Best Ink Pen Refills of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Ink pen refills are a convenient and cost-effective way to keep your favorite writing instrument working smoothly. Whether you prefer ballpoint, rollerball, or fountain pens, there are a variety of refill options available to suit your needs. Many refills come in different point sizes and ink colors, allowing you to customize your writing experience. These refills are designed to fit a wide range of pen brands and models, making it easy to find a replacement for your old or worn-out cartridge. With ink pen refills, you can enjoy the comfort and familiarity of your favorite pen without having to replace the entire writing instrument.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

5-Pack Ballpoint Ink Refills for Rubberized Comfort Soft Touch 2 in 1 Pen Cover #TOP 1
5-Pack Ballpoint Ink Refills for Rubberized Comfort Soft Touch 2 in 1 Pen
ftb score rating icon 9.9
PARKER Black Ink Refills, 3 Count Cover #TOP 2
PARKER Black Ink Refills, 3 Count
ftb score rating icon 9.8
100 Pieces Ink Pen Refills Cover #TOP 3
100 Pieces Ink Pen Refills
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Ink Pen Refills

#TOP 1

5-Pack Ballpoint Ink Refills for Rubberized Comfort Soft Touch 2 in 1 Pen

INC-1107V
5 Count (Pack of 1)
5-Pack Ballpoint Ink Refills for Rubberized Comfort Soft Touch 2 in 1 Pen Cover
Lenden Pack of 5 Replacement Ballpoint Ink Refill for Rubberized Comfort Soft Touch 2 in 1 Ballpoint Pen Capacitive Stylus Tip, Premium Metal Medium Point, Black Ink (Black Replacement Refill)

This 5-pack of replacement ballpoint ink refills is designed to fit the Rubberized Comfort Soft Touch 2 in 1 Ballpoint Pen Capacitive Stylus. With premium metal medium point and retractable design, these black ink refills are an eco-friendly option to replace your 2 in 1 ballpoint stylus pen. Each refill is 98 mm long, making them a perfect fit for your pen.

What We Like
Nice ink flow
Reduces hand soreness
Smooth writing experience
Difficult to find
What We Don't Like
Short length
Order mix-up issues
#TOP 2

PARKER Black Ink Refills, 3 Count

2119151
Black
Pack of 3
PARKER Black Ink Refills, 3 Count Cover
PARKER QUINKflow Ballpoint Pen Ink Refills, Medium Tip, Black, 3 Count

Get consistent, smooth writing with PARKER QUINKflow Ballpoint Pen Ink Refills. These refills are designed specifically for PARKER ballpoint pens and offer a medium tip for everyday writing. The beautifully pigmented deep black ink captures your thoughts and is perfect for any writing task. All PARKER ballpoint pen refills are certified ISO 12757.2 and comply with Documentary Use standards for the handling and storage of documents during long periods of time.

What We Like
Smooth writing experience
No smudges or skips
Long-lasting refills
Good value for money
Compatible with various pens
What We Don't Like
Blue ink shade lighter than expected
#TOP 3

100 Pieces Ink Pen Refills

2125-2473
100 Pieces Ink Pen Refills Cover
JANYUN 100 Pieces Ink Pen Refills Replaceable, 0.7mm Ballpoint Pen Refills 107 mm in Length Black Ink Refills Smooth Writing Pen Refills for Journal Writing Office School Supplies (Black)

These ballpoint pen refills are made of quality plastic with a smooth writing experience, quick-drying ink, and a wide application for most ballpoint pens. They are easy to use and can be cut as needed. With a total of 100 pieces, these refills are sufficient for your daily use.

What We Like
Inexpensive refills
Compatible with various pens
Good ink quality
Shortenable to fit
Resuscitates old pens
What We Don't Like
Occasional ink flow issues
Inaccurate size measurements
#TOP 4

12 Pack of Gel Ink Refills for Retractable Pens

INC-1150
Black
115mm Medium Tip
12 Pack of Gel Ink Refills for Retractable Pens Cover
Pack of 12 Gel Ink Refill for Retractable Pens, Medium Tip Point 0.7mm, Black Ink, Fits Retractable Pen, Universal Size Refill, 115mm/11.5cm/4.5 inches (Black, 115mm)

This 12 Pack of Gel Ink Refills for Retractable Pens is an eco-friendly replacement for your retractable ballpoint pen. Each refill features medium gel liquid ink with a 0.7mm point, providing smooth writing. The universal size fits most retractable pens, with a length of 115mm/11.5cm/4.5 inches that can be cut down to 100mm (4 inches) if needed. The protective wax at the tip should be removed before using and before cutting the tube.

