I have about 20 fountain pens, and the one I enjoy the most is my TWSBI Eco. Not only does it have a huge ink capacity -- it fills by the bucketful -- but the nib is super smooth and reliable, and the pen itself is gorgeous. Highly recommend.
I got my first fountain yesterday and I chose the TWSBI ECO in White along with a Medium Nib. Yeah I did my homework before I chose witch pen to get. I was going to get the WingSung 698 or the Lanbitou (fake TWSBI eco) but most of the Reviews on TH-cam had negative things to say about the quality. I also ordered a LAMY SAFARI
I've written with $1000 fountain pens and fountain pens under $5, and most of the $5 pens wrote about the same if not better than the expensive fountain pens.
David, this is truly one of the best top pens list videos that I've seen. Fantastic job, my friend! I've been waiting for these top list videos from you since you announced you were going to do them. Let me just say, you delivered tremendously. Looking forward to the next level of pens.
I love the Platinum Preppy. I'm just starting out in my fountain pen journey, but it's so much fun trying out new ones. Thanks for these informative videos!
i recently watched this video after first watching some of your other videos on TWSBI, my fav fp brand and loving how in depth your reviews were. i decided to get the faber castell loom after seeing it on your list and decided to get it because of that. my pen came today and i LOVE this pen! it writes so well! i want to thank you for the wonderful timely recommendation! hope to be a loyal subscriber from now on! love ur vids!
Thanks for an informative and helpful video, David. I only wish this was available when I fist started on my fountain pen journey. I use my Varsity(s) for the same reasons you do but also for testing out ink samples and homemade ink mixes (what else can you do with a so-so ink?) Great list and video! One which I'm sure will help many newbies.
WOW! I agree with the top 5! I can't speak for the last 5 since I have never used them. But as a guy who own and uses all the top 5 pens he chose I can attest he pretty much nailed it!
This is a great channel. Just a week ago I had never ever even thought about fountain pens. Now, I want them all. But I have followed your good advice and started easy. Just ordered my first pens, the Platinum Preppy, in three nib sizes 🙂
I know this video is over a year old but I found it very helpful. I'm new to fountain pens and have gotten myself a couple of them but don't have a big budget so pens under $50 is were I like to look. After this list I've added a couple more to my wish list. Thank you Figboots on Pens.
Great video ! I would add the Waterman Graduate to the list: about 15 euros in France, metal pen, takes standard cartidges and posts nicely. The nib is a bit scratchy but mainly because It is very fine. Great alternative to the Pilot Mr.
Excellent choices. I have used/use all of these pens. Your review & placement is great. Enjoy the level of detail & justification for your choices. Educational for all. Thanks.
I would recommend Hero 100 for this category. It has a gold nib (!) and very nice packaging (that is more common for $150 pens). My Hero 100 writes extremely well.
Thanks so much for this very helpful review...I own 2 Lamy Safaris, and a Noodler's Creaper flex pen...I want to add to my collection but want to keep in the under $50.00 price range 1,2, and 3 look very promising! :-)
I liked your choices very much and agree with them . One note the Pilot MR, the European brother of the Metro, does except Standard international carts and convertors Thanks David
Such a good video! Thank you for sharing your opinions on these pens are they are looking like great buys too! This looks like the way to go for keeping pens ready to use with different colors of inks! I think that you might have mentioned the prices of the pens in the wrap up at the end as well as the names of the pens, just a thought.
Thank you for your amazing Videos! I own olny three fountain pens myself. A Lamy ABC for my first years at school and a Lamy All-star, wich I used up until University. And my newest is a Jinhao 950 I bought a few years ago just because of it nice look. So I would never consider myself a fountain pen enthusiast, but recently I came across your videos and just want to say, that it is awesome that you share your love for the topic with us! You are going to make me join the community 😉
try the diplomat magnum soft touch grey pen. Has a unique card stock-like body which feels very nice to hold. accepts standard international cartridges
Thanks Figboot, my primary objection to the Lamy pens is that I like to write inverted if the nib will allow it. Some will and you can get a sharper line.The Lamys with the triangular shaped holding part of the barrel do not allow inverted writing -- at least not comfortably. I am going to check out the Faber Castell Loom.
My second pen was a twsbi Eco with a stub nib that I babied constantly until one day I left it in my pant pockets and my mom put it through the washer and dryer. Destroyed the feed and James the nib into the feed so now it's almost impossible to remove it.
This is good fun. I've checked my top ten pens according to pricing and 3 are under 50 dollars, one is 50 to 100 dollars, four are in 100 to 200 dollars range and two are over 200 dollars. There are great (and some bad) pens in every price range.
