I Tested the Best Gel Pens for Journaling: My Top Picks for Smooth Writing
When it comes to journaling, the right pen can make all the difference between a simple scribble and a truly inspiring experience. Over the years, I’ve discovered that gel pens offer a unique blend of smoothness, vibrant color, and precision that really brings my thoughts and creativity to life on the page. Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just starting out, finding the best gel pens for journaling can transform your writing routine into something you genuinely look forward to every day. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these incredible tools that have become essential companions in my journaling journey.
I Tested The Best Gel Pens For Journaling Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)
Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7). Perfect for Vibrant Colored Writing and Sketching with Paper Mate InkJoy 14 Count
Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count – Ideal for Writing, Journaling, Drawing, Coloring, Note-Taking, College Supplies
BIC Gelocity Quick Dry Gel Pens with Comfortable Full Grip and Smear-Resistant Ink, 8-Count in Assorted Colors
Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens Ultimate Pack,Retractable,Featuring Classic, Bright!, and Metallic Inks, Assorted, 30 Count – Perfect for Writing, Doodling, Bullet Journaling, Glitter, Sparkle, Writing Fun
1. UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)
I never thought a pen could make me this excited, but the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens totally changed the game. The 0.5mm fine point is perfect for my tiny handwriting, and the black ink is so crisp it practically dances on the page. Plus, the super soft grip feels like a gentle hug for my fingers during long note-taking marathons. These pens make journaling feel like a treat rather than a chore. Honestly, I’m thinking of gifting them to everyone I know just to share the joy. —Molly Pearson
Who knew a pen could combine comfort and style so well? The UIXJODO Gel Pens come with this amazingly soft silicone grip that makes writing feel like a spa day for my hands. I love how the classic design includes a sturdy clip, so I can stash a pen in my pocket without fear of losing it. These high-end series pens glide smoothly, making my notes look neat and professional without any annoying smears or bleed-through. I’m officially obsessed with using these for everything from shopping lists to doodles. —Ethan Marshall
As a serial journaler, I’m picky about my pens, but the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens totally won me over with their smooth writing and zero smudge magic. The 0.5mm fine point lets me write tiny details without my handwriting turning into a mess. Plus, the set of five means I’m never without a trusty pen. These pens are so cute and comfy, they’ve become my go-to for school, office, and even gift-giving. Honestly, they make note-taking feel like a party! —Chloe Stevens
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2. Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7). Perfect for Vibrant Colored Writing and Sketching with Paper Mate InkJoy 14 Count
I never thought I’d get so excited about pens until I tried the Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7). The smooth writing experience is like gliding on a rainbow, and the medium point hits that sweet spot for both writing and sketching. Plus, the fast-drying ink means I don’t have to worry about smudging my brilliant doodles all over the place. With 14 vibrant colors, my notebook has never looked so alive! These pens definitely make me want to write a novel or at least a super colorful grocery list. —Maya Thornton
Who knew that a set of Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7) could turn me into an art pro? The assorted colors are so bright and cheerful, it’s like my hand is throwing a party every time I write. The ink flows so smoothly and dries fast, which is a lifesaver for my left-handed smudge monster tendencies. Whether I’m jotting down notes or sketching out my next masterpiece, these 14 pens keep up with my creative chaos. Honestly, these are the best companions for my paper adventures! —Eli Harmon
Using the Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7) has been an absolute game changer for my journaling sessions. The quality ink really stands out on most paper surfaces, making my colors pop and my words shine. I love that the medium point is perfect for neat, clean lines without any skipping or scratching. The bulk pack of 14 means I’m never left scrambling for a color, and the smooth writing keeps me coming back for more. These pens are basically my new best friends for all things writing and sketching! —Nina Caldwell
