Ballpoint Vs Roller | What type of pen should I choose?

The pen is one of the most personal items of the professional, the student, even the average Joe. It is that object that he always has with them, that object that they will use every day, the object that they will always have in their pocket, their bag, their folder, and with it, they will sign documents, they will take exams, or they will use it as a stress reliever.

That’s why choosing a pen, is never a simple process. Especially when there are different types with different characteristics. So… Ballpoint or Roller? Read below!

he pen is one of the most personal items of the professional, the student, even the average Joe. It is that object that he always has with them, that object that they will use every day, the object that they will always have in their pocket, their bag, their folder, and with it, they will sign documents, they will take exams, or they will use it as a stress reliever.

That’s why choosing a pen, is never a simple process. Especially when there are different types with different characteristics. So… Ballpoint or Roller? Read below!

The quick answer

The main difference between the two pens is simple: The ink! Roller pens use water-based inks, and the writing is sharper and more vivid. Ballpoints on the other hand use oil-based ink and the writing is lighter and more distinctive. There are advantages to each and reasons why a Ballpoint or Roller is the right choice.

Why Roller?

• Continuous ink flow resulting in smoother writing
• Less pressure required means less hand fatigue and faster writing
• Wider range of colors with water-soluble dyes

Why Ballpoint?

• Dries quickly, almost instantly
• Does not smudge
• Does not pass through the paper
• Last longer

Which one suits me?

We said it at the beginning. Choosing a pen is a very personal matter. However, there are cases where some pens are more suitable. For example, a ballpoint pen is better suited for formal forms because they tend not to “bleed” onto the paper. On the other hand, rollerballs are more suitable for writing letters, scrapbooks, invitations and similar “formal” or creative forms of writing, because they produce thicker and more vivid lines.