Honestly, it's possible that the metro has the best steel nib I've ever used to be honest. The fine is a little scratchier but a medium or thicker will be smooth as butter. I would say that the $11 metro is just about on par in how it writes with my $50 TWSBI classic. I'll agree though. I hate the squeeze converter and, while the con40 is a better option than the squeeze. It feels super cheap compared to other piston converters I've used. I missed the ability to get a Con50 as they discontinued it right before I purchased my pilot vanishing point.
Love the content👍🏼❤️. If I may request, can you do more cut-away to close-up to show more detail. I'm looking for a slight flat (calligraphy) nib. Nothing too aggressive, not to write huge letters. Do you have any suggestions?
In standard reviews on my channel, you'll find significantly more close-up photography. In regard to calligraphy nibs, you might want to check out the Pilot Parallel. They are inexpensive and come in at least four different sizes.
New to fountain pens so appreciate the video! I picked up a cross Bailey... any thoughts? I don’t have any other fountain pen to compare the writing quality with
I have a black and gold one. It was gifted, looks great and writes well. Full ink flow and the medium nib feels like a broad. The nib also has a downward curl. Small cartridges.
Nice review I have 8 of the top 10, quick question though, can the nib on the Pilot Metropolitan be replaced? I have a fine nib and it's too scratchy and my least favorite. I would love to switch out the nib if possible.
I have 4 of your top 5 and could not agree more. The only one I do not have is the TWSBI because I simply do no like demonstrator pens. The Loom and Metropolitan are my main workhorse pens and the Kaweco is ALWAYS in my pocket.
Some of my favorite blues right now are Akkerman Shocking Blue and Bookbinders Blue Coral. In regard to nib size, that's really a personal choice. I personally prefer the Metro medium nib.
The Nemosine Singularity won't be available much longer as they're closing down. The singularity is the only pen they have left and it's 60% off at $7.99. I just went ahead and bought 3(in addition to the one I already own and love but I've broken the cap on).
.The latest one I have is the Hero 767 multi colour and it is quite honestly as good as any $400 that I own ,and was only $30 from Amazon.It is also better than most of the pens you name AND I have most of the pens you name .However,having said that I must say your review is excellent.
Good one and high expectations for the other three. Appreciate you for picking pens on fair market price rather than on MRP because it is more sensible.
So that we could see performance, on future vids it would be cool to see you use the pens, and write with them...so we could see them in action...that would be a big help!
On longer videos like this, I debate about how beneficial the additional time would be to show writing samples of all ten pens. The top seven each have solo reviews of their own on my channel. If you're interested in seeing more info about any of those, you can check out those reviews.
I hate to comment on a video this old but since no one has mentioned it, as a left-handed person, the grip on the lamy pens is REALLY uncomfortable. I have to hold my hand/pen differently from a "standard" grip to avoid smearing ink, and I just struggled with the safari. Very glad my friend persuaded me to try a TWSBI Eco, which I fell in love with. Nothing "wrong" with either pen, but this may help you decide better if you're a leftie.
Hello Figboot, I just got myself an Eco as my first fountain pen. I really like the idea of avoiding cartridges. If you don''t mind me asking, which inks would you recomend. The first ink I bought to use with the Eco is 4001 brown, as I love the shade (or at least how it looks on the screen). The eco will be arriving sometime next week.
Congratulations on your first pen...I hope you enjoy it. The Eco is a great starter pen. In regard to ink, there are a ton of choices out there. Many bottles cost more than the pen you just bought. Diamine has a wide variety of colors, and they offer some smaller bottles, so you can more economically check out a number of different colors while you discover your tastes. I'm a big fan of Pilot Iroshizuku inks as well.
Figboot on Pens thanks for the quick reply, to be honest it is rare to see a poster even respond to a comment, much less respond in a matter of minutes. I'll look into those two lines and see what I think.
I'm looking to buy my first fountain pen and it's overwhelming looking at all the reviews and trying to decide! Personally, I couldn't care less what the pen looks like, but only how it writes. A writing sample would have been helpful to see. I would like to have line variation, which I guess requires certain kinds of nibs. It would have been nice to hear more about what kinds of nibs these pens are able to use. I saw your video on the Pilot Metropolitan and I think you said it only takes medium or fine, so no line variation, if I understand that correctly.
You can probably see writing samples at online pen stores. Goulet, for example. Although it’s asking a lot to show the writing of all the different nib sizes And you can get line variation with medium nibs, esp with more flexibility. Pressure is key.
