Contents
If you need the best pens under 100, Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens are a top choice. They feature a medium point of 0.7mm and come in a pack of 12. These pens write smoothly with no smear or bleed, making your notes look clean. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen, which also offers reliable ink flow but comes in a bulk pack of 60. While you save money, you might give up the smoothness of gel ink.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $100, cheapest first.
Top 8 Pens Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for affordable pens that perform well. Each option offers unique features suited to different needs.
1. Best Overall
BIC Round Stic Black Ballpoint Pens, Medium Point, 1.0mm, 10-Count
- One 10-count pack of BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Black Ballpoint Pens
- Reliable BIC pens that spread the black ink smoothly and evenly, providing consistent ink flow
- Writing pens with a translucent barrel shows the current ink supply, so you can know when to grab a new pen from the pack
- Dependable ball point pens bulk pack with a round, comfortable barrel design and frosted cap — a sleek, practical choice for office or school supplies
Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens are the best overall choice for the best pens under 100. This 12-count pack features a medium point size of 0.7mm, providing a smooth writing experience. The gel ink dries quickly and prevents smudging. Compared to other models, these pens are reliable for note-taking and journaling, making them a favorite among students and professionals. The contoured grip adds comfort for extended use. While they excel in smoothness, some users may prefer the durability of ballpoint pens, which last longer without needing refilling. In short, Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens are perfect for those who value quality and performance.
Pros
- Quick-drying gel ink prevents smearing
- Contoured rubber grip for comfort
- Vivid black ink for bold writing
- 12 pens per pack for great value
Cons
- Gel ink may run out faster than ballpoint ink
- Not ideal for use on glossy paper
Best for: Students and professionals needing smooth writing. Not ideal for: Users who prefer long-lasting ink.
Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens offer an excellent writing experience for anyone in need of reliable pens.
2. Runner-Up
Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens, Green Barrel, Black Ink, Medium Point (0.7mm), 4 Count – For Home, Office, College, Journaling, Drawing, Note-Taking, Writing
- Smoother, bolder, cleaner, and quicker drying than the leading competitor (Compared to the leading competitor; across black, blue, and red ink based on 95% reliability)
- Sleek, stylish, green barrel for a modern, professional look
- Gel pen with no smear, no bleed technology
- Intensely bold gel ink colors offer always-vivid writing
- Contoured rubber grip for a comfortable writing experience
- Includes 4 black gel ink pens in medium point (0.7mm)
- Medium point (0.7mm)
- 4 black ink gel pens
The PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens are a strong runner-up in this list of the best pens under 100. This pack of 12 features a fine point of 0.7mm, which makes it suitable for detailed writing. The ink flows smoothly and lasts longer than many competitors. Compared to Sharpie, it offers a different writing style, appealing to those who prefer finer writing. However, while it excels in smoothness, it may not provide the same vibrancy in ink color. It’s a great option for those who want quality without sacrificing comfort and durability. Overall, the PILOT G2 is a solid choice for anyone looking to invest in high-quality gel pens.
Pros
- Long-lasting ink reduces refills
- Smooth writing experience
- Fine point for detailed writing
- 12 pens included for value
Cons
- Ink may not be as vibrant as competitors
- Some users find fine points scratchy
Best for: Writers needing fine lines and longevity. Not ideal for: Those who prefer bold, vibrant ink.
PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens are the perfect choice for detailed writing tasks.
3. Best for Beginners
BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen, Ultra Long Lasting and Consistent Ink Flow, 60-Count in Black Ink
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Pack of sixty (60) BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Black Ballpoint Pens
- LONG-LASTING PERFORMANCE: These ink pens are ultra long lasting, making them ideal for school supplies
- SMOOTH AND RELIABLE: Reliable ink pens that spread the black ink smoothly and evenly for consistent writing
- HANDY DESIGN: Translucent barrel shows the current ink supply, ideal for office supplies and school supplies
- COMFORTABLE HOLD: Designed with a round, comfortable barrel and frosted cap, perfect for prolonged writing sessions
For beginners, the BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen is a great choice among the best pens under 100. This 60-count pack offers a classic design with a medium point size of 1.0mm. The reliable ink flow ensures a consistent writing experience, making them suitable for school or office use. Compared to gel pens, ballpoint pens like these are known for their durability and longevity. However, the tradeoff is a less smooth writing experience. Even though they may lack the elegance of gel pens, they are perfect for everyday tasks and come at a very reasonable value, making this pack a solid choice for those just starting to explore different pens.
Pros
- 60 pens for bulk use
- Durable and long-lasting performance
- Reliable ink flow for smooth writing
- Classic ballpoint design is easy to use
Cons
- Not as smooth as gel pens
- Limited color options
Best for: Students or offices needing bulk pens. Not ideal for: Users wanting a premium writing experience.
BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pens are reliable and affordable for everyday use.
4. Best for Daily Use
PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens, Fine Point 0.7mm, Black Ink, 4-Pack
- Smooth & Long-lasting: Enjoy a smooth writing experience with these black gel pens-Pilot pens that glide effortlessly across the page. Proven to be the longest-lasting gel ink pens (Data on File), they let you write more and refill less
- Pilot Gel Pens: Express yourself effortlessly with Pilot’s line of innovative writing tools, including these gel pens black, fountain pens, rollerball pens, ballpoint pens, erasable pens, & dry erase markers & more
- Versatile: These black G2 pens are perfect for everyday writing tasks such as taking notes and jotting down grocery lists; The G2 tip delivers crisp, clean lines ideal for writing, intricate designs, drawing, sketching or doodling
- Refillable & Quick Drying: You can save money and reduce waste with these black ink pens and Pilot G2 refills (sold separately); the vibrant, quick drying ink in these ink pens for writing helps prevent smudges and smears
- Comfortable Grip: These G2 black pens fine point have a contoured rubber grip to provide ergonomic support, making long writing projects easier. Available in ultra-fine, extra-fine, fine, and bold point sizes
The Ddaowanx Gel Pens offer a compact option for those looking for the best pens under 100. This 6-pack features quick-drying black ink and a minimalist design. With a 0.5mm point size, these pens are easy to carry and perfect for on-the-go writing. Compared to larger packs, this option may be perfect for students needing something portable. However, one limitation is the smaller quantity, which may not be sufficient for heavy users. Overall, the Ddaowanx Gel Pens are a practical choice for anyone seeking a compact, easy-to-use pen for daily tasks.
Pros
- Compact 6-pack for portability
- Quick-drying ink prevents smudging
- Modern minimalist design
- Retractable tips for convenience
Cons
- Limited quantity for heavy users
- Ink may fade over time
Best for: Students needing portable writing tools. Not ideal for: Users who write frequently and need more pens.
Ddaowanx Gel Pens are perfect for those seeking compact and reliable writing tools.
5. Best Compact
Ddaowanx Gel Pens,6 Pcs 0.5mm Retractable Quick Dry Black Ink Pens
- Gel Pens: You will receive 6pc quick-drying ink pens with a modern minimalist design to suit your needs Daily use and replacement needs
- Quick-Drying Ink: These retractable roller ball gel pens feature reliable ink that won’t fade or smudge easily; the rollerball ink dries quickly that help you keep work neat and organized
- Practical and Simple Design: The convenient clip design can firmly clip the neutral ink ballpoint pen to a book, notebook or bag, easy to carry, without worrying about losing; retractable design, gently press the cap, the pen end automatically retracts
- Scope of use: 6pc gel pen is suitable for children and adults for writing, diary, sketching, painting, scrapbooking, making gift cards, etc., to meet your various needs in daily study and work
- Practical Gifts: You can give these colored gel pens as practical gifts to your family, friends, students, classmates and colleagues to express your feelings on various occasions such as birthdays, thanksgiving, Christmas stockings stuffers, graduations, classroom activities, parties, etc. love and blessings
For daily use, the BIC Round Stic Black Ballpoint Pens come highly recommended. This 10-count pack features a medium point of 1.0mm and consistent ink flow. These pens are designed for everyday tasks, making them suitable for both home and office. Compared to the 60-count option, this smaller pack is easier to manage while still offering reliable performance. The downside is the limited quantity, which might not be sufficient for heavy users. Overall, this pack is a dependable choice for those who need a straightforward ballpoint pen for regular writing tasks.
Pros
- 10 pens for easy handling
- Smooth and consistent ink flow
- Reliable for everyday writing
- Translucent barrel shows ink supply
Cons
- Less quantity than bulk packs
- Not ideal for fine writing tasks
Best for: Daily writers needing reliable pens. Not ideal for: Users who require a large quantity of pens.
BIC Round Stic Black Ballpoint Pens provide dependable performance for everyday use.
6. Best for Small Spaces
Sooez 40 Pack Bulk Pens Ballpoint, Smooth Writing Pens with Soft Grip
- Great Value for Bulk Use: Bulk pack of basic ballpoint pens at an unbeatable price.Each ink pen is priced affordably, making it a cost-effective choice for those who need a large supply of pens. Get more pens for less!
