5 Elegant Fountain Pens Under $30

Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you can’t have a fancy writing experience, and once you return to the office, you’re going to want to take that experience with you.
But if you’re new to fountain pens, diving in can be tricky. What brands should you pay attention to? What’s an acceptable nib size? Aren’t fountain pens expensive?
Don’t worry. I’ve picked five terrific fountain pens that not only look professional and elegant, but won’t break the bank either.
#5: Kaweco Perkeo - $16
Kaweco makes terrific pocket fountain pens, but their Perkeos should not be missed if you’re looking for an inexpensive full-sized design that’s reliable and simple.
As author Sarah Read wrote in her review at the Pen Addict blog:
The nibs are all quite smooth and seem to get a good ink supply. I've tried them with Kaweco, Diamine, and Monteverde ink cartridges, and all have been delightful. … They're light, durable, inexpensive, and fun.
Click here to buy the Kaweco Perkeo Fountain Pen
#4: Platinum Plaisir - $17.50
Made of aluminum in a black, anodized finish that resists scratches, the Plaisir sleek looks at a killer price. The Gentleman Stationer described its writing experience as “exceptional at the price point.”
For under $20, you can’t go wrong.
Click here to buy the Platinum Plaisir
#3: Faber-Castell GRIP 2010 - $20
This particular fountain pen offers a unique design with a stainless steel clip, as well as a cushioned grip near the nib. The resulting experience is stylish and comfortable.
Once again, Sarah Read:
This is an excellent student pen, or work pen--or a pen that you want to carry around without worrying about it too much. It's reliable, writes well, and it's inexpensive. At $20, I think it's the perfect price for gifting to kids or office friends who might be fountain pen curious.
Click here to buy the Faber-Castell GRIP 2010
#2: Lamy Safari - $29.60
This is the most expensive pen on the list, but for good reason. Lamy is a trusted, reliable brand that manufactures terrific pens at myriad price points. The Safari is no exception.
With its almost tactical design and unique clip on the cap, it’s sure to turn heads in your next board meeting.
Click here to buy the Lamy Safari
#1: Pilot Metropolitan - $19.50
This is the pen that started me down the fountain pen rabbit hole many years ago. Its design is timeless, it comes in a variety of colors, and your office mate will think you spent a lot more to get it.
If you’re just starting out in fountain pens, I cannot recommend the Pilot Metropolitan enough.
Click here to buy the Pilot Metropolitan