Una opinión: Por qué no, en vez de tener siempre la imagen sobre tu rostro, no haces imagen cercana de las plumas fuente, al fin y al cabo, el video es sobre las plumas fuente. Así no se aprecia ningún detalle de las mismas, y se pierde interés en el video. Saludos
Man ... I have been tempted to get the Loom so many times, but I just cannot get over the ridiculous looking cap. Looks like a pen with a bobble head. Without the cap, the pen looks fine ... but with the cap ... the aesthetics is downright offensive. Well I do want to a have a Faber Castell in my collection, so I got the Ambition instead (yes, the grip section is a bit problematic, but I wouldn't mind waking up next to it every morning).
I have the same opinion on the Loom's cap. Then again, I have two Kaweco Sport pens which have a ridiculous cap, but to me that one works for the brand.
You know what? Tried the Ambition and the body (the lack of any ergonomic grip) was just too painful to use for long term writing. I think I might get a Loom after all.
Great video. One thing that surprised me was that you list the Faber Castell Loom as your number 1 pen in this list, yet you showed the exact same pen in your "Pens I Regret Buying" video from 2 months ago. What made you change your mind?
m4nit03 It was the FC Basic that was on the "regret" list. I talked about the Loom being a better alternative for the same price. No regrets with the Loom. :-)
Unfortunately, it won't. Lamy uses a proprietry system, so the Z26 will only work in Lamy pens. The Loom will accept any standard international converter.
Figboot on Pens Thanks! Its nice to know it could be done. I'm new to Fountain Pens and i was really wondering about it. Specially to the pens with proprietary cartridges and converters.=)
Just watched this video. Very good info. I own several of these pens and know about some of the others. However, I decided to find a picture and writeup for every one of the ten. I succeeded for all except #8 -- the Platinum Cool. I tried Cool, Kool, Cule, Kule all with no success. I went to Platinum's website and could not find anything resembling the word cool. Can you help me out? Based on the age of these comments this is a very old post, so maybe I am just chasing a ghost.
There can be a wide variety of quality you receive with Ahabs. You might get one that works amazing, or you might get one with issues...mine had issues, so it wasn't a great experience.
Also, why did you not include the obligatory JinHao pen thrown in there somewhere. The pens are quite decent for the price and around the same price as the Pilot Varsity. I got the 450 and it's amazing for the price you pay and you can't really go wrong with it.
In this case, it's simply personal preference. I have several Jinhao pens and while there's nothing inherently wrong with them, they haven't necessarily won me over. There is a possibility there will be another top 10 list in the near future geared toward pens for beginners...Jinhao might just show up on that list.
David, you mentioned the Loom's nib but failed to say if it is a medium or fine writing nib. I do not like to write with a fine nib, so was just curious because I now want to buy a Loom. Thank you and happy 2017!
I haven't tried an Invincia yet. I think it looks pretty sharp, though. Almost pulled the trigger several times, but not sure how much use I would get out of it. Not a big fan of the Monteverde font they use...it's like one step away from being comic sans...not that a font affects the performance of a pen.
Cool. It's always nice to visit the pens in person (most of the time it looks great in photos and videos but not in person) at a shop that's not too intimidating, lol (Mont Blanc, not sure why they make it so intimidating- they should put the pens a the entrance so people can just pass by, no pressure, see the nib design especially and the price. God bless, Proverbs 31
I think the manufacturers should really take pride in their nib design. The Nemosine nibs are beautiful, even plain TWSBI or Kaweco is nice looking. Lamy is sleek as well. But cheaper Pilot nibs for example are just cheap looking, and it costs them nothing to design and stamp a nib for some added character.
In my researches, I'm astounded at how many pen reviews do not show the pen writing or being filled. What else do you do with a pen? This guy doesn't even OPEN half of them.
I have become a big fan of cheap fountain pens (I am poor and old). I love writing with them and they are particularly good for Japanese and Chinese script. I pretend I am writing with top quality pens and as long as the ink flows, and it always does, this fantasy continues. I purchased two bottles of good ink but blue ink is my favorite as blue script on white paper is wonderful. I might order some high quality Japanese paper and make it last but I am not sure yet. A few months ago I knew nothing about pens and since I am MGTOW there are no horribles around to spoil my pleasure. I will never forget my uncle hiding in the closet playing with his train models while his harridan wife wandered around yelling for him. Model trains for him in his final years was like a nice cup of coffee in Hell - his wife being Satan's sister.
I know these lists are invariably very subjective. I am not familiar with all the pens you mentioned so I cannot criticize your choices. I was disappointed to not see the Conklin Duragraph on the list. It is one of my favorite pens,the more I use it the more I like it and I use it a great deal. And it is an excellent value for under $50.00.
