Ever get lost in a sea of pens online, unsure which one will actually work for your everyday carry (EDC)? Yeah, same. The number of options is overwhelming. Some are just bad for carrying around, while others quietly do the job like pros. So today, here's the deal: I’m listing 10 amazing pens that you should consider adding to your EDC rotation. Some are compact; some are full-sized. All are budget-friendly and excellent. Let’s dive in!
Honorable Mentions: Because I Couldn't Leave These Out
Before we unleash the top 10, I’ve got a few honorable mentions worth noting. These didn’t make the list because of particular quirks (or, let’s be real, they’re disposable), but don’t let that fool you—they’re still top-tier!
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Sharpie Twin Tip
This bad boy is double-sided, with a precise tip for regular writing and a thick one for bigger tasks. For under $2? Owned by me, everywhere. -
Uniball Roller Pen
It’s been around forever, and for good reason. You can even cut it down to make it more compact. Handy, right? -
Rite in the Rain Click Pen
Basically a rebranded Fisher Space Pen but cheaper. Brilliant for tough conditions. -
Minimo Pen and Pencil Set
Tiny but mighty! So small they fit in your wallet, versatile enough to always come in handy.
Now that we've acknowledged the honorable mentions, let's dive right into the star performers of compact and full-sized EDC pens.
Compact Pens: Big Things, Small Package
Pokka Pens: EDC Skittles
Want a burst of color? Pokka Pens, which I like to call “EDC Skittles.” You can get them in standard plastic, aluminum, wood-finish plastic—you name it. Plus, they’re eco-friendly with replaceable inserts. Made in USA.
Buy it if:
- You want variety (colors, materials).
- You like giving pens away without crying about your wallet.
Fisher Space Pen Bullet: Iconic Design
This pen probably gets the most love online, even though it’s not my personal fave. In earlier versions, pulling it out of its case was awkward, but recently they seem to have fixed that. The aesthetics are off the charts, though, so leaving it off the list would be a crime.
It also writes wonderfully in extreme conditions—you know, like in the rain or upside down (because, why not?). While its pocket clip isn’t my favorite, it does the job.
Buy it if:
- You appreciate a classic, iconic pen that looks cool.
- Working upside down or in bad weather is your thing.
Zebra F-301 Compact: The Everyday Hero
This small pen is your low-key favorite. It’s under $3, durable, has a pocket clip, and includes an option to attach it to your keys. Oh, and it writes like a dream.
Buy it if:
- You like good value.
- You need a trusty pen that won’t break the bank—or your pocket.
Rite in The Rain Portage Pen: Premium Feel, Compact Form
This is where things get heavier—literally. The Portage pen comes with a Fisher Space Pen refill but wrapped up in solid steel for the ultimate durability. It’s a little weighty, but that comes with its own charm.
Buy it if:
- You prefer a pen that’s small but feels premium.
- You’re okay with spending just under $30.
Zebra Expanz: The Underrated Player
Compact form? Check. One-handed use? Check. Feels great in hand? You bet! The Zebra Expanz doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves, but man, is it smooth.
Buy it if:
- You want a pen that opens one handed.
- You care about ease and portability in a sleek design.
Full-Size Pens: Function Meets Style
Bic 4-in-1 Pro: Dinosaur of Multitasking
I’m about to reveal my best-kept secret: Bic 4-in-1 Pro. This pen’s a multitasking wizard, featuring multiple ink colors for quick note variations. It’s so good I almost didn’t share it because I fear it’ll sell out (selfish, I know). It’s also ridiculously cheap—at less than $2 per pen.
Buy it if:
- You want a multipen combo at a steal.
- Multitasking without switching pens sounds good to you.
Parker Jotter: The GoldenEye of Pens
If you haven’t heard of the Parker Jotter, you may be living under a rock. This pen has even been in movies—James Bond himself used it in GoldenEye. The click mechanism is super satisfying, and the design? Timeless.
Buy it if:
- You want to feel like a spy with a functional and affordable pen.
- You love the satisfying “click.”
Zebra F-701: All-Steel Legend
Built like a tank, this pen is a true heavyweight (figuratively). The Zebra F-701 comes with a stainless steel barrel and textured grip that might as well be finger velcro. Bonus points: It’s versatile enough to fit a Fisher Space Pen refill.
Buy it if:
- You crave durability without losing comfort or functionality.
- You like the freedom to swap refills for more variety.
Rite in the Rain Bolt Action: Fidget-Friendly
Do you get bored and need something to fidget with? Well, Rite in the Rain’s bolt-action pen is here to save your day—and your pocket. Its unique deployment mechanism means you can’t accidentally write on yourself, and it’s under $30 with top-notch US-made quality.
Buy it if:
- You enjoy the smooth slide of bolt-action pens.
- You value durability and pocket safety.
Skillcraft Aviator B3: The Ultimate Workhorse
If I could only take one pen to a desert island (or you know, just everyday life), the Aviator B3 would be it. Made by Skillcraft, a company that employs blind workers to assemble their pens, this beauty is practical, functional, and has a rotating selection between black ink, red ink, and a pencil.
Plus, the build is so solid, it could probably survive the apocalypse. One more thing: You’ll be supporting a company promoting US jobs. Who doesn’t love doing good while getting something great?
Buy it if:
- You want the last pen you’ll ever need.
- Functionality and purpose speak to your pen-loving soul.
Conclusion
Pens are more than just writing tools—they’re companions in our creative, professional, and personal adventures. Whether compact or full-size, each of these budget-friendly pens packs a punch, both in price and performance.
Still curious? Looking to expand your collection? Check out the shopping list of more pens I’ve compiled down below for regular updates. And hey, don’t forget to let me know if there’s a pen I missed from the list—I’m always on the hunt for the next best thing.
