By Mitch Rice
When it comes to writing, two main options stand out: gel pens and ballpoint pens. There’s nothing wrong with pencils, of course; they’re a tried and tested choice for drafts and sketches. But when you need something more permanent and smooth on paper, pens are the professional go-to.
Everyone has their own preference when it comes to pens. Maybe you want something simple for everyday use. Or perhaps you’d prefer a more precise and polished option for specific projects. In either case, both ballpoint pens and gel pens are solid choices, they just bring different things to the table.
If you can’t decide between the two, this guide will break down the key differences in features, feel, and where each one works best.
What’s the Difference?
Not all pens are created equal. Ballpoint pens use oil-based ink, thicker, slower-drying, and longer-lasting. You’ll usually need to apply a bit more pressure as you write, but the result is controlled, clean lines that smudge less. This makes them a go-to for general note-taking, carbon copies, or official paperwork.
Gel pens, on the other hand, use water-based gel ink. It flows more freely and smoothly but takes longer to dry. What you get is a much more fluid writing experience with rich, vibrant colours that really stand out.
Think of ballpoint pens as the reliable workhorse, not flashy, but gets the job done. Gel pens? They’re the smooth operator, full of colour and expression, with a flair for the creative.
Fun fact: Ballpoint pens were invented in the late 1930s by Hungarian journalist László Bíró, who was frustrated by how often fountain pens smudged. Gel pens came along decades later in the 1980s, offering smoother flow and punchy colours. Both changed the way we write, just in different ways.
Writing Experience & Feel
No matter what type of pen you use, there are two things you should consider:
- How does it feel in your hand? Is it comfortable, and would you want to use it for long periods?
- How easy is it to write with? Does it glide across the page or need extra pressure?
Both comfort and performance matter, and each pen type performs differently depending on the task.
Gel pens tend to offer a smoother writing experience, gliding across the page with minimal effort. They’re great for fast note-taking or long writing sessions, especially if your handwriting is small and neat. However, the ink can smudge easily, particularly if you’re left-handed or using cheaper paper.
Ballpoint pens, on the other hand, require more hand pressure, which can get tiring over time. But they make up for it in reliability. They’re less likely to smear, can handle a wider variety of surfaces (including glossy or slick paper), and offer better resistance and control if you tend to write quickly or with more pressure.
If smudging is more important to you than colour or fluidity, ballpoints might be the safer bet.
Ink Quality & Appearance
If you’re just jotting down quick notes or working on something personal, the quality of the ink may not be a dealbreaker. In those cases, something practical and functional does the job.
But when it comes to professional settings, ink quality matters. Your handwriting reflects your attention to detail, and smudged signatures or faded ink won’t do you any favours.
For official documents, contracts, and signing papers, ballpoints are a better option. The colours are usually more muted, typically black or blue, and while they may fade as the ink runs low, they’re generally consistent and dependable.
Gel pens, on the other hand, are more expressive. Their bold, vibrant colours are great for highlighting, colour-coding, or creative work like journaling. But they can bleed through paper and are more prone to smudging, especially on glossy or thin paper.
Pros & Cons by Scenario
Your ideal pen depends on where and how you plan to use it. What works well for studying may not be the best fit for signing documents.
Gel pens are also a favourite among scrapbookers, calligraphers, and anyone who enjoys bullet journaling. With fine tips and colour options like neons, glitters, and pastels, they add a stylish flair to headings, lists, and trims.
Meanwhile, illustrators might still use ballpoints for technical sketches or quick cross-hatching thanks to the pen’s precise control and lighter touch.
Here’s how they compare across a few common settings:
Office & Business
In most office or corporate settings, ballpoint pens are the standard. They’re reliable, clean, and unlikely to smear, ideal for forms, signatures, and paperwork. Gel pens might look stylish, but they can bleed through paper or smudge easily, which isn’t ideal for contracts or important reports.
School & Study
For students and note-takers, gel pens offer smoother writing and come in loads of colours, which makes revising more visual and engaging. They reduce hand strain during long sessions, but can smudge on planner pages or glossy textbook paper.
Ballpoints last longer and are more forgiving when you’re flipping through books and taking quick notes, just expect lighter ink and less vibrancy.
Creative Uses
If you’re journaling, doodling, or sketching, gel pens usually take the crown. With crisp lines, bright pigments, and effects like metallics and pastels, they’re perfect for making your work pop.
Ballpoints are still useful, particularly for outlines, captions, or shading, but they’re not as expressive. If you’re using delicate journal paper, a fine ballpoint might help avoid ink bleeding through.
Longevity, Reliability & Cost
You want a pen that won’t quit halfway through your notes. That often means looking at how long it lasts and how much it costs to replace.
Ballpoint pens tend to have the upper hand here. The ink lasts longer, especially per refill, and they’re more resistant to drying out. If you forget to pop the cap back on, they’ll usually still work.
Gel pens, while great for comfort and style, run out quicker and can dry out if left uncapped. Most gel pens can be refilled, which is great for sustainability, though you’ll often need to source specific cartridges.
If you’re the type to lose pens before they ever run out, it might not matter. But if you stick with the same pen for months, it’s something to think about. For value and longevity, ballpoints often come out on top.
The Final Verdict
As with any type of stationery supplies, it depends on how you plan to use it. There’s no one-size-fits-all; just the one that suits your writing style best.
Choose gel pens if you want smoother writing, bold colours, and a more expressive touch. They’re great for journaling, note-taking, and anything creative.
Or if you need something dependable, long-lasting, and mess-free, you might prefer ballpoint pens. Perfect for work settings and daily writing tasks.
Still unsure? Try using both for a week and see which one you naturally reach for. The key is to find what makes writing feel right for you. If you’re ready to start shopping, head out to your local stationery store, or for the best deals, shop online.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.