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🖋️ Retro Metal Fountain Pen with Replaceable Ink (100pcs Set)
I originally picked this retro metal fountain pen set because I’m obsessed with vintage aesthetics and wanted something practical yet visually unique for journaling and note-taking. A 100-piece set seemed like overkill at first—but then I realized it includes 10 fountain pens and 90 ink cartridges, making it an insanely affordable bulk buy.
First impressions were solid: the pens came individually wrapped, and the metal bodies feel surprisingly sturdy for the price. They have a nice weight in hand and write smoothly with a classic fine nib. I expected cheap plastic quality but was impressed by the metal finish and real ink flow.
Pros:
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Gorgeous vintage design
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10 pens in different colors
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90 cartridges = long-term value
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Great for journaling, calligraphy practice, and gifting
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Metal body feels premium
Cons: – Ink takes a few seconds to dry (can smudge) – Some nibs needed a quick flush to start flowing properly
When comparing with similar sets in the US—say on Amazon or JetPens—this kind of package would easily run $35–$50. I paid around $15 including shipping. Total steal.
Verdict: Exceeded expectations. Practical, stylish, and way more than I bargained for in the best way.
US $1.66
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🖌️ Chinese Calligraphy Brush Pen Set (Hook Line & Paint Brushes)
I’ve been dabbling in sumi-e and watercolor details, and this Chinese calligraphy brush set caught my eye for its variety—ceramic handles, natural hairs (weasel, mouse whisker, stone badger), and fine tips for hook lines.
The brushes arrived in pristine condition, each tip shaped and protected with starch glue. After soaking, they softened beautifully. The control I get while painting fine details and calligraphy strokes with these is amazing. This set’s definitely for intermediate to advanced users; it’s not a “learn to paint” beginner set.
Pros:
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Natural hairs hold water and pigment beautifully
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Ceramic handles feel traditional and balanced
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Ideal for precision painting and ink detailing
Cons: – Slight hair shedding initially – No carry pouch or storage case included
For $6–$8 shipped, it’s unbeatable. Brushes like these in the US easily cost $25+ per set—if not more. The quality difference isn’t even noticeable.
Verdict: These gave me way more than I paid for. They’re now my go-to for detailed watercolor and ink work.
US $1.66
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✒️ Scrub Metal Fountain Pen (0.5mm Iridium Tip)
I needed a no-nonsense daily writing pen that didn’t look like a disposable plastic stick. This scrub metal fountain pen stood out for its iridium tip, elegant build, and smooth 0.5mm nib—perfect for lists, notes, and journaling.
The finish is matte and has a nice grip—not slippery like some polished models. The nib wrote smoothly from the first ink load (I used a standard international cartridge), and I was shocked at how well it handled different paper textures.
Pros:
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Sleek matte metal finish
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Solid clip and build
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Medium nib glides effortlessly
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Comfortable for long writing sessions
Cons: – No converter included – Might be too heavy for those who prefer lightweight pens
Stateside, similar pens sell for $20+. I snagged this one for less than $5 including shipping. It performs like a mid-range pen at a budget price.
Verdict: This one surprised me. I bought it as a backup but now use it daily.
US $1.66
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🖊️ Retro Classic Fountain Pen (with Converter)
I ordered this classic retro fountain pen purely because it came with a converter—something that’s annoyingly hard to find in the US without paying $15+. The design is sleek and formal, great for business settings or clean journaling.
It writes with a smooth F nib that’s not scratchy but still gives that satisfying feedback on paper. I paired it with bottled ink (Pelikan 4001), and it handled everything like a $30 pen. The grip section is ergonomic, and the cap posts securely.
Pros:
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Built-in converter
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Sturdy metal clip
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Excellent fine nib performance
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Feels like a luxury pen
Cons: – Not ideal for left-handers due to slight ink smudge risk – Slightly top-heavy with cap posted
At this price point (~$6), it feels criminally underpriced. A similar pen with converter in the US? Easily $25–$35.
Verdict: A gem. I bought it on a whim and now recommend it to friends who want to start using bottled ink.
US $2.19
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🖋️ Fountain Pen Calligraphy Set (0.38mm Multifunction)
I love trying out fine nibs for detailed journaling and small notes, so this calligraphy fountain pen set with a 0.38mm nib was a no-brainer. It comes with several ink refills and feels built for precision.
Out of the box, the pen felt lightweight, maybe even a little “plastic,” but the writing experience is so refined it makes up for it. The ultra-fine nib makes it perfect for writing in tiny planner boxes or fine ink sketches. Definitely a specialist’s tool.
Pros:
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Ultra-fine nib is crisp and controlled
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Comes with several ink refills
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Affordable and functional
Cons: – Build quality feels cheaper than others – Best suited to people used to ultra-fine nibs
I paid under $4. Comparable fine nib pens with extra refills in the US start at $12+, usually with less smoothness.
Verdict: A bit niche, but it works exactly as advertised. It’s grown on me.
US $1.58
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🎨 Colored Disposable Fountain Pens (9pcs, Assorted Colors)
This colorful disposable fountain pen set was an impulse buy to break the monotony of blue and black inks. With 9 vivid colors, these pens are all preloaded, no cartridge fuss.
They’re great for color coding notes, journaling emotions, or even for kids who want to try fountain pens without the mess. Each one has a fine nib and lays down ink evenly. Bonus: the colors are punchy but don’t bleed through decent paper.
Pros:
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Preloaded = zero setup
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Bright, fun colors
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Smooth writing experience
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Great for gifts or casual use
Cons: – Not refillable – Slightly inconsistent ink flow in two pens
Price-wise? These were under $6 for the whole set. A similar 9-pack from Pilot or Zebra in the US would run over $20.
Verdict: These made writing fun again. I didn’t expect to love them—but I do.
US $0.99
Overall Thoughts
I was genuinely surprised by the quality and usability of all six items. Ordering from AliExpress always feels like a gamble, but in this case, it totally paid off. Every pen had its charm, and the prices compared to US equivalents are unbeatable. Shipping took 10–18 days per item (I ordered them separately), but they all arrived in perfect condition.
Would I recommend these? Absolutely. If you’re a writer, artist, student, or stationery nerd, these AliExpress pens are solid buys. I already have my eye on more calligraphy gear and a new ink set for my next order.
