Below, we’ll cover our favorite fountain pen brands and their best fountain pens.

LAMY has been dominating the fountain pen market and the pen market overall ever since it was founded back in the 1930s by Josef Lamy, who worked as a sales representative at Parker before opening his own company.

Their main appeal is offering high-quality writing tools at an affordable cost, and no other company does it better than them. The reason for the budget-friendly cost of their pens is that they’ve pioneered the use of molded synthetic plastic as one of the main materials for creating their pens.

Pros

• Triangular grip section that ensures a proper writing position
• Minimalistic design of the pen and the clip
• Also used as a calligraphy pen
• Various nibs available 
• Additional nib attachment for lefties
• Extremely lightweight
• Useful window for checking ink levels

Cons

• Only works with special LAMY cartridges 

You’re unlikely to find a more affordable high-quality fountain pen than the LAMY Safari. It features a modern and minimalistic design and comes in a plethora of colors to appeal even to the pickiest users.

One of the most appealing features apart from the triangular grip area is the huge variety of nibs you can choose from. These include the extra fine, fine, medium, and broad ones, which are great for journaling and general note-taking, the 1.1 mm, 1.5 mm, and 1.9 mm ones, which are perfect for calligraphy aficionados, and the special nib attachment for lefties.

If you choose the LAMY Safari, you’re not only choosing a fountain pen that gives you a smooth writing experience but also one that can be used for multiple writing purposes, thanks to the nibs that add to its versatility.

Montblanc has established itself as one of the best brands for fountain pens ever since the company started operating in Hamburg in 1906. 

Pros

• 18k gold nib in either a fine or a medium size
• One of the top executive pens
• This pen is the inspiration for the pen emoji symbol

Cons

• Expensive when we take into account that the body is made of resin

The Meisterstück is one of Montblanc's most iconic and renowned collections, the 149 series being the most popular one. 

This iconic masterpiece is meticulously crafted using black resin with gold-coated details, and it’s embellished with the classic Montblanc star logo at the top of the cap. Its timeless design ensures that it’ll never go out of style, and because it’s built to last, you’ll use it for years to come.

The best part about this pen is the 18k gold nib that’s handcrafted by the most capable Montblanc craftsmen to provide one of the best writing experiences imaginable. 

The Ta Shin Precision company has been on the market for over 50 years, manufacturing plastic and metal products ranging from Lego toy parts to high-quality writing instruments. Back in 2009, the company decided to rebrand itself as TWSBI and focus exclusively on designing and manufacturing writing instruments.

Pros

• High ink capacity
• Great price
• Modern design
• Triangular-shaped cap and piston knob
• Steel nib in various sizes 

Cons

• Needs some maintenance to keep the pen clean at all times

The TWSBI Eco pen is a true gem in the fountain pen community since you get a high-quality pen that writes smoothly at an affordable price. 

At first glance, you’ll notice the modern design and the clear acrylic barrel that enables you to check your ink levels at all times. 

However, the main star is the stainless steel nib, which comes in sizes – extra fine, fine, medium, and broad, which work exceptionally well for note-taking and other writing purposes, while the 1.1 mm stub can be used as a basic calligraphy tool. The functionality of the pen is improved by the triangular grip section that allows you to hold the pen comfortably and the triangular-shaped cap that ensures a perfect seal.

The pen comes in a plethora of colors, so you can certainly find your favorite one, and it also comes as part of the Royal Jade Rose Gold Pen Set. You’ll never regret buying your first TWSBI pen, and you’ll definitely come back for more. 

Pilot is a Japanese company that has slowly become one of the largest manufacturers of pens in the world. The company was founded in 1918 and has since been producing writing instruments using superior Japanese craftsmanship and great attention to detail.

Throughout the years, the brand’s focus has been on constantly improving and innovating by developing new designs and using different materials to produce ballpoint pens, rollerballs, mechanical pens, and the best of the best - fountain pens.