What We Like
Smooth writing experience
Adjustable length for refills
Compatible with old pens
Good gel ink flow
What We Don't Like
Ink runs out quickly
Some quality issues noted
#TOP 5

Cross Refills for Ballpoint Pens, Medium, Black Ink, 2/Pack (85132)

Cross
CRO85132
Black
2 Count (Pack of 1)
Cross Refills for Ballpoint Pens, Medium, Black Ink, 2/Pack (85132) Cover
Cross Ballpoint Refill, Medium Black, 2 per card, (8513-2)

Cross Ballpoint Pen Refills are designed to ensure optimal performance for standard Cross ballpoint pens. These refills are highly reliable and suitable for general-purpose writing on all types of paper. The black ink provides a professional and sleek look to your writing. With an authentic Cross refill, you can trust the quality and longevity of your writing experience. The medium point allows for smooth and consistent lines, making it perfect for everyday use. Upgrade your writing experience with Cross Ballpoint Pen Refills.

What We Like
Smooth ink flow
Easy to use
Great value for price
Quick drying ink
What We Don't Like
Ink bubble forms around ball
#TOP 6

Black Ink Refills (6pcs)

A-424-1
Black
5.9X3.9X0.1
Black Ink Refills (6pcs) Cover
ChaoQ,Black Ink Refills (6pcs), Replaceable Ballpoint Pen Refills, 1mm Medium Tip - Black

These black ink refills come in a pack of 6 with a 1mm medium tip, suitable for various writing occasions such as office, business, school, and home use. The refill body is made of stainless steel which provides a light, premium feel, and the high-quality ink flow ensures a smooth and consistent writing experience. Make sure to carefully compare the dimensions before purchasing.

What We Like
Smooth writing experience
Good ink flow
Perfect fit for Parker pens
Affordable price
Long-lasting cartridges
What We Don't Like
Not the right size for some
#TOP 7

12 Pieces Pen Refills, Black Ink, Medium Point

Outus-Replacement Gel -τ438
Black
12 Pieces Pen Refills, Black Ink, Medium Point Cover
12 Pieces Pen Refills Black Ink 1.0mm Medium Point Metal Ballpoint Refill Smooth Writing Pen Refills Replacement Refills for Retractable Ballpoint Pen School Office Supplies (Black)

This package contains 12 pieces of black ink pen refills with a medium point of 1.0mm, suitable for different settings such as school, office, and home use. The outer shell is made of durable metal with high-quality ink material, providing a smooth and reliable writing experience. The refills are portable and come with a protective cover, making them easy to carry and store. The 1.0mm tip allows for fine and effortless writing, perfect for retractable pens and reducing waste.

What We Like
Smooth writing experience
Fits multiple pen types
Great value for price
Fast delivery
Good ink flow
What We Don't Like
Occasional dud refills
#TOP 8

MengRan 4.5'' Ballpoint Ink Pen Refills

MRNEWREFILLS10-20
10 Pcs Black Ink
MengRan 4.5'' Ballpoint Ink Pen Refills Cover
MengRan 4.5'' Ballpoint Ink Pen Refills for Twist Pens,1mm Medium Tip, Compatible with Cross Pen Refills (8513)(10 Pcs Black Ink)

MengRan Ink Pen Refills offer a smooth writing experience with a medium tip that glides effortlessly across the page, ensuring you won’t deal with frustrating skips. With a large ink capacity, these refills allow you to write thousands of characters before needing a change, making them perfect for extensive note-taking or journaling. The quick-drying ink prevents smudging, so you can start new tasks right away without waiting for your writing to dry. Additionally, the durable stainless steel tip is designed to withstand heavy use, ensuring your pen remains reliable over time.

What We Like
Smooth writing experience
Perfect fit for Cross pens
Affordable price
Long-lasting ink
Easy to replace
What We Don't Like
Some refills may be dry
Individual longevity may vary
#TOP 9

Pilot G2 Gel Ink Refill 2-Pack for Rolling Ball Pens

77240
Black
Pack of 1
Pilot G2 Gel Ink Refill 2-Pack for Rolling Ball Pens Cover
Pilot, G2 Gel Ink Refills, Fine Point 0.7 mm, Black, Pack of 2

The Pilot G2 Gel Ink Refill 2-Pack for Rolling Ball Pens is a smooth writing, long-lasting pen refill that features a comfortable rubber grip and is available in different sizes. It is proven to be the longest writing gel ink pen among top brands and is perfect for all your writing needs. If you love the original Pilot G2, you'll love the full G2 line of gel ink pens in a variety of sizes, barrel designs, and colors. Pilot has over 100 years of experience in making pens, and they offer a range of writing instruments to suit all your needs, including fountain, ballpoint, retractable, erasable, and gel ink pens, whiteboard markers, and more.