I agree the Duragraph is a solid pen in this price range. To be honest, the reason it didn't make my list is because I don't currently own one. I recently reviewed one provided by Pen Chalet, but that one was given away to a viewer. I should probably pick one up to replace that one...because they are decent pens.
I would't say trash, but they aren't as popular in the pen collector community. They do have some interesting models. Their Star Wars models are cool...and I absolutely love my Peerless 125.
I missed a couple of the prices. I went back to catch those but found you did not tell us. If you included the price in the notes below it would have helped me, a complete novice.
For a number of the pens, the pricing can vary depending on where you purchase the pen. Rather than provide exact pricing for a specific retailer, for these lists I wanted to basically focus on a price range. If I have a full review of a pen on my channel, I'll include pricing information in that review. Thanks for watching!
TWSBI Eco is easy to disassemble until you lose the wrench, like I did, and I've tried a million different things, I just can't get the damn thing apart.
What a fine list indeed. Although a majority of my most loved fountain pens are $100+ (many over $250), I still think and this excellent video amply demonstrates that there are many perfectly worthy, pretty and practical every day carry fountain pens that are very affordable for the fountain pen newbie and more experienced aficionado alike. This list reminded me that I really must get hold of the Faber Castell Loom as soon as I can. At under $50, buying this cool pen sounds like quite a steal. I’d add two other ‘cheap’ pens
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I have about 20 fountain pens, and the one I enjoy the most is my TWSBI Eco. Not only does it have a huge ink capacity -- it fills by the bucketful -- but the nib is super smooth and reliable, and the pen itself is gorgeous. Highly recommend.
I got my first fountain yesterday and I chose the TWSBI ECO in White along with a Medium Nib. Yeah I did my homework before I chose witch pen to get. I was going to get the WingSung 698 or the Lanbitou (fake TWSBI eco) but most of the Reviews on TH-cam had negative things to say about the quality. I also ordered a LAMY SAFARI
My Lamy Safari is my daily, I love it.
I've written with $1000 fountain pens and fountain pens under $5, and most of the $5 pens wrote about the same if not better than the expensive fountain pens.
David, this is truly one of the best top pens list videos that I've seen. Fantastic job, my friend! I've been waiting for these top list videos from you since you announced you were going to do them. Let me just say, you delivered tremendously. Looking forward to the next level of pens.
I love the Platinum Preppy. I'm just starting out in my fountain pen journey, but it's so much fun trying out new ones. Thanks for these informative videos!
I really have to respect the huge amount of time put into videos like this to help the community grow. Thank you!
Thanks for the list, I enjoyed last year's one as well. look forward to the next one!
I am glad to see my twsbi eco on your list :)
I have/used 8 of the 13 pens you showed and I love them all. Thank you for a great video.
Pilot metropolitan is a really nice pen. I almost use this on a daily basis, worth purchase. Weird enough Jinhao pen is more smoother than MR.
Thank you for this list. As a poor ole woman on a fixed income, it gives me some ideas about pens to try without breaking the bank.
Thank you so much for the video. I bought the Fabel Castell Loom and I totally share your feeling. I love it!!
Great video. I’ll have to check out the Loom. In this category, I’m quite smitten with the Kaweco Perkeo, in medium.💕
i recently watched this video after first watching some of your other videos on TWSBI, my fav fp brand and loving how in depth your reviews were. i decided to get the faber castell loom after seeing it on your list and decided to get it because of that. my pen came today and i LOVE this pen! it writes so well! i want to thank you for the wonderful timely recommendation! hope to be a loyal subscriber from now on! love ur vids!
I love Pilot Varsities. Have used them for years. Now I’m starting to educate myself and up my fountain pen game.
Thanks for an informative and helpful video, David. I only wish this was available when I fist started on my fountain pen journey.
I use my Varsity(s) for the same reasons you do but also for testing out ink samples and homemade ink mixes (what else can you do with a so-so ink?)
Great list and video! One which I'm sure will help many newbies.
WOW! I agree with the top 5! I can't speak for the last 5 since I have never used them. But as a guy who own and uses all the top 5 pens he chose I can attest he pretty much nailed it!
Good list with some interesting pens! Great suggestions for newbies.
Realy great Video. Thank you much.
great presentation and information as usual
Great overview! Possibly the best starter fountain pen overview available. Well done!
Thanks. You might just see another video specifically geared toward beginners somewhat soon.
Thank you, David. This series is a good idea.
Anzan Hoshin Roshi this is not a good idea.