Pros

• Retractable rhodium-plated gold nib
• Various color options
• Available in a variety of nib sizes
• Functional design

Cons

• The matte black finish may fade after longer use

The Pilot Vanishing point fountain pen has been on the market for over 60 years and it’s known as one of the top retractable fountain pens in the world. It has a simple yet functional design that prevents the nib from drying out when you aren’t using it. 

The retractable nib is made of rhodium-plated 18k gold nib that comes in various sizes, including extra fine, fine, medium, broad, and 1.0 mm stub, so it’s perfect for a wide range of writing assignments as well as calligraphy.

It comes in various colors, but our favorite feature is definitely the quality of the design overall. You can tell that the artists at Pilot have put a lot of thought and effort into crafting such a well-made pen.

It's only downside is that the matte finish may come off after years of frequent use.

Visconti is one of the classic Italian manufacturers of luxury goods that’s been on the market since 1988. The company was founded in Florence by two writing tool enthusiasts, Dante del Vecchio and Luigi Poli.

Their brand became popular due to their use of celluloid and other high-quality materials, such as ivory, gold, titanium, ebonite, diamonds, and others, in the manufacturing process of their pens. This is why the Visconti pens are not only wonderful to write with, but they’re wonderful to look at as well.

Pros

• Limited-edition Visconti pen 
• Inspired by Lorenzo de Medici who was called “Il Magnifico”
• Made with genuine lapis lazuli

Cons

• A delicate pen

Exuding an aura of grandeur, the Visconti Il Magnifico is made from genuine lapis lazuli stone with gold embellishments. It’s a tribute to the enigmatic persona of Lorenzo Il Magni and the Renaissance era, and it’s a true testament to exclusivity since there were only 188 pens of this kind produced.

Paying homage to the rich artistic legacy of Florence, this one-of-a-kind masterpiece has a distinctive octagonal design that’s reminiscent of the Florence Baptistry. The mesmerizing beauty of the pen is only enhanced by the 18k yellow gold nib that provides a luxurious writing experience that is quite fitting for a Visconti pen.

The cap displays the heraldic emblem of the Medici family, a tribute to the Medici court where lapis lazuli artifacts were showcased. It’s a rare treasure for collectors and a true embodiment of the elegance and prestige of fountains.

S.T. Dupont is one of the most renowned companies in the fountain pen world. This French company was established in 1872 by the visionary Simon Tissot-Dupont and initially specialized in crafting leather briefcases. After recognizing the huge potential of the luxury goods market, they expanded into producing other high-end products, such as pens and writing equipment, lighters, perfumes, handbags, and more.

While the brand is well-known for all of its luxury products, it’s most popular for their exceptional fountain pens. Throughout the years, S.T. Dupont have positioned themselves among the leaders in pen manufacturing by using a variety of materials and creating pens of the highest quality, functionality, and durability.

Pros

• Minimalistic design
• High-quality and durable materials
• 14k gold nib that comes in a variety of sizes
• The famous “cling” sound when the cap opens and closes

Cons

• A bit on the heavier side

Elevating the realm of luxury pens, the ST Dupont Line D is a pen that’s held to the highest standards of production due to being hand-assembled by the best craftsmen in France. It has a flawless finish in natural urushi lacquer and a minimalistic design that embodies the pinnacle of excellence in the production of fountain pens.

The unparalleled 14k gold nib that comes in extra fine, fine, medium, and broad sizes is probably the pen’s best feature, as the variety of nibs cater to every pen aficionado’s writing preferences. It’s a pen that you will use for years and can even pass it down to future generations.

ST Dupont Line D can be used with a standard international cartridge or a converter, which are included with every purchase. Apart from fountain pens that come in medium and large sizes, the Line D collection is also available as a rollerball and ballpoint.

Pineider has a legacy dating back to 1774 when the company first started producing writing equipment, writing tools, and leather goods. Enter into their rich heritage deriving from Italian and European history, and you get Pineider’s global allure in the production of artisanal fountain pens that are revered worldwide.

