The Lamy Safari is back on top.
I love the TWSBI ECO, and it is number one on my personal list for this range, but the Safari is a better recommendation if you think of this as the beginner fountain pen section. And, according to my inbox, that is how readers take it.
Cartridges make all of the difference for first time pen buyers. Piston-fillers, and the required ink bottle, are intimidating. I’ve listened to the feedback on this and feel that it is the right change to make. I love the Safari, so it’s not a tough call to put it back up top, where it has been before.
The ECO and Safari swap spots on the list, with the Pilot Metropolitan separating the two. Again, it’s the cartridge. But I will say it is a clear top three, then everything else.
Top 5 Fountain Pens Under $50
- Lamy Safari - It’s universally great. Yes, the molded grip section could be an issue for some, but I don’t believe it is enough to move it out of the top spot. (Buy)
- Pilot Metropolitan - A 30% price increase last year slowed down the hype train, but it is the most traditional fountain pen on this list. (Buy)
- TWSBI ECO - My personal favorite in this range, but the piston filling mechanism is a turn off for new users. If you are fine with it, then this is number one. (Buy)
- Kaweco Sport - It isn't just a great portable, pocketable fountain pen. It's a great fountain pen period. (Buy)
- Platinum Preppy - Is there such a thing as a quality fountain pen under $5? Yes. Yes there is. (Buy)
(Notes: The Kaweco Sport is a personal favorite, but an odd pen for a beginner. The Platinum Preppy almost has to make the list strictly from a value perspective. The Pilot Kakuno is always in consideration, along with the Pilot Prera. I need to spend more time with the Platinum Prefounte to see if should be ahead of the Preppy.)
My personal use ranking:
