- Uses a ballpoint mechanism, where a small, hard ball made of brass, tungsten carbide, or stainless steel is placed at the tip of the pen.
- The ball rolls as the pen is moved across the paper, picking up ink from the reservoir and transferring it to the paper.
- Creates a smooth, consistent line.
- Generally inexpensive and widely available.
- Ballpoint pens are reliable and durable, making them suitable for everyday writing and note-taking.
- Can be used at any angle without skipping or smudging.
Rollerball pen:
- Utilizes a rollerball mechanism, which consists of a small, free-rotating metal ball housed in a metal tube.
- The ball is in contact with a reservoir of liquid ink, which flows continuously as the pen is moved across the paper.
- Offers a smooth and fluid writing experience similar to a fountain pen.
- Produces a wet, vibrant line that is darker and more saturated compared to a ballpoint pen.
- Requires less pressure to write, making it comfortable for extended periods of writing.
- Rollerball pens are typically more expensive than ballpoint pens.
- May skip or smudge if the pen is held at a steep angle or if used on rough or absorbent paper.
In summary, the main difference between ballpoint pens and rollerball pens lies in their writing mechanisms and the resulting writing experience. Ballpoint pens employ a ballpoint mechanism with a rolling ball that picks up ink from a reservoir, while rollerball pens use a rollerball mechanism that allows for a continuous flow of liquid ink. Ballpoint pens offer reliability, durability, and can be used at any angle, while rollerball pens provide a smooth, fluid writing experience with darker, more vibrant lines.