr3887]

@@mattsadventureswithart5764 Inks are a great temptation. I've limited myself to only 8 so far of different brands... but theyre all full size bottles... I didn't realize how useful samples are until just recently. But there are so many good ones! I haven't had the chance to travel with them yet, but those GOs look miiiighty useful for it! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@annahopper3727]

I’m just getting into fountain pens it’s such a lovely writing experience. Thanks for so much information, especially about ones that are good at stopping the ink drying out

[@thatguynameddan2136]

ever since the algorithm recommended this channel a few weeks bavk, i kinda got the fountain pen bug too! i have a lamy safari i carry at work now, just got a twisbi eco for at home scribbling, and have started getting some people fountain pens as gifts *already* 😂 i'm especially hooked on the inks, theyre so very very pretty. first fill was a sampler of noodlers blue and i love it! thanks so much for your content, i never would have known this hobby was so deep otherwise

[@Doodlebud]

I still have a pen left over to ship as many people haven't replied. If you want one its yours. Just email me at [e-mail]

[@wesmouser1048]

Hey there - thanks for the info! I've been considering getting into fountain pens for years now and have just kept avoiding it for reasons of cost, complexity, etc. but videos like this really help de-mystify the whole process. Keep up the good work!

[@Ben-kw9vf]

Returned to school after 10 years as a nurse, and found fountain pens help me enjoy note-taking. My wife still laughs at me when I tell her the budget pens are less than 30 bucks.

[@crystalspell7058]

Just tried my first fountain pen last week and now im hooked. your video is part of my research on what to buy for myself

[@spiffzyx3740]

I remember the Lamy Safari being my first ever fountain pen and writing with it for years. I always loved it and still do. Even after getting into the hobby and now having a little pen collection it still is one of my favorites

[@bobthestinky7369]

If you only have about £25 to spend on a pen, you could do a lot worse than a Lamy Safari, durable, well made and 80s styling.

[@austonlopez4270]

I like your videos. You are realistic with the info and aren’t trying to sell a product. You do very honest reviews. Thanks

[@Doodlebud]

Your comment was picked so let me send you a pen. Email me at [e-mail] :)

[@srihimanshumouligarimella7029]

I'd sat that Pilot metropolitan is also a really good pick and I feel that pilot does a really good job with quality control that it just phenomenal. It's a good brass pen and is definitely cheaper than safari and has a proprietary converter included so you can get started with bottled inks right out of the bat.

[@Pearlblue22]

That bent nib is so interesting and cool! Thanks for the writing sample :) This video came in at just the right time, I was just thinking of getting a new pen. I love writing with my V-pen but I'd like to try writing with one of those shimmering inks and well that's my excuse for wanting a new pen 🤣 Great to see I've got more options to consider than I initially thought of!

[@beto12345]

Agree with your list, with the Lamy's (nibs like "well"), Muji's, the Perkeo is nice, the Faber Castell Grip is really good and the Pilot's... I haven't tried chinese/korean fountain pens or Schneider's models... The Sailor Tuzu got interest now I heard lots of good features about it.

[@NuryPPanaligan]

Monami Olika is a really great option. Schneider makes the best ballpoint and rollerball pens, but I haven't tried using their fountain pens. I've heard good reviews about Schneider Ray though.

[@907bigdog]

Nice video. I remember watching every video I could when I first started out in the fountain pen world. I've been very curious about the Jinhao 9019 for a while. I just haven't pulled the trigger. I bought a 3-pack of the Jinhao 82's and found that they were just too small for me. However, you are right that they make great gifts for people who might not have used fountain pens. Thanks again db.

[@Abcdefghmnopqrstuvwxyz]

Love your reviews! I have just started in the fountain pen hobby and have only tried the Lamy Safari and Pilot Metropolitan for now. I really loved the pilot writing experience! Looking forward to exploring some more Pilot pens!