It is a fricking great idea
This is a great channel. Just a week ago I had never ever even thought about fountain pens. Now, I want them all. But I have followed your good advice and started easy. Just ordered my first pens, the Platinum Preppy, in three nib sizes 🙂
Sounds like a great start. Thanks for watching!
How’d that go?
I know this video is over a year old but I found it very helpful. I'm new to fountain pens and have gotten myself a couple of them but don't have a big budget so pens under $50 is were I like to look. After this list I've added a couple more to my wish list. Thank you Figboots on Pens.
Thanks for watching!
Great presentation & details with fair opinions. 🖋✒
thanks so much for sharing all this. you *utter* nerd you ;) really appreciate it
Great video ! I would add the Waterman Graduate to the list: about 15 euros in France, metal pen, takes standard cartidges and posts nicely. The nib is a bit scratchy but mainly because It is very fine. Great alternative to the Pilot Mr.
Excellent choices. I have used/use all of these pens. Your review & placement is great. Enjoy the level of detail & justification for your choices. Educational for all. Thanks.
Thanks, Chris...appreciate it!
I have one crocodile pen want to sell it
Darn straight. Couldn't say it better myself, so I didn't!
I would recommend Hero 100 for this category. It has a gold nib (!) and very nice packaging (that is more common for $150 pens). My Hero 100 writes extremely well.
Thanks so much for this very helpful review...I own 2 Lamy Safaris, and a Noodler's Creaper flex pen...I want to add to my collection but want to keep in the under $50.00 price range 1,2, and 3 look very promising!
:-)
I liked your choices very much and agree with them . One note the Pilot MR, the European brother of the Metro, does except Standard international carts and convertors Thanks David
Ahhh..yes. I forgot about that. Thanks for watching!
Good video I need a pen to teach a younger person will check out some these fountain pens.
Wasn't expecting the preppy to be on there. I have a couple as the few I own.
Great advice!😁
Such a good video! Thank you for sharing your opinions on these pens are they are looking like great buys too! This looks like the way to go for keeping pens ready to use with different colors of inks! I think that you might have mentioned the prices of the pens in the wrap up at the end as well as the names of the pens, just a thought.
I have the Loom and find it very slick with the all metal grip
Writes very well, but not for long distance writing
Thank you for your amazing Videos! I own olny three fountain pens myself. A Lamy ABC for my first years at school and a Lamy All-star, wich I used up until University. And my newest is a Jinhao 950 I bought a few years ago just because of it nice look.
So I would never consider myself a fountain pen enthusiast, but recently I came across your videos and just want to say, that it is awesome that you share your love for the topic with us! You are going to make me join the community 😉
Excellent video
Thanks for sharing all your knowledge. I'm getting really interested in fountain pens. #newsubscriber
My favorite under 50 is the Scrivner classic fine tip, it is a amazing pen with a lot for what you pay for, incredibly smooth pocket pen
Preppy is an awesome pen, You are entirely correct !
Do you have an updated version of this video for 2020 or at least 2019..?
try the diplomat magnum soft touch grey pen. Has a unique card stock-like body which feels very nice to hold. accepts standard international cartridges
Thanks Figboot, my primary objection to the Lamy pens is that I like to write inverted if the nib will allow it. Some will and you can get a sharper line.The Lamys with the triangular shaped holding part of the barrel do not allow inverted writing -- at least not comfortably. I am going to check out the Faber Castell Loom.
I got the Loom some months ago after watching this video. Very happy with it! Now I'm ordering a TWSBI Eco since I want to into bottled ink :D
Glad you are enjoying your Loom!
My second pen was a twsbi Eco with a stub nib that I babied constantly until one day I left it in my pant pockets and my mom put it through the washer and dryer. Destroyed the feed and James the nib into the feed so now it's almost impossible to remove it.
This is good fun. I've checked my top ten pens according to pricing and 3 are under 50 dollars, one is 50 to 100 dollars, four are in 100 to 200 dollars range and two are over 200 dollars. There are great (and some bad) pens in every price range.
I’m curious about what you do with your pens?
Honestly, it's possible that the metro has the best steel nib I've ever used to be honest. The fine is a little scratchier but a medium or thicker will be smooth as butter. I would say that the $11 metro is just about on par in how it writes with my $50 TWSBI classic. I'll agree though. I hate the squeeze converter and, while the con40 is a better option than the squeeze. It feels super cheap compared to other piston converters I've used. I missed the ability to get a Con50 as they discontinued it right before I purchased my pilot vanishing point.
FYI: The "label" on the Platinum Preppy can be removed quite easily with Simachrome polish.
the Lamy comes in 4 variations, Safari, Vista, AL-Star and LX (4 colors inspired by the iPhones)
Love the content👍🏼❤️. If I may request, can you do more cut-away to close-up to show more detail. I'm looking for a slight flat (calligraphy) nib. Nothing too aggressive, not to write huge letters. Do you have any suggestions?
