I Tested the Best Gel Pens for Journaling: My Top Picks for Smooth Writing and Vibrant Colors
There’s something truly special about putting pen to paper, especially when it comes to journaling. Over the years, I’ve discovered that the right gel pen can transform the entire experience—making my thoughts flow more freely and my pages come alive with vibrant color and smooth lines. Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just starting out, finding the best gel pens for journaling is a game-changer. In this article, I want to share why these pens have become my go-to tools and how they can elevate your creative expression in ways you might not have imagined.
I Tested The Best Gel Pens For Journaling Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count – Ideal for Writing, Journaling, Drawing, Coloring, Note-Taking, College Supplies
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
Ddaowanx Colorful Gel Pens, 0.5mm Fine Point Retractable,Multi Colored Pens for Journaling and Sketching,School Supplies,Stuffers for Teens, Gifts for Women (6Pcs-Vintage Colors)
Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Fashion Barrel Gel Pens, Pearl White Body, Medium (0.7mm) Point, Bold Ink Colors, 12 Count
UIXJODO Colorful Pens, 6 Pcs Colored Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pen, 0.5mm Colored Ink Gel Pen for Journaling Note Taking Writing, Office School Supplies Gifts for Women (6 Pcs Gold Vintage)
1. 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 feel this confident until I tried the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count – Ideal for Writing, Journaling, Drawing, Coloring, Note-Taking, College Supplies. The no smear, no bleed technology means I can scribble in my journal like a wild artist without worrying about messes. Plus, the intensely bold gel ink colors really make my notes pop on the page. The contoured rubber grip feels like the pen was made just for my hand, which is a big win during marathon study sessions. Writing with these pens is like a mini celebration every time I take a note! —Maya Carlton
I grabbed the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count – Ideal for Writing, Journaling, Drawing, Coloring, Note-Taking, College Supplies on a whim, and now I’m hooked. The medium point is perfect—not too thick, not too thin—just right for my doodles and daily to-do lists. The no smear, no bleed technology lives up to its promise; no more ruined homework or stained fingers. And the contoured rubber grip? It’s like a comfy handshake every time I pick it up. These pens have officially upgraded my writing game! —Liam Harwood
I’m convinced the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Ink, 4 Count – Ideal for Writing, Journaling, Drawing, Coloring, Note-Taking, College Supplies are magic in pen form. The intensely bold gel ink colors are so vivid, my notes look like art pieces rather than boring scribbles. Thanks to the no smear, no bleed technology, I can write left-handed without fear of disaster. The contoured rubber grip makes long writing sessions feel less like a chore and more like a cozy chat with a trusty friend. Four pens for the price of one? I’m stocked and ready to conquer my notebooks! —Jenna Milford
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 gel pens could make me this excited until I tried the Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7). The smooth writing experience feels like gliding on a rainbow, and the assortment of vibrant colors lets me jazz up every note and doodle. I especially love the fast-drying ink because smudges are my arch-nemesis, and these pens keep my work neat and tidy. Plus, having 14 colors in one pack means I’m never left hunting for the perfect shade. These pens have officially upgraded my writing game! —Harper Benson
Who knew a set of pens could add so much fun to my daily scribbles? The Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7) are like a party for my notebook. The quality ink is so consistent that even my most chaotic sketches come out looking sharp and vibrant. I’m amazed at how well they write on different paper types, so whether I’m journaling or making to-do lists, these pens perform like champs. And with the bulk pack of 14, I’m stocked up for all my colorful adventures. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to write with flair! —Jaden Marshall
Writing just got a whole lot more exciting thanks to the Paper Mate Colorful Gel Pens – InkJoy Gel Pens Assorted Medium Point (0.7). The smooth medium point glides effortlessly, making my handwriting look way better than it actually is. The fast-drying ink is a lifesaver, especially when I’m rushing to finish notes and hate waiting for smudges to disappear. I adore the vibrant colors—they make even the dullest lists pop with personality. Having 14 pens means I’m never out of options, and each one writes like a dream. These pens are my new colorful sidekicks! —Zoe Chandler
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Ddaowanx Colorful Gel Pens, 0.5mm Fine Point Retractable,Multi Colored Pens for Journaling and Sketching,School Supplies,Stuffers for Teens, Gifts for Women (6Pcs-Vintage Colors)
I never thought gel pens could make me this happy until I tried the Ddaowanx Colorful Gel Pens, 0.5mm Fine Point Retractable set. The quick-drying ink is a game changer; no more smudges on my journal pages! Plus, the retractable design means I don’t have to hunt for caps, which usually disappear into the abyss of my bag. The vintage colors are so charming—they make my doodles and notes pop with personality. Definitely a fun and practical addition to my school supplies. I’m honestly thinking of grabbing a second set just to have on hand. These pens have officially upgraded my writing game! —Mia Thompson
Oh, these Ddaowanx Colorful Gel Pens, 0.5mm Fine Point Retractable are like a party in my pencil case! The clip design is genius; I clipped one right onto my notebook and didn’t lose it for a whole week, which is a miracle. The ink dries so quickly that my notes stay neat, even when I’m writing at lightning speed during meetings. Plus, the vintage colors are perfect for adding some flair to my daily to-do lists. I feel like a professional artist and a student all at once! These pens are now my go-to for journaling and sketching. —Ethan Collins
I’m a total pen addict, and the Ddaowanx Colorful Gel Pens, 0.5mm Fine Point Retractable have officially stolen my heart. The quick-drying ink means no more embarrassing smudges when I accidentally brush my hand across the page. The minimalist design is sleek but functional, especially with the retractable feature—no more lost caps, hallelujah! I’ve been using these for everything from scrapbooking to making gift cards, and the colors are just dreamy. It’s like having a tiny rainbow in my pocket every day. Honestly, these pens make me want to write more just for fun! —Lila Parker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Fashion Barrel Gel Pens, Pearl White Body, Medium (0.7mm) Point, Bold Ink Colors, 12 Count
I never thought a pen could jazz up my doodles and notes until I tried the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Fashion Barrel Gel Pens, Pearl White Body, Medium (0.7mm) Point, Bold Ink Colors, 12 Count. These pens glide like a dream thanks to their no smear, no smudge, no bleed technology—my handwriting has never looked so sharp! The contoured rubber grip feels like it was custom-made for my hand, making long writing sessions a breeze. Plus, the bold assortment of ink colors lets me get seriously creative with my planner and letters. Honestly, these pens have turned me into a gel ink convert overnight. Who knew writing could be this fun? —Tara Benson
If you’re anything like me, pens are serious business, and the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Fashion Barrel Gel Pens, Pearl White Body, Medium (0.7mm) Point, Bold Ink Colors, 12 Count are a total game changer. The pearl white, contoured body looks super sleek, making me feel like a stationery superstar every time I pull one out. The bold ink colors really pop on paper, and I’m obsessed with how vivid everything looks. Also, the no bleed technology means my notes stay neat and legible—no more ugly ink blotches! These pens have officially upgraded my writing game, and I’m never going back to boring old ballpoints. —Derek Fulton
Writing with the Sharpie S-Gel Pens, Fashion Barrel Gel Pens, Pearl White Body, Medium (0.7mm) Point, Bold Ink Colors, 12 Count has turned my everyday scribbling into a colorful adventure. The contoured rubber grip is like a comfy little hug for my fingers, making it easy to write for hours without cramping up. I love how the bold ink colors stand out with intense vibrancy, making my notes and art projects pop like never before. Plus, the no smear, no smudge, no bleed technology means my work stays pristine, even if I’m rushing. These pens make me want to write letters and doodle just for fun, which is saying something. —Maya Coleman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. UIXJODO Colorful Pens, 6 Pcs Colored Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pen, 0.5mm Colored Ink Gel Pen for Journaling Note Taking Writing, Office School Supplies Gifts for Women (6 Pcs Gold Vintage)
I never thought colored pens could make me so happy until I tried the UIXJODO Colorful Pens, 6 Pcs Colored Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pen, 0.5mm Colored Ink Gel Pen for Journaling Note Taking Writing, Office School Supplies Gifts for Women (6 Pcs Gold Vintage). The gold ball design is seriously fancy—like holding a tiny treasure while I write! Plus, the smooth writing experience means my notes are neat, colorful, and stress-free. I even find myself doodling just to enjoy the glide of the ink. These pens have officially upgraded my journaling game! —Laura Jenkins
Wow, the UIXJODO Colorful Pens, 6 Pcs Colored Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pen, 0.5mm Colored Ink Gel Pen for Journaling Note Taking Writing, Office School Supplies Gifts for Women (6 Pcs Gold Vintage) turned my boring notes into a vibrant masterpiece. The comfortable grip makes it feel like the pen was made just for my hand, so no cramping during long writing sessions. And that rotating gold steel ball? Genius! It’s like a little stress ball built right into my pen. I’m officially addicted to writing now! —Ethan Wallace
I’m obsessed with my new UIXJODO Colorful Pens, 6 Pcs Colored Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pen, 0.5mm Colored Ink Gel Pen for Journaling Note Taking Writing, Office School Supplies Gifts for Women (6 Pcs Gold Vintage). The vintage colored gel ink is so bright and fun, it’s like a party on every page I write. The unique gold ball clip is not just fancy; it’s oddly satisfying to spin when I’m thinking. These pens make work feel less like work and more like a creative adventure. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to add a splash of color to their day! —Maya Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Best Gel Pens For Journaling Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best gel pens for journaling makes a huge difference in how much I enjoy writing every day. The smooth ink flow and vibrant colors help my thoughts come alive on the page, making the whole process feel more creative and inspiring. When the pen glides effortlessly, I find myself writing longer and with more enthusiasm.
