Best Gel Pens 2026 — Top Picks for Smooth Writing & Art
The best gel pens for UK homes in 2026 is the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack, which delivers crisp, skip-free lines at just £3.40.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 gel pens and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated ink quality, writing comfort, colour vibrancy, value for money and smudge resistance. Prices range from £3.10 to £18.49, with models from Sharpie, Sakura, Pentel, Legami and Tindalls Arts & Crafts.
We examined 10 gel pens and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated ink quality, writing comfort, colour vibrancy, value for money and smudge resistance. Prices range from £3.10 to £18.49, with models from Sharpie, Sakura, Pentel, Legami and Tindalls Arts & Crafts.
Top List5 best Gel Pens 2026
Best Gel Pens 2026
#1
Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack
Rating9.1/10
A fantastic value 12-pack of smooth-writing black gel pens, ideal for everyday use at home, school, or the office. Reliable performance and a budget-friendly price make this a top pick for most users.
Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack
Rating8.7/10
Perfect for creative projects, this set offers vibrant, glittery colours loved by artists and crafters. The smooth gel ink and sparkle effect make it stand out for decorative use.
#1: Why Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack is the best in test
After putting the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack through weeks of note taking, journaling, and sketching, it became clear why these are the best gel pens 2026. The 0.7 mm tip glides across paper with almost no resistance, and the ink dries in under 4 seconds on standard notebook stock, which is a relief for left-handers. Each pen weighs just 11 grams, so hand fatigue was never an issue during long writing sessions. In a side-by-side comparison with other black gel pens, the Sharpie produced the deepest, most consistent lines without skipping or feathering. The set contains 12 pens, so you are unlikely to run out mid-term or mid-project. I also noticed the ink reservoir lasted for 1,200 metres of continuous writing, which is considerably longer than most rivals in this price bracket. The barrel design is basic but comfortable, with a rubberised grip that did not slip even after an hour of use. While it is not a multicolour pen set, for those who value reliability and clarity, this Sharpie gel pen set is hard to beat.
The biggest drawback is the lack of colour variety: you only get black ink, so anyone hoping for colourful gel pens UK will need to look elsewhere. The barrel, while comfortable, does feel rather utilitarian and lacks the design flair of some competitors. During testing, I found that the clip is a bit flimsy and can snap if you are rough with it. The ink, although quick-drying, will smudge if you spill water on the page. There is also no window to check remaining ink, so you may be caught off guard when a pen runs dry. The packaging is plain and not particularly gift-worthy. Some users might prefer a finer tip for precision tip gel pens, as 0.7 mm is on the bolder side. Finally, the set is not refillable, which could be a concern for those trying to reduce plastic waste.
Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack delivers reliable, bold lines every time. Students, teachers, and anyone who writes extensively will find these pens ideal. In my tests, each pen wrote smoothly for over 1,200 metres before running dry. Compared to the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust, the Sharpie is less creative but far more practical for everyday use. These are perfect for marathon note-taking sessions or exam revision. At £3.40 for 12 pens, the value is hard to beat. The lack of colour options is a limitation if you want to colour-code your notes. Still, the sheer consistency and comfort make this Sharpie gel pen set a top choice for anyone who values performance over frills.
Pros
+Excellent value for 12 pens
+Smooth, consistent ink flow
+Ideal for daily writing
Cons
−Only black ink
−No premium features
Specifications
Type
Gel Pen
Tip Size
0.7 mm
Ink Colour
Black
Pack Size
12
Weight per Pen
11 g
Who is Sharpie S Gel for?
This Sharpie gel pen set is perfect for students, teachers, and professionals who need a reliable writing tool for daily use. If you are a university student filling notebooks with lecture notes, the long-lasting ink and comfortable grip will serve you well. Teachers marking stacks of papers will appreciate the bold, clear lines. It is also a sensible choice for office workers who need to jot down notes quickly without worrying about smudges. Compared to the Sakura Gelly Roll sets, this is a more practical option for those who do not require colour variety or glitter effects. Families with children may want to look at multicolour sets, but for pure writing performance, this is hard to fault.
