10 Best Fountain Pen Inks 2025 in the United States

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 PILOT Iroshizuku Bottled Fountain Pen Ink in Shin-Ryoku, or Forest Green, is a great option for fountain pen users who appreciate high-quality ink. One of its standout features is the rich, deep green color that captures the essence of Japanese nature, making it visually appealing for writing or journaling. Users often find that the flow of the ink is smooth, allowing for a pleasant writing experience without skips or blotches, which is a crucial factor for those who write frequently. Additionally, this ink generally dries at a reasonable speed, reducing smudging, particularly for left-handed writers.

In terms of water resistance, the Shin-Ryoku ink is somewhat limited. If you expect your work to be exposed to moisture, this might not be the best choice, as it can bleed when wet. However, the ink does provide beautiful shading effects, adding character and depth to your writing. For those who enjoy the aesthetic of varying tones in their text, this feature can be quite appealing.

The ink is sold in a 50ml bottle, which is a good size for regular use without being overwhelming. Plus, the trusted quality of the Pilot brand reassures users that they’re getting a reliable product. On the downside, some users may find this ink slightly on the pricier side compared to other brands. Additionally, while the aesthetic qualities are superb, those who prefer practical, everyday writing might lean towards more water-resistant options instead. The PILOT Iroshizuku Shin-Ryoku ink is a fantastic choice for those who value color and shading in their writing, but it might not suit everyone's practical needs.

The Pelikan 4001 Turquoise ink is a reliable choice for fountain pen users who appreciate a classic, well-established ink formula. Its color is a vibrant turquoise, offering a fresh yet clear tone that stands out on paper without being too flashy. The ink is known for its smooth and consistent flow, which helps avoid skipping or blotting, making writing a pleasant experience. Drying time is moderate; it won’t smudge instantly but requires a short wait before handling the paper, so it suits everyday writing but may not be ideal for super fast note-taking.

Water resistance is limited, so expect the ink to wash away or blur if it gets wet. This makes it less suitable for important documents that need to be waterproof but fine for regular journaling or letter writing. Regarding shading and sheen, Pelikan 4001 inks generally show some subtle shading, adding character to handwriting, though it does not produce strong sheen effects. A practical bonus is the bottle’s design, which can be tilted on its side to use nearly every drop of ink, reducing waste.

The formula protects the fountain pen and nib, which is great if you want to maintain your pen’s condition over time. If you use a Pelikan or a similar pen with a converter or plunger system, filling is straightforward. This ink is a solid pick if you want dependable performance with a nice turquoise color, especially for regular writing tasks, but it may not meet needs where fast drying or water resistance are critical.