A Complete Guide to All Types of Fountain Pen Nibs

Posted on July 15, 2025

Ever picked up a fountain pen and thought,

“This feels like it is made for me?”

That quiet glide and smooth ink flow. That sudden pause where you realize, you’re not just writing, you’re creating.

But here's the secret: the secret magic isn’t just in the pen. It’s in the

nib

, the very tip that meets the page and translates thought into form. And if you've ever found yourself wondering why some pens feel effortless while others feel scratchy or too inky, you're in the right place.

Welcome to your complete guide on

fountain pen nibs

, the smooth, the bold, the calligraphic, and everything in between. Whether you're a collector, a journaling enthusiast, or just exploring your first

premium fountain pen

, this breakdown will help you understand what makes each nib unique and how to choose one that suits your personal writing style.

Why the Nib Matters So Much

In the world of

exclusive fountain pens

, the nib is more than just a writing tool, it's an extension of you. It controls the ink flow, determines the thickness of your writing, and quite literally changes how your words feel on paper. Choosing the right nib is like finding the perfect pair of shoes, it’s all about fit, comfort,

Fine Nibs: Clean, Crisp, and Controlled

Love a neat handwriting style? Do your notes run on the smaller side? Then

fine nibs

are probably your best friend. They lay down a thinner line and allow for tighter lettering without bleeding or feathering, even on regular paper.

Try the

BENU Talisman Peacock Ore Blue Fountain Pen (Fine)

which isn't just a pen, it’s a visual experience. Made with hand-blended resins and infused with real peacock ore, this BENU pen is a art statement in itself which features a fine nib perfect for everyday note-taking with a dose of flair.

Medium Nibs: The Gold Standard of Versatility

Ask most fountain pen lovers, and they’ll tell you

medium nibs

hit the sweet spot. The ink flows smoothly, but not too heavily. The line is visible, but not overwhelming. It’s ideal for signatures, journaling, or long hours of writing.

Two timeless picks:

Montblanc Meisterstück Around the World in 80 Days Fountain Pen (Medium)

A true

luxury fountain pen

, this piece is inspired by Jules Verne’s literary masterpiece. Its medium nib offers impeccable balance and flow—ideal for both collectors and daily users.

LAMY Studio Brushed Steel Fountain Pen (Medium)

is understated, minimal and thoroughly modern, this

classic fountain pen

is perfect for someone who values design as much as performance.

Broad Nibs: Bold and Expressive

If you want your handwriting to stand out or simply enjoy a more fluid, generous ink flow

broad nibs

might be for you. They produce thicker lines, ideal for signing documents, writing personal notes, or when you just want that dramatic touch.

Explore

LAMY Safari Yellow Fountain Pen (Broad)

has a bold color paired with a bold nib, this is the pen for writers who love to make a statement using lightweight, affordable and undeniably smooth.

Calligraphy Nibs: Crafted for Artistry

Calligraphy nibs aren’t just for artists, they’re for anyone who enjoys slowing down and savoring the curves of every letter. Often wider and more structured, these nibs help create thick and thin lines for beautiful visual contrast.

For the creative soul choose the

LAMY Joy Calligraphy Fountain Pen which is

designed for lettering, bullet journaling and expressive writing. This pen is a must-have for anyone looking to bring more creativity into their notes.

Finding Your Perfect Nib for Every Writing Season

So, how do we choose the right nib? Ask yourself:

Smoothest Nibs? It Depends

A smooth nib doesn’t just glide, it feels like overflowing on a paper. Some of the brands that are consistent in their Nib smoothness is:

FAQs

Q.What are the different types of fountain pen nibs?

Fine, Medium, Broad, Stub, Calligraphy, Oblique, and Flex nibs.

Q.Which fountain pen nib is smoothest?

Montblanc, Sailor, and Lamy medium nibs are renowned for their buttery smooth feel.

Q.How do I choose the right nib size for my writing style?

If you have a small writing, then choose the small nib size pen, for everyday writing use the medium size pen, and for an expressive or signature writing, choose for a broad or calligraphy.

Q.What’s the difference between fine, medium, and broad nibs?

Fine nib pens are offer thin lines and more control while writing. The medium nib is balanced writing flair, and the broad nib offers thick lines, more ink, and expressio

Q.Which fountain pen brands offer smooth writing with extra-fine nibs?

Sailor, Lamy, and Kaweco are excellent choices for smooth extra-fine options.

Q.Are BENU or Esterbrook fountain pens available with specialty nibs?

Yes, both brands offer select editions with stub, flex, and calligraphy-friendly nibs.

William Penn: The Nib that Shapes the Story

In the world of premium fountain pens, the nib you choose sets the tone for everything that follows. Whether you’re signing a deal, writing a letter, or capturing your thoughts at the end of the day, the right nib elevates the experience.

At William Penn, we curate the best from around the world, from Montblanc to LAMY, BENU, Cross, Sailor, Esterbrook, and more. Whether you're drawn to sleek modern styles or ornate, collectible classics, your perfect luxury fountain pen is waiting.

Ready to write your next chapter?

Explore our complete collection of fountain pens.