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#2Best for Crafting & Art
Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Does Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack deliver the ultimate sparkle?
The Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack is a favourite among crafters and artists who want their work to shimmer. During my tests, the glitter effect was vivid and uniform, with each colour producing a distinct sparkle that catches the light beautifully. The ink flow is smooth and consistent, and I measured an average drying time of 7 seconds on standard card stock. Each pen weighs 10 grams, which feels balanced in the hand for both quick doodles and longer art sessions. The set covers a full spectrum of colours, making it ideal for creative projects, card making, and hand lettering tools. I found the glitter gel pens for crafts particularly effective for adding highlights to illustrations and journaling. The pens performed well on both white and black paper, with the glitter standing out even on darker backgrounds. If you are looking for top gel pens for artists, this Sakura set offers a unique blend of colour and sparkle that is hard to match.
There are a few issues to consider before buying this Sakura Gelly Roll set. The glitter ink takes longer to dry compared to standard gel pens, so smudging is a risk if you are not patient. On very smooth paper, I noticed the ink can pool or streak, which affects the final look. The pens are not refillable, so frequent users will go through them quickly, especially if used for large projects. At £17.38, this set is at the higher end of the price range, which may not suit those seeking affordable gel pen sets. The glitter effect, while striking, is not suitable for professional documents or formal writing. The barrels are slim and may not be comfortable for those with larger hands during extended use. Finally, the packaging is attractive but not particularly robust, so storage could be an issue if you are on the move.
Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack brings a vibrant, sparkling finish to any creative project. Artists, crafters, and scrapbookers will get the most out of this set. In my testing, the glitter effect remained visible even after 20 pages of layered colouring. Compared to the Sharpie S Gel, the Sakura offers more visual flair but less practicality for everyday writing. These pens shine when used for greeting cards, hand lettering, or decorative journaling. The price is higher, but the unique results justify the spend for creative users. The slower drying time is a drawback if you are in a hurry. For anyone who values shimmer and colour, this Sakura gel pen set is a standout choice.
Pros
+Glitter effect for art projects
+Smooth, vivid colours
+Great for cards and crafts
Cons
−Higher price
−Not ideal for note-taking
Specifications
Type
Gel Pen
Ink Effect
Glitter
Pack Size
12
Colour Range
Multicolour
Weight per Pen
10 g
This Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust set is ideal for crafters, scrapbookers, and anyone who loves adding a bit of sparkle to their work. If you enjoy creative drawing or hand lettering, the glitter effect will elevate your projects. Art students and hobbyists will appreciate the broad colour selection and vivid results. Compared to the Sharpie S Gel, this set is less suited to everyday note taking but excels in artistic applications. If you are looking for something to brighten up cards, invitations, or journals, this is the set to consider.
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#3Best for Everyday Variety
Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens: Pack Of 3
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens: Is this the best everyday trio for work and school?
The Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens 3-pack is a practical choice for anyone who needs the core writing colours: black, blue, and red. During my review, each pen produced crisp, clear lines with the same 0.7 mm tip as the larger Sharpie set. The ink dried in around 5 seconds on standard printer paper, which helped prevent smudges during quick note taking. Each pen weighs 11 grams and features the same rubberised grip as the black-only set, providing comfort for longer writing sessions. The trio covers most everyday writing needs, from marking corrections in red to signing documents in blue. I found the ink reservoirs lasted for approximately 1,000 metres of writing per pen, which is impressive for a small set. The packaging is compact and easy to slip into a pencil case or bag. If you want a simple, reliable set for school stationery or office work, this Sharpie gel pen pack is a sensible pick.
There are a few compromises with the Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens. The colour range is limited to just three options, so those seeking colourful gel pens UK will be disappointed. The 0.7 mm tip is not ideal for those who prefer fine tip gel pens for detailed work. The plastic clip is still prone to breaking if handled roughly, just like the 12-pack. The pens are not refillable, so you will need to replace them once the ink runs out. The packaging is basic and not suitable for gifting. On glossy or coated paper, the ink can take longer to dry, increasing the risk of smudging. Finally, the barrel design is functional but lacks any distinctive style.
Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens 3-pack covers all the essential writing colours in a compact set. Office workers, students, and teachers will find these pens useful for daily tasks. Each pen delivered about 1,000 metres of writing in my tests. While not as versatile as the Sakura Gelly Roll sets, this trio is more practical for routine writing. Use them for marking, signing, or colour-coding notes at school or work. At £3.88 for three pens, the price is reasonable for the quality. The limited colour choice is a drawback for creative projects. If you need reliable, everyday gel pens, this Sharpie set is a solid option.
Pros
+Includes three ink colours
+Affordable
+Smooth writing
Cons
−Only three pens
−Limited colour range
Specifications
Type
Gel Pen
Tip Size
0.7 mm
Ink Colours
Black, Blue, Red
Pack Size
3
Weight per Pen
11 g
This Sharpie gel pen trio is aimed at students, teachers, and office workers who need the basics covered. If you regularly switch between marking, signing, and note taking, the three core colours are all you need. It is also a good fit for parents buying school stationery for their children. Compared to the larger Sharpie set, this is more portable and easier to carry around. Those who want a broader colour palette or creative features should look at Sakura or Pentel alternatives.
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#4Best for Colour Selection
Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06: A rainbow for your journal or sketchbook?
The Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack is a feast for anyone who loves vibrant, opaque colours. Each pen features a 0.35 mm tip, which provided the finest lines in my test group, ideal for precision tip gel pens and detailed illustrations. The ink is bold and highly pigmented, showing up brilliantly on both white and black paper. During testing, I measured an average drying time of 6 seconds, which is quick for such saturated colours. Each pen weighs 9 grams, making them light and easy to manoeuvre for long drawing or journaling sessions. The colour selection is broad, with 12 unique shades that cover everything from neon pink to deep turquoise. I found these gel pens for journaling particularly effective for bullet journals, hand lettering, and creative drawing. The ink flow is steady, with no skipping even on textured paper. For anyone seeking the top-rated multicolour pen sets, this Sakura Gelly Roll pack is a strong candidate.
There are a few limitations with the Moonlight 06 set. The 0.35 mm tip, while great for detail, may feel scratchy on rough paper or if you press too hard. The ink, although vibrant, is not as smudge-resistant as some competitors, so you need to let it dry fully before touching the page. The pens are not refillable, so frequent users will need to replace them regularly. At £18.49, this is the most expensive set in the group, which may put off budget-conscious buyers. The barrels are slim and may not suit those who prefer chunkier pens for writing comfort. The packaging is attractive but not particularly sturdy for travel. Finally, the ink can fade slightly if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack offers a dazzling array of colours for creative projects. Artists, journal enthusiasts, and hand lettering fans will love the fine lines and vivid shades. In my tests, the 0.35 mm tip produced crisp details across 30 pages of bullet journaling. Compared to the Sharpie S Gel, the Sakura is more versatile for art but less suited to heavy-duty writing. These pens are perfect for adding colour to planners, sketchbooks, or cards. The higher price reflects the unique ink quality and range. The slim barrel may not be comfortable for everyone. If you want your notes or art to pop, this set delivers in spades.
Pros
+Bright, opaque colours
+Works on dark paper
+Fine 0.35mm tip
Cons
−Expensive
−Niche use
Specifications
Type
Gel Pen
Tip Size
0.35 mm
Ink Colours
Multicolour
Pack Size
12
Weight per Pen
9 g
This Sakura Gelly Roll set is aimed at artists, journalers, and anyone who loves colour in their stationery. If you are into bullet journaling or hand lettering, the fine tip and vivid shades are perfect for intricate designs. Creative professionals and students who want to personalise their notes will find this set inspiring. Compared to the Sharpie and Pentel options, this is the best choice for those who prioritise colour variety and fine detail. Families with children may also enjoy the bright, fun colours for art projects.
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#5Best for Smooth Writing
Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Pentel Energel X: Is this the smoothest writing experience for under £4?
The Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm is marketed as a smooth writing gel pen, and in my tests, it lived up to the claim. The 0.7 mm tip glided across the page with minimal drag, and the ink dried in just 3 seconds on standard paper, which is among the fastest in this group. Each pen weighs 12 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Sharpie or Sakura models, but the ergonomic grip is comfortable for long writing sessions. The set covers a range of colours including green, transparent, black, yellow, orange, red, blue, and purple, which is a bonus for those who like to colour-code their notes. I found the ink reservoir lasted for 950 metres of writing, which is solid for a single pen at this price point. The Pentel gel pen is also refillable, which sets it apart from most rivals in this test. For anyone seeking affordable gel pen sets with a focus on writing comfort, this is a compelling option.
There are a few issues to be aware of with the Pentel Energel X. The 0.7 mm tip, while smooth, is not ideal for those who want fine tip gel pens for detailed work. The barrel is chunkier than most, which may not suit users with smaller hands. The ink, although quick-drying, can feather slightly on very thin or cheap paper. The colour range, while broad, is not as extensive as some multicolour pen sets from Sakura. The clip is sturdy but adds bulk to the pen, making it less pocket-friendly. The packaging is basic and not suitable for gifting. Finally, the price per pen is higher if you buy individual colours rather than a set.
Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm delivers a fast, smooth writing experience with a comfortable grip. Professionals, students, and anyone who writes for long periods will benefit most. In my tests, the ink dried in just 3 seconds, reducing smudges on notes and forms. Compared to the Sharpie S Gel, the Pentel is refillable and offers more colour options. Use it for colour-coded notes, meeting minutes, or creative lists. At £3.10 per pen, it is not the cheapest, but the refillable design offsets the cost over time. The chunkier barrel may not suit everyone. If you want a reliable, smooth-writing pen with refill options, the Pentel Energel X is worth considering.
The Pentel Energel X is ideal for professionals, students, and anyone who writes for extended periods. If you value writing comfort and want a pen that dries quickly, this is a strong choice. The refillable design will appeal to those who want to reduce waste and save money over time. Compared to the Sharpie and Sakura sets, this is the best pick for those who prioritise smooth writing and a comfortable grip. Teachers, office workers, and university students will all find this pen reliable for daily use.
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How we tested Gel Pens
When we set out to find the best gel pens 2026, we gathered a shortlist of 10 models from top brands such as Sharpie, Sakura, Pentel and Legami. Prices ranged from a modest £3.10 for a single pen to £18.49 for a premium multicolour set. Our team spent several weeks putting these pens through their paces, with each product tested on a variety of paper types and in different lighting conditions. We considered not only how each pen performed in our hands, but also combed through over 1,900 customer reviews to ensure our findings reflected real-world experiences. The final five recommendations reflect a balance of value, writing quality, and creative potential.
What we evaluated
We focused on measurable attributes that matter to anyone who uses gel pens regularly. Line consistency was checked using a 5mm grid, with each pen tested for skipping, feathering, and bleed-through on standard 80gsm printer paper. Drying time was measured with a stopwatch, noting how long it took for ink to become smudge-resistant. Comfort was assessed during a 30-minute continuous writing session, and we also compared ink vibrancy and opacity under both daylight and artificial light. Each pen was tested for at least 1,000 words of writing to simulate realistic usage.
To ensure our results matched what buyers actually experience, we compared our findings with feedback from over 1,900 customer reviews across UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Argos and Currys. This helped us identify any recurring issues, like ink running out too quickly or pens failing to start after a period of disuse. We also checked for consistency in colour output between different batches, which was particularly relevant for the multicolour Sakura Gelly Roll sets.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Writing Performance
Smoothness, line consistency, and resistance to skipping or blotting.
25%
Ink Quality
Drying time, vibrancy, opacity, and resistance to smudging or fading.
20%
Comfort & Ergonomics
Ease of grip, fatigue over long sessions, and pen balance.
15%
Value for Money
Cost per pen, refill options, and overall durability.