[@mattsadventureswithart5764]

Please add the TWSBI GO to the list of great pens for very cheap. They're great for taking on holiday because they hold a lot of ink, and both mine are very smooth to write with

[@dpinc4600]

I love your content brother truly educational. I love the fact that one can get the feel of expensive pens with a cheap price....❤❤

[@rmoraespinto]

Very well done, Doodlebud. This is a a video to recommend to people who are exactly looking for a first (or a second, or a third, no-nonsense not expensive) fountain pen. Congrats.

[@iamabulldozer]

I really appreciate this videos. I've learned a lot from your channel, I got a 9019 after seeing your review and I've really enjoyed it. It's hard for me to hold smaller pens, so this pen really was a god send. Thank you so much!

[@RichardVissers]

Thanks for this quick overview....really got me started on gift ideas for my family.

[@Carriedabout]

Your video is so helpful, thank you so much! I can’t decide which one to start with!! You really gave me something to think about!

[@AlliListArt]

Lovely review of inexpensive fountains for those who r getting started. My first fountain pen was called 'Stypen'. It was my school pen, late 1970s and early eighties and I loved it. Once that split I got given a Parker from my Grandma, which I still have and use today....although the lid case is now split too. I now have a few different pens in my collection, ones which u have suggested and lots of beautiful ink colours. Thank you Dear Doodlebud x Alli from UK England X

[@kevinblack8365]

Absolutely agree. For some reason the WingSung 630 is just a cut above (and my favourite), and the Asvine P20 (my second favourite) is an excellent pen and the Hongdian N7 takes some beating. But for under $10 it is really hard to go past the Jinhao X159. This has to be the best performing/best value on the market. I pick mine up after leaving for a couple of weeks and it writes first time very time. Agreed, you don't have to spend much to get into some excellent FPs. In fact my worst performing FP is my most expensive, the Conklin All American. When it woks it's great, but it eventually skips and dries out etc. Tried several other nib/feed combos, same result. Moral of this little story: most expensive not always most best.....

[@seaweedstache1501]

I love your videos so much :) I’m a Pilot Kakuno fan and I’m glad to see it pop up again! Thanks for the video

[@jesterdunn4638]

I love sharing the FP hobby, happy you’re here helping out. Everyone was new at one point and navigating it can be daunting. Thanks 🙏

[@willhewitt1497]

I am a beginner in this hobby, and I absolutely love your videos! Thank you for doing all the reviews and comparisons that you do it is extremely helpful.

[@Doodlebud]

@@willhewitt1497 How about I send you one for the giveaway pens. Email me at [e-mail] 😁

[@anjnachampaneri4312]

Thanks for the video! I appreciate the introduction to so many affordable options. I already have the Lamy Safari and have been considering the TWSB eco. You've presented some other intriguing options here.

[@Doodlebud]

How about I send you one of the giveaway pens 😁 Send me an email at [e-mail]

[@bramcarroll3882]

I got into fountain pens just recently after using an old scrivener my brother had, I had never had a more pleasant experience writing, when I got home I ordered a twsbi eco and it is a dream to write with. Love the channel keep up the great work =)

[@VAndreaMillan]

My husband and I recently got into fountain pens and have been collecting different kinds. This video is quite educational for us newcomers. Thanks!

[@jmotiff]

If you like the Kaweco Sport, you will love the Hongdian M2. Amazing build quality for cheaper. Only had EF nibs when I was buying, but that is my usual.

[@CestSebastian]

Thanks for the suggestions. I also recomend the Platinum Preppy, Pilot VPen or Jinhao 911. Have a great day!

[@RonyTheRhombus.]

Love the list! I recently started with the Lamy Safari and bought a Schaefer Snorkel can't wait for that to come

[@Doodlebud]

@@RonyTheRhombus. Would you like another pen for me to send you? 😁 Send me an email at [e-mail]

[@kjmav10135]

I just got into this hobby, and I started with a Monteverde Ritma. My pens have been mostly in the 39 - 80 dollar range so far. I got a Lamy Studio broad nib that I just LOVE! I got an Eco with a stub nib and my latest is a Mondeverde Invincia, again a stub nib. I am also learning the difference between nib size-the size 4 nib stub is not going to give you as wide a line as the size 6 stub nib. Obviously, but hadn’t thought about it before I actually used these pens. I went with broad and stub nibs I really wanted to show off the inks! However, I am finding that if I want to write a small little note to myself-a broad nib or a stub nib don’t accommodate tiny handwriting. So, next on my purchasing agenda is a pen with a fine nib.