In standard reviews on my channel, you'll find significantly more close-up photography. In regard to calligraphy nibs, you might want to check out the Pilot Parallel. They are inexpensive and come in at least four different sizes.
would you change this list since time has past?
New to fountain pens so appreciate the video! I picked up a cross Bailey... any thoughts? I don’t have any other fountain pen to compare the writing quality with
I have a black and gold one. It was gifted, looks great and writes well. Full ink flow and the medium nib feels like a broad. The nib also has a downward curl. Small cartridges.
Nice review I have 8 of the top 10, quick question though, can the nib on the Pilot Metropolitan be replaced? I have a fine nib and it's too scratchy and my least favorite. I would love to switch out the nib if possible.
Kakuna, metro, explorer and plumix are all interchangeable.
Hi David, was this just an one-time video topic? I couldn't find this topic in your playlist since last 3 years.
I have 4 of your top 5 and could not agree more. The only one I do not have is the TWSBI because I simply do no like demonstrator pens. The Loom and Metropolitan are my main workhorse pens and the Kaweco is ALWAYS in my pocket.
Which covertor ink would you suggest for the Pilot metropolitan for blue color and which Nib???
Some of my favorite blues right now are Akkerman Shocking Blue and Bookbinders Blue Coral. In regard to nib size, that's really a personal choice. I personally prefer the Metro medium nib.
Excellent review figboot!!! I always enjoy your well spoken and intelligent reviews. keep up the good work.
-Gabriel
The Nemosine Singularity won't be available much longer as they're closing down. The singularity is the only pen they have left and it's 60% off at $7.99. I just went ahead and bought 3(in addition to the one I already own and love but I've broken the cap on).
as always, I enjoy your review... #5 Kaweco was misspelled... :)
.The latest one I have is the Hero 767 multi colour and it is quite honestly as good as any $400 that I own ,and was only $30 from Amazon.It is also better than most of the pens you name AND I have most of the pens you name .However,having said that I must say your review is excellent.
Good one and high expectations for the other three. Appreciate you for picking pens on fair market price rather than on MRP because it is more sensible.
The loom is indeed beautiful. why the pilot versity is not in the top?
So that we could see performance, on future vids it would be cool to see you use the pens, and write with them...so we could see them in action...that would be a big help!
On longer videos like this, I debate about how beneficial the additional time would be to show writing samples of all ten pens. The top seven each have solo reviews of their own on my channel. If you're interested in seeing more info about any of those, you can check out those reviews.
No Jinhao?
I started with a Waterman Graduate and now I own a Pelikan M1000
I hate to comment on a video this old but since no one has mentioned it, as a left-handed person, the grip on the lamy pens is REALLY uncomfortable. I have to hold my hand/pen differently from a "standard" grip to avoid smearing ink, and I just struggled with the safari. Very glad my friend persuaded me to try a TWSBI Eco, which I fell in love with. Nothing "wrong" with either pen, but this may help you decide better if you're a leftie.
Hello Figboot, I just got myself an Eco as my first fountain pen. I really like the idea of avoiding cartridges. If you don''t mind me asking, which inks would you recomend. The first ink I bought to use with the Eco is 4001 brown, as I love the shade (or at least how it looks on the screen). The eco will be arriving sometime next week.
Congratulations on your first pen...I hope you enjoy it. The Eco is a great starter pen. In regard to ink, there are a ton of choices out there. Many bottles cost more than the pen you just bought. Diamine has a wide variety of colors, and they offer some smaller bottles, so you can more economically check out a number of different colors while you discover your tastes. I'm a big fan of Pilot Iroshizuku inks as well.
Figboot on Pens thanks for the quick reply, to be honest it is rare to see a poster even respond to a comment, much less respond in a matter of minutes. I'll look into those two lines and see what I think.
ben russ glad to hear you are still having fun with your toy!
In the description, you misspelled Faber-Castell.
I'm looking to buy my first fountain pen and it's overwhelming looking at all the reviews and trying to decide! Personally, I couldn't care less what the pen looks like, but only how it writes. A writing sample would have been helpful to see. I would like to have line variation, which I guess requires certain kinds of nibs. It would have been nice to hear more about what kinds of nibs these pens are able to use. I saw your video on the Pilot Metropolitan and I think you said it only takes medium or fine, so no line variation, if I understand that correctly.
i know this response is super late, but yes. you should not expect the pilot metropolitan to be able to produce much line variation.
