People have their own preference over things; one cannot
insist others to choose a particular item against their will. But,
understanding the value before buying can make a big difference. In the world
of writing instruments, most pen enthusiasts choose a writing tool by relying
on the outer appearance. Question yourselves “Why would you choose a rollerball
pen over a ballpoint pen", you would probably point out that rollerball
pens are loaded with smooth gel ink which glides smoothly on the writing
surface and makes writing process convenient. But, a single point doesn't
conclude the whole decision. There are various other criteria that one has to look
into before choosing the correct writing instrument.
Ballpoint Pens
Ballpoint pens are simple writing tools. They were invented
around 1950's as a convenient writing device to put an end to the monopoly market
of what was at the time the only option - fountain pens. Ballpoint pens quickly
made fountain pens dissipate and reigned as the most demanded writing
instruments.
Every ballpoint pen includes a small tube (refill) filled
with paste ink. The paste ink backs up the small ball tip, and when you roll
the ball across the page it draws the ink onto the paper.
Before we move forward I would like everyone to know that
ballpoint pens are designed as a utility tool and not for the pleasure of
writing experience. The first point that I would like to bring out is
versatility. Ballpoint pens can be used with almost all kind of writing papers
without the fear of smearing and they leak rarely compared to their
counterparts. Though some of the words can be imprinted on the back of the page
but it doesn't bloat the paper like fountain and rollerball pens. Another point
I would like to point out is its compatibility with left-handed writers. Unlike
fountain, rollerball and fineliner pens, words written with ballpoint pens dry
very quickly without smudging your hand or paper.
Rollerball Pens
Rollerball pens are upgraded version of ballpoint pens. The
working mechanism of a rollerball pen resembles with a ballpoint pen but
instead of using paste ink it uses gel based ink. With rollerball pens your
words will be darker and uniform, and while purchasing a new refill there are
more color options to choose from.
When it comes to consistent flow, rollerball pens stand a
notch above ballpoint pens and are considered best by pen enthusiasts who
prefer writing experience similar to fountain pens. Unlike ballpoint pens,
rollerball pens require less pressure on the paper and are comfortable to write
with. Another best part about writing with a rollerball pen is the ink on the
paper will be more dramatic and clearer. And without putting much pressure in
hand and the writing instrument you will be able to jot down your words.
Now that we have learned about both ballpoint and rollerball pens, let’s tap into some of the factors that will help us to choose the right
writing instrument.
Expenses: Ballpoint tips use less ink compared
to rollerball tips, which means with ballpoint pens you will require less
refills. And because ballpoint pens include paste ink there is less chance for
the ink to dry out when the pen is not in use. Besides, ballpoint pens are
comparatively cheap than rollerball pens.
Choice of Paper: Ballpoint pen refills are filled with
oil-based ink, with ballpoint pens your words will flow smoothly on the writing
surface regardless of the paper quality. But, when it comes to rollerball pens,
the ink from its tip may soak into the page depending upon the paper quality. For
thin paper its best to use ballpoint pens. Plus, rollerball pens are not the best
choice for people with tiny handwriting. Upon writing the ink from a rollerball
pen tends to sink into the paper and results a horrible writing experience.
Feel: Rollerball pens are much smoother on
paper and offer exquisite writing experience like a fountain pen. With a
rollerball pen you don't have to push down hard to jot down your words on the writing
surface like a ballpoint pen. Due to this factor, rollerball pens are
considered best for pen enthusiasts who are prone to hand injuries like carpel
tunnel syndrome and arthritis.
We have discussed much on the benefits and downside of rollerball
and ballpoint pens. But what about usability and user preference? A recent
study on 100 pen enthusiasts revealed the following stats.
When it comes to user preference rollerball stand a notch
above ballpoint pens, but in practicality ballpoint pens are more into action.
Summary
Advantages of Using a
Rollerball Pen
- · Consistent flow.
- · Reduces hand pressures and fatigues.
- · Ink on the paper will be clearer.
- · Best for people who love to write fast.
Advantages of Using a
Ballpoint Pen
- · Good for writing in low quality papers.
- · Eliminates bloating issues.
- · Less leaking problems
- · Best for left-handed people.
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