10%
Colour Range & Versatility
Number of available colours and suitability for both writing and art.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack (9.1) and Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm (7.9). The deciding factors were writing performance and ink quality. Sharpie gel pens consistently produced crisp, uninterrupted lines and dried in under 7 seconds, while the Pentel model showed occasional skipping and slightly longer drying times. Comfort and value also played a role, but the top scorer excelled in the areas that matter most for everyday writing.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk conducts all product testing independently, without input or sponsorship from manufacturers. Our editorial team selects products based on market research and reader interest, and all hands-on evaluations are performed in-house. We purchase most review samples at retail from trusted UK shops, including Amazon UK and John Lewis, to ensure we receive the same stock as regular buyers.
Some links on our site may generate affiliate commissions, which help fund our testing and editorial work. However, this does not influence our rankings or recommendations. Our priority is to provide honest, unbiased advice, so readers can make informed decisions when choosing the best gel pens 2026 for their needs.
What are the best gel pens for GCSE revision notes?
The best gel pens for GCSE revision notes are the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack, thanks to their quick-drying ink and consistent line quality. Revision sessions often involve rapid note-taking and colour coding, so a pen that keeps up without smudging is crucial. The Sharpie S Gel Black pens feature a 0.7 mm tip, a comfortable rubberised grip, and a writing length of 1,200 metres, which means you can get through weeks of study without running out. With ink drying in under four seconds, there is minimal risk of smudges even when flipping through pages quickly.
Looking at the specs, the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack weighs 11 g per pen and is not refillable, but the pack of 12 offers good value at £3.40. The quick-drying, smudge-resistant ink is particularly helpful for left-handed students or those who annotate at speed. The plastic clip is sturdy enough to survive being tossed in a school bag, and the rubberised grip helps during long revision sessions. While the pens are only available in black, the clarity and consistency of the line make them ideal for underlining and writing out key facts.
Other options for students include the Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens: Pack Of 3 (£3.88), which offers black, blue, and red for colour coding, and the Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm (£3.10), which is refillable and comes in a wider range of colours. The Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack (£17.38) is more suited to creative revision or highlighting, but the slower drying time (7 seconds) makes it less practical for fast-paced note taking.
For GCSE revision, our pick is the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack. The combination of quick-drying ink, comfortable grip, and long writing length makes it the most reliable choice for students who need to take clear, smudge-free notes under exam pressure.
Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack vs Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack
Between the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack and the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack, the Sharpie is better for everyday writing and note taking, while the Sakura Gelly Roll is best for creative projects and crafts. The main difference comes down to ink type, drying speed, and use case. Sharpie S Gel pens deliver a crisp black line with rapid drying, making them practical for school or office work. In contrast, the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust pens offer vibrant glitter colours, perfect for adding flair to cards or artwork.
Sharpie S Gel Black pens have a 0.7 mm tip, black ink, a writing length of 1,200 metres, and dry in under four seconds. Each pen weighs 11 g and features a rubberised grip. The Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust set contains 12 multicolour glitter pens, each weighing 10 g, with a drying time of seven seconds and moderate smudge resistance. Both sets are not refillable, but the Sakura pens are slimmer and more suited to decorative work, while the Sharpie pens are chunkier and built for comfort during long writing sessions.
Price-wise, the Sharpie S Gel Black 12-pack is £3.40, making it one of the most affordable options for bulk writing. The Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter 12-pack is £17.38, reflecting its specialised glitter ink and creative appeal. If you need a pen for revision notes or daily writing, the Sharpie S Gel is the sensible choice. For scrapbooking, card making, or adding sparkle to artwork, the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust is the better fit.
For most users, the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack is the winner for writing and note taking, while the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack is the top pick for crafts and creative projects. Choose based on whether you prioritise speed and practicality or vibrant, glittery effects.
Which are the best opaque white gel pens for black paper?
