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10 Best Ballpoint Pens 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Black Ballpoint Pens, Medium Point Pens (1.0mm), 144-Count Pack of Bulk Pens, Flexible Round Barrel for Writing Comfort, No. 1 Selling Ballpoint Pens

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,312
Ink Type
Grip Comfort

Most important from
113649 reviews

Ink Type
The BIC Round Stic Xtra Life pens write smoothly and the ink lasts for a long time, making them incredibly reliable.
Grip Comfort
These pens are comfortable to hold and glide across the paper effortlessly.

The BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Black Ballpoint Pens are a reliable choice for everyday writing needs. These pens feature a 1.0mm medium point that provides smooth and consistent ink flow, making writing an easy task. The ink type is consistently black, which is versatile for most writing situations. Users will appreciate the translucent barrel that shows the ink supply, so you'll know when it's time to get a new pen from the pack.

The barrel material is plastic resin, which is durable but not particularly premium. The grip is smooth, which might not provide the best comfort for extended writing sessions. However, the round barrel design is flexible and comfortable for short-term use. These pens are not refillable, so once the ink runs out, they need to be discarded, which might not be the most environmentally friendly option. The color options are limited to black, making it ideal for standard uses like office work or school assignments.

With a bulk pack of 144 pens, this product is excellent for those who need a large quantity of reliable pens at a reasonable price. They would be best suited for students, office workers, or anyone who frequently needs a reliable pen for general writing tasks.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,312
Ink Type
Grip Comfort

Most important from
113649 reviews

Ink Type
The BIC Round Stic Xtra Life pens write smoothly and the ink lasts for a long time, making them incredibly reliable.
Grip Comfort
These pens are comfortable to hold and glide across the paper effortlessly.
#2

Paper Mate Profile Retractable Ballpoint Pens, Bold Point (1.4mm), Black, 12 Count

Rating
9.4
Ink Type
Tip Size
Grip Comfort

Most important from
34363 reviews

Ink Type
Ink flows effortlessly without skipping or smudging, perfect for notes, journaling, or doodling.
Tip Size
The 1.4mm tip delivers bold, smooth lines, making writing tasks enjoyable and effortless.
Grip Comfort
The pens are comfortable to hold, even during long writing sessions, thanks to the soft grip.
Barrel Material
Sturdy clip and transparent barrel help monitor ink levels, adding to the pens' practicality.
Refillability
Retractable design prevents mess and ink leaks, ensuring a reliable writing experience.
Color Options
Vibrant and fun ink colors make it easy to color-code and add personality to writing.

The Paper Mate Profile Retractable Ballpoint Pens come with a bold 1.4mm tip, making them ideal for those who prefer thicker lines and want their writing to stand out. The vivid black ink ensures your notes are clear and easy to read, which is a big plus for everyday use or professional settings.

The pens feature a comfortable soft grip, reducing hand strain during long writing sessions. The retractable design is convenient as it prevents accidental marks and keeps the ink from drying out. The color-matching barrel adds a touch of elegance and makes it easy to find the right pen quickly.

However, these pens are not refillable, which could be a downside for those who prefer a more sustainable option. They are primarily available in black, limiting color variety for those who like to color-code their notes. These pens are well-suited for adults looking for reliable, comfortable, everyday writing instruments with bold and vivid ink.

Rating
9.4
Ink Type
Tip Size
Grip Comfort

Most important from
34363 reviews

Ink Type
Ink flows effortlessly without skipping or smudging, perfect for notes, journaling, or doodling.
Tip Size
The 1.4mm tip delivers bold, smooth lines, making writing tasks enjoyable and effortless.
Grip Comfort
The pens are comfortable to hold, even during long writing sessions, thanks to the soft grip.
Barrel Material
Sturdy clip and transparent barrel help monitor ink levels, adding to the pens' practicality.
Refillability
Retractable design prevents mess and ink leaks, ensuring a reliable writing experience.
Color Options
Vibrant and fun ink colors make it easy to color-code and add personality to writing.
#3

BIC Cristal Xtra Bold Ballpoint Pens, Bold Point (1.6mm) For Vivid And Dramatic Lines, Assorted Colors, 24-Count Pack

Rating
9.1
Ink Type
Tip Size

Most important from
39179 reviews

Ink Type
The ink flows very smoothly, delivering vibrant and consistent colors with every use.
Tip Size
Bold 1.6mm tips create striking lines that stand out, perfect for colorful notes and artwork.