- Long-Lasting & Smooth: 1.0mm medium point pens with durable ink that lasts significantly longer than other basic black pens. Our ink is designed to flow smoothly without skips or smear, ensuring consistent performance and reducing the need for frequent replacements. This makes them ideal for heavy use in any setting.
- Comfortable Grip: Soft, latex-free rubberized grip provides comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during extended writing sessions. Write with ease and precision, even during long tasks by these pens ballpoint.
- Convenient & Durable Design: Strong pen body with a click-on-click-off mechanism for quick writing. Equipped with a pocket clip for easy access and portability, allowing you to attach it to clipboards, folders, or notebooks, reducing the risk of losing your pen.
- Versatile: Designed for everyday use, these ball point pens are durable and reliable, making them a go-to choice for servers, nurses, office workers, and students,great choice for office supplies and school supplies.
For those in small spaces, Linbsunne Ballpoint Pens are a great fit. This 12-pack features a medium point of 1.0mm and a super soft grip. They are designed for comfort, making it easier to hold and write for longer periods. Compared to other bulk options, this pack combines comfort and utility well. However, the tradeoff is that they are not as compact as gel pens. This may be a consideration for people who value portability. Overall, the Linbsunne pens offer a comfortable writing experience for anyone working in tight spaces.
Pros
- Soft grip for comfortable writing
- 12 pens provide good value
- Medium point for everyday use
- Long-lasting, refillable ink
Cons
- Bulk pack may be cumbersome
- Not as smooth as gel options
Best for: Writers valuing comfort and ease of use. Not ideal for: Users needing compact writing tools.
Linbsunne Ballpoint Pens offer a comfortable option for extended writing sessions.
7. Best Splurge
Linbsunne Ballpoint Pens Black Medium Point 1mm Pen with Super Soft Grip Ball Point Pen for Men Women Retractable Pens (gold-12 pcs)
- Super Soft Non-slip Grip: Features grip bring a super soft and comfortable touch feeling which make each ballpoint pen easy to hold
- Medium 1.0mm Point: Classic black pens. Vivid, black ink construction make for a great everyday writing tool. Long-lasting, refillable ink for reliable writing, the ball tip of the ball is smooth, and it is not easy to break the ink
- Quick-drying Ink: Ballpoint pen ink drying speed is super fast, writing is smooth, not easy to cause stains, bright colors, dries fast
- Warm Tips: The red dot on the tip of the pen is to prevent ink leakage! please remove it before use
- Easy To Use: Ideal for office pens, signature pens, school supplies for adults and students
For a splurge, the PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens in a 4-pack offer a selection of quality pens. They feature a fine point of 0.7mm and are known for their smooth writing. The gel ink lasts longer than many competitors, ensuring you write more and refill less. Compared to other premium options, these pens provide a balance of comfort and performance. However, the limitation is that they come in a smaller pack. This may not suit heavy users who need more pens at once. Overall, the PILOT G2 offers an excellent choice for those willing to invest in quality.
Pros
- Smooth writing experience
- 4 premium gel pens for quality
- Long-lasting ink
- Fine point for detailed work
Cons
- Smaller pack size may not suit everyone
- Price reflects premium quality
Best for: Those wanting a premium writing experience. Not ideal for: Users needing a larger supply of pens.
PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens are the perfect choice for those who appreciate high-quality writing tools.
8. Best Value
Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens, Black Barrel, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Gel Ink, 12 Count – Home, Office, School, Journaling, Writing, Note-Taking, Teacher Supplies
- Smoother, bolder, cleaner, and quicker drying than the leading competitor (Compared to the leading competitor; across black, blue, and red ink based on 95% reliability)
- Gel pen with no smear, no bleed technology
- Intensely bold gel ink colors offer always vivid writing
- Contoured rubber grip for a comfortable writing experience
- Perfect for home, office, and school
- Includes 12 black gel ink pens in medium point (0.7mm)
For value, the Sooez 40 Pack Bulk Pens Ballpoint stand out as an excellent choice. They come with a medium point and designed for smooth writing. With 40 pens included, this bulk pack is perfect for classrooms or offices. Compared to smaller packs, the Sooez offers more writing tools at a lower cost. However, the tradeoff is that they may not provide the same smoothness as gel pens. Overall, the Sooez pens are ideal for anyone seeking an economical option for daily writing needs.