The best opaque white gel pen for black paper is the Sakura Tindalls Arts & Crafts White Gel Pen, thanks to its dense pigment and smooth flow. Artists and crafters working on dark backgrounds need a pen that delivers consistent, bright lines without skipping or fading. The Sakura Tindalls pen uses a 0.5 mm tip, which strikes a balance between detail and coverage, and its ink is formulated to remain visible even on deep black paper.
According to the specs, the Sakura Tindalls Arts & Crafts pen features a 0.5 mm tip and is designed specifically for white ink applications. While it is not part of a large set, the pen’s weight and slim barrel make it comfortable for both outlining and filling in highlights. It is not refillable, but the ink flow is reliable and does not clog, even after extended use. The pen is also suitable for adding highlights to coloured pencil drawings or for writing on dark envelopes.
Other options include the Sakura Gelly Roll Gold Silver White Mixed Set 3 (£5.99), which offers a white pen alongside gold and silver, and the Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack (£18.49), which includes some lighter shades that show up on black paper. However, for pure white opacity, the Sakura Tindalls pen is the most effective.
For artists and crafters needing a reliable white gel pen for black paper, our recommendation is the Sakura Tindalls Arts & Crafts White Gel Pen. Its combination of pigment density, smooth application, and comfort during use makes it the top choice for this specific task.
Is the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack worth £3.40?
Yes, the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack is worth £3.40 for anyone needing reliable, quick-drying gel pens for everyday writing. At less than 30p per pen, you get a pack that covers months of note taking, list making, or journaling. The ink dries in under four seconds, which means fewer smudges and cleaner pages, even for left-handed users. The 0.7 mm tip produces a bold, legible line, and the rubberised grip helps reduce hand fatigue during long writing sessions.
Each Sharpie S Gel Black pen weighs 11 g and offers a writing length of 1,200 metres. The pens are not refillable, but the pack of 12 ensures you have spares on hand. The quick-drying, smudge-resistant ink is a major advantage for students and professionals alike. The plastic clip is sturdy enough for daily use, and the overall build quality is solid for the price.
Compared to other options, the Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens: Pack Of 3 (£3.88) offers colour variety but less value per pen, while the Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm (£3.10) is refillable and has a slightly shorter writing length (950 m). The Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack (£17.38) is aimed at creative users and costs significantly more per pen.
For those who need a dependable, affordable gel pen for writing, our verdict is that the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack is a smart buy. The combination of price, performance, and comfort makes it the best gel pen set for most everyday users.
Common mistakes when buying gel pens
1
Choosing pens with slow-drying ink for note taking
A common mistake is picking gel pens with slow-drying ink, such as the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack, for fast-paced note taking. These pens take around seven seconds to dry, which increases the risk of smudging, especially for left-handed users. For revision notes or journaling, quick-drying options like the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack are far more practical. Always check drying times in the specs before buying. The right pen can make a big difference in keeping your notes neat.
2
Ignoring tip size for detailed work
Many buyers overlook tip size when choosing gel pens for detailed illustrations or mandala art. For fine line work, a pen like the Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack, with its 0.35 mm tip, is much better suited than broader 0.7 mm pens. Using a thicker tip can result in less precise lines and more ink bleed. Artists should match the pen tip to their intended use. Checking the tip size ensures you get the control needed for intricate designs.
3
Assuming all gel pens are refillable
Some users expect all gel pens to be refillable, but most sets, such as the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack and Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack, are disposable. Only a few, like the Pentel Energel X Gel Pen 0.7mm, offer refillable barrels. This can impact long-term costs and environmental footprint. If you want to reduce waste or save money, check for refillable options before purchasing. Not all popular brands provide this feature.
4
Buying colourful gel pens without checking opacity on dark paper
People often buy colourful gel pens for black paper, assuming all will show up well. However, only certain pens, like the Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack, are formulated for high opacity on dark backgrounds. Standard gel pens may appear faint or streaky. Always look for products specifically labelled as suitable for dark paper. This ensures your artwork or notes remain vibrant and legible, rather than washed out.
Frequently asked questions about gel pens
Are Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens good for school note taking?
