Sheaffer and the Differences Between Pen Types

Sheaffer – When a Pen Is More Than Just a Writing Instrument

In an age when so much of our communication takes place on screens, there’s still something special about putting a good pen to paper. A high-quality pen can make a noticeable difference in the writing experience and make writing by hand feel more calm, precise, and personal.

It’s impossible not to be impressed and inspired by a writing instrument that’s beautifully designed and expertly crafted. It is precisely this combination of function, design, and the joy of writing that has made Sheaffer one of the most well-known names in classic writing instruments.

More than 100 years of experience with pens

Sheaffer's history dates back to Fort Madison, Iowa, USA, where goldsmith Walter A. Sheaffer developed a new type of fountain pen with a practical filling system. The company was founded in 1913 and has since been known for combining technical innovation with elegant design and solid craftsmanship. Over the years, Sheaffer has developed fountain pens, ballpoint pens, and rollerball pens, helping to shape the evolution of modern writing instruments.

One of the brand’s most recognizable features is the small “White Dot.” It was introduced in 1924 as a symbol of Sheaffer’s quality and reliability and was originally associated with the company’s warranty on select pens. Today, the white dot still serves as Sheaffer’s distinctive mark of quality—a subtle detail that many pen enthusiasts recognize immediately.

Ballpoint or rollerball—what's the difference?

At first glance, a ballpoint pen and a rollerball pen may look very similar, but the writing experience is different. Both use a small ball at the tip to transfer ink to the paper, but the type of ink makes a big difference.

A ballpoint pen— what we usually call a ballpoint —uses a relatively thick, oil-based ink. It dries quickly, smudges only slightly, and produces a controlled line. That’s why the ballpoint pen is an obvious choice for everyday use, notes, signatures, and situations where the pen needs to be practical and reliable.

A rollerball pen , on the other hand, uses a more fluid ink, typically water- or gel-based. This means that the pen glides more easily across the paper and requires less pressure, resulting in a smooth and fluid writing experience that, in many ways, resembles that of a fountain pen. On the other hand, the ink typically dries more slowly than that of a ballpoint pen.

The fountain pen differs from both the ballpoint pen and the rollerball pen in that it uses an actual pen tip, or nib, instead of a small ball, to transfer the liquid fountain pen ink onto the paper. The ink is supplied either from a cartridge or from a converter, which can be filled with bottled ink. The fountain pen requires only very little pressure and produces a light, gliding, and often more distinctive line, which is one of the reasons why many people still prefer it for longer writing, letters, notes, and signatures. It offers the most classic writing experience.

A good pen, therefore, is not just about its appearance. Weight, balance, grip, and ink type all contribute to how it feels in your hand. Sheaffer’s collections range from timeless, classic, and understated designs to more eye-catching colors and finishes, so there are models for your desk, your bag, and that special gift.

Whether you prefer the practical ballpoint pen, the silky-smooth rollerball, or the classic fountain pen, a Sheaffer pen is a sure choice for anyone who appreciates a great writing experience.