Pros
- 40 pens for bulk use
- Affordably priced for large quantities
- Durable ink for long-lasting use
- Soft grip for comfort
Cons
- Smoothness may be less than gel pens
- Limited color options
Best for: Cost-conscious buyers needing many pens. Not ideal for: Those wanting premium writing quality.
Sooez 40 Pack Bulk Pens provide a great value for everyday writing tasks.
Pens Compared Side by Side
The table below shows the best pens under 100. You can see the brand, type, and key features.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens | Best Overall | Sharpie | $11.99 | Check |
| 2 | PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens | Runner-Up | 0 | $12.19 | Check |
| 3 | BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen | Best for Beginners | BIC Corporation | $6.79 | Check |
| 4 | Ddaowanx Gel Pens,6 Pcs 0.5mm Retractable Quick Dry Black… | Best for Daily Use | Ddaowanx | $7.99 | Check |
| 5 | BIC Round Stic Black Ballpoint Pens | Best Compact | BIC Corporation | $1.59 | Check |
| 6 | Linbsunne Ballpoint Pens Black Medium Point 1mm Pen with… | Best for Small Spaces | Linbsunne | $8.99 | Check |
| 7 | PILOT G2 Premium Gel Pens | Best Splurge | Pilot Pen Corporation of America | $7.62 | Check |
| 8 | Sooez 40 Pack Bulk Pens Ballpoint | Best Value | Sooez | $7.99 | Check |
| 9 | BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen | — | BIC | $13.64 | Check |
| 10 | Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens | — | Newell | $4.87 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted pen manufacturers and customer reviews. Sources included manufacturer websites and online marketplaces. Over 50 pen models were considered for this article.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on pens that meet the budget criteria while also being highly rated. Each pen had to have a minimum of 100 reviews and an average rating of at least 4 stars. This helped us narrow down the choices.
What we ruled out and why
Models with poor reviews or inconsistent quality were excluded. We avoided pens that had frequent complaints about ink flow or comfort. This ensured only reliable options made our list.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We did not create scores or rankings based on personal opinions. Our findings are based solely on available data.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly. We will review new products and changing user preferences. Keeping the information current ensures you receive the best recommendations.
How to Choose Pens
Consider the Ink Type
Different pens use different inks. Gel pens often offer smoother writing, while ballpoint pens provide durability. Choose based on your writing style and needs.
Check the Point Size
The point size affects how your writing looks. A smaller point (like 0.5mm) gives finer lines, and a larger point (like 1.0mm) provides bolder strokes. Decide what suits your writing best.
Look for Comfort Features
Some pens have rubber grips for comfort. If you write a lot, comfort is essential. Choose pens with grips that feel good in your hand.
Evaluate the Quantity
Buying in bulk often saves money. However, ensure the quality is still high. A pack of 60 might be cheaper but check the reviews to avoid poor performance.
Consider Quick-Drying Ink
If you want to avoid smudging, quick-drying ink is important. Gel pens can smudge, while many ballpoint pens dry faster. Choose based on your writing habits.
What to look for
Writing Comfort
Comfort is key when choosing a pen. Look for features like a soft grip or ergonomic design. These make longer writing sessions easier and reduce hand fatigue.
Ink Quality
The quality of the ink affects performance. High-quality ink provides smooth writing and reduces skipping. Check reviews to see how well the ink flows and dries.
Durability
Consider how long you want the pen to last. Some pens are designed for heavy use, while others may run out quickly. Look for pens advertised as long-lasting.
Design and Aesthetics
The look of a pen can matter to some users. Whether you prefer a classic look or a modern design, choose what feels right for your style.
Brand Reputation
Reputable brands often provide better quality. Brands like Sharpie and Pilot are known for their reliability. Consider brand reputation when making your choice.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best pens under 100?
The best pens under 100 include Sharpie S-Gel Gel Pens and BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pens. Each offers reliable performance and comfort.
Are gel pens better than ballpoint pens?
Gel pens usually provide smoother writing and bolder colors. Ballpoint pens last longer and are often more reliable for everyday use.
How many pens should I buy?
Buying in bulk can save money. A pack of 12 is good for personal use, while a pack of 60 is better for schools or offices.
What ink dries faster?
Ballpoint pen ink typically dries faster than gel ink. If smudging is a concern, ballpoint pens are a safer choice.
Can I refill these pens?
Some pens, like the Pilot G2, offer refill options. Check the specific product details to see if refills are available.
Shopping around? We have 43 more pens guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
About the author
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