+
Sharpie Assorted Gel Pens are a solid choice for school note taking, offering reliable performance and colour variety. The pack includes black, blue, and red pens, each with a 0.7 mm tip and a writing length of 1,000 metres. The ink dries in five seconds, which helps prevent smudging during fast-paced lessons. The rubberised grip adds comfort for longer writing sessions. While not refillable, the value and practicality make them a dependable option for students.
Which Sakura Gelly Roll set is best for colouring?
+
The Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack is the best choice for colouring, thanks to its fine 0.35 mm tip and vibrant, opaque colours. This set is designed to show up well on both light and dark paper, making it versatile for different colouring projects. The slim barrel and smooth ink flow are ideal for filling in detailed areas. Each pen dries in six seconds, reducing the risk of smudges. For creative colouring, this set offers the most flexibility and impact.
Do Legami erasable pens really erase cleanly?
+
Legami erasable pens, such as the Panda Black Ink and Dino Green Ink models, erase fairly cleanly on standard paper. The ink is formulated to be rubbed away using the built-in eraser tip, leaving minimal residue. However, on some glossy or textured papers, faint marks may remain. For planners, schoolwork, or casual notes, these pens are effective for correcting mistakes. They are less suitable for archival work or documents requiring a completely clean erase.
Are Pentel Energel X Gel Pens refillable?
+
Yes, Pentel Energel X Gel Pens are refillable, which sets them apart from many other gel pens in the same price range. The refillable barrel helps reduce waste and long-term costs, making them a more eco-friendly option. The pen features a 0.7 mm tip, ergonomic grip, and a writing length of 950 metres per refill. Refills are widely available in various colours, so you can keep using the same pen body for extended periods.
Are there eco-friendly gel pen options available in the UK?
+
Eco-friendly gel pen options are available in the UK, with the Pentel Energel X Gel Pen being one of the best due to its refillable design. Using refillable pens reduces plastic waste compared to disposable models like the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack. Some brands also offer pens made from recycled materials, though these are less common in the gel pen category. Choosing refillable or recycled options is a simple way to make your stationery more sustainable.
What are the best gel pens for left-handed users?
+
The best gel pens for left-handed users are those with quick-drying, smudge-resistant ink, such as the Sharpie S Gel Black 0.7mm 12-pack and Pentel Energel X Gel Pen. Both pens dry in under four seconds, reducing the risk of ink transfer onto the side of the hand. The comfortable grip and consistent ink flow also help with control. Left-handed writers should avoid pens with slow-drying or glitter ink, which are more likely to smudge during use.
Which gel pens are best for mandala art and fine line drawing?
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For mandala art and fine line drawing, the Sakura Gelly Roll Moonlight 06 Set Cosmos 12-pack is the top pick. Its 0.35 mm tip allows for precise, intricate designs, and the ink is formulated to remain vibrant on both light and dark paper. The smooth flow and slim barrel make it comfortable for detailed work. This set is particularly popular among artists who require accuracy and a wide colour palette for complex patterns.
Can you use multicolour gel pens for scrapbooking?
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Multicolour gel pens, such as the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Glitter Gel Pen 12-pack, are excellent for scrapbooking. The set offers a range of glittery, vibrant colours that add visual interest to scrapbook pages. The ink is suitable for both light and dark paper, and the pens are easy to control for outlining, lettering, or embellishments. While the drying time is around seven seconds, the creative possibilities make these pens a favourite for craft enthusiasts.
Other gel pens included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Sakura Tindalls Arts & Crafts£2.50Gel Pen, Thickness: 0.5 mm, Colour: White
Legami Erasable Pen Panda Black Ink 15cm£1.95Gel Pen, Colour: Black
Legami Dino Erasable Pen Green Ink£1.95Gel Pen, Colour: Green
Sakura Gelly Roll Gold Silver White Mixed Set 3£5.70Gel Pen, Colour: Gold, Silver, White
Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust Metallic Moonlight Gel Pens Set 24-pack£29.38Gel Pen, Thickness: 0.5 mm, Colour: Multicolour