You can probably see writing samples at online pen stores. Goulet, for example. Although it’s asking a lot to show the writing of all the different nib sizes And you can get line variation with medium nibs, esp with more flexibility. Pressure is key.
Una opinión: Por qué no, en vez de tener siempre la imagen sobre tu rostro, no haces imagen cercana de las plumas fuente, al fin y al cabo, el video es sobre las plumas fuente. Así no se aprecia ningún detalle de las mismas, y se pierde interés en el video. Saludos
Thank you for more quality content, Mr. Boot!
The cap screws with one turn. If you align the nib and clip before you post the pen the clip will end up on the top.
Man ... I have been tempted to get the Loom so many times, but I just cannot get over the ridiculous looking cap. Looks like a pen with a bobble head. Without the cap, the pen looks fine ... but with the cap ... the aesthetics is downright offensive. Well I do want to a have a Faber Castell in my collection, so I got the Ambition instead (yes, the grip section is a bit problematic, but I wouldn't mind waking up next to it every morning).
I have the same opinion on the Loom's cap. Then again, I have two Kaweco Sport pens which have a ridiculous cap, but to me that one works for the brand.
For me it's the section. I think it looks fine capped, but pull it off and I just think the grip looks blah.
You know what? Tried the Ambition and the body (the lack of any ergonomic grip) was just too painful to use for long term writing. I think I might get a Loom after all.
How about the Basic Faber Castell?
I'm telling you the loom is great. I wasn't sure about it but the writing more than makes up for it. Special pen for the price.
I found it useful.
Great video. One thing that surprised me was that you list the Faber Castell Loom as your number 1 pen in this list, yet you showed the exact same pen in your "Pens I Regret Buying" video from 2 months ago. What made you change your mind?
m4nit03 It was the FC Basic that was on the "regret" list. I talked about the Loom being a better alternative for the same price. No regrets with the Loom. :-)
You're absolutely right, them being so similar I confused the two. Thanks for the reply!
Does lamb z26 convertor goes with the faber castell loom
Unfortunately, it won't. Lamy uses a proprietry system, so the Z26 will only work in Lamy pens. The Loom will accept any standard international converter.
Stolla is a real beauty!
Is it possible to refill a cartridge with my preferred ink using a syringe?
Ronell Oropesa yup...sure is.
Figboot on Pens Thanks! Its nice to know it could be done. I'm new to Fountain Pens and i was really wondering about it. Specially to the pens with proprietary cartridges and converters.=)
Just watched this video. Very good info. I own several of these pens and know about some of the others. However, I decided to find a picture and writeup for every one of the ten. I succeeded for all except #8 -- the Platinum Cool. I tried Cool, Kool, Cule, Kule all with no success. I went to Platinum's website and could not find anything resembling the word cool. Can you help me out? Based on the age of these comments this is a very old post, so maybe I am just chasing a ghost.
www.cultpens.com/i/q/PT27614/platinum-pgb-3000a-cool-fountain-pen-blue
www.amazon.com/Platinum-Fountain-Crystal-Barrel-PLAT-PGB-3000A-05-F/dp/B00BB8ZQZY
I would have to give it to the Monteverde Impressa
What are your thoughts on the noodlers ahab?
There can be a wide variety of quality you receive with Ahabs. You might get one that works amazing, or you might get one with issues...mine had issues, so it wasn't a great experience.
Also, why did you not include the obligatory JinHao pen thrown in there somewhere. The pens are quite decent for the price and around the same price as the Pilot Varsity. I got the 450 and it's amazing for the price you pay and you can't really go wrong with it.
In this case, it's simply personal preference. I have several Jinhao pens and while there's nothing inherently wrong with them, they haven't necessarily won me over. There is a possibility there will be another top 10 list in the near future geared toward pens for beginners...Jinhao might just show up on that list.
David, you mentioned the Loom's nib but failed to say if it is a medium or fine writing nib. I do not like to write with a fine nib, so was just curious because I now want to buy a Loom. Thank you and happy 2017!
I have a medium on my Loom...and it is very much a Western medium. Very generous. Not fine at all.
Superb! Glad to know. What do you think of the Monteverde Invincia?
I haven't tried an Invincia yet. I think it looks pretty sharp, though. Almost pulled the trigger several times, but not sure how much use I would get out of it. Not a big fan of the Monteverde font they use...it's like one step away from being comic sans...not that a font affects the performance of a pen.