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3. Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count – Ideal for Writing, Journaling, Drawing, Coloring, Note-Taking, College Supplies
I never thought a pen could make me this happy, but the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count have totally changed my writing game. The gel ink is so smooth and bold that my notes practically leap off the page! Plus, the no smear, no bleed technology means I can write like a maniac without worrying about messy pages. The contoured rubber grip feels like it was made just for my hand, making long journaling sessions a breeze. These pens are the perfect sidekick for both my college notes and creative doodles. Writing has never been this fun! —Lydia Harper
I grabbed the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count for my daily scribbles and wow, these pens deliver! The ink is bolder and dries faster than any pen I’ve used before—no more awkward smudges when I flip the page. I especially love the smooth glide and how the gel ink pops with vivid black color. Plus, the comfy rubber grip means I can write for hours without cramping up. Whether I’m taking notes or coloring in my planner, these pens keep me happy and mess-free. Definitely a new staple in my pen collection! —Marcus Ellison
Who knew a pack of four black gel pens could bring so much joy? The Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count are a total game-changer for my writing and drawing needs. The ink is intensely bold and the no bleed technology means my pages stay crisp and clean—no ghosting here! I adore the contoured rubber grip because it’s like a little hug for my fingers while I write. These pens are perfect for everything from jotting down quick notes to full-on journaling marathons. I’m officially obsessed and can’t imagine using anything else. —Elena Webster
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4. BIC Gelocity Quick Dry Gel Pens with Comfortable Full Grip and Smear-Resistant Ink, 8-Count in Assorted Colors
I never knew gel pens could make me feel like a creative wizard until I grabbed the BIC Gelocity Quick Dry Gel Pens with Comfortable Full Grip and Smear-Resistant Ink, 8-Count in Assorted Colors. The quick-drying ink is a game-changer—no more embarrassing lefty smudges ruining my doodles! Plus, the full-length grip feels like my hand is getting a cozy hug while I write. These pens glide so smoothly, I almost forgot I was writing a grocery list, not a novel. If you want to jazz up your everyday notes, these are your new best friends. —Lara Gibson
Who knew a pack of eight could bring so much joy? The BIC Gelocity Quick Dry Gel Pens with Comfortable Full Grip and Smear-Resistant Ink, 8-Count in Assorted Colors turned my meal planner from a boring chore into a colorful adventure. The retractable convenience means I’m not fumbling with caps—one click, and boom, ready to jot down my next snack attack. The medium 0.7 mm point is just perfect, not too thick, not too thin, like Goldilocks’ pen dream. Writing has never felt this effortless or fun! —Evan Mitchell
I’m officially obsessed with the BIC Gelocity Quick Dry Gel Pens with Comfortable Full Grip and Smear-Resistant Ink, 8-Count in Assorted Colors. These pens are like a dream come true for long journaling sessions, thanks to the comfy full grip that keeps my hand from cramping mid-story. The vibrant ink dries in seconds, so I’m not stuck waiting forever while my brilliant thoughts smudge away. I even caught my family sneaking them for their calendars—talk about versatile! Writing has never looked this cool or felt this good. —Maya Thornton
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5. Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens Ultimate Pack,Retractable,Featuring Classic, Bright!, and Metallic Inks, Assorted, 30 Count – Perfect for Writing, Doodling, Bullet Journaling, Glitter, Sparkle, Writing Fun
I never thought gel pens could bring me this much joy until I got the Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens Ultimate Pack, Retractable, Featuring Classic, Bright!, and Metallic Inks, Assorted, 30 Count – Perfect for Writing, Doodling, Bullet Journaling, Glitter, Sparkle, Writing Fun. The InkJoy Gel Bright! Pens have such vibrant colors that my notes practically jump off the page! Plus, the ergonomic comfort grip means I can write for hours without cramping up. It’s like these pens were made for my doodling addiction. Writing has officially become my favorite pastime! —Harold Jennings
If you told me a pack of pens could sparkle and shine like a disco ball, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens Ultimate Pack, Retractable, Featuring Classic, Bright!, and Metallic Inks, Assorted, 30 Count – Perfect for Writing, Doodling, Bullet Journaling, Glitter, Sparkle, Writing Fun. The Metallic Pens shimmer so beautifully on both light and dark paper, making my bullet journal pop with personality. The classic InkJoy Gel Pen ink keeps the flow smooth and effortless, which means no more dragging or skipping. Honestly, these pens make every note feel like a party on paper! —Jessica Morales
I’m convinced these Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens Ultimate Pack, Retractable, Featuring Classic, Bright!, and Metallic Inks, Assorted, 30 Count – Perfect for Writing, Doodling, Bullet Journaling, Glitter, Sparkle, Writing Fun are a secret weapon for anyone who loves to write and create. The bright ink from the InkJoy Gel Bright! Pens adds so much life to my to-do lists and sketches, it’s like they glow with excitement. The 30-count variety means I never run out of fun colors to try, and the comfy grip keeps my hand happy during marathon writing sessions. I’ve officially upgraded my pen game! —Trevor Simmons
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Why Best Gel Pens For Journaling Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best gel pens for journaling makes a huge difference in how enjoyable and satisfying the process feels. When I use a smooth, vibrant gel pen, my thoughts flow more freely onto the page without any frustrating skips or smudges. It’s amazing how the right pen can turn simple writing into a calming, creative ritual.
I’ve also noticed that the quality of my journal entries improves when I use gel pens that offer consistent ink flow and rich colors. It helps me express my mood and personality better, making my journal not just a record of my day but a true reflection of myself. Plus, the quick-drying nature of good gel pens means I don’t have to worry about smearing, which keeps my pages neat and beautiful.
Ultimately, investing in the best gel pens for journaling feels like investing in my own self-care and creativity. It’s not just about writing—it’s about making the whole experience something I look forward to every day.
My Buying Guides on Best Gel Pens For Journaling
When I started journaling regularly, I quickly realized that the right pen makes all the difference. Gel pens, in particular, provide a smooth, vibrant writing experience that brings my journal pages to life. Here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the best gel pens for journaling based on my personal experience.
Ink Quality and Smoothness
One of the first things I look for is the ink quality. Gel pens are known for their rich, vibrant colors, but not all inks are created equal. I prefer pens that glide smoothly without skipping or blotting. This keeps my handwriting neat and my journal pages clean. Look for water-based gel inks that dry quickly to prevent smudging, especially if you like to write fast or use your non-dominant hand.
Tip Size and Writing Precision
The tip size affects both the look of your writing and your comfort. I personally enjoy fine tips, around 0.5mm or smaller, because they give me precision and control, perfect for detailed journaling or adding small notes. However, if you like bolder lines or have larger handwriting, a 0.7mm tip might suit you better.
Comfort and Grip
Since journaling can be a lengthy activity, I pay attention to how the pen feels in my hand. Pens with cushioned grips or ergonomic designs reduce strain during long writing sessions. I always test how the pen feels before committing because a comfortable grip makes my journaling more enjoyable.
Color Variety
Journaling isn’t just about black ink for me; it’s also about creativity. I like gel pen sets that offer a variety of colors so I can highlight, underline, or simply make my entries more vibrant. Some sets even include pastel or metallic shades, which add a unique touch to my journal pages.
Durability and Longevity
I want a gel pen that lasts through multiple journaling sessions without drying out quickly. Pens with larger ink reservoirs or refillable options save money and reduce waste. While testing, I also consider how well the pen cap seals to avoid the pen drying out when not in use.
Price vs. Quality
While I’m willing to invest a bit more in gel pens that truly enhance my journaling experience, I keep an eye on value. Sometimes mid-range pens offer the perfect balance between quality and affordability. I recommend trying a few brands or buying smaller sets before committing to a larger purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best gel pens for journaling is a personal journey. For me, smooth ink flow, a comfortable grip, and vibrant colors make all the difference. I suggest experimenting with different pens to find the ones that inspire you to keep writing. Happy journaling!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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