Selecting the appropriate fountain pen nib is like trying to find the best coffee roast – there are so many types and options that it can be daunting very quickly. But similar to your perfect cup of morning coffee, once you know the basics about nib sizes, materials, and types, you will find writing instruments that let every word fall the way you want it to fall.
I recall my first fountain pen buying experience. Thinking “a pen is a pen” I strolled in and two hours later I was walking out my head swimming with all the talk about EF vs F nibs, steel vs gold, and something called a “stub nib” that sounded like it belonged in a toolbox. It confused me so much that I went down a rabbit hole that completely altered how I view writing. Every — and I mean every — thing about your handwriting changes with your nib, including how much ink spills out of the nib onto the paper, as well as how your hand feels after writing for an hour.
Be it notes in a meeting, jotting down thoughts about the day or finishing the final chapter of that great novel you’ve always wanted to write – the right nib can mean the difference between being inspired and just scribbling.
Understanding Fountain Pen Nib Sizes: From Extra Fine to Broad
Extra Fine (EF) Nibs: Precision Writing for Detailed Work
Extra Fine (EF) Nibs are for detail and precision, draws the finest and most accurate line Is perfect for small handwriting, writing notes, or in planners. These are great for thin paper (like Hobonichi, Kokuyo) as it really helps prevent ink bleeds. These are also very good for sketching, detailing characters, or very small writing.
Suggestion:
Pilot Kakuno EF Nib is an easy-to-use precision pen for beginners.
Platinum President EF is the full-grain and professional finish for the EF luxury nib.
Fine (F) Nibs: The Sweet Spot for Everyday Writing
Fine (F) Nibs strike a good balance between accuracy and smooth ink delivery. These make sharp, clean lines—good for journaling, office or study papers, reduce smearing and adhere to most paper surfaces. Good for people who write neatly or those who like to use feathered line widths.
Suggestion:
Pilot Metropolitan Fine Nib is for smooth and polished writing for everyday use.
Platinum Preppy 0.3mm Fine Nib is both inexpensive and trustworthy.
Sailor Lecoule Fine Nib is perfect for students and hobby writers.
Medium (M) Nibs – The All-Round Performer
The Goldilocks nib size — not too fine, not too bold or broad. The ink flows smoothly, so writing is fluid and effortless. These are excellent for letters, general use, and journaling. A little personality while remaining legible.
Suggestion:
Medium Nib Sailor Profit 21 is a medium nib, top quality workmanship and balance.
Pilot Custom 74 Medium Nib is ideal for those moving on from entry-level pens.
Broad (B) Nibs – Bold, Expressive & Luxurious
Broad Nibs are created with more ink for thick and dramatic strokes. Perfect for signatures, art writing, or journal writing. Take ink shading to another level - if you love colourful inks, you need one of these. Best results are obtained using good quality paper to avoid bleeding.
Suggestion:
Sailor Profit 1911 Broad Nib is a classic, bold and expressive.
Platinum President Broad Nib is smooth luxury.
The best products from Platinum, Pilot, Sailor and more!
1 Pilot Prera Calligraphy Fountain Pen
2 Sailor TUZU Adjust Fountain Pen
4 Platinum Plaisir Fountain Pen
6 Pelikan Pelikano Up Fountain Pen
Pro Tip from Unbox Japan
Japanese Fine nibs often perform like Western extra-fines — so if you’re upgrading from a Western pen, go one size broader for a similar line width.