10 Best Fountain Pen Inks 2026 in the United States

The J. Herbin 1670 Anniversary Inks in Emerald of Chivor is a distinctive and high-quality ink option for fountain pen users. One of its strengths is its striking emerald green-blue color, which is further enhanced by a unique gold sheen that can make your writing stand out. This ink is praised for its smooth flow, making it a pleasure to write with. The 50ml bottle is elegantly packaged with a hand-dipped wax seal cap and comes in a gift box with gold or silver hot stamping, adding a touch of luxury. Additionally, it includes a Jacques Herbin history pamphlet, which might interest those keen on the brand's heritage.

However, the drying time can be longer compared to standard inks, which could lead to smudging if not allowed to dry properly. Water resistance is another area where this ink may fall short, so it might not be the best choice for documents that need to withstand moisture. On the positive side, the ink offers excellent shading and sheen, making it popular among artists and calligraphers who appreciate these qualities.

With a 4.7-star rating from over 1,800 reviews, many users are satisfied with the aesthetic and performance benefits it brings to their writing experience. This ink is ideal for those looking to add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to their writing or artwork, though it may not be the most practical choice for everyday use where quick drying and water resistance are important.

The Asvine Hongdian Fountain Pen Bottled Ink in blue is a solid choice for fountain pen enthusiasts looking for quality and performance. One of its key strengths is the smooth flow of ink, which ensures a pleasant writing experience without clogging issues thanks to its non-carbon formulation. Users can expect quick-drying properties, making it suitable for left-handed writers and those who prefer a faster turnaround when writing without smudging. The ink's vivid color adds a stylish touch to any penmanship, enhancing writing aesthetics.

The 60ml glass bottle is thoughtfully designed with a wide base and tight-sealing lid, which is great for storage and prevents spills, but be mindful that glass can be fragile. The ink's pH neutrality and non-toxic nature are additional benefits, making it safe for regular use.

Some users may find that while the ink flows well, it might not be as water-resistant as other premium inks on the market. This means that in case of spills or exposure to water, the writing may smudge or wash away. Additionally, while the ink is marketed for all types of fountain pens, some users with specific pen models may not achieve the same level of performance, so it's always a good idea to test it first.

The Pelikan 4001 Bottled Ink in Brilliant Black is a classic choice for fountain pen users who want reliable performance with a traditional ink formula that's been trusted for over a century. Its black color is clear and sharp, providing good line definition which suits everyday writing well. The ink flows smoothly, making it easy to write without skipping, which is important for those who value consistent ink delivery.

Pelikan inks typically dry at a reasonable speed, although caution may be needed with very absorbent paper to prevent smudging. This ink does not have notable water resistance, so it may not be ideal for documents requiring protection from moisture. In terms of shading and sheen, it leans toward a classic, solid black without flashy effects, making it ideal for formal writing or note-taking rather than artistic flair.

A thoughtful design feature is the bottle, which can be tilted to use every drop, helping reduce waste. It works well with Pelikan pens and many other brands that use a converter or plunger filling system. If you want a dependable, straightforward black ink with a long history and excellent flow, this is a solid pick without special water resistance or fancy color effects.