[@JefferyHall-ct2tr]

Hi DB! I agree with EVERY pen you mention! And I have most of them! LOVE my Hongdian C-1 in yellow, but you are absolutely right, it can tend to dry out. Another pen I would mention is the Diplomat Magnum. LOVE the one I have! It is a bit skinny for some folks, but has a really nice nib, and an ink window just like the Lamy Safari. The only gripe I have is it had the CHEAPEST converter that came with it that I EVER saw! ALL the Chinese pens I have purchased have a better converter! But I put a nice one on it and it is superb! I have a shimmer ink in it and it still just writes and writes and writes! Have a good week!

[@elephantoChan]

Such an amazing list! I have a safari and it feels amazing! I got one gifted to me by my dad and it was one of the best ones ever!

[@Thehoeh]

Some entry pens that I think get overlooked, Caran D'Ache 849, Cross ATX/Century II, and the Herbin Converter Clear demonstrator. The latter of which I buy hordes of them as gifts and test pens. It is also where my Baystate Blue lives. Love your content!

[@alohm]

After a few years in the hobby, lessons learned the hard way. I have tried from Mont Blanc to high end Parkers.. My twisby is still a great pen and nib, but the feel? Nothing but nothing beats the platinum preppy for price, writing, and usability. Always ready to write. imo. *Using Fudes for years and I agree, apart from sailor pens, my favourite is a jinhao with a wood barrel. Surprised myself. And still a daily driver for I Ching Drawing years later.

[@Wangabangy]

Love this overview! I got my first pen recently and have enjoyed the writing experience, but I feel like there is something more suitable for me. This list peaked my interest for sure

[@barbarawright-c2o]

Am new to FPs and have watched a lot of your videos. I learn something from every one. Today's gem was that quick switch you did with the Lamy nibs. Solved my problem. Thank you from Bellingham!

[@benwest2463]

Great list, Doodlebud! I always have reservations about ordering some of Chinese made pens, as some are terrific, and others have some quality control issues. Thank you for calling out the great values. I wholeheartedly agree with you on the Jinhao 9019, it is a real favorite of mine. I would also suggest that the Parker IM deserves an honorable mention on this list, or even the Platinum Preppy (which with the optional converter makes it far more flexible for daily use).

[@RG-yf3uj]

Thanks DB. Enjoy & appreciate your videos. Have helped not just on my collection but also for gifting. I really appreciate the variety of your suggestions also as I gift to different age groups, fountain pen experience, what they'll be using them for...

[@Johan-vk5yd]

Impressive line-up, well presented! I own none of them, although my collection is about a hundred pens. The Platinum Preppy at 3-4 € with three nib options, slip and seal cap, and good ink capacity is one of my favourites. When you remove the cartridge, the transparent body can hold almost 4 ml! The only ”eyedropper” pen that didn’t ” burp” on me.

[@whooobie]

I also started with a twsbi eco and really enjoyed it. Something about the look really speaks to me. Thank you for this list!

