The Best Retractable Pens in 2023

When it comes to ballpoint pens, some are far superior to others. There are factors like the smoothness of writing, tip size, and durability of the body. But one of the biggest debates is whether to use a capped pen or a retractable pen. For those of us that prefer retractable, we’ve created a list of the best retractable pens.

We compared, researched, and analyzed the best retractable pens on the market today. We researched the quality of ink, the boldness of the tip, the smoothness of writing, the durability of the casing, and the general design and style of pens in order to find the best retractable pens and not the mediocre ones.

By the end of this list, you will be able to make the best decision about which retractable pen is right for you.

Best Retractable Pens:

1. BIC Gel-ocity Quick Dry Retractable Gel Pen

BIC Gel-ocity Quick Dry Retractable Gel Pen, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black, 12-CountThe slim design and plastic body of this make it easy for writing on the go. The Bic Gel-ocity is easily one of the best retractable gel pens for sale today.

Along with standard black ink, you can also get this retractable pen in a variety of colors as well. The medium point tip, as well as the comfortable grip on the barrel, makes for a smooth writing experience.

Fans of the Gel-ocity pen say that they are the best retractable pen on the market and frequent users have purchased this pen multiple times.

The easy flow of this pen from the long-term Bic company would be perfect for your daily retractable pen usage.

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2. Zebra 29411 F-701 Ballpoint Stainless Steel Retractable Pen

Zebra 29411 F-701 Ballpoint Stainless Steel Retractable Pen, Fine Point, 0.8mm, Black Ink, 1-CountZebra sets an industry standard for retractable pens and the F-701 is quite possibly the best click pen. The minimalist, modern design looks elegant while still providing durability.

The all-stainless steel casing makes this a very durable pen and the stippled grip makes writing easier without the pen slipping out of your hand. The easy glide of the ink makes writing comfortable and the fine point is excellent for drawing fine details.

Users like the easy flow of ink for both writing and drawing. Many people boast that this is the best pen available today.

Zebra is an integrity brand with quality products and are well known for their exceptional retractable pens. For the price, this pen is worth the investment.

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3. PILOT EasyTouch Refillable & Retractable Ballpoint Pens

Pilot EasyTouch Retractable Ball Point Pens, Medium Point, Purple Ink, Dozen Box (32255)This classic-looking retractable rollerball pen from Pilot may look simple, but it packs a punch. With a medium-point tip and refillable cartridges, this pen is affordable and perfect for taking notes.

The EasyTouch features a comfortable rubberized grip for extended writing and the refills are easy to replace. The affordable price means you can buy these pens in bulk and keep them around wherever you might need them.

Frequent users of these pens have praised the pens as being the best. A number of people have trouble figuring out the right pressure to use, but when you do these pens work great.

These affordable classic pens are well worth a purchase.

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4. BIC Atlantis Original Retractable Ball Pen, Medium Point

BIC Atlantis Original Retractable Ball Pen, Medium Point (1.0 mm), Blue, 12-CountThe BIC Atlantis is a popular pen for a good reason. The slim design and plastic body make writing on the go a piece of cake.

This retractable pen has a durable metal pocket clip and a comfortable grip to make long-term writing easier and more comfortable. The medium point writes smoothly to make your experience more enjoyable.

Frequent users of the Atlantis are loyal customers of this style of pen and some even say they would never use a different pen ever again.

The variety of colors and affordable prices make this sleekly designed pen perfect for everyday writers and note-taking students.

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5. Zebra F-301 Ballpoint Stainless Steel Retractable Pen

Zebra F-301 Ballpoint Stainless Steel Retractable Pen, Fine Point, 0.7mm, Black Ink, 2-Count

This is one of the most popular Zebra brand pens on the market and is by far one of the best retractable pens and one of our top picks. The metal body makes the pen durable and easy for writing and drawing during travel.

The Zebra F-301 features a fine point tip and plastic grip. The stainless-steel body of the pen makes it virtually indestructible and up to any task.

These sturdy pens are loved by many for their smooth writing and durability, and many people consider this their primary pen for any writing assignment.

Because these are one of the best sellers of such a reputable brand, and because they are so affordable, the Zebra F-301 is worth a spot in your pen collection.

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6. Skilcraft U.S. Government Pen – Medium Point – Blue Ink

Skilcraft - 7520-01-332-2833 U.S. Government Retractable Blue Barrel Medium Point Ball Point Pen, Blue Ink, (Pack of 12)If you are looking for a retractable pen worthy of a government stamp then Skilcraft has the product for you. This simple design is reminiscent of original retractable pens and the ink will not smear.

This pen has a plastic body with a metal pocket clip and is stamped with “Skilcraft US Government” on the side. It is a slim design so better for smaller hands.

Users of these pens love the slim design and the sturdy metal pocket clip.

A simple pen that is plastic yet durable. Perfect for a “purse pen” or for an office supply pen, this Skilcraft is definitely a classic.

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7. PILOT Dr. Grip Center of Gravity Refillable & Retractable Ballpoint Pen

Pilot Dr. Grip Center of Gravity Retractable Ball Point Pen, Medium Point, Black Ink, Grip Color May Vary, Single Pen (36184)Another best retractable pen by Pilot is the Dr. Grip medium point pen. The thicker design and modern look of this pen make it unique from other retractable pens.

The pen is constructed with even weight distribution to make writing as comfortable as possible. The medium point of the tip is especially good for people having trouble with their handwriting.

People who use this pen love the smoothness of the ink and boast that it works excellently for people with various hand disabilities.

The dependable brand of Pilot with the comfort and width of the Dr. Grip makes this pen perfect for anyone who has trouble with their handwriting.

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8. Sharpie Grip Pens, Fine Point

Sharpie Grip Pens, Fine Point (0.8mm), Black, 2 Count (1757951)Sharpie is another leader in the class of writing materials and these retractable Sharpie pens are no exception. Unlike the markers, however, these pens won’t bleed through to the other side of the page.

This two-pack of retractable pens has a fine point and marker-like tip that, unlike rollerball pens, will not skip at all. The comfort grip assures that you can write for hours without hurting your fingers.

Some people have gone as far as to replace all the pens in their collection with these retractable felt-tip pens.

If you are looking for a non-skipping pen with marker-style ink that won’t bleed through the page then this Sharpie retractable pen is just what you need.

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Making The Decision

If you looking for bujo (bullet journal) supplies, you might be also interested in brush pens and markers for bullet journaling.

Now that you have the relevant information on the best retractable pens available to you, now is the time to decide which you prefer! With an array of pens to choose from it can seem overwhelming to choose just one.

While there is always the option to purchase multiple pens, if you are looking for one specific pen there are things to take into consideration. Of course, personal preference plays the biggest part in this decision, so some factors you may want to take into consideration are:

  • The thickness of the body of the pen.
  • Width of the tip and whether you want a fine, medium, or bold point.
  • Whether or not there is a comfortable grip on the pen.
  • The cost per pen. Some pens come with multiples in a pack so while the price may be more, the cost per pen could be less.
  • Quantity of pens. Are you looking to stock your home office? Or would you rather just have one special pen to carry around?

After reading this list and considering your personal preferences, we are sure that you will find the right retractable pen for you today!

 
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