The BIC Cristal Xtra Bold Ballpoint Pens are designed for those who want striking, vivid lines thanks to their bold 1.6mm tip size. This larger tip produces thick, clear lines that stand out, making the pens ideal for bold writing or drawing. The pens use high-quality ballpoint ink that flows smoothly without skipping, smearing, or clogging, which helps create neat, legible lines with minimal pressure. The translucent plastic barrel lets you see the ink level, so you won't unexpectedly run out mid-use. While the grip is described as comfortable, the plastic barrel is basic and may not offer the cushioned feel some might prefer for long writing sessions.

These pens come in assorted colors, adding variety, but color selection varies by pack and is not refillable, which means once the ink runs out, the whole pen needs to be replaced. Given their bright ink and bold tip, they are great for teachers, students, or anyone needing clear, colorful notes or artwork. However, if you prefer finer lines, softer grips, or refillable options, these pens might feel a bit limited. They have a highly positive user rating and offer reliable performance at a good value, especially if you like bold, easy-to-read writing.

Rating
9.1
Ink Type
Tip Size

Most important from
39179 reviews

Ink Type
The ink flows very smoothly, delivering vibrant and consistent colors with every use.
Tip Size
Bold 1.6mm tips create striking lines that stand out, perfect for colorful notes and artwork.

Buying Guide for the Best Ballpoint Pens

Choosing the right ballpoint pen can make a significant difference in your writing experience. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone who enjoys writing, selecting a pen that suits your needs can enhance comfort, efficiency, and even the appearance of your handwriting. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking a ballpoint pen and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
Ink TypeThe ink type in a ballpoint pen is crucial as it affects the writing smoothness and drying time. Ballpoint pens typically use oil-based ink, which is less likely to smudge and dries quickly. This makes them ideal for left-handed users or those who need to write quickly without worrying about smudges. If you prefer a smoother writing experience, you might want to look for pens with hybrid or gel ink, which combines the benefits of both oil-based and water-based inks.
Tip SizeThe tip size of a ballpoint pen determines the thickness of the line it produces. Common sizes range from 0.5mm to 1.4mm. A finer tip (0.5mm to 0.7mm) is great for detailed work, small handwriting, or precise tasks. Medium tips (0.7mm to 1.0mm) are versatile and suitable for everyday writing. Larger tips (1.0mm to 1.4mm) produce bolder lines and are ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced writing style or have larger handwriting. Choose a tip size based on your writing style and the level of detail you need.
Grip ComfortThe grip comfort of a ballpoint pen can significantly impact your writing experience, especially during extended use. Pens with ergonomic designs, rubberized grips, or cushioned barrels can reduce hand fatigue and provide a more comfortable writing experience. If you write a lot or have issues with hand strain, look for pens with these features. Test different grip styles to find one that feels comfortable in your hand.
Barrel MaterialThe barrel material of a ballpoint pen affects its durability, weight, and overall feel. Plastic barrels are lightweight and often more affordable, making them suitable for everyday use. Metal barrels, such as those made from stainless steel or aluminum, offer a more premium feel and are generally more durable. If you prefer a pen with a bit of heft and a more professional appearance, opt for a metal barrel. For casual or disposable use, plastic barrels are a practical choice.
RefillabilityRefillability is an important consideration if you want a pen that lasts longer and is more environmentally friendly. Some ballpoint pens are designed to be disposable, while others can be refilled with new ink cartridges. Refillable pens are often more cost-effective in the long run and reduce waste. If you prefer a pen that you can use for an extended period, look for models that offer easy-to-find refills.
Color OptionsThe color options available for ballpoint pens can add variety to your writing and help with organization. Standard colors like black, blue, and red are commonly used for professional and academic purposes. However, many pens come in a wide range of colors, which can be useful for color-coding notes, highlighting important information, or adding a personal touch to your writing. Choose colors based on your specific needs and preferences.

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