[@evanbasnaw]

A useful review. Thanks for sharing! My top honorable mention would be the Pilot Varsity. I know it's marketed as a disposable, but I've refilled with better ink. It's worth grabbing/gifting because it's everything a fountain pen should be. Smooth and consistent writing experience. No drying out or fuss with mechanisms. If you've never had one before. Get a Pilot Varsity first. You can't go wrong. Also, it sets a baseline for quality. I don't accept any pen that doesn't write as well as my Varsity. LAMY SAFARI - A top choice for a reason. I like the grip so it's perfect for me and I'll often swap out the nib to whatever I feel like using that day. As a newbie, it's a low barrier to entry since you can try whatever nib you want. It's rugged in construction to hold up to purse/pocket carry for years. Also, it will fill from a bottle if you want, or you can grab a cartridge to go if bottles of ink are too much for you. JINHAO 82 -A good little pen. Emphasis on little. Mine need a touch of tuning, but it now writes as well or better than some of my expensive pens. As long as you know you might need to get hands-on with a Jinhao and aren't afraid of that, it's a solid choice. JINHAO X159 / 9019 / 9016 / X159 Big pens with a solid feel. I have the X159 and 9019. I'd take the 9019 in medium (or 9016 if you don't like big pens). It's a lovely writer for work/school purposes especially. ASVINE V126 & P20 - I got the V126. It wrote well, but just wasn't for me. Turns out I don't like the vacuum mechanism with the need to unscrew the knob to allow ink flow. P20. I wasn't impressed with the color & pattern I got (purple), but that didn't affect its performance. It's an okay pen for the price, but just feels like it was missing something. My pen also needed some tuning before it wrote like I wanted it. Just luck of the draw, like with my Jinhaos. PILOT KAKUNO - I don't own this one, but got to play with one at a pen show. It's an excellent pen that shares the same nib as the plumix and metropolitain which I do own. I'd highly reccomend this. Pilot is my favorite brand for a reason. KAWECO SPORT - I have one in the olive green special edition. Both a Medium and Double-Broad nib. It's a bit small in diameter, but its a reliable writer and well balanced when posted. I got the extra clip but can't decide if I like the pen better with or without. The best thing is, I can decide later if I want to take the clip off. I wouldn't have any problem suggesting this one to an interested person. TWSBI ECO - I love how mine writes and I love their color options. It's a good choice, but there's 2 things that keep my Eco from being a top reccomendation. The first is the roll-stop that's pretending to be a clip. It's not a clip if it won't actually clip over anything. It might as well not be there. Second, it's bottle-fill only and I can't get the section off to syringe-fill it. If I preferred using big bottles and sticking with the same ink, this would be just fine. It's not a design issue, it's a feature, but one that doesn't work with my usage scenario. I love to try out new samples of different inks so I'm rarely filling directly from a large bottle. There's no good way to drop a 2ml sample into my Eco. MAJOHN A1 / A2 - I have the A1 clipless which eventually broke and was upgraded to a Pilot gold nib. The A1 is just a tad heavy for longer writing sessions, but it's a sturdy body construction. I also have the A2 with me at work today. It won't accept the Pilot nib unit, but that's okay since the EF works better for this situation. For leaving on my desk at work, the click mechanism is perfect. It's fast to click and go for a quick note or drawing. I can't really justify it as a pocket pen because of the way the mechism is always in danger of getting clicked out so I mostly put it in the backpack until it's ready to live on the desk/notebook while I'm using it. I've not had much of an issue with these drying out versus other pens at similar price points with typical inks, but I also have a Private Reserve Infinity ink that love to use on "problem pens" It's a top reccomendation from me for anyone who is worried about dry-out in their click pen, has one that hard-starts even after adjustment, or even if you have a screw-cap that you don't like because it's not quick enough to cap/uncap for a quick not and you'd rather leave it uncapped between notes while journaling.

[@EsaSheikh-yb2of]

I'm a beginner to the fountain pen hobby, and this is so helpful for me and my friends who are willing to get into the hobby! Im actually getting a pilot metropolitan tomorrow!

[@kd5byb]

Love the Jinhao 82 - such a good deal! Especially if you get one with a nice nib or can have a pen friend adjust the nib for you. The clear / yellow / gold 82 is a color I've not seen before! Nice!