What We Like
Environmentally friendly refills
Cost-effective compared to new pens
Smooth, smear-resistant writing
Easy to install
Long-lasting ink
What We Don't Like
None noted
#TOP 10

ChaoQ Black Ink Refills (10pcs)

BX-10-11.6cm
Black
4.5 Inch
ChaoQ Black Ink Refills (10pcs) Cover
Black Ink Refills (10pcs), Replaceable Pens Refills, 1mm Medium Tip - Black

ChaoQ Ink Refills are stainless steel refills with a 1mm medium tip for smooth writing. The refills are 4.563 inches long, offering a premium feel. Suitable for various occasions like office, business, school, and home use, these refills provide consistent black ink flow. Additionally, if you're looking for styli pens to pair with these refills, search for ASIN: B01MCUQIOX or B01MDNFKYD under ChaoQ on Amazon.

What We Like
Fits various pen types
Smooth writing experience
Great price for quality
Prevents ink from drying
Compatible with old quills
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent ink delivery
May feel scratchy at angles
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you put any ink refill in a pen?

Not all pens can accept any ink refill. Some pen brands have specific profiles and sizes that fit only their pens, while others take standard refill sizes, allowing you to use generic or off-brand pen ink cartridges. It's important to check the compatibility of the refill with your pen before purchasing.

2. How do you know what pen refill you need?

To determine the pen refill you need, consider the overall length of the refill, the shape profile of the cartridge, and any branding or logos on the cartridge. These characteristics will help you identify the appropriate refill for your pen.

3. Can you buy refills for ballpoint pens?

Yes, you can buy pen refills for a variety of pen types, including ballpoint pens. Refilling your pen with ink is a more eco-friendly and cost-effective solution compared to replacing the entire pen. Look for ballpoint refills specifically designed for your pen model.

4. What pen can accept any refill?

The Ti Arto EDC pen is known for its versatility and can accept over 750 different refills without requiring any modifications. This pen is machined from solid titanium and can be adjusted to the perfect length, making it compatible with a wide range of refill types.

5. Are ink refills worth it?

Refilling ink cartridges can be a worthwhile option as it helps save the environment and reduces costs. However, it is important to get your refills from trusted shops to avoid damaging your printer or compromising print quality.

6. Which is better ballpoint or rollerball?

In terms of smoothness of writing, rollerball pens tend to provide a smoother experience compared to ballpoint pens. The thinner ink in rollerball reservoirs contributes to a smoother writing sensation, while the oil-based ink in ballpoint pens can sometimes feel scratchy.

7. Is it cheaper to refill ink cartridges or buy new ones?

Refilling ink cartridges can save you money, typically around 30-50% compared to buying new cartridges. However, in the long run, refilling cartridges may result in poorer print quality and may not be as cost-effective as purchasing new cartridges.

8. Is it cheaper to refill your own ink cartridges?

Refilling your own ink cartridges can save you nearly 50% compared to buying new cartridges. This option is particularly beneficial for inkjet printers. Refilling cartridges allows you to reduce costs while still maintaining quality prints.

Editor's Notes

During our ink pen refill research, we found 24 ink pen refill products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 230,388 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ink pen refills list. We found that most customers choose ink pen refills with an average price of $6.85.

The ink pen refills are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ink pen refills, including Lenden, Parker, JANYUN, Cross, ChaoQ. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 107 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Ink Pen Refills Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Lenden Parker JANYUN Lenden Cross ChaoQ Outus MengRan Pilot ChaoQ
Ink Color Black Black Black Black Black Black Black Black Black Black
Style Ballpoint Ballpoint Ballpoint ['Gel'] Medium Ballpoint Ballpoint Ballpoint Ballpoint Classic Ballpoint
Point Type Medium Medium Fine Medium Ballpoint Medium Medium Medium Fine Medium
Item dimensions L x W x H - 0.2 x 3.94 x 0.2 inches 4.33 x 1.3 x 1.3 inches - 6.5 x 2.2 x 0.28 inches 3.94 x 0.2 x 0.2 inches - - 6 x 1.9 x 0.2 inches 4.5 x 0.1 x 0.1 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy