Beginner’s Guide to 3 Affordable Fountain Pens: Preppy, Kakuno & Safari (Honest Review)
, by ZenPop Japan, 9 min reading time
New to fountain pens? Discover 3 affordable beginner options—Platinum Preppy, Pilot Kakuno, and LAMY Safari—plus tips on paper, nib sizes, and testing pens yourself.
When you first hear the words fountain pen, it can feel intimidating, right? Maybe you think they’re luxury items—expensive, delicate, and not really for everyday use. We felt the same way at first. But here’s the truth: you don’t need a big budget to enjoy one.
The writer of this review is someone who started with zero knowledge about fountain pens, completely lost among all the jargon in the fountain pen world. Choosing a first pen felt confusing—too many opinions, too many options, and not enough simple explanations. So this review was written to be something anyone can understand, especially if you’ve been wanting to try a fountain pen but don’t know where to start.
Instead of complicated comparisons or technical talk, this guide focuses on real beginner experiences—what it actually feels like to use these pens for the first time. You’ll find honest impressions of three affordable and highly recommended options: Platinum Preppy, Pilot Kakuno, and LAMY Safari, plus a few gentle tips to help you enjoy your very first steps into the fountain pen world.
1. Platinum Preppy Fountain Pen– A Great First Step
If you’ve never touched a fountain pen before, the Platinum Preppy is the perfect place to begin. It’s about the price of a good gel pen, but the writing experience feels completely different.
The EF (extra fine) nib is smooth and reliable, and you’ll likely think the same thing we did: “Oh wow, this feels so much nicer than I expected!”
It’s light, refillable, and simple to use—perfect if you want to try out fountain pens without any pressure. It’s also famous for its affordable price and wide range of body colors, so you can pick one that matches your mood or stationery style. Despite being inexpensive, the Preppy is well-made and writes beautifully, which is why it’s often the very first fountain pen recommended to beginners around the world.
2. Pilot Kakuno Fountain Pen– Playful and Beginner-Friendly
The Pilot Kakuno is another beginner favorite. It’s lightweight, fun, and has a cute design that makes it approachable. The F nib writes neatly, and many people love its cheerful, casual style.
For us, it felt a little heavier compared to the Preppy, and the balance wasn’t quite our taste. But that’s very personal—many beginners actually prefer the Kakuno because it feels more solid in the hand. In other words, it’s not about “better or worse,” but whether you enjoy the feel.
3. LAMY Safari Fountain Pen – The One That Might Change Everything
If there’s one beginner pen that could win you over instantly, it’s the LAMY Safari. When you first hold it, you’ll notice how light and balanced it feels. The grip naturally guides your fingers, so even if you’ve never used a fountain pen before, it feels natural.
Writing with the Safari is smooth, easy, and kind of addictive—you’ll find yourself writing just for the joy of it. Many people describe it as their “gateway pen,” and we felt the same. It really gives you that “THIS IS THE ONE” moment.
LAMY is a well-known German brand celebrated for its quality craftsmanship and minimalist design. The Safari’s durable ABS resin body makes it tough enough for daily use while keeping it surprisingly lightweight. Its sleek, modern barrel design looks good in any setting—professional or casual—and comes in a variety of colors that appeal to almost everyone.
It’s one of those pens that looks cool on your desk, feels great in your hand, and lasts for years, which is why so many people consider it a reliable companion even after they move on to more advanced pens.
Beyond the Pen: Paper Matters Too
One thing many beginners overlook is that paper can change your impression of a pen completely. A fountain pen on cheap, thin paper might feel scratchy or cause ink to bleed, which can make you think the pen itself is bad. But try the same pen on good-quality paper, and suddenly it writes like a dream.
If you can, test your new fountain pen on a notebook or planner with thicker or fountain-pen-friendly paper. The difference might surprise you.
Choosing Your Nib Size – EF, F, or M
Another thing to keep in mind is nib size. Most starter pens come in EF (extra fine), F (fine), or M (medium).
- EF gives you very thin, precise lines—good if you write small.
- F is slightly broader but still neat, great for everyday notes.
- M feels smoother and bolder, better for those who enjoy a more flowing line.
There’s no “best” nib size—it’s all about what you prefer and how you write.
Why Testing the Pen Yourself Matters
Here’s the most important lesson: what others say doesn’t matter as much as how the pen feels to you.
A pen that one person calls “perfect” might feel awkward in your hand. Another pen that gets mixed reviews might end up being your favorite.
If you have the chance, try holding and writing with different pens before you buy. Even if you can’t test them in person, remember that your own experience will always matter more than comparisons or rankings online.
Final Thoughts for Beginners
If you’re standing where we once stood—curious about fountain pens, but worried about the price or unsure where to start—these three pens are your safest bets:
- Platinum Preppy – super affordable, the easiest first step.
- Pilot Kakuno – cheerful, approachable, and fun (though balance is personal).
- LAMY Safari – the pen that might make you fall in love.
Pair them with the right paper, pick the nib size that feels best for your writing style, and trust your own hands to tell you which pen is right for you. Fountain pens aren’t just for luxury collectors—they can be simple, affordable, and absolutely joyful.
Starting something new can feel overwhelming, especially when there are so many choices and opinions out there. But the truth is—you don’t need to know everything to begin.
A Little Note to Close
Your first fountain pen doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to be something you enjoy holding and want to write with again tomorrow. The rest will follow naturally.
Whether you pick the simple Preppy, the cheerful Kakuno, or the elegant Safari, let your curiosity guide you. The joy of writing isn’t about price or prestige—it’s about those quiet moments when ink meets paper and your thoughts begin to flow.
Ready for More? Explore the 9 Best Japanese Fountain Pens
If this beginner’s guide has sparked your curiosity and you’re ready to explore a little further, you might enjoy our article on the 9 Best Japanese Fountain Pens. It dives deeper into beautiful designs, craftsmanship, and writing experiences from beloved Japanese brands—perfect for when you’re ready to take your next step into the world of fountain pens.