Due to the brand’s excellence, it has been adored by nobility, royalty, and celebrities, and its popularity only increased back in 2017 when the brand welcomed the pen icon and former Visconti co-founder Dante Del Vecchio. With their new addition of this pen legend to the Pineider family, they’ve solidified their formidable presence in the fountain pen community.

Pros

• Limited edition
• Mesmerizing design
• 14k gold nib available in a variety of sizes
• Hyperflex nib

Cons

• Limited availability, so it might be difficult to find

Introducing Pineider’s limited edition fountain pen that can be used for both calligraphy and everyday writing, the Pineider Arco takes your breath away with its mesmerizing design, violet hues, and exquisite palladium trim. The pen is a true collector’s gem given that only 88 pens were ever made of this kind.

At the heart of this pen lies the flexible nib made from 14k gold that’s available in a few sizes which allow you to showcase your unique writing style and work with different line variations. Another standout feature is the quil-shaped clip and the soft touch magnetic lock system of the cap that enables you to open and close the pen with ease.

Overall, this exquisite pen is a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics while also showcasing Pineider’s commitment to performance and quality.

Our list of best fountain pen brands wouldn’t be complete without another popular Italian manufacturer of fountain pens – Montegrappa. Founded in the idyllic town of Bassano del Grappa and located on the river Brenta, this brand stands for exceptional craftsmanship exhibited by Italian artisans. 

Renowned for its rich tradition in the production of high-quality writing instruments, Montegrappa played a vital role in providing well-made writing instruments during tumultuous times in the Second World War. Their iconic pens were also used by popular 20th-century artists, such as Ernest Hemingway and John Dos Passos.

Pros

• Various nib sizes available 
• Cartridge/converter ink feeding system
• Stainless steel fountain nib

Cons

• The nib isn’t made of gold, which is a given for a pen of this price range

Brenta, one of Montegrappa’s most well-known fountain pens, draws its name from the majestic river with the same name that flows past the historic headquarters of the company, nestled in the peaceful town of Bassano del Grappa. 

This iconic river links the cities of Trento, Bassano, Padua, and Venice, before finally converging with the Adriatic Sea, which is perfectly embraced in the pen’s wavy design. The pen is crafted in premium resin and represents the silhouette and wavy pattern of the remarkable journey that the Brenta makes.

The crown jewel of the Montegrappa Brenta is the meticulously designed steel nib that comes in six available sizes, ranging from extra fine to broad, which are perfect for everyday writing, and 1.1 and 1.5 mm stubs, which are ideal for calligraphy. As a result of its perfect blend of artistry and functionality, the Brenta proudly earns its place on our list of best fountain pen brands and their signature pens.

Kaweco is a prominent German brand with a tumultuous history whose roots can be traced back to 1883. 

Back in 1930, the company went bankrupt and was acquisitioned by the Knust Woringen and Grube company. Years later in 1994, it was acquired by Gutberlet GmbH, a renowned cosmetics company based in Nuremberg, and started to become the brand we know and love today. The company acquired the rights to the name and changed the production and distribution mechanisms in the new company by focusing on fine writing instruments, such as rollerballs, fountain pens, dip and digital pens, and mechanical pencils.

Pros

• Great EDC pen due to its compact design 
• Customizable pens due to the possibility of adding new nibs, clips, and a converter
• Easy assembly and disassembly
• Its parts are interchangeable with the AL Sport, Skyline, and ICE Sport pens

Cons

• The converter holds little ink
• May be small for larger hands

The Kaweco Sport balances portability and affordability, giving you the perfect EDC pen. It’s not only an economical choice, but it’s also a true gem for pen enthusiasts who appreciate a compact design since it’s lightweight and it’s easy to assemble and disassemble.

Having all the features that a practical everyday pen needs, the Kaweco Sport will become an indispensable addition to your daily arsenal due to its durability. Showcasing a unique hexagonal screw cap, which not only prevents desk roll-offs but adds visual interest to the pen, we see the attention to detail that this brand gives to each pen.