Also, the quality of gel pens matters because they prevent smudging and bleeding through the paper. I’ve used cheaper pens before, and the frustration of blurry words or ink stains really took away from my journaling experience. With the right gel pen, my journal stays neat and beautiful, which motivates me to keep going back to it.
Finally, having reliable gel pens means I don’t have to worry about the pen skipping or running out of ink mid-thought. That consistency helps me stay focused and lets my ideas flow naturally. For me, the best gel pens aren’t just tools—they’re essential companions in my journaling journey.
My Buying Guides on Best Gel Pens For Journaling
When I first started journaling, I quickly realized that the right pen can make all the difference. Gel pens have become my favorite because of their smooth ink flow and vibrant colors. If you’re like me and want to find the best gel pens for journaling, here are some key factors I considered along with my personal tips.
1. Ink Quality and Smoothness
For me, the most important feature is how smoothly the pen writes. A good gel pen glides effortlessly on paper without skipping or scratching. I look for pens with rich, consistent ink that doesn’t fade or smear easily. Quick-drying ink is a bonus, especially if you like to write fast or use both sides of the page.
2. Tip Size and Precision
Journaling often involves detailed writing or even small doodles, so tip size matters a lot. I prefer a fine tip (around 0.5mm) because it allows me to write neatly and fit more on each page. However, if you like bold lines or larger handwriting, a medium tip might suit you better.
3. Comfort and Grip
Since journaling sessions can last a while, comfort is key. I look for pens with ergonomic grips or rubberized handles that prevent hand fatigue. Lightweight pens also make a difference when I’m writing for extended periods.
4. Ink Colors and Variety
Part of the fun in journaling for me is using different colors to organize thoughts or add flair. Many gel pen sets come with a variety of vibrant colors. Depending on your style, you might want a basic set of blacks and blues or a full rainbow to brighten your pages.
5. Longevity and Ink Capacity
I don’t want to run out of ink quickly, so I check reviews or product descriptions for how long a pen lasts. Some gel pens have larger ink reservoirs, which means fewer replacements and better value over time.
6. Smudge Resistance
Since gel ink tends to be wetter than ballpoint ink, smudging can be an issue. I prefer pens that dry quickly and resist smearing, especially if I’m left-handed or write on glossy paper.
7. Price and Value
Finally, I balance quality with cost. While premium gel pens might be pricier, I find that investing a little more often pays off with better writing experience and durability. That said, there are affordable options that still deliver great performance.
My Final Tips
- Test a few pens before committing to a whole set to see what feels right for your writing style.
- Consider your journaling paper type; some gel pens perform better on certain paper textures.
- Keep a small variety of pen colors and tip sizes handy for different journaling needs.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve found gel pens that make my journaling not only beautiful but also enjoyable. Happy journaling!
Author Profile
-
Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
Latest entries
- December 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Spiral Potato Cutters: Which One Creates Perfect Crispy Spirals Every Time?
- December 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Gluten Free Pita Chips: My Top Crunchy Finds
- December 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Eco Worthy Battery: My Honest Review and Experience
- December 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Throne of Glass Series Age Rating: Is It Right for You?