(introduced in 1940)

Benefits:
No maintenance
Long ink life

Drawbacks:
Paste ink is sticky
Fixed ball limits expressive writing

]]> (introduced in 1960)

Benefits:
Smooth delivery of ink because of the fiber (felt) tip
Interchangeable with most roller ball refills
Ink dries quickly, which is very helpful for left-handed writers

Drawbacks:
A rich flow, but not as expressive as a fountain pen
Spring-load action gives a smooth write but takes some getting used to because of its give

]]> (introduced in 1880)

Benefits:
Pleasure of expressing liquid ink
Flexible nib accentuates personal expression

Drawbacks:
Requires a little skill and care

]]> (introduced in 1995)

Benefits:
Richer ink color
More colors, because the ink holds pigment well
Smoother than roller ball ink because it's more viscous

Drawbacks:
Dries out quickly
A short life span if used every day (3 to 5 weeks)

]]> (introduced in 1980)

Benefits:
Pleasure of liquid ink Ease of use

Drawbacks: Cartridges run out sooner than ballpoint refills
Fixed ball limits expression

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