[@levon9]

My orange A1 still looks pristine, it's been in a box on and off, but never in direct sunlight for super long durations. Love the yellow Hongdian C1 too (bought based on your video review some time back), my first hooded nib, so unusual design for me. My favorite is still the Eco, but sadly both of the twoI bought just before COVID, and that never left my desk at home, cracked on their own - and I didn't even pull the nib out of the section for cleaning - too bad. It's sort of hit or miss with the plastic, though I'd happily pay more for a crack resistant Eco. Always enjoy your reviews.

[@andrewcrighton4325]

I just fell down the fountain pen rabbit hole about 2 weeks ago, and your channel has been giving lots of great info. Still trying to decide which route I want to go for my first

[@cesspresso]

That kakuno really floats my boat. I got the Pokémon themed one and it’s a real joy to write with. The only inexpensive pen I have that is equally fun is the 80’s retro looking Pelikan from endless pens.

[@danielklopp7007]

Solid list of starter pens! My fountain pen journey started with a Lamy Safari, a Pilot Metropolitan, a Kaweco Sport, and a Platinum Preppy. I eyedroppered the Kaweco Sport and Platinum Preppy, but have gone back to cartridges on the Kaweco (I didn't like the idea of an ink-bomb in my pocket once I figured out that a Std. Int'l short with a fine nib lasts for dozens of pages of writing). Since then, my fountain pen journey has included TWSBI, Opus 88, Karas Kustoms, Gravitas, Ensso, Schon DSGN and several inexpensive Chinese pens (but I don't have a Jinhao 82, so I'd love to win one of those).

[@melissam0ss]

I may not comment too often but THIS IS MY FAVORITE PEN CHANNEL! You’ve helped me learn so much and I had no idea JinHao was actually worth trying!! Now I want one! Thank you 😊 and highest praise for your incredible camera skills!!

[@evilord22]

I agree with a lot of your picks (since I also bought them as well as great affordable pens), however, I was surprised not to see Pilot MR or Platinum Preppy/Plaisir here. I definitely would rate them higher than Chinese pens, since I had some issues with my Chinese pens while Pilot MR, Platinum Plaisir and Platinum Preppy worked perfectly from the box.

[@paulherman5822]

Getting my first fountain pen in 1983, really only the LAMY Safari was available on this list, far as I know. And the design just leaves me cold. But even then, there were options. 😉 The generally flattop Sheaffer student was still just a buck or two on a blister card, with several ink cartridges, at most grocery stores. And they're still available for under $15 USD on eBay. Was still the heyday of the Parker 45. Originally a student pen, ended up being the official pen for signing official documents of US Presidents from Johnson through Clinton (when it switched to Cross.) Again, still available for under $30 USD on eBay (generally for around $60, "restored," if you're not willing to just take it apart and give it a good soak.) "Vintage" made from 1960 to 2007, very modular and just easy to disassemble for cleaning, and the same cartridge converter design that basically inspired everyone else, and that Parker is still using (still hoping for someone to compare the converter from LAMY to one. VERY visually similar, and the Parker design was both out around 20 years earlier and the 45 was visually copied worldwide. Early Parker-Eversharp converters even had a red knob like the LAMY design of today.) And there's my first fountain pen. In 1983, you had trouble giving them away. Was the first brand to go with a stainless steel nib, and in the 1980s, wasn't a gold nib, was either lumped with the Sheaffer student or just thrown out. And budget wise, distribution wise, just not in "collectable" colors like the Safari today, the humble Esterbrook. Want nib options? Esterbrook was the king. 69 or so available, for the writing needs of almost anyone. Only 6 colors, through the mid 1950s, but very easy to fill and clean, and by the 1960s, even a cartridge version was available. For generally around $1 USD, then. (Around $3.50 for the J series, when the SJ was popular for student use, even though there were cheap options even then. Like the Arnold, which was generally in a soup can by the cash register in many US stores for under a dollar. And there's still extant examples of the CH "purse pens" with "educational example" stamped on, for salesmen.) Not as easy as most today, being an iconic lever fill design, the Esterbrook sold in the millions from the mid 1930s to end of production in 1971. Easy to restore yourself, generally no longer than 5 minutes, outside of dry time to seal a new ink sac, they're virtually indestructible and still out there for under $20 USD, sometimes still working. (I have examples from the 1930s and early 40s still on the original sac, which debunks the "latex sacs only last around a decade" for me. Modern ones are still made on the original equipment, with the original recipe, to the same specs. So I'd expect years of service, if you avoid alkaline inks.) Even if you have to switch the sac, you can get a great pen for under $35, total, USD. Of course, saying that, price is likely to go up. 😂 But still under the price of the modern Esterbrook, which is just an overpriced (you're just paying for the pretty plastic and have less standard nib options than a vintage Esterbrook) pen well more than the early ones sold for in today's money ($38 USD. Far cry from the modern price...) Great to see your list of more modern options. Like your list, id highly recommended several Chinese options. When Parker sold design rights to the Hero conglomerate, really helped their potential quality. (Wing Sung and Majohn are from the Hero conglomerate, and Majohn was still producing the Parker 45 clone, the 80, last I knew. Under license from Parker.) And Jinhao... For the price, there's not much to complain about. Sure, there's a history of baby's bottom, especially with their larger nibs. But at the price? Even a 1950s Wearever for under a dollar might have needed work. And the Jinhao 992, which only comes with a fine number 5 nib, easily the best bang for your buck. Generally still around $2 USD plus shipping.😉 Good list! And still there's more options out there.