It’s important to note that the pen’s small dimensions may not be the most suitable for pen aficionados with larger hands, however, if you’re looking for a pen that’s good on the go and won’t weigh down your pocket, it’s a great option. 

Choosing the perfect fountain pen can be an exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming quest. With so many options available, one doesn’t always know how to make the right choice. This is where our readers have an advantage because we’ll help make this process as smooth as possible.

From nib types to materials and ergonomics, we’ll unravel all the essential elements you’ll need to consider to make an informed and satisfying fountain pen purchase. Whether you seek to purchase a luxurious writing instrument or an affordable everyday fountain pen, take the following criteria into consideration.

Nibs generally come in the following materials:

• Stainless steel - great for everyday use and least expensive.
• Iridium tip - reinforces gold or stainless steel nibs.
• Solid gold - common for luxury fountain pens and adapts to your writing style over time.

Nibs also come in various sizes:

• Extra fine - they produce the thinnest lines, perfect for writing Japenese or Chinese characters.
• Fine - great for people with small handwriting and for drawing.
• Medium - standard size, suitable for most people.
• Broad - best for people with large handwriting though it uses more ink.

Depending on the brand, you’ll also find pens with more nib sizes, including larger ones that are more useful for calligraphy. It’s also important to note that the nib sizes can vary from brand to brand. 

There are two types of replacement nibs:

• Nib only - the nib can be removed from the grip shell and replaced.
• Whole front end - easier to replace but it comes at a higher price, and useful if you want to use your pen with a variety of nibs.

The design and comfort of your fountain pen are generally determined by two criteria:

• Shape - the pen’s shape and whether it has an ergonomic grip define how comfortable your writing experience will be.
• Balance - the more balanced your pen is, the more comfortable it will be to write with it. Heavy pens can tire your hand, so it's best to opt for a fountain pen with optimal weight, around 30 grams.

Fountain pens can use one or more of the following ink systems:

• Cartridge - easy to use and replace, but more expensive due to not being refillable.
• Converter - enables you to use bottled ink in your fountain pen, though it isn’t very useful for using your fountain pen on the go.
• Reservoir - enables you to store ink inside your fountain pen, though it’s not very common in modern pens.

 Materials

The materials your fountain pen is made of will determine its quality and price, so here are the most commonly used materials in the realm of fountain pen production, starting from the most to least affordable:

• ABS plastic - among the most affordable materials for producing fountain pens.
• Resin/ Celluloid - allows versatility in terms of color and patterns.
• Base metals such as stainless steel, brass or aluminum - more affordable than silver, but quite as durable and visually appealing.
• Sterling silver - durable and great if you want to have your fountain pen engraved, however, they’re a bit on the heavy side.
• Luxury materials - precious stones, precious metals, etc.

Last but not least, you’ll need to pay attention to the three C’s when deciding between different fountain pens.

• Clip - used for posting the pen in your pocket or on top of a stack of documents, and often showcases the designer’s creativity.
• Cap - a slip-and-seal cap will prevent your ink from drying.
• Closure - ensures your pen doesn’t leak and can come in a screw-on or click-on version.

Throughout this article, we’ve enjoyed an explorative journey into the founding and establishment of the finest brands that grace the world of luxury and affordable fountain pens. We’ve discussed how these brands expanded their influence in the writing instruments market, and covered the best-performing and most popular pens from each brand. 

However, if we were to choose one brand as the pinnacle of excellence in the fountain pen world, it would be Montblanc. Throughout their years of existing in the fountain pen market, this luxury fountain pen brand has shown how much they’re committed to providing iconic fountain pens with exceptional quality and unforgettable design. Whether you opt for the classic version, the Meisterstück, or some of their limited edition fountain pens, you won’t go wrong.

As our journey comes to a close, we invite you to discuss your personal preferences in the comment section below and tell us which fountain pen you prefer. And if you have a favorite fountain pen brand that hasn’t found its place on our list, we’d love to hear about it since we always want to learn about hidden gems in the fountain pen community. We wish you a lot of fun whilst exploring various fountain pen brands!