apanese pens often have a quiet magic—sleek bodies, smooth ink, and thoughtful design that turns everyday writing into a soft, satisfying moment. Today, we’re comparing two pens that have recently captured the attention of stationery lovers: the KOKUYO WP Finewriter and the TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink.

Both have unique strengths. One is a premium, fountain-pen-smooth writing tool; the other is a nostalgic, fast-drying gel pen with modern updates. Whether you journal, plan, or take work notes, here’s an honest comparison to help you decide which one fits your writing habits.

 

KOKUYO WP Finewriter

Released in 2024, the KOKUYO WP Finewriter quickly became popular for its luxurious metal body and fountain-pen-like smoothness. It uses a capillary ink mechanism, delivering consistent ink flow that makes writing feel effortless. KOKUYO also releases occasional limited editions, adding additional charm for collectors.

• Why it’s popular: Ultra-smooth writing, premium build, and elegant simplicity
• Ink mechanism: Capillary (liquid ink)
• Price range: Mid to high
• Versions available:
  • WP Finewriter
  • WP Roller Ball (same design, different ink system)
• Vibe: Business-friendly, modern, refined

 

TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink

Launched on October 30, 2025, this pen is the newest addition to the MONO GRAPH family. It uses freshly developed “Mono Dry Ink,” a fast-drying, low-smudge gel ink designed to resist bleeding and ghosting. This pen retains the iconic MONO look—especially the nostalgic black-white-blue stripe.

• Why it’s popular: Nostalgia, affordable price, and ultra-fast-drying ink
• Ink mechanism: New fast-drying gel ink (“Mono Dry Ink”)
• Available tip sizes: 0.5 mm and 0.38 mm
• Ink colors: Black, Red, Blue (red & blue available only in 0.5 mm)
• Vibe: Light, nostalgic, school-era charm

 

Price Comparison

 

Body & Design Comparison

KOKUYO WP Finewriter

The WP Finewriter feels like a luxury tool without being loud. The metal body has a pleasant weight, and the matte finish gives it a clean, understated elegance. It arrives in a matte black minimalist box, matching its professional atmosphere.

And yes, the sound made by the cap when closing is incredibly satisfying.

 

TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink

This pen is light, cheerful, and nostalgic. The classic MONO stripe immediately pulls you back to childhood pencil cases. The lightweight body makes it effortless to use for quick notes or journaling.

A standout feature is the high tip visibility, which makes it easier to write precisely.

Some users, however, feel that the grip can become uncomfortable over longer sessions.

 

Texture & Writing Experience Comparison

KOKUYO WP Finewriter — Smooth Like a Fountain Pen

The capillary mechanism makes every stroke glide softly. There’s almost no friction, even when writing quickly. It feels like the ink is anticipating your movements.

Amazon Japan reviewers consistently highlight:

• “Extremely smooth writing experience”
• “Premium feel”
• “Excellent ink flow”

This pen is perfect for long writing sessions, detailed notes, or fast-paced meetings where speed matters.

 

TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink — Fast-Drying, Clean Lines

Thanks to the new “Mono Dry Ink” formula, the Mono Graph Lite dries almost instantly. It resists smudging and hardly bleeds through thinner paper—great for planners or notebooks.

Users love how:

• “The tip is easy to see, so writing feels precise.”
• “Drying is fast and clean.”

However, the writing smoothness can vary depending on the paper. On some surfaces, there is noticeable friction, and I sometimes feel the need to slow down slightly to keep lines steady.

 

Performance Comparison

 

Honest Personal Review From ZenPop Team Member

KOKUYO WP Finewriter

This pen surprised me with how smooth it truly is. It feels like writing with a fountain pen, but without any maintenance or ink issues. I can write very fast, and still the lines stay consistent. There is almost zero friction—even on slightly textured paper.

The metal body is well-balanced, and one of my favorite small details is the cap. When you close it, the cap slides onto the pen body with a clean, crisp click. The sound and feeling are surprisingly satisfying—precise, premium, and very well-made.

 

TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink

This pen brings comfort in a totally different way—nostalgia. It feels like the MONO products I grew up using. The fast-drying ink is genuinely impressive, and the visible tip is helpful for small notes or detailed planners.

But compared to the WP, it’s less smooth. On certain papers, I feel friction that slows down my writing pace. The grip is also not ideal for long sessions. Still, for a budget-friendly gel pen, it performs more than well enough. It’s something I’d keep in my pencil case for journaling or everyday office tasks.

 

Should You Buy It?

KOKUYO WP Finewriter

✔ Yes: if you want a premium, smooth, fountain-pen-like writing experience.

Perfect for:

• Business settings
• Long writing sessions
• Gift giving
• Fast writers
• Fans of smooth, wet ink flow

You can buy the KOKUYO WP at the ZenPop Store.

 

TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink

✔ Yes: if you want an affordable, fast-drying gel pen with great precision.

Perfect for:

• Journaling
• Study notes
• Daily office tasks
• Fans of MONO stationery
• Writers who prefer light pens

For the price, and with its new fast-drying ink, it’s a reliable everyday pen.

You can buy the TOMBOW × ZenPop Original Mono Graph Lite Ballpen at the ZenPop Store. (This is not the gel ink version)

Buy Now

 

Final Thoughts

The KOKUYO WP Finewriter and the TOMBOW Mono Graph Lite Gel Ink serve different writing moods, but both bring something lovely to your desk.

• For premium smoothness and elegance → KOKUYO WP.
• For affordability, nostalgia, and fast-drying ink → Mono Graph Lite.

Whichever you choose, each pen adds a little brightness and texture to your handwritten world.

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