[@SonnySaxton]

Amazing video, thanks for this 🙏

[@nerkedwards]

I've become quite fond of your videos. Very informative and helpful when I'm trying to plan on how to get into fountain pens! Also, if you don't mind me asking, what microphone are you using on your videos? Your voice sounds very clear and there's little to no background noise that I can tell with my earbuds. Almost has a broadcast quality as well.

[@Doodlebud]

I run the whole channel off my phone. Video, audio, and editing. I use a Rhode Shotgun mic via usb-c. There is no seperate audio track & I can't edit the audio seperately from the video so I need it clear when I record. This is the exact one I use: amzn.to/4csOgPr

[@nerkedwards]

@@Doodlebud that's awesome! Thanks! It sounds great! I haven't been subscribed for very long, but I really enjoy the content! Keep up the great work!

[@deeess3305]

you are an awesome blogger. love your posts. thanks for all your work!

[@derekdavis5720]

Great video DB. This is one of the most important sectors of the market. I’ve thought for a long time that cheap pens can be grossly underrated. Of the bunch that you’ve selected I’m a fan of the Kaweco,Sport. A great pen in pretty much every way and durable. However I’m super impressed by the Diplomat Magnum and it’d be on my list at £20 which is cheaper than the Kaweco Sport at least here in the UK. The nib is fantastic and is a JoWo #5 but one made exclusively for Diplomat. The nib is juicy and super bouncy it is cartridge only and great fun. Thank you for a great video. Catch ya next time 😊

[@gherih1424]

I was just searching for fountain pen gift options. Thank you for this list!

[@dylanlim4559]

My first pens were two TWSBI Eco's, one in Jade with a 1.1mm stub nib and the other in transparent purple with an EF nib and absolutely loved both!

[@DavidMullens]

Thank you for going over the more inexpensive pens. Also thank you for high lighting Jinhao pens. I love the 159. I've been enjoying your reviews. Thanks again.

[@zeus52452]

Hey DB, great video for beginners and old hands alike. You know I have many of the pens you mentioned. I skipped out on the Kakuno for a long time, but finally picked one up recently. I did a search on all of your pen review videos - yes, all 280 of them. The one pen I'm not certain you've reviewed, I recently acquired as a set of 6. They are the Jinhao 992! I got the set off Amazon for under $15 USD (about $2.08 each), and one surprised me at how well it writes. It is a near copy of my Sailor 1911 Compass except for a portion of the clip and the cap bands & the nib of course. Writing with it I noticed the Jinhao nib was really smooth and it doesn't have the kind of feedback that the Sailor nib has.