Is the Cross Calais fountain pen a good pen
@Gareth Collocott thank you
I got a Cross bailey for $50, and i think it would deserve some kind of honorable mention? Just my opinion
18:17 This was me when I got me Metro :(
Cool. It's always nice to visit the pens in person (most of the time it looks great in photos and videos but not in person) at a shop that's not too intimidating, lol (Mont Blanc, not sure why they make it so intimidating- they should put the pens a the entrance so people can just pass by, no pressure, see the nib design especially and the price.
God bless, Proverbs 31
What do you guys think about the Lamy Studio? Thanks.
I have a review of the Studio on my channel, if you would like some more detail. Other than the metal section on some of the models, I enjoy it.
Figboot on Pens thanks :) will check your review.
What is your opinion about the Waterman hemisphere?
It's a nice looking pen...I own one...but I find it way too thin for me to use on a regular basis.
I think the manufacturers should really take pride in their nib design. The Nemosine nibs are beautiful, even plain TWSBI or Kaweco is nice looking. Lamy is sleek as well. But cheaper Pilot nibs for example are just cheap looking, and it costs them nothing to design and stamp a nib for some added character.
Pilot have discontinued the con 50 converter.
Contact 40 only now.
I would love to see the writing examples of these
In my researches, I'm astounded at how many pen reviews do not show the pen writing or being filled. What else do you do with a pen? This guy doesn't even OPEN half of them.
@@ichirofakename Research?
@@gurlalgill1261 You mean watching TH-cam videos isn't research? Dang.
@@ichirofakenameAn interesting term to use.
@@ichirofakename David's a little different, he does what he does!
can you solve Rubik's cube?????????
When is the next video coming?
Christopher Sambre Soon...either Mon or Tue.
I have become a big fan of cheap fountain pens (I am poor and old). I love writing with them and they are particularly good for Japanese and Chinese script. I pretend I am writing with top quality pens and as long as the ink flows, and it always does, this fantasy continues. I purchased two bottles of good ink but blue ink is my favorite as blue script on white paper is wonderful. I might order some high quality Japanese paper and make it last but I am not sure yet. A few months ago I knew nothing about pens and since I am MGTOW there are no horribles around to spoil my pleasure. I will never forget my uncle hiding in the closet playing with his train models while his harridan wife wandered around yelling for him. Model trains for him in his final years was like a nice cup of coffee in Hell - his wife being Satan's sister.
JoachimderZweite lmao 😂 “Satan’s sister”
JoachimderZweite Very interesting and sardonic comments. You are quite a wit. Best wishes from Vancouver, Canada.
😊 made me smile
Enjoyed the story
I know these lists are invariably very subjective. I am not familiar with all the pens you mentioned so I cannot criticize your choices. I was disappointed to not see the Conklin Duragraph on the list. It is one of my favorite pens,the more I use it the more I like it and I use it a great deal. And it is an excellent value for under $50.00.
I agree the Duragraph is a solid pen in this price range. To be honest, the reason it didn't make my list is because I don't currently own one. I recently reviewed one provided by Pen Chalet, but that one was given away to a viewer. I should probably pick one up to replace that one...because they are decent pens.
Please forgive my ignorance, but are Cross fountain pens trash? I never see any reference to Cross, which makes me think they aren’t considered good.
I would't say trash, but they aren't as popular in the pen collector community. They do have some interesting models. Their Star Wars models are cool...and I absolutely love my Peerless 125.
I missed a couple of the prices. I went back to catch those but found you did not tell us. If you included the price in the notes below it would have helped me, a complete novice.
For a number of the pens, the pricing can vary depending on where you purchase the pen. Rather than provide exact pricing for a specific retailer, for these lists I wanted to basically focus on a price range. If I have a full review of a pen on my channel, I'll include pricing information in that review. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your reply. I have another question, if that is ok. What is the reason for writing with the nib upside down?
Rick Croucher Mainly, people will use a nib that way while drawing. It would give you a different line width while still using the same pen.
TWSBI Eco is easy to disassemble until you lose the wrench, like I did, and I've tried a million different things, I just can't get the damn thing apart.
Just bite the bullet and buy another TWSBI Eco in another fabulous color and they'll send you another wrench with it.
@@pfridell8424 Yeah reckon that's the easiest... money is tighter than it used to be! I'm on Social Security and $40 for a pen is a luxury...
What a fine list indeed. Although a majority of my most loved fountain pens are $100+ (many over $250), I still think and this excellent video amply demonstrates that there are many perfectly worthy, pretty and practical every day carry fountain pens that are very affordable for the fountain pen newbie and more experienced aficionado alike. This list reminded me that I really must get hold of the Faber Castell Loom as soon as I can. At under $50, buying this cool pen sounds like quite a steal.
I’d add two other ‘cheap’ pens