When writing, we usually don’t put much thought into the choice of pens. More often than not, we just grab the nearest pen and start writing, without thinking too much about the specifics. However, the exact model you write with can have significantly different effects on your writing, with some options offering a more comfortable and smoother writing experience than others.

Rollerball and ballpoint varieties are the most commonly used and are the usual staple of everyone’s stationery. Although they are the most common types of writing mediums, there are distinctive differences between rollerball and ballpoint pens that ultimately determine which is more suitable for a given task.

Differences Between Rollerball and Ballpoint Pens

Ink Composition

The ink formulation is the biggest difference between the two writing mediums. Depending on your particular preference, you may find that one type of ink works better for you than the other. If you know what to expect in terms of performance, you could save yourself some frustration and have a better writing experience.

Rollerball

When you’re using pigmented and easy-glide rollerball pens, you’re essentially relying on a liquid, water-based ink writing medium. The composition of the ink delivers smooth and fluid writing. If you have used them before, maybe you have noticed how they move effortlessly across the paper. This is because the water-based formula ensures a consistent delivery of the ink and the composition provides enriched and vibrant lines.

Because of the formulation, when writing with this medium you don’t need to apply much pressure. It feels light on the hand and is enough just to slightly press it on the paper to get bold and expressive writing. The effortless writing and the ability to produce rich lines are what make these pens so popular and highly favoured.

Ballpoint

In contrast, ballpoint pens use oil-based ink. How does it work? The pen has a ballpoint at the tip. As you write, ink is continuously released through the rolling action of the small ball at the tip of the pen. This mechanism allows consistency in writing.

The oil-based formulation is thicker and drier than the water-based ink. Therefore, ballpoint pens produce thinner and lighter lines, which requires a bit more pressure when writing. Due to the ink composition, these pens are a reliable writing medium and are mostly used for everyday writing tasks.

Drying Time

It’s a no-brainer that a water-based ink requires a bit longer time to dry than an oil-based ink. Rollerbals are known for their smooth writing, but also for their longer drying time. This characteristic makes them more susceptible to smudging, which is something we actively try to avoid. Especially when we are writing something important or that has great emotional value like a postcard. We want to deliver smooth and clean lines without ruining the writing.

Although they are easier to smudge, you can find rollerballs that have a quicker drying time, thus, minimising the risk of smudging. Browse for online shops and brands that offer rollerballs with quicker drying time and enjoy a luxurious writing experience.

As a result of the oil-based ink, ballpoint pens dry relatively quickly once in contact with the paper. This minimizes the chances of smudging significantly and therefore, they are more suitable for writing in professional settings or writing of a formal character. This characteristic also makes them highly suitable for left-handed individuals to avoid smudging. Smudging can happen very easily when writing with a left hand because the hand touches the paper as it moves along the line.

Durability

How much will your rollerball pen last depends on factors such as the quality of the ink and the frequency of use. Although these pens are very efficient in producing smooth and rich lines, they tend to last shorter than ballpoint pens. This is because rollerballs use water-based ink which leads to producing more liquid and thus, higher consumption.

However, the good thing about rollerballs is that they come with refillable options. They typically feature a small part of the pen that is transparent to allow better visibility and monitoring of the ink levels. You can easily notice when the ink is almost to the end so it can be refilled on time before the pen runs out of ink.

Also, many rollerballs today are crafted with durable materials such as aluminium and stainless steel with a combination of chrome and plastic, to ensure the endurance and longevity of the pen.

Ballpoint pens tend to last longer due to the nature of the ink. The thickness of the ink results in less consumption and thus, requires fewer refills. This characteristic makes ballpoint pens suitable for everyday use in professional and educational settings.

Versatility

When it comes to versatility, rollerballs win in this category. They come in various colours and are especially good for creative writing. Their vibrancy is ideal for those seeking expressive and colourful lines.

Although renowned for their practicality and efficacy in writing, ballpoint pens are a bit less versatile than rollerballs when it comes to variations of colours. They are mostly used for everyday tasks and note-taking.

When Should I Use a Rollerball Pen for Writing?

You may question ”What is the point of a roller pen?” The pen’s user-friendly design makes it an excellent tool for those who frequently experience hand fatigue or cramping while writing. Since the ink flows effortlessly, no need to press hard on the pen. Thus, rollerballs encourage the use of a gentler, less stressful grip, allowing faster writing.

However, because of the risk of the ink bleeding through the paper, this writing instrument is not suitable for every occasion. Consider using this writing tool for creative writing, document signatures, lettering, postcards or personal notes, colourful note-taking, and journals and planners. These pens also provide a touch of elegance and sophistication, and most importantly, a comfortable and enjoyable writing experience.