[@chrislj2890]

I would suggest one that always gets overlooked, the Kaweco Perkeo for $18 USD. They are available in different colors and I have three of them, all with an excellent medium nib. I like it even more than the Lamy Safari.

[@bernhem]

Thank you for the video, this will be a fun time exploring some more accessible pens too keep things fresh while holding off on a more expensive purchase. I recently tried your muji paper system that you like, and the paper quality was surprising! I typically buy the HQ paper from muji and I feel like the HQ paper is slightly more absorbent.

[@syddlinden8966]

Thank you so much for covering the TWSBI disassembly! I have been trying to decide on pens for my first purchase but no one else was mentioning if the nibs were swappable or not and jetpens *says no, but i was pretty sure that was bs. I love the Eco for the large piston system, but i want to be able to try different nibs, specifically Japanese grind nibs. If i can get just an Eco and swap nibs that'd be perfect for my desires cause I'm looking at fountain pens for waste reduction first and foremost. Thanks again!

[@danmagoo]

Nice presentation, thanks. For some reason I have 5 Kaweco Sport pens (4 plastic, 1 brass) and all of them dry out within an unusually short time. Even when they are not prematurely dried out, the nibs have inconsistent quality, often too dry in all nib sizes. I have only used them with Kaweco cartridges, as the converter has an insanely small ink supply. Yes, they now make a piston-fill, but I have officially wasted too much time and money on Kaweco. All of the others you recommend here are good. Thanks again.

[@debbiemessimer8742]

I’ve been lurking in the fountain pen world for a few months. I really like your channel for it’s understandable explanations.

[@nourin_siddique]

I reallly love the jinhao 82 size a lot. If someone does not see the appeal in fountain pens, the colours will really draw them in. My jinhao is a little dry but, it just looks so lovely with the Gold clip. I also think Mahjong and Safari's are such great options. My fav is def Kakuno. The japnese pens mimic the gel pen experience so well.... I really love writing with it.

[@Case16710]

Love the Jinhao 82. Looks great and writes soooo smoothly

[@DebraDarkandTwisty]

I really like all the pens on your list. I have a few Lamys, a few Chinese pens & a Kakuno. Your videos are really helpful. Thank you 🙂

[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

I’d argue that beyond a Platinum Preppy or a Pilot Kakuno, the Lamy Safari is my top recommendation as a sub-35 USD starter pen. It has swappable nibs, it can be filled by cartridges, it can be bought in any color you want, its converter is much better than its counterpart from Pilot, and it’s far less picky with medium or drier flowing inks than Pilot pens. If the Safari isn’t for you, then a medium nib Pilot Kakuno is my top choice, because you can use a Con-70 converter with it. For starters, a Pilot Varsity and an extra fine Platinum Preppy are great introductions to people who want to explore whether they like feedbacky nibs, or smooth nibs.

[@brownowl4706]

Love these videos, fountain pens can be an expensive hobby, so it’s nice that there are mire accessible options for those of us who can’t afford the more costly pens

[@issue_agreeable9476]

my verry first fountain pen is the lamy safari, i inked it up with diamine skull and roses and settled on the 1.1 stub nib. safe to say i'm obsessed with fountain pens now!

[@kc9qxd]

I love Fountain Pens. I found that I like fine nibs for writing and mediums for drawing. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@Rgmekanic]

Waiting on a Platinum Preppy to arrive tomorrow. Last I used a fountain pen I was in 5th grade and bought one at a grocery store to write a report with. I remember being covered in blue ink, since I've always been a "close gripper" so at first I thought you were supposed to grip the nib. I'm 41 now so hopefully I won't do that again! Looking forward to enjoying writing again and practicing penmanship.

[@arcboy2011]

I love my Preppy!

[@vintageenthusiast23]

I recently bought a vintage mabie Swann on eBay that had been restored I can’t wait for it to arrive and see how it performs. My most expensive pen in my collection at the moment is a pelikan m200

[@harperrob]

Thanks for the overview. I'm pretty new to fountain pens, and it's great that there are so many good, low-cost options to try out. I'm gradually developing opinions about preferred size, shape, and weight of pens, so if and when I can get a higher end pen I have a better idea of which ones are likely to suit my preferences.

[@SpitfireMkIIFan]

Your videos got me hooked up on the Safari and fountain pens in general after I used the same ball point for over 10 years ^^. Great stuff!

[@ash16lily23]

Thanks for making these videos! I've learned a lot from them through my fountain pen journey! I've also obtained a lot of these pens over the last year and I have to say the Asvines might be my favorites from this list! Though I have yet to try any WingSung and have been considering their vacuum version. Would you recommend the 630 over the vacuum? Also, love the Fude nibs!

[@johndevault9030]

@Doodlebud, I have given family and friends the Jinhao 82, 100, x159, & 9019 pens, along with Platinum Preppys, and various disposable fountain pens, and for beginners the ones that I hear most feedback (all positive) about are the Pilot Varsity and the Jinhao 82. The Pilot Varsitys are less intimidating for a beginner that can get overwhelmed with the various filling systems, but the Jinhao 82s seemed to be loved by the beginners that want to experiment with the vast array of colors offered by bottles of ink. Of your list of beginner pens, my personal preference has to be the Asvine pens; I currently own at least 1 of every model. And as for pocket pens, my preference is Hongdian M2, rather than the Kaweko Sport (but my favorite pocket pens are the vintage Pilot, Platinum, and Sailor short body pens).

[@zombieno1]

Bought 3 Lamys so i could swap the parts and make a custom version. Went with the matt black with red accents from the limit edition white and red pen. Put the black accents on the white one to make the storm trooper look. Im thinking about getting my son (8 years old) the TWISBY demo because I think he'll enjoy seeing the ink. Just subscribed and love the channel.

[@malekiththewitchking2799]

I've always been a pen collector, but I've always avoided fountain pens because of the price. Stumbling across this video and channel has really got me back into it.

[@manonbelyea5931]

You fabulous Canadian you! Love your method of taking off the Lamy nib. Watching the rest of the video now....😊

[@CTE-w4k]

Love this rundown of starter pens - curious to try a Jinhao.

[@benf288]

My favorite pen so far has been the jinhao 80, I found I prefer slip/snap caps to threaded caps and it looks really nice!

[@jezparkins2230]

my current pen is the lamy al star, i love the ink flow on lamys to keep up with my fast writing and drawing!

[@RGudmetalhead]

A good list, but the only thing I don't like about it is that Sport is the only standard international pen here. In some places of the world ordering bottled ink or proprietary cartridges online can be inconvenient while international cartridges can be obtained from physical stores. So I'd add some inexpensive options from Faber Castell, I have their cheapest Fresh pen for many years and it's a pretty smooth and reliable pen for that price. I believe their Grip is also below $30. Monteverde has few models in $20-35 range, I haven't tried those ones but I have Giant Sequoia that was around $40 and maybe not the smoothest one (although decent) but it's gorgeous, shimmering resin makes it look and feel like $100+ pen for sure.

[@RGEMB]

Great list! I've been more and more interested in getting more pens from Chinese manufacturers ever since I had a good experience with a pair of Hong Dians.

[@grantkerr3925]

I've recently purchased the Jinhao X159 and 82, plus the TWSBI Eco, Pilot Prera and Faber-Castell Hexo. In all cases your reviews have helped me make my decisions. Thanks for helping me spend money ~|: ) !! But I used your discount code .

[@shelleywylie2685]

I'm sooo glad you have the Kakuno on your list. I wish I had purchased it first instead of the Metropolitan. IAM LOVING THAT PEN! Iam a lefty and find the screw on lids bother my hand. Iam saving up for a Pilot E96

[@biggidousthethird2672]

Great timing. I've just started shopping around for my first fountain pen, and your channel has been a great resource!

[@TheCousteaux]

Fantastic choice, I have several of the ones reviewed and you have been completely right. my congratulations for the channel and the comments.