Buying coloured pens seems simple… until the ink bleeds through the pages, the tips dry out too quickly or half the shades are left at the bottom of your pencil case. For students, parents, drawing enthusiasts and bullet journal fans, choosing the right set is about more than the number of colours printed on the box.
Some marketing claims deserve a closer look:
For neat note-taking, outlining or filling the pages of a bullet journal, a 0.3 to 0.5 mm fine tip lets you work precisely. Fineliners are particularly well suited to margins, tables, mandalas and diagrams.
With a 0.7 mm tip, the line is more visible. This is a good size for headings, light colouring or notes that need to stand out. Multicolour 0.7 mm ballpoint pens also let you switch quickly from one ink colour to another without carrying several pens.
For lettering, brush pens and dual-tip markers offer greater flexibility. A flexible tip can create fine lines with light pressure, then broader strokes when you press more firmly. However, this technique requires paper that is smooth enough not to damage the tip.
Water-based inks are common in colouring markers and fineliners. They generally provide smooth writing and produce little odour, but may show through the back of a thin sheet.
Gel pens stand out for their vivid colours and decorative effects. Metallic, neon and glitter versions look particularly striking on dark or coloured paper. To prevent marks, allow the ink to dry before closing a notebook or adding another colour over the top.
Watercolour pencils and coloured pencils offer a different approach: they let you draw dry, then add water using a brush. Before starting a project, test them on the paper you intend to use, particularly for notebooks, planners and study sheets.
A triangular barrel or non-slip grip can make long note-taking sessions more comfortable. For children, a thicker barrel makes the pen easier to hold. A compartmentalised case prevents caps from getting lost and helps keep markers neatly organised.
Also check the storage instructions:
The number of pieces alone is therefore not enough to distinguish between two sets. Also consider the line width, stated uses, ink type and accessories included.
Why this choice suits this profile : Each pen combines four inks — black, blue, red and green — in a practical retractable design for lessons, the office and everyday notes.
The button-operated system means there are fewer caps to lose and fewer pens to carry. The 0.7 mm ballpoint tip is suitable for everyday writing, but not the finest details.
Three four-colour pens, a retractable mechanism and a non-slip rubber grip.
Why this choice suits this profile : This set combines several gel effects for decorating cards, personalising a notebook or writing on white, coloured or black paper.
The variety is not based solely on similar shades, but on four advertised effects: glitter, metallic, neon and opaque.
24 gel pens and advertised compatibility with several types of paper, including black paper.
Why this choice suits this profile : With 40 colours and a 0.3 mm tip, this set is ideal for colour-coded notes, detailed illustrations and ongoing drawing projects.
The line width is clearly stated, while the 40-compartment case makes storage easier than leaving the pens loose in a pencil case.
0.3 mm fibre tip, triangular barrel and polypropylene storage case.
Why this choice suits this profile : This set combines a brush tip and a chisel tip, with a case featuring a handle for activities at home, at school or on the go.
The water-based ink is presented as 90% washable from skin and most fabrics. This does not remove the need to clean stains promptly.
12 dual-tip markers, ventilated caps and a carry case included.
We have put together a complete, real-time updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.
For outlines and small writing, choose 0.3 to 0.5 mm fineliners. Brush pens and dual-tip markers complement the selection for headings and lettering. Always test the ink on a page of your notebook to check that it does not bleed through the paper.
Replace the cap immediately after each use and check that it is securely in place. Store the markers in their case, away from heat and sunlight. For dual-tip models, follow the storage position specified on the product page.
Yes, provided you choose a suitable tip and sufficiently absorbent paper. Gel pens are particularly useful for headings, annotations and decoration. Allow the ink to dry before closing a notebook, especially when using